Expert: Paul Soderman - 7/23/2009

Question
Sir, i have completed my B.E. in electronics and communication. i would like to know if i can pursue my masters in aeronautical engineering. i was told that i am only eligible for a certain fields under aeronautical engineering (such as control systems etc) as i have an electronics and communication engineering background and not a mechanical engineering background. Could you brief me on the various fields under aeronautical engineering that i am eligible for.

Answer
Control systems and avionics could be considered fields within aeronautical engineering that you would be eligible to work in with your present degree.  But to get a graduate degree in Aeronautical Engineering in the U.S., you would have to take a great variety of courses such as aerodynamics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, gas dynamics, structures, propulsion, and so on for which your B.E. program probably did not prepare you.  That is why most departments require a B.S. degree in Aero or Mechanical Engineering or similar.  Check with an engineering school to be sure.  Maybe they have special programs that I am unaware of.
Paul