Expert: Paul Soderman - 10/29/2010

Question
Hy, I have a question concerning the engineering degree.
Is there a big difference between doing a bachelor of
aerospatial engineering and studying mechanical engineering
with an aeronautical orientation towards the end of the
program ? Are the courses different ? Does the first diploma
give you more chances of working in the aviation industry
rather than the second ?
Thank you for your time.

Answer
Aeronautical (AE) and mechanical engineering (ME) courses are similar but have important differences.  AE would have more emphasis on aerodynamics and fluid mechanics and aircraft performance.  ME students would also study fluid mechanics, especially relative to water, but would probably get more courses in mechanical design and would not cover aerodynamics. For exact differences check out the curricula in engineering school websites (e.g., U. of Washington - Seattle).

Many ME students have gone on to careers in aeronautics and many AE students have gone on to mechanical design.  But they have to study the subjects they missed in school.  Aerospace companies hire both types of students because they have jobs that cover a large spectrum.  It is difficult to say which is the better for getting a job in the aviation industry.  It is probably more important to ask which subjects or which career path is of more interest to you.  Only you can answer that.
Paul