Expert: Paul Soderman - 10/21/2006

Question
Dear Sir,
I am a mechanical engineering student, although I have a great interest in Aeronautics studies for inevitably reasons I had to register  to follow studies pursuing  a degree in mechanical engineering since the university that I attend to does not have a specific area that includes aeronautical engineering  studies. My question is, how related is my study to Aeronautics and how I should proceed with my education so that later on I could be engaged in this area?

The university that I am enrolled, in order to obtain a degree as Mechanical Engineer at a specific topic offers the following options once completed six semesters of the basic engineering studies (DiplomStudium):
1.   Light construction, and light aircraft construction
2.   Conversion and transformation of energy ( which from what I’ve seen, has a lot to do with construction of turbines etc)
My next question is which one of these specializations you will advice for me to pursue later on in order to be able to engaged in the aeronautical field.

Thank you

                                            Medardo Torres

Answer
Medarado
Mechanical Engineering is fairly close to Aeronautical Engineering, especially if you take as many courses as possible in fluid mechanics.  Of your two options, the choice really depends on your interests.  If you might like aircraft design or structural analysis, option 1 is good.  If you might like aircraft power plants such as turbomachinery, option 2 is good.  In any case, you will need aerodynamics before you can be a real aero engineer, so I suggest  getting a Masters Degree in Aeronautical Engineering after your ME degree if possible.
Paul