Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Educational Objectives

The broad educational objectives of the Aerospace Engineering program at Florida Tech are summarized in the following four categories:

Educational Objective #1: Academic Fundamentals

Graduates are to achieve a sufficient mastery of the academic fundamentals that underpin a successful career related to aerospace engineering. These fundamentals include classical and modern topics in mathematics, chemistry, physics, engineering sciences, humanities, social sciences, information technology, and experimental methodologies.

Educational Objective #2: Engineering Practice

Graduates are to develop sufficient competence in the application of engineering skills for the practical solution of problems related to the aerospace engineering profession. These skills include systematic problem formulations and techniques for their solution. Topic areas include aerodynamics, aerospace propulsion, aerospace structures and materials, stability and control, theoretical and experimental techniques, modern computational tools, innovative design practice and realization, manufacturing methods, and economic considerations.

Educational Objective #3: Teamwork and Communication

Graduates are to develop the confidence and ability to work both independently and as productive members of a team. They are to engage in the effective research, assimilation, and reporting of literary information relevant to engineering projects. Graduates are to attain a mastery of communication skills that include oral, written, and graphical components. Graduates are to learn and practice the interpersonal and organizational skills required to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

Educational Objective #4: Professional Development

Graduates are instilled with the desire to contribute to the profession and to society on a continuing basis. They are encouraged to pursue various options consistent with life-long learning: graduate education, professional employment, membership in technical societies, and obtaining a professional license. Graduates are guided towards ethical professional conduct, knowledge of contemporary issues, participation and leadership in professional organizations, and contributions to diversity in the community.