At The University of Akron's College of Engineering and Polymer Science, our Aerospace Systems Engineering (ASE) program stands out for its strong industry connections and a proven 100% co-op placement rate, ensuring real-world experience and financial benefits for students.
With an interdisciplinary curriculum that merges mechanical, aerospace, industrial and systems engineering, we go beyond traditional aerospace education to offer a comprehensive foundation for success. Student design teams give you the opportunity to develop and build aircraft before you even graduate.
Our ASE program offers $45,000+ in paid co-op opportunities, allowing you to earn while you learn. Graduates also enjoy an average starting salary of $70,000.
With access to world-class facilities and a 99% employment or graduate school placement rate, our program is designed to propel you toward a bright future.
Zip to new heights
Our ASE program offers a cutting-edge blend of hands-on learning, interdisciplinary education, and state-of-the-art facilities that will equip you for success in the aerospace industry and beyond.
From day one, you’ll dive into practical experience, gaining real-world knowledge through labs, workshops and undergraduate research with expert faculty.
Whether you’re designing unmanned aerial systems, working on a liquid engine for a rocket or participating in research with industry-leading partners, you’ll push the boundaries of aerospace innovation.
Student spotlight
"Taking Model-based Systems Engineering in Aerospace Systems Engineering is one of my favorite experiences at UA. The class had been the talking point during a lot of conversations with our industry partners. People are interested that I have undergraduate systems engineering experience."
— Ethan Rainsburg
You’ll have access to advanced labs, wind tunnels, 3D printing centers and student design teams where theory meets practice.
These opportunities, combined with our 100% co-op placement rate, ensure you’ll gain the technical expertise and problem-solving skills needed to excel in your career.
Earn $45,000+ from co-op rotations and leverage our 99% employment rate to secure a bright future after graduation.
Faculty spotlight
"Teaching in the Aerospace Systems Engineering program has been a rewarding experience. I take great pride in mentoring undergraduate students and watching their curiosity transform into expertise as we tackle actual engineering challenges in our industry-leading labs."
— Dr. Nicholas Garafolo
Why choose UA's ASE program?
$70,000
average starting salary of UA engineering, engineering technology and computing degree recipients
99%
of 2023 graduates found employment, attended graduate school or began military service within six months of graduation
$45,000+
Average total income students make for three co-op rotations while still in school
Launch into your future: The first-year engineering experience
Your first year sets the stage for success. With the support of dedicated instructors and advisors, students develop problem-solving, teamwork and communication skills that will drive their success in upper-level courses and future careers. Get a glimpse of how our first-year experience sets the foundation for a bright future.
Student spotlight
"The education I received at The University of Akron taught me how to be resourceful. I can assess, learn and adapt to new situations much more effectively. I was taught something special. Something that lets me rise above."
— Harrison Lewis
Ensuring your success
The combination of classroom learning and practical experience ensures you’ll be ready to succeed in the aerospace field.
Our ASE program stands out with its built-in co-op rotation, offering students three opportunities to gain hands-on experience with top aerospace companies like SpaceX, NASA, Lockheed Martin, Collins Aerospace, PCC Airfoils and more.
With a 100% co-op placement rate, students can earn $45,000+ throughout their academic career while working on cutting-edge technologies. These industry connections not only provide invaluable real-world experience but also create strong professional networks, giving students a competitive edge and excellent job placement opportunities after graduation.
Student spotlight
"The co-op program in the College of Engineering and Polymer Science really helped me to understand what actual engineering looks like outside of academia. Working a part-time engineering job since my sophomore year has allowed me to gain knowledge about topics not covered in class."
— Kyle Vernyi
You'll Belong Here
Our student design teams build everything from medical devices to rockets, race cars, drones and more. These student-led teams create innovative prototypes that rank nationally in competitions, offering opportunities for leadership, practical experience and building a strong community that thrives on innovation.
Akronauts
Step into the world of rocketry with the Akronauts, where you’ll be at the forefront of aerospace development. As part of this dynamic team, you’ll design, build and launch rockets that compete in prestigious national competitions like the Spaceport America Cup. From constructing the airframe and designing the motor, to managing avionics and parachutes, you’ll oversee every part of the launch vehicle and gain hands-on experience for a career in the booming space industry.
Zips Aero
Join Zips Aero and experience the thrill of creating aircraft from the ground up. This team doesn’t just build planes—they craft award-winning designs that soar in international competitions. You’ll be part of the entire process, from drafting designs to balancing budgets and constructing flight-ready prototypes. You’ll build your engineering skills and work alongside your peers to achieve flight success.
Student spotlight
"I came to Akron for Zips Aero and spent every week learning new things and problem solving with my teammates. Joining the organization was the best thing I did in college."
— Mathieu Kumiega
Zips Drone
If drones fascinate you, Zips Drone is the team to join. Members design, assemble and tests drones for both remote control and autonomous flight. Whether it’s acing the VFS Design-Build-Vertical Flight Competition or exploring the frontiers of unmanned aerial vehicle technology, you'll get hands-on experience with structural, aerospace, mechanical, electrical and computer engineering.
American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
The AIAA chapter at The University of Akron is your gateway to the aerospace industry. As part of the world’s largest aerospace professional network, you’ll build valuable connections, exchange ideas and grow both personally and professionally. Our student chapter recently hosted the Region III Student Conference, bringing students and professionals together from across the Midwest and New England. At events like this, you’ll have the chance to present your work, get published, and collaborate with peers from across the country—all while positioning yourself at the heart of the aerospace world.
