Expert: Rajeevlochanam B A - 11/21/2007

Question
Dear sir, I am currently in grade 12 and have interest in working with the aviation industry in the future.
I am applying to u.k universities for Bachelors and then masters from america embry-riddle hopefully.
I want to ask what is the difference between aerospace engineering degree and aeronautical and what are their jobs. Also if i do aerospace will i be able to work with commercial airlines as an engineer or will i be only limited to work with MRO companies and others like boeing. Also is avionics a better degree to obtain in the future or aeronautical/aerospace.Last thing will i be able to diversify into other fields like automotive and business after obtaining aeronautical/aerospace degree.
Will be grateful for your reply
Thanks

Answer
hi zub,

Broadly speaking, avionics refers to the science of developing & maintaining all  "electrical & electronic control systems & softwares related to any space vehicle/ aeroplane", where as aerospace engineering refers to the rest of tasks (Structures, design, airworthiness,CFD, Thermal, , aero & fluid dynamics, reliability engineering....)

Jobs are similar in both aerospace/aviation sectors and interchangable

choice of aviation / aerospace degre is a matter of opinion and interest. Scope of development is same.

You can diversify and excel in any mechanical, autmobile or aero feilds, once u complete a basic engineering degree

bye