The Institute offers graduate programs in aerospace leading to the degrees of Master of Science in Aeronautics and Space Engineering, and Doctor of Philosophy in Aeronautics and Space Engineering. The programs are designed to provide intense education in the foundations of the aeronautical and space sciences, with emphasis on research and analytical, computational, and experimental methods. Entering graduate students should have a thorough background in undergraduate mathematics, physics, and engineering science.

In working toward a degree in aerospace, a student may pursue a major study in one of the following areas: physics of fluids, physics of solids and mechanics of materials, structural mechanics, space technology, computational solid mechanics, computational and theoretical fluid dynamics, aeronautical engineering and propulsion, biomechanics of fluids and solids, technical fluid mechanics, control of aerospace systems and materials.

While research and course work in the aerospace option at the Institute cover a very broad range of subjects, a choice of one of the above fields allows students to focus their activities while taking advantage of the flexibility offered by the breadth of interests of the Graduate Aerospace Laboratories (GALCIT).

In consultation with their adviser, students will design a program of study in one of the above fields, consisting of the fundamental courses described in the regulations for the separate degrees listed below, and of electives selected from the list of aerospace-related courses. This will ensure that the graduating student will be well-qualified for a career in aerospace and related fields.