penn-state-aerospace-engineering-undergraduate-curriculum-guide

2023-2024

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................1

AEROSPACE ENGINEERING CURRICULUM (Starting at University Park) ..............2

AEROSPACE ENGINEERING CURRICULUM (Starting at other Penn State campuses) ......3

Aerospace Engineering Academic Requirements Checksheet ........................................4

AEROSPACE ENGINEERING CURRICULUM FLOW CHART............................................6

TECHNICAL AND LIMITED ELECTIVE COURSE SELECTIONS ......................................7

COURSE SERIES/ELECTIVE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR AREAS OF FOCUS ...............11

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAM OBJECTIVES FOR AEROSPACE ENGINEERING .......13

EXPECTATIONS OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY .....................................................................15

AEROSPACE COURSE OFFERINGS FOR 2023-2024............................................................16

PREREQUISITES FOR AEROSPACE REQUIRED AND TECH ELECTIVE COURSES .....17

SCHREYER SCHOLARS IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING .................................................19

Honors Thesis Guidelines and Requirements ..................................................................19

COOPERATIVE EDUCATION AND INTERNSHIP PROGRAMS ........................................20

Aerodpace Engineering Co-op Schedule .........................................................................21

GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS (for students who began before Su ‘23) ...........22

GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS (for students who started Su ’23 or later) .........24

PETITIONS FOR COURSE SUBSTITUTIONS ........................................................................25

PREREQUISITE OVERRIDE REQUESTS ...............................................................................26

AEROSPACE FACULTY AND STAFF ....................................................................................26

RESEARCH IN THE DEPARTMENT OF AEROSPACE ENGINEERING ............................26

INFORMATION RESOURCES .................................................................................................27

STUDENT SOCIETIES AND ORGANIZATIONS ...................................................................28

SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION .............................................................................................30

OPPORTUNITIES FOR HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE...............................................................32

CREDITS EARNED AND AWARDED FOR PARTICIPATION IN AERSP 204H/404H

PROGRAM ......................................................................................................................34

MINORS AND CERTIFICATES................................................................................................35

INTEGRATED UNDERGRADUATE/GRADUATE (IUG) PROGRAM .................................35

RESEARCH FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT.........................................................................38

LABORATORY AND SAFETY MANAGERS .........................................................................39

APPENDIX A: AERSP 494 & 496 Registration Forms .............................................................40

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this handbook is to:

1. Familiarize students and visitors with the Penn State Department of Aerospace Engineering.

2. Provide each Aerospace Engineering student with a central source of information about the

Department and its programs.

3. Provide students with a checklist of requirements for graduation so they can track their

progression in the program.

This major field of study is designed primarily for those students who are interested in the analysis, design,

and operation of aircraft and space vehicles.

The first two years of study are similar to those of other engineering majors and provide the student with

a basic education for the engineering profession. Because engineering practice changes rapidly, emphasis is

placed upon those physical and scientific principles and methods that form the soundest and broadest base for

future work in aerospace engineering.

Depending upon the technical course selections made in the senior year, a student may emphasize

aeronautics or astronautics, and specific technical areas within these fields, including aerodynamics, structural

mechanics, flight mechanics, propulsion, and controls.

Students who intend to graduate in four years must successfully complete EMCH 212, CMPSC 201

(or 121, or 131, or 200), and MATH 220, 230, and 250 (or 251) prior to the start of the 3rd year in order

to meet graduation requirements in the following two years. Six of the nine technical-elective credits taken in

the senior year must be aerospace engineering courses.

On behalf of the entire department, I welcome you to Aerospace Engineering! The faculty and staff will

do everything possible to make your studies interesting and productive. I strongly urge you to periodically review

your Degree Audit on LionPath and meet with your academic advisor to discuss course scheduling, career

opportunities, or other matters. Feel free to contact us about any matter you wish to discuss.

Best wishes for your success,

Robert G. Melton

Professor of Aerospace Engineering and

Director of Undergraduate Studies

Susan W. Stewart

Teaching Professor of Aerospace Engineering and

Associate Director of Undergraduate Studies

AEROSPACE ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

(Starting at University Park)

NOTE: Many AERSP courses are offered only once a year in the semester shown on the schedule, except for AERSP 305W & 424.

Semester

ECON 102 or 104(GS) Micro or Macro-economics 3

ENGL 15,30H or ESL 15 Rhetoric & Composition 3

•CHEM 110 Chemical Principles 3

•MATH 141 Calculus II 4

•MATH 140 Calculus I 4

+PHYS 212 Electricity & Magnetism 4

•PHYS 211 Mechanics 4

•EDSGN 100

Intro. to Engr. Design

First

Year Seminar

GA, GH or GS course

Semester

+MATH 250 Ordinary & Differential Eqns

MATH 230 Calculus and Vector Analysis 4

MATH 220 Matrices 2-3

M E 201 Thermal Science 3

EMCH 210

Statics & Str. of Materials 5

CAS 100 A/B Effective Speech 3

*CMPSC 201 Programming with C++ 3

+EMCH 212 Dynamics 3

GA, GH or GS course 3

EMCH 315 & 316 Mech. Response of Materials 3

16-17

Semester

+AERSP 301 Aerospace Structures I 3

AERSP 304 Dynamics & Control 3

+AERSP 309 Astronautics 3

+AERSP 306 Aeronautics 3

+AERSP 311 Aerodynamics I 3

AERSP 305W Aerospace Tech. Lab (or move

to 7

sem. and swap with

AERSP 424, EE 210 or EE 212

AERSP

Tech elective)

+AERSP 313 Aerospace Analysis 3

AERSP 312 Aerodynamics II 3

ENGL 202C Technical Writing 3

PHYS 214 Waves & Quantum 2

Health & Wellness (GHW) 1.5

GA, GH or GS course 3

16.5

Semester

** AERSP 401A or 402A

Vehicle Sys. Design I 3

** AERSP 401B or 402B Vehicle Sys. Design II 2

AERSP 410

(or 430 in SP)

Aerospace Propulsion

AERSP 4

24,

EE 21

Programming or electronics

AERSP 413 or 450 Flight Vehicle Control 3

or EE 212 (or AERSP Tech Elective)

Health & Wellness (GHW) 1.5

AERSP Technical Elective 3

AERSP Technical Elective (or AERSP 305W, AERSP

424, EE 210 or EE 212)

~Limited Elective or General Technical Elective 3

~General Technical Elective or Limited Elective 3

GA, GH or GS course 3

16.5

GA, GH or GS course

Total Credits – 131-132

• Courses listed in boldface italic type require a grade of C or better for entrance into this major

+ Courses listed in boldface type require a grade of C or better for graduation in this major.

Students may substitute EMCH 211 and 213 for EMCH 210

* CMPSC 121, 131 or 200 may be substituted.

** Students may schedule either the spacecraft design sequence (401A & B), the aircraft design sequence (402A & B) or autonomous vehicle sequence. The

appropriate controls course (450 for spacecraft or 413 for the other options) should be scheduled accordingly.

~ Up to 6 credits of Co-op, upon completion of the program, may be substituted for three technical elective credits and three limited elective credits. For those

students who complete the ROTC Program, 3 ROTC credits may be used to substitute for a limited elective and 3 ROTC credits may be used to substitute for the

GHW requirement.

AEROSPACE ENGINEERING CURRICULUM

(Starting at other Penn State campuses)

NOTE: Many AERSP courses are offered only once a year in the semester shown on the schedule, except for AERSP 305W & 424.

For plans specific to individual Penn State campuses, go to

http://advising.engr.psu.edu/degree-requirements/academic-plans-by-major.aspx

Semester

ENGL 015 or 030

Rhetoric & Composition 3

ECON 102 or 104 (GS) Micro or Macro-economics 3

•CHEM 110 Chemical Principles 3

•MATH 141 Calculus II 4

•MATH 140 Calculus I 4

MATH 220 Matrices 2-3

•EDSGN 100

Intro. to Engr. Design

•PHYS 211

Mechanics

First-Year Seminar

♦

GA, GH or GS course 3

16-17

Semester

MATH 230 Calc. & Vector Analysis 4

+MATH 250 Ordinary Diff. Eqns. 3

* CMPSC 201 Programming with C++ 3

EMCH 213 Strength of Materials 3

+PHYS 212 Electricity & Magnetism 4

** M E 201 Thermal Science 3

CAS 100 A/B Effective Speech 3

+EMCH 212 Dynamics 3

EMCH 211

Statics 3

ENGL 202C Technical Writing 3

GA, GH or GS course 3

Semester

+AERSP 301 Aerospace Structures I 3

AERSP 304 Dynamics & Control 3

+AERSP 309 Astronautics 3

+AERSP 306

Aeronautics 3

+AERSP 311 Aerodynamics I 3

AERSP 305W Aerospace Tech. Lab (or move to 7

sem. and swap with AERSP 424, EE

210 or EE 212 or AERSP Tech

elective)

+AERSP 313 Aerospace Analysis 3

AERSP 312 Aerodynamics II 3

EMCH 315, 316 Mech. Response of Materials 3

PHYS 214 Waves & Quantum 2

Health & Wellness (GHW) 1.5

GA, GH or GS course 3

16.5

Semester

++AERSP 401A or 402A Vehicle Sys. Design I 3

++AERSP 401B or 402B Vehicle Sys. Design II 2

AERSP 410

(or 430 in SP)

Aerospace Propulsion

AERSP 424, EE 210

Programming or electronics

AERSP 413 or 450 Flight Vehicle Controls 3

or EE 212 (or AERSP Tech Elective)

AERSP Technical Elective (or AERSP 305W, AERSP

424, EE 210 or EE 212)

AERSP Technical Elective 3

~ General Technical Elective or Limited Elective 3

~Limited Elective or General Technical Elective 3

Health & Wellness (GHW) 1.5

GA, GH or GS course 3

16.5

GA, GH or GS course 3

Total Credits - 132 ◦

• Courses listed in boldface italic type require a grade of C or better for entrance into this major

♦

Students at other Penn State campuses should confer with an adviser to determine if First Year Seminars are offered there. See also

http://advising.engr.psu.edu/degree-requirements/academic-plans-by-major.aspx

+ Courses listed in boldface type require a grade of C or better for graduation in this major.

* CMPSC 121, 131 or 200 may be substituted.

** M E 300 (Engineering Thermo. I) may be used as a substitute if ME 201 is not offered.

++ Students may schedule either the spacecraft design sequence (401A & B), the aircraft design sequence (402A & B) or autonomous vehicle sequence. The

appropriate controls course (450 for spacecraft or 413 for the other options) should be scheduled accordingly.

~ Up to 6 credits of Co-op, upon completion of the program, may be substituted for three technical elective credits and three limited elective credits. For those

students who complete the ROTC Program, 3 ROTC credits may be used to substitute for a limited elective and 3 ROTC credits may be used to substitute for the

GHW requirement.

◦ 132 credits include 2 credits of Math 220, 3 credits of EMCH 211 and 3 credits of EMCH 213 instead of EMCH 210 for 5 credits available at UP. Therefore, the

official total is 131 as shown for the UP start plan.

Aerospace Engineering Academic Requirements Checksheet

AEROSPACE ENGINEERING CURRICULUM FLOW CHART

Can also move

to 7

Sem.

Or 430 in 8

Sem.

TECHNICAL AND LIMITED ELECTIVE COURSE SELECTIONS

Aerospace Technical Electives (9 credits)

Students must select 9 credits as follows:

Aerospace Technical Electives -- 6 credits -- must be 400-level AERSP courses.

 400-level Aerospace courses not used to meet other program requirements.

 AERSP 204/404 may be used for a maximum of 3 cr. of Aerospace Technical Electives, see section on

“CREDITS EARNED AND AWARDED FOR PARTICIPATION IN AERSP 204H/404H PROGRAM.

 AERSP 494 and 496 involve research or projects agreed upon by both the student and faculty before

registering for these credits. A maximum of 3 credits in any combination of AERSP 494 and 496 can be

earned for one subject. Students who do additional independent study or research in a different subject can

earn an additional maximum of 3 cr. in any combination of AERSP 494 and 496. A Department

Registration Form should be completed at the beginning of each semester in which AERSP 494 or 496

credits are scheduled in consultation with the faculty advisor. See Appendix A for these forms.

General Technical Elective -- 3 credits – In general, these may be 400-level technical courses chosen from the

following programs: ACS, AE, AERSP, A B E, ASTRO, BIOE, CH E, CE, CMPSC, CSE, EE, EMCH,

ESC, FSC, IE, IST, MATH, M E, METAL, METEO, NUCE, PHYS. Also permitted in this category, Co-

op/Internship credit0F

. Note that learning assistant credit, or non-technical offerings from these programs

would not count in this category.

A list of common General Technical Elective courses taken by Aerospace students is provided below for

reference, along with their pre-requisites.

Course Number Course Title Prerequisites

ASTRO 291

Astronomical Methods and the Solar

System

PHYS 211

ASTRO 292 Astronomy of the Distant Universe ASTRO 291

PHYS 230 Introduction to Relativity

PHYS 212 and MATH 141, concurrent MATH 220 and

Math 230 (or 231)

PHYS 237 Intro to Modern Physics PHYS 212 or concurrent PHYS 214

EDSGN 468

Engineering Design and Analysis with

CAD

EMCH 210 or 211

AE 469

Photovoltaic Systems Design and

Construction

E E 210 or E E 211 (or 212)

ASTRO 410 Computational Astrophysics

CMPSC 201 (or 121), PHYS 212, PHYS 213 and PHYS

214

EMCH 400

Advanced Strength of Materials and

Design

EMCH 213, EMCH 210

The first three credits of co-op/internship courses earned apply toward the limited elective. An additional

three credits will apply toward the general technical elective.

EMCH 407 Computer Methods in Engineering Design CMPSC 200 (or 201), EMCH 210 (or 213)

EMCH 461/

ME 461

Finite Elements in Engineering EMCH 213 (or 210), CMPSC 201 (or 200)

EMCH 471 Engineering Composite Materials

(EMCH 213 or EMCH 210) and (CMPSC 200 or

CMPSC 201)

EMCH 473/

AERSP 473

Composites Processing EMCH 471 (or possibly AERSP 470 by prereq override)

ESC 456/EE

456/EGEE 456

Introduction to Neural Networks

(CMPSC 201 or CMPSC 121 or CMPSC 131 ) and

MATH 220

ESC 481

Elements of Nano/Micro-

electromechanical Systems Processing and

Design

EMCH 213 , or EMCH 315 , or E SC 312

IE 405

Deterministic Models in Operations

Research

MATH 220

NUCE 406/ME

406

Introduction to Statistical

Thermodynamics

ME 300 (or 201 or 302), MATH 230 (or 231)

METEO 466 Planetary Atmospheres MATH 141, PHYS 211

EGEE /ME 430 Introduction to Combustion ME 201 or ME 300

MATH 401 Introduction to Analysis MATH 230

MATH 405

Advanced Calculus for Engineers and

Scientists

MATH 230 and (250 or 251)

MATH 410

Complex Analysis for Mathematics and

Engineering

MATH 230

MATH 411 Ordinary Differential Equations MATH 230 and (250 or 251)

MATH 412

Fourier Series and Partial Differential

Equations

MATH 230 and (250 or 251)

MATH 414 Introduction to Probability Theory MATH 230

MATH 417

Qualitative Theory of Differential

Equations

MATH 220 and (250 or 251)

MATH 418

Introduction to Probability and Stochastic

Processes for Engineering

MATH 230

MATH 422 Wavelets and Fourier Analysis

MATH 425 Introduction to Operations Research MATH 141 and 220

MATH 427 Foundations of Geometry MATH 230

MATH 430 Linear Algebra and Discrete Models MATH 220

MATH 441 Matrix Algebra MATH 220

MATH 449 Applied Ordinary Differential Equations MATH 250 or 251

MATH 451 Numerical Computations 3 cr. programming, MATH 230

MATH 452 Deep Learning Algorithms and Analysis MATH 220, 230, CMPSC 121 or 131 or 200 or 201

MATH 455 Introduction to Numerical Analysis CMPSC 121 or 131 or 200 or 201, MATH 220, 230

MATH 484 Linear Programs and Related Problems MATH 220, 230

MATH 486 Mathematical Theory of Games MATH 220

ME 410 Heat Transfer

ME 320 (or request subst. of AERSP 311 & 312), CMPSC

200 or 201, MATH 220

ME 421 Viscous Flow Analysis and Computation

(ME 201 or ME 320 or AERSP 308 or AERSP 311) and

(CMPSC 200 or 201) and MATH 220 and (MATH 250 or

251)

ME 455 Automatic Control Systems

Request subst. of AERSP 304 for ME 357, and AERSP

311 & 312 for ME 320

PHYS 419/

MATH 419

Theoretical Mechanics MATH 230, (250 or 251), PHYS 212, 213, 214

PHYS 462 Applications of Physics in Medicine PHYS 211

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Limited Elective (3 credits)

The Limited Elective can be 3 credits of almost any subject, with some exceptions

Students may select 3 credits from any of the following categories:

 Courses in the Aerospace Technical Elective or General Technical Elective categories

 Courses needed to fulfill requirements for a minor

 Foreign-language courses (at any level)

 Courses in the Engineering Entrepreneurship Program

 Courses in the Engineering Leadership Development Program

 Upon completion of the ROTC program, ROTC students may use 3 cr. of ROTC for GHW and 3 cr. of

ROTC as the Limited Elective.

 Co-op/internship students may use 3 cr. of Co-op/Internship courses for the Limited Elective, and 3 cr. of

Co-op/Internship as the General Technical Elective.

Students MAY NOT use the following for the Limited Elective:

MATH 001, 002, 003, 004, 005, 006, 007, 021, 022, 026, 030, 036, 040, 041, 100, 198; CHEM 101, 108;

PHYS 100, 150, 151, 191, 215, 250, 251, 265; PH SC 007, 008; ENGL 004, 005; KINES (any course);

LL ED 005, 010; ESL 004; CAS 126; Technology Courses (those that have a T suffix in the course title)

Some Limited Elective courses (which would NOT count as General Technical Electives) to consider

include:

Course

number

Course Title Prerequisites

ENGR 405 Project Management for Professionals  

ENGR 407 Technology-Based Entrepreneurship ECON 102 (or 104)

ENGR 408 Leadership Principles  

ENGR 409 Leadership in Organizations  

ENGR 410

Coaching Skills and Practice for Engineering

Leaders

ENGR 408

ENGR 411 Entrepreneurship Business Basics 3 credits in economics

ENGR 415 Technology Launch for Entrepreneurs ENGR 407 and MGMT 215 or ENGR 310

ENGR 422

Leadership of International Virtual Engineering

Teams

ENGR 408

ENGR 425 New Venture Creation ECON 102 (or 104), CAS 100

ENGR 426 Invention Commercialization ECON 102 (or 104), CAS 100

METEO 469

From Meteorology to Mitigation: Understanding

Global Warming

MATH 140

EGEE 405 Renewable Energy in Electricity Markets EE 210 and ECON 102 (or 104)

ENVSE 400 Safety Engineering CHEM 110, PHYS 211, MATH 141

ENVSE 420 Fire Safety Engineering CHEM 110, PHYS 212, MATH 141

ENVSE 440 Industrial Ventilation for Contaminant Control MATH 141, PHYS 212, CHEM 110

ENVSE 450 Environmental Health and Safety CHEM 110

ENVSE 470 Engineering Risk Analysis MATH 251

ENVE 430 Sustainable Engineering Permission of program

ENVE 460 Environmental Law Senior standing, Permission of program

COURSE SERIES/ELECTIVE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR AREAS OF FOCUS

Several areas of focus are identified below, noting the best capstone series selection and any other course

options and electives that are suggested to focus your studies in each area. Selecting a focus area is not

required. This is for your information only.

Courses Recommended for Students Interested in Space Systems

AERSP 401 A/B Capstone and AERSP 450

AERSP 424 Advanced Computer Programming (counts as AERSP Tech Elect. only if EE 210 or 212 also

taken)

Technical electives:

AERSP 415 Spacecraft/Environment Interactions

AERSP 430 Space Propulsion and Power Systems

AERSP 458 Advanced Orbital Mechanics

AERSP 460 Aerospace Control Systems

AERSP 470 Advanced Aerospace Structures

Note: You may also be interested in the certificate in Space Systems offered by Electrical Engineering: See

details posted in the Canvas Aerospace UG Community.

Courses Recommended for Students Interested in Aircraft Design

AERSP 402.1 A/B Capstone (Aircraft) and AERSP 413

AERSP 424 Advanced Computer Programming (counts as AERSP Tech Elect. only if EE 210 or 212 also

taken)

Technical electives:

AERSP 497 Design Optimization (recommended to take in 6th semester, before starting capstone)

AERSP 420 Principles of Flight Testing

AERSP 425 Theory of Flight

Courses Recommended for Students Interested in Rotorcraft Design

AERSP 402.2 A/B Capstone (Rotorcraft) and AERSP 413

AERSP 424 Advanced Computer Programming (counts as AERSP Tech Elect. only if EE 210 or 212 also

taken)

Technical electives:

AERSP 497 Design Optimization (recommended to take in 6th semester, before starting capstone)

AERSP 407 Aerodynamics of V/STOL Aircraft

Courses Recommended for Students Interested in Autonomous Vehicle Design

AERSP 403 A/B Capstone (Autonomous Aerospace Vehicle Design)

AERSP 424 Advanced Computer Programming is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED before starting 4th year

(counts as AERSP Tech Elect. only if EE 210 or 212 also taken)

Technical electives:

AERSP 462 Aerospace Autonomy REQUIRED CO-REQ for Autonomous Vehicle Capstone

AERSP 460 Aerospace Control Systems

Courses Recommended for Students Interested in Design Methods

Any capstone

AERSP 424 Advanced Computer Programming (counts as AERSP Tech Elect. only if EE 210 or 212 also

taken)

Technical electives:

AERSP 497 Design Optimization (recommended to take in 6th semester, before starting capstone)

A second AERSP capstone can be taken as a technical elective

Courses Recommended for Students Interested in Structures and Materials

Any capstone

Technical electives:

AERSP 470 Advanced Aerospace Structures

EMCH 471 Engineering Composite Materials

AERSP 473 Composite Processes (pre-req of EMCH 471 or AERSP 470 by petition)

Note: You may also consider the EMCH minor.

Courses Recommended for Students Interested in Aerodynamics

AERSP 402 A/B Capstone (Aircraft or Rotorcraft) and AERSP 413

Technical electives:

AERSP 423 Intro to Numerical Methods in Fluid Dynamics

AERSP 407 Aerodynamics of V/STOL Aircraft

AERSP 425 Theory of Flight

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAM OBJECTIVES FOR AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

Revised 8/17/18

The Pennsylvania State University

Aerospace Engineering Undergraduate Program

Program Educational Objectives

This major emphasizes the analysis, design, and operation of aircraft and spacecraft. Students learn the

theories and practices in the fundamental subjects of aeronautics, astronautics, aerodynamics and fluid

dynamics, aerospace materials and structures, dynamics and automatic control, aircraft stability and control

and/or orbital and attitude dynamics and control, air-breathing and rocket propulsion, aircraft systems

design and /or spacecraft systems design. All of these place significant weight on the development and use

of teamwork and communications skills for effective problem-solving.

Within a few years after graduation, we expect graduates of our program will be:

 Engaged in careers in the discipline of aerospace engineering, and in related disciplines where aerospace

engineering knowledge and skills are beneficial, that applies the knowledge and skills for precise

engineering analysis and open-ended problem solving and design.

 Pursuing continued professional development through multiple pathways including graduate programs in

aerospace engineering, and in related disciplines where aerospace engineering knowledge and skills bring a

useful perspective, with the skills needed for engineering research and more advanced studies.

 Acting as professionals representing aerospace engineering concerns with effective communication and

teamwork skills, awareness of current issues, and ethical decision making.

Student Outcomes

The undergraduate program will provide students with:

(1) an ability to identify, formulate, and solve complex engineering problems by applying principles of

engineering, science, and mathematics

(2) an ability to apply engineering design to produce solutions that meet specified needs with consideration

of public health, safety, and welfare, as well as global, cultural, social, environmental, and economic

factors

(3) an ability to communicate effectively with a range of audiences

(4) an ability to recognize ethical and professional responsibilities in engineering situations and make

informed judgments, which must consider the impact of engineering solutions in global, economic,

environmental, and societal contexts

(5) an ability to function effectively on a team whose members together provide leadership, create a

collaborative and inclusive environment, establish goals, plan tasks, and meet objectives

(6) an ability to develop and conduct appropriate experimentation, analyze and interpret data, and use

engineering judgment to draw conclusions

(7) an ability to acquire and apply new knowledge as needed, using appropriate learning strategies.

Detailed Student Outcomes

Aerospace engineering B.S. graduates will be able to

1. Analyze the dynamics and control characteristics of aerospace vehicles, including the basic translational and

rotational dynamics, and the basic theory and practice used to control these motions,

2. Analyze fluid dynamics, including the regimes of subsonic, transonic, and supersonic flows, inviscid and

viscous flows, and laminar and turbulent flows,

3. Apply knowledge of the fundamentals of aeronautics, including aerodynamic characteristics of aircraft,

propulsion systems, airplane performance, and elementary aircraft stability & control,

4. Apply knowledge of the fundamentals of astronautics, including orbital mechanics, attitude dynamics &

control, rocket propulsion, and the space environment,

5. Predict performance, and conduct preliminary design, of gas turbine and rocket-based propulsion systems

and their components,

6. Analyze the detailed dynamics, stability and control of either aircraft or spacecraft,

7. Analyze and design structural elements such as bars, beams, plates and thin-walled structures,

8. Make measurements to test hypotheses or to characterize the performance of physical systems

(aerodynamic, structural, and control), and analyze and interpret the data in written reports,

9. Complete the successive stages of conceptual, preliminary, and detailed design of an aircraft or spacecraft

mission and the associated vehicle(s),

10. Function effectively on teams to solve problems in complex aerospace systems that require knowledge of

multiple disciplines,

11. Apply an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility to realistic situations,

12. Make effective oral and written presentations in the format appropriate for the setting,

13. Explain how this profession affects society as a whole, and to demonstrate an appreciation of how technical

issues guide societal actions,

14. Demonstrate an awareness of the need to stay abreast of technical developments throughout their working

careers, and demonstrate that they are able to maintain and extend their learning, and

15. Make appropriate and effective use of computer software, hardware, and state-of-the-art laboratory

instrumentation.

EXPECTATIONS OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

Professional conduct, especially with regard to honesty and integrity, is a lifetime requirement for

those pursuing an engineering career. The students in the Aerospace Engineering curriculum are expected

to practice good ethics in every aspect of their educational studies. Students who violate this requirement

will be subject to disciplinary action as determined by the University Faculty Senate Policy 49-20.

(senate.psu.edu/)

University Faculty Senate Policy 49-20 – Academic Integrity

Definition and expectations: Academic integrity is the pursuit of scholarly activity in an open honest

and responsible manner. Academic integrity is a basic guiding principle for all academic activity at The

Pennsylvania State University, and all members of the University community are expected to act in

accordance with this principle. Consistent with this expectation, the University’s Code of Conduct states

that all students should act with personal integrity, respect other students’ dignity, rights and property, and

help create and maintain an environment in which all can succeed through the fruits of their efforts.

Academic integrity includes a commitment by all members of the University community not to

engage in or tolerate acts of falsification, misrepresentation or deception. Such acts of dishonesty violate

the fundamental ethical principles of the University community and compromise the worth of work

completed by others.

To protect the rights and maintain the trust of honest students and support appropriate behavior,

faculty and administrators should regularly communicate high standards of integrity and reinforce them by

taking reasonable steps to anticipate and deter acts of dishonesty in all assignments (Senate Policy 44-40:

Proctoring of Examinations). At the beginning of each course, it is the responsibility of the instructor to

provide students with a statement clarifying the application of University and College academic integrity

policies to that course.

Committee on Academic Integrity: Each College Dean (or Chancellor as determined by College

policy) shall appoint a Committee on Academic Integrity made up of faculty, students, and academic

administrators with faculty being the majority. This committee shall:

1. Promote expectations for academic integrity consistent with the definition in this policy.

2. Ensure fairness and consistency in processes and outcomes. To ensure University-wide

consistency, College Committees will work with the Office of Student Conduct and the Office

of the Provost of the University to develop procedures for handling and sanctioning dishonesty

infractions.

3. Review and settle all contested cases in which academic sanctions are applied. If necessary,

further disciplinary action will be taken by the Office of Student Conduct.

4. Record all cases of academic dishonesty within a college and report them to the Office of Student

Conduct.

AEROSPACE COURSE OFFERINGS FOR 2023-2024

Fall 2023 courses

AERSP 401A - Spacecraft Design - Preliminary

AERSP 402A1 - Aircraft Design - Preliminary

AERSP 402A2 - Rotorcraft Design - Preliminary

AERSP 407 - Aerodynamics of V/STOL Aircraft

AERSP 410 - Aerospace Propulsion

AERSP 413 - Stability and Control of Aircraft

AERSP 424 - Advanced Computer Programming

AERSP 425 - Theory of Flight

AERSP 450 - Orbit and Attitude Control of Spacecraft

AERSP 460 - Aerospace Control Systems

AERSP 470 - Advanced Aerospace Structures

AERSP 490 - Introduction to Plasmas

AERSP 497 - Autonomous Aerospace Vehicle Design - Preliminary

AERSP 497 - Aerospace Autonomy

Spring 2024 Courses

AERSP 401B - Spacecraft Design - Detailed

AERSP 402B1 - Aircraft Design - Detailed

AERSP 402B2 - Rotorcraft Design - Detailed

AERSP 423 - Introduction to Numerical Methods in Fluid Dynamics

AERSP 430 - Space Propulsion and Power Systems

AERSP 458 - Orbital Mechanics

AERSP 473 - Composites Processing

AERSP 492 - Space Astronomy and Introduction to Space Science

AERSP 497 - Compressible Flow

AERSP 497 - Aerospace Design Optimization

AERSP 497 - Signal Processing/Computer Vision

AERSP 497 - Autonomous Aerospace Vehicle Design - Detailed

Please refer to the Undergraduate Bulletin for information on the aerospace program:

http://undergraduate.bulletins.psu.edu/undergraduate/colleges/engineering/aerospace-engineering-bs/

Refer to http://undergraduate.bulletins.psu.edu/university-course-descriptions/undergraduate/aersp/

for aerospace course descriptions.

PREREQUISITES FOR AEROSPACE REQUIRED AND TECH ELECTIVE COURSES

COURSE PREREQUISITE

PREREQUISITE OR

CONCURRENT

ENGL 15 ENGL 004 or Satisfactory Placement Test

ENGL 202C ENGL 15 or 30, 4th Semester Standing

CHEM 110 Satisfactory Placement Test

MATH 140 Algebra & Trigonometry/Satisfactory Placement Test

MATH 141 MATH 140

MATH 220 MATH 110 or 140

MATH 230 MATH 141

MATH 250 MATH 141

PHYS 211 MATH 140

PHYS 212 MATH 140 and PHYS 211 MATH 141

PHYS 214 MATH 141, PHYS 211 and 212

CMPSC 201,

121, 131, or 200

MATH 140 (for 200 and 201)

MATH 141 (for 200, 201)

MATH 140 (for 121, 131)

EDSGN 100

EMCH 210 MATH 140

EMCH 212 EMCH 211 or 210, MATH 141

EMCH 315 EMCH 213 or 210

EMCH 316 EMCH 315

EE 210 PHYS 212 MATH 250 or 251

E E 212 PHYS 212

M E 201 CHEM 110

AERSP 204 Consent of instructor

AERSP 301

EMCH 210 (or 213), MATH 220, MATH 230 (or 231 and 232), MATH

250 (or 251)

AERSP 304 AERSP 313, EMCH 212

AERSP 305W

AERSP 301, 311, ENGL

202C

AERSP 306 AERSP 311, 313

AERSP 308 EMch 212, MATH 251

AERSP 309

EMCH 212, MATH 220, MATH 230 (or 231 and 232), MATH 250 (or

251), CMPSC 201 (or 121, or 131 or 200)

COURSE PREREQUISITE

PREREQUISITE OR

CONCURRENT

AERSP 311

EMCH 212, MATH 220 and MATH 230 (or 231 and 232), MATH 250

(or 251), CMPSC 201 (or 121, or 131 or 200).

AERSP 312 AERSP 311, 313, M E 201 (or 300)

AERSP 313 CMPSC 201 or 202, MATH 220, 230 (or MATH 231 AND 232), 250

AERSP 401A AERSP 309 AERSP 450

AERSP 401B AERSP 301, 401A

AERSP 402A AERSP 306 AERSP 413

AERSP 402B AERSP 301, 402A

AERSP 404 Consent of instructor; AERSP 204

AERSP 405 AERSP 305W

AERSP 407 AERSP 312

AERSP 410 AERSP 312

AERSP 412 One Course in Fluid Mech

AERSP 413 AERSP 304, 306

AERSP 415 AERSP 308 or AERSP 312 or ME 420

AERSP 420 AERSP 306

AERSP 423

AERSP 312 (or ME 320), CMPSC 200 (or 201),MATH 250 (or 251)

AERSP 424 MATH 220, CMPSC 201

AERSP 425 AERSP 306

AERSP 430 AERSP 410 or ME 432 (May petition for AERSP 312 in SP ’24)

AERSP 450 AERSP 304, 309

AERSP 458 AERSP 450 or EMch 409 or Phys 419

AERSP 460 AERSP 304

AERSP 470 AERSP 301 AERSP 304 , EMch 315

AERSP 473 EMCH 471

AERSP 490 EE 330 or Phys 400

AERSP 492

Phys 400 or EE 330

or METEO 421 and METEO 431

AERSP 494 7th Semester Standing – permission of advisor for thesis work

*Consult instructor or director of UG studies on possible substitutions

SCHREYER SCHOLARS IN AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

Honors Thesis Guidelines and Requirements

Getting Started with Honors Thesis Research

The prospect of identifying a research topic may seem daunting, but students should remember

that this effort is intended as part of their honors education, to be guided by a member of the

faculty. Students are not expected to conceive of a thesis topic on their own (although good

ideas are always welcomed). The thesis supervisor initially helps develop an idea, define the

scope of the research, and plan the work, then later, guides the research and the thesis writing.

A good strategy for students to get started is to talk with faculty whose research aligns with their

interests. Students may learn about departmental research projects from their aerospace courses,

or by asking their honors adviser, but they should also review the faculty webpages at

www.aero.psu.edu. It’s never too soon to begin this process. Some research projects require

completion of specific courses or self-study of background materials before the actual research

can begin. Students should expect to spend at least three semesters from start to finish (and

summer can be a very productive time for research).

The length and scope of an honors thesis depends upon the particular research project. In

general, the thesis should be written with the same level of detail as a journal paper. Aerospace

honors theses from recent years can be accessed in the University Libraries’ collection.

SHC Thesis Requirements

The Schreyer Honors College provides general guidelines, requirements and deadlines for the

honors thesis. Note that two people must approve the final thesis: the honors adviser and the

thesis supervisor. If these are the same person, the student must identify a Faculty Reader to be

the second approver.

Aerospace-specific Requirement

Scholars majoring in aerospace engineering are required to give a formal presentation of their

thesis. The preferred venue for this is the AIAA Regional Student Conference, held in the spring

semester. An honors adviser can approve an alternative presentation forum (for example, a

research conference or a public seminar with a presentation format similar to that of the AIAA

Student Conference).

COOPERATIVE EDUCATION AND INTERNSHIP PROGRAMS

Cooperative Education: Aerospace Engineering participates in the cooperative education program in

the College of Engineering. This program provides one FULL YEAR of work experience divided

into THREE SEGMENTS: a fall semester, a spring semester and a summer session. These work

periods alternate with periods in school. A student should enter the program at the end of the

sophomore year and schedule courses that summer. The first work experience normally begins in the

following Spring semester of the junior year. In the event that it is necessary to begin in the summer

or fall, a special schedule can be devised. (See your academic adviser for help in this matter).

Thereafter, work and school alternate until three work segments are completed. In this program, the

student graduates in December of the first half of the fifth school year instead of May at the end of

the fourth school year, thus completing the degree program in four-and-one-half years. For students

admitted into the major and electing the cooperative education program, the curriculum plans for the

last two-and-one-half years are shown on the following page. Note that the student is either in school

or at work for three summer sessions beginning the summer after the end of the sophomore year. This

schedule is necessary only if the student intends to graduate in 4 ½ years.

Students who elect to participate in the cooperative education program will interview with

employers participating in this program late in their sophomore year. The interviewing process is like

that for permanent employment; both employer and student must agree as to terms. Students selected

will register for 1 to 3 credits of Engr 295A, Engr 395A, and Engr 495A, successively, for each of the

three work sessions. Six of these credits can be used as follows: 3 credits for the Limited Elective,

and 3 credits for a Technical Elective. At the end of each session, a report evaluating the experience

will be submitted to your academic adviser. This report will serve as a basis for a grade in the

respective course.

Students gain several benefits from this program. They get to work in a real world

environment and get a sampling of what practicing aerospace engineers do on the job. This

experience should serve to enlighten students more on what areas to pursue in future studies and what

skills are most essential to develop. It also provides a means for earning some money prior to

graduation while working in one's professional field. A Certificate is provided by the University upon

completion of the entire formal Co-op Program. To apply, students must attend a Co-Op Preparation

Workshop, held at the beginning of each semester.

Internships: An internship is an academic credit course for students any time after completion of their

first semester at Penn State. Internship students typically work for one semester, but have the option

of working multiple rotations at one company by rolling into a co-op or working at multiple

companies for multiple internships.

For further information, visit: https://career.engr.psu.edu

Or contact:

Your academic adviser Amy Custer Career Resources &

Undergraduate Program Staff Assistant Employer Relations

229 Hammond Building 117 Hammond

814-865-6432 814-863-1032

[email protected] [email protected]

AEROSPACE ENGINEERING CO-OP SCHEDULE

YEAR 3

SUMMER

FALL

SPRING

GA, GH or GS course

EMCH 315-316

AERSP 301

AERSP 309

AERSP 311

AERSP 313

GA, GH or GS course

GHW

1.5

16.5

WORK

(ENGR 295A)

YEAR 4

SUMMER

FALL

SPRING

ENGL 202C

E E 212

PHYS 214

WORK

(ENGR 395A)

AERSP 305

AERSP 304

AERSP 306

AERSP 312

GA, GH or GS course

GHW

1.5

16.5

YEAR 5

SUMMER

FALL

SPRING

WORK

(ENGR 495A)

AERSP 401A

AERSP 402A

AERSP 410

AERSP 413

AERSP 450

TECH ELECT

NOTE: This schedule assumes 6 credits of co-op courses will be used toward Technical and

Limited Elective requirements. If no co-op credits are substituted for technical electives, two

additional 3-credit technical electives must be scheduled.

GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

(for students who began before Su ‘23)

Penn State’s General Education requirements include a total of 45 credits (only 9 credits of GN

can double count with the major). For AERSP majors, some of those credits are pre-determined

(Chem, Econ, Math, Physics), while others allow for some choice.

Foundations courses (15 cr.) (for AERSP majors, no choices here)

GWS: must take ENGL 15, ENGL 202C, CAS 100A

GQ: must take MATH 140, 141

Exploration (9 cr.)

6 credits of GN from CHEM 110 and Phys 211 are automatically applied

*3 credits of any single domain from GA, GH, GS, GN, GHW, or an interdomain course, must

not be required for the major. A student can also petition to replace this with a 3

-level or higher

language course. (e.g. SPAN 003).

Breadth of Knowledge (15 cr.)

3 credits of a GA-only course

3 credits of a GH-only course

3 credits of Econ 102/104 (either one counts as a GS-only course)

3 credits of GHW-only courses (either a single 3-credit course or two 1.5-credit courses)

3 credits of GN from Phys 212 are automatically applied

Integrative Studies (6 cr.)

Select two, 3 credit, interdomain courses. An interdomain (N) course covers two different

knowledge domains (e.g. GA & GH, or GH & GS, or . . . ). An interdomain course may appear

in both domains in the student’s Degree Academic Requirements (aka degree audit).8

2 additional requirements:

US/IL Cultures requirement: At least 3 of these 45 credits must have the US (US cultures)

designation and at least 3 of these 45 credits must have the IL (International cultures)

designation. Some courses are listed as US/IL, which means that they can be used as US or IL,

but not both. Completing one course designated as US/IL will require completion of a second

course designated as US or IL or US/IL.

Gen Ed distribution requirement: Select these 45 credits so that, among them, at least two of

them have a GA (or partial GA) designation, two of them have a GH (or partial GH) designation,

and two of them have a GS (or partial GS) designation. Partial designation refers to interdomain

courses (e.g., GN/GA has partial designation in GN and in GA).

Allowed exceptions for flexibility

General Education requirements were updated for students starting college in Summer 2023 or

beyond. These guidelines are a bit more straightforward to follow (as seen on page 23) and in

general, if you can meet the new requirements, you should be in good shape, but may need to

complete a petition (options described below) to officially move things around in your academic

requirements in Lionpath.

Move-3: You must 1

take at least one non-interdomain course in each of these categories: GA,

GH, GHW, and GS. Then, to balance out your degree audit, a student can petition to avoid taking

a second course in one category (GA/GH/GS) by taking a third, not required course, in another

category (GA/GH/GS/GN/GHW) and submitting a Move-3 petition. (e.g., if a student has taken

a single-domain GA course and doesn’t want to take another GA course, they can petition to use

a GH/GS/GN/GHW course instead, but only if that course is not being used to meet any of the

other Gen Ed requirements or degree-program requirements).

Higher-level course: In any Gen Ed knowledge-domain category, a student can petition a higher-

level course (200-400 level) to count instead of a designated Gen Ed course, provided that they

meet the prerequisites. (e.g. can petition to count HIST 411 - Medieval Britain as a GH course).

Replacing a Gen Ed requirement with a free elective: If a student satisfies all General Education

distribution requirements prior to taking the *course above, they can petition to replace it with a

free elective – a course that can be anything (technical or non-technical) so long as it is not

remedial or a repeat of a course. Note: This action doesn’t reduce the number of credits needed

to graduate, but it gives more flexibility.

Useful websites:

Gen Ed Planning Tool https://genedplan.psu.edu/

University Bulletin https://bulletins.psu.edu/

Also see the checksheet on pages 4-5 of this guide.

Move-3 examples:

1. A student has these courses:

a. GA: MUSIC 7 (GA, US), ASTRO 7N (GA/GN)

b. GH: HIST 10 (GH, IL), ENGR 197E (GH/GN)

c. GS: ECON 102 (GS)

d. GN: CHEM 110 (GN), PHYS 211 (GN), PHYS 212 (GN), ASTRO 7N

(GA/GN), ENGR 197E (GH/GN)

e. GHW: NUTR 100 (GHW)

They can use Move-3 to put ENGR 197E in the GS category.

2. A student has these courses:

a. GA: ASTRO 7N (GA/GN)

b. GH: HIST 10 (GH, IL), HIST 21 (GH, US)

c. GS: ECON 102 (GS), SOC 119N (GH/GS)

d. GN: CHEM 110 (GN), PHYS 211 (GN), PHYS 212 (GN)

e. GHW: NUTR 100 (GHW)

They could not use Move-3 to substitute exploratory course GER 3 for the single-

domain course in GA.

GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS (for students who started Su ’23 or later)

US/IL Cultures requirement: At least 3 of these 45 credits must have the US (US cultures) designation

and at least 3 of these 45 credits must have the IL (International cultures) designation. Some courses are

listed as US/IL, which means that they can be used as US or IL, but not both. Completing one course

designated as US/IL will require completion of a second course designated as US or IL or US/IL.

Econ 102 or 104

Chem 110

Phys 212

Phys 211

PETITIONS FOR COURSE SUBSTITUTIONS

Students may request course substitutions by completing a College of Engineering

petition form (https://advising.engr.psu.edu/student-resources/petitions.aspx). This can be used

for any course, including those needed to meet requirements for General Education and for the

major.

If the petition concerns a Department requirement, the Director or Associate Director of

Undergraduate Studies will decide whether to approve it. Petitions concerning General

Education, or other College or University requirements, must first receive a recommendation

from the Department, and then are forwarded to the Assistant Dean for Student Services for a

decision.

Procedure

1. Plan to submit the petition and receive a decision before taking the substitute course. (In some

cases, this is not possible, but be aware that not all petitions are approved.)

2. Go to https://coursesub.psu.edu and fill out the online petition form. It will then be routed

electronically to the Director/Associate Director of Undergraduate Studies, and if needed, to the

Assistant Dean for Student Services.

3. You will be notified by email if the petition was approved or denied. If approved, appropriate

change(s) will be made to your degree audit.

4. Retroactive adds, drops or withdrawals require different actions, depending upon when they

occur. Please contact Amy Custer, Dr. Stewart or Dr. Melton for the details.

Petitions will be placed in your official file after completion by all required authorities.

How to Write the Petition

1. State your request clearly and completely. The evaluators will base their decisions upon your

written statements (and the information on your transcript).

2. Do not ask to waive or set aside a requirement or course; instead, cast the request in terms of

what you wish to substitute for a particular course or to meet a particular requirement.

3. Give an adequate justification: explain the circumstances that have led to your request. Do not

simply state “To allow me to graduate on time.”

Common petitions

 If a student begins at a commonwealth campus that does not offer first year seminar, any extra 1

credit (such as from Math 251, or EMCH 211 & 213), can be petitioned to count for this 1 credit.

 Autonomy capstone (if listed as AERSP 497) will need to be petitioned to count as capstone

 If a student takes CMPSC 121, 131 or 200 instead of CMPSC 201, this may be petitioned as a

substitution.

 AERSP 424 should be petitioned to substitute for AERSP 440.

 Some limited electives must be petitioned to count in this category.

Note: the Dean of Engineering will not consider petitions in the semester that you

graduate; petitions must be submitted prior to the beginning of your final semester.

All Petitions are treated in strict confidence.

PREREQUISITE OVERRIDE REQUESTS

You must have all of the required pre-requisites completed or co-requisites registered for (or in

progress at Penn State) before registering for courses in Lionpath for the next semester. There are

situations in which you may have a prerequisite that is not recognized by Lionpath (such as transfer

credit which hasn’t been processed to your transcript yet, or an approved petition which allows a

substitution, for example). In these situations, you may request a prerequisite override in Lionpath.

Justification should be provided for any prerequisite override request. The Prerequisite Override

Request form can be found in the enrollment section of the LionPATH student home base. Step-by-

step instructions on how to complete the form can be found on the LionPATH Support website

(https://lionpathsupport.psu.edu/files/2022/02/S_Request-Prerequisite-Override.docx). Students are

encouraged to consult with their assigned academic adviser before submitting a prerequisite

override request.

Common prerequisite override scenarios:

 If you need to take a Math or EMCH course that is a prerequisite for the fall 3

year AERSP courses

at a non-PSU institution over the summer, please hold off on submitting the prerequisite override

request until you have completed the course and can share an unofficial transcript via the override

request process (while you send the official transcript to PSU, which can take longer). This will delay

you from registering for 3-4 courses. In the meantime, you may reach out to the Associate Director

of Undergraduate Studies to indicate your intent to register so that we can track the course demand

and manage seats.

 If you have all of the prerequisites for a course completed, but are not yet in the major due to the

credit window (but otherwise meeting all ETM requirements), you may use the override process to

request enrollment in AERSP courses.

 Note, if a prerequisite course for a future registered course is late dropped or not successfully

completed, a warning will be generated and you may be dropped from courses the Friday before the

semester begins. You may submit a prerequisite override at this point, but it may not be approved.

AEROSPACE FACULTY AND STAFF

A list of Aerospace Engineering Faculty can be found on the following website:

https://www.aero.psu.edu/department/faculty-list.aspx

A list of Aerospace Engineering Staff can be found on the following website:

https://www.aero.psu.edu/department/staff-list.aspx

RESEARCH IN THE DEPARTMENT OF AEROSPACE ENGINEERING

Detailed information covering research can be found on our department website at

www.aero.psu.edu/research. A list of faculty and their research areas can also be found here:

https://aerospaceengineeringresearch.psu.edu/ If you are interested in pursuing undergraduate

research, look for a “UG” next to faculty names in this link, which indicates they may be looking

for UG researchers. Reach out to ask for more information. It is also recommended that you check

https://www.engr.psu.edu/research/undergrad-opportunities.aspx, for advertised opportunities.

INFORMATION RESOURCES

Advising

Each student is assigned an official advisor to help with scheduling, career planning, or other

academic matters. Your advisor’s name appears on your LionPath account in your student center.

Do not hesitate to see your advisor if you have any questions or problems. If your advisor is not

available, ask one of the Department staff assistants to identify another advisor who can meet with

you. You should seek guidance from an advisor each semester regarding scheduling and checking

your Academic Requirements progress.

Dr. Robert G. Melton (on sabbatical in Fall 2023) and Dr. Susan W. Stewart serve as principal

advisors, and may also be consulted, particularly on complex scheduling problems. During the

beginning of the semester and during the registration timetable, you may find appointments available

in Starfish.

Coursework Consultation

Professors, graduate teaching assistants, and undergraduate teaching interns hold scheduled

office hours for student help. If you cannot meet during the scheduled office hours, arrange for a

special appointment by emailing or calling the professor or TA.

Engineering Library

The Engineering Library on the third floor of Hammond Building houses thousands of

volumes of engineering texts, periodicals, and literature. Most material can be checked out of the

library upon presentation of the student's identification card. Several photocopy machines are

available, as well as areas to study.

Tutoring/Help Sessions

One-on-one tutoring for 300-level aerospace engineering courses will be provided by Sigma

Gamma Tau members during scheduled times. Group help sessions will be arranged if warranted by

substantial interest on a particular subject. Scheduled tutoring hours will be announced in class and

via an email to aerospace students.

STUDENT SOCIETIES AND ORGANIZATIONS

American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)

The AIAA is the largest American technical society devoted to science and engineering in the

fields of space, technology, rocket systems, aerodynamics and marine systems. Students are

encouraged to join the Penn State Student Branch of the AIAA. Membership applications and

information on the benefits of belonging to this organization may be obtained from the AIAA faculty

advisor. Meetings and social events are held regularly during the academic year. Members can also

attend the annual student conference for the Mid-Atlantic Region each April. Listen for

announcements in class and watch your emails for meeting notices. Dr. Robert G. Melton (rgmelton),

229B Hammond, is the faculty advisor to the AIAA Student Branch.

Sigma Gamma Tau

Sigma Gamma Tau is the National Honor Society in Aerospace Engineering. The Sigma

Gamma Tau Society is established to recognize and honor those individuals in the field of aeronautics

who have through scholarship, integrity, and outstanding achievement been a credit to their

profession. The Society seeks to foster a high standard of ethics and professional practices and to

create a spirit of loyalty and fellowship, particularly among students of Aerospace Engineering.

The students eligible for membership include undergraduate aerospace engineering students

in the upper one-quarter of their junior class and the upper one-third of their senior class. Each spring

semester, qualified students will be notified of their eligibility to join Sigma Gamma Tau. The advisor

for Sigma Gamma Tau is Dr. Sven Schmitz (sus52).

Vertical Flight Society

The Vertical Flight Society (VFS) student chapter is the Department's newest organization,

having received its charter from the parent organization in July 1980. Our VFS student chapter is

now one of the largest and most active chapters in the country. If you are interested in joining the

VFS, please watch your emails for meeting notices or contact Dr. Edward Smith or Dr. Jose Palacios

the faculty advisors to the Student Branch. You can reach Dr. Smith (ecs5) and Dr. Palacios (jlp324).

Penn State Soaring Club

The Penn State Soaring Club is an organization open to all members of the University

community. It exists to promote the sport of soaring and to give its members an opportunity to fly

inexpensively.

The club currently operates three club sailplanes: two L-13 Blaniks and a Schempp-Hirth

Standard Cirrus. The soaring season begins in the Spring when the weather begins to clear and

generally runs through the end of December, or until snow covers the ground. The club operates on

a three-semester per year basis (Spring, Summer and Fall). Professor Mark Maughmer can be

contacted for more information at mdm@psu.edu.

Penn State AeroWomen

The Penn State AeroWomen group is a community for undergraduate and graduate women

in the Penn State Department of Aerospace Engineering (as well as friends and alumni) that provides

opportunities for members to network with faculty, fellow students, alumni, and industry personnel;

to learn academic and professional skills; and to support each other. The ultimate goal of the group is

to improve the climate for women in STEM—starting within our department. Contact Dr. Namiko

Yamamoto (nuy12) or Dr. Susan Stewart (sstewart) for more details.

NOTE: Fun and valuable trips to aerospace industries, local chapters of international organizations,

aircraft design and construction classes, and local flying clubs are conducted only through the

Department of Aerospace Engineering. We strongly encourage you to participate in the societies and

organizations listed above. As future aerospace engineers, you can greatly benefit by getting involved

in these programs to learn more about your profession of choice, and to experience these activities

with your aerospace peers.

SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION

The University, the College of Engineering, and the Department of Aerospace Engineering

annually award a number of scholarships. Students must apply

(https://www.engr.psu.edu/scholarships/index.aspx) to be considered for all of these. Some

scholarships require a demonstrated financial need; to qualify for these, a student must complete

the FAFSA form each year (https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa).

For departmental scholarships, a committee reviews the relevant information on all

eligible students over the summer and notifies the awardees. Some scholarship endowments

permit multiple awards each year, but the number and amount will vary depending upon

available funds. The department scholarships are:

Aero Pioneers Class of 1944 Scholarship

Lou Borges Scholarship in Aerospace Engineering

Brian Chappel and Marion Stone Chappel Scholarship in Aerospace Engineering

Mary Ilgen Memorial Scholarship

Richard W. Leonhard Scholarship

James R. Norris Memorial Scholarship

David J. Peery Scholarship

Carl A. Shollenberger Memorial Scholarship

Donald G. and Jayne L. Steva Scholarship

Kenneth and Leanor Myers Scholarship

Everetts Family Endowed Scholarship

Additional scholarships are offered by the American Institute of Aeronautics and

Astronautics (AIAA), Boeing, and the Vertical Flight Foundation, with application information

mentioned below.

AIAA Scholarship Program

The national AIAA Scholarship Program provides $2000 yearly awards to deserving

undergraduate students. Selection criteria include scholarship (3.3 cum. avg.), ability to apply

concepts of science and engineering, personal assessment of career goals (a 500-1000 word essay),

and recommendations. Applications must be received at AIAA Headquarters in Reston, VA by

January 31 each year.

Further information and application forms may be obtained by writing directly to the

Scholarship Program, Student Activities Committee, American Institute of Aeronautics and

Astronautics, 12700 Sunrise Valley Drive, Suite 200, Reston, VA 20191-5807. You may also visit

their website at www.aiaa.org for more information and an online application form.

Boeing Scholarship

Boeing has traditionally provided scholarships to students in several engineering disciplines,

including aerospace. Currently they are offering a total of 17 scholarships to students with an

interest in the aerospace industry. Students must actually apply for these by completing a letter

of application, and including their resume and one letter of recommendation. Details are

posted on the College of Engineering website at

https://www.engr.psu.edu/CurrentStudents/Undergraduate/Scholarships/default.aspx

The deadline to apply for this scholarship is usually August 31 each year.

Vertical Flight Foundation

The Vertical Flight Foundation (VFF) is the philanthropic arm of the Vertical Flight Society

(VFS). The Foundation is governed by a Board of Trustees and functions as an independent charitable

trust for the support of scientific and educational activities related to Vertical Takeoff and Landing

(VTOL) flight. Each year, the VFF awards merit-based scholarships, each at a value up to $2,000, to

undergraduate or graduate students interested in pursuing engineering careers in the helicopter or

vertical flight industry. Applications for the VFF scholarship may be obtained from the VFS faculty

advisor, Dr. Edward C. Smith, 231-D Hammond Building, or visit www.vtol.org/education/vertical-

flight-foundation-scholarships for an application.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

Flight Vehicle Design and Fabrication Course (Sailplane)

The Flight Vehicle Design and Fabrication course is a multi-year course administered through

the Department of Aerospace Engineering and the Schreyer Honors College. The coursework is

vertically integrated to give freshmen and sophomores experience in aerospace engineering principles

by working with juniors and seniors on design projects. Students are allowed to explore implications

that their design will have in manufacturing the final product by spending lab hours building their

part. The current design project is a high-performance sailplane to be constructed of composite

materials. The class is broken into several design and manufacturing teams that work interactively to

achieve goals that are set at the beginning of each semester, toward the completion of the full-scale

sailplane. This course is open to aerospace engineering students in the Honors program, as well as

other highly-motivated aerospace engineering students. Consent of the instructor is required for

scheduling AERSP 204 or AERSP 404. Not all of the credits earned in these courses can be applied

toward requirements of the program. None of the credits earned in the freshman year will apply, and

approximately two thirds of the rest can be used. The first such credits normally substitute for the

design courses (AERSP 401 or 402) or the lab course (AERSP 305). If sufficient credits are earned

to cover these areas, additional ones can be used as a technical elective. For more detailed

information, contact the course leader, Dr. Mark Maughmer (863-4485), and refer to the diagram

shown at the end of this guide.

Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS)

The Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS) group is composed

of dedicated students who design, build, and fly rockets. They participate in the annual Spaceport

America Cup, the world’s largest intercollegiate rocket competition. Teams from around the globe

travel to Spaceport America, New Mexico every year to compete in various launch categories

ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 feet in altitude. The SEDS advisor is Prof. Sara Lego (ses224).

www.sites.psu.edu/sedspennstate/

Student Space Programs Laboratory (SSPL)

The Student Space Programs Laboratory (SSPL) at the Pennsylvania State University

allows undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to design, fabricate, and integrate

space systems. The SSPL provides hands-on projects to apply classroom knowledge to real world,

interdisciplinary settings. SSPL students experience working through a complete design cycle and

must develop a systems engineering mind-set in addition to their component-level experience.

SSPL conducts a design-build-launch program to introduce students to space systems engineering

fundamentals at the start of each semester. www.sites.psu.edu/sspl

Penn State Wind Energy Club

The Penn State Wind Energy Club competes annually in a national engineering design,

business and siting competition. Students design and build a complete wind turbine system including

the aerodynamic, generator, structural, electrical and controller design. This involves hands on

building, applied engineering, and wind tunnel testing. The team is also tasked with designing a large

scale wind project which includes analysis of the wind resource as well and environmental, societal,

and economical analyses. The wind energy club provides an opportunity for students interested in

wind energy to; 1. Learn about the wind energy industry, 2. Pursue their passion and develop skills to

succeed in the wind industry, 3. Compete in a Collegiate Wind Competition to design and build a

wind turbine and learn how to site wind projects, 4. Allow a broad variety of majors to gain real

experience and solve real world problems, and 5. Engage in K-12 outreach activities associate with

wind energy to promote STEM for the next generation. Dr. Susan Stewart (sstewart) or Dr. Mark

Miller (mark.a.miller) can be contacted for details on how to get involved. www.wind.psu.edu

SAE AeroDesign Club

The SAE Aero Design competition challenges students to design, build, and fly a radio controlled

airplane capable of lifting the maximum amount of internally stored payload while meeting design

constraints. The university’s team is student organized and is led by graduate students and

seniors. Dr. Eric Greenwood is the advisor (eric.greenwood).

www.sites.psu.edu/aerodesign/

Penn State Unmanned Aerial System Club

The Unmanned Aerial System Club is multidisciplinary club focused on the development of

unmanned aircraft that will be used to compete in an annual SUAS competition. They provide

hands on experience to club members to manage and work in teams and interacting with

technology usually priced out of their reach.

www.uas.engr.psu.edu/

AERSP 494 - Aerospace Undergraduate Thesis

An undergraduate thesis is a research project arranged between a student and a professor on

a subject of mutual interest, which results in a formal thesis. Up to three credits of AERSP 494 may

be scheduled, and applied toward technical electives, during the senior year, for research and writing

of the thesis. Typically one credit is taken in the Fall Semester and two in the Spring. In addition to

scheduling the course, a Department Registration Form must be completed at the beginning of each

semester in which AERSP 494 credits are scheduled. Registration forms may be picked up in the

main office (229 Hammond), a copy is also included in the Appendix.

AERSP 496 - Independent Studies

Independent Studies involves the accomplishment of a project agreed upon by both the student

and the advising faculty member. Information regarding ongoing projects may be mentioned in class

or distributed via email. In addition to scheduling the course, a Department Registration Form should

be completed at the beginning of each semester in which AERSP 496 credits are scheduled.

Registration forms may be picked up in the main office (229 Hammond), a copy is also included in

the Appendix.

CREDITS EARNED AND AWARDED FOR PARTICIPATION IN AERSP 204H/404H PROGRAM

YEARS COMPLETED

Starting Year

Earn Award Earn Award Earn Award Earn Award

1st

(0)

Lab

Design

(3)

Lab

(8)

Tech Elec

(11)

Award Award

Award

2nd

(0)

Design

XXX

(5)

Lab

(8)

Award Award

3rd

Tech Elec

Design

XXX

(3)

Lab

(8)

Award

4th

Tech Elec

XXX

(3)

NOTES

 Students starting in their 2nd year or beyond are encouraged to do a senior thesis in the project, but must schedule three additional credits for

that purpose.

 () indicates total credits awarded

 General guideline is about 0.55 of earned credits are actually awarded toward meeting curricular requirements.

 Student is responsible for indicating how credits are to be awarded (i.e. in lieu of AERSP 305W, 401 A&B or 402 A&B, etc) by emailing Amy

Custer at asm1@psu.edu.

Updated 8/24/06 to reflect curriculum changes; revised on 9/13/10

MINORS AND CERTIFICATES

Minors

Aerospace engineering students can choose from many different minors to complement their

degree in aerospace. A minor is defined as an academic program of at least 18 credits that

supplements a major. A minor program may consist of course work in a single area or from several

disciplines, with at least six but ordinarily not more than half of the credits at the 400-course level.

Total requirements are to be specified and generally limited to 18 to 21 credits. Entrance to some

minors may require the completion of a number of prerequisites, including courses, portfolios,

auditions, or other forms of documentation that are not included in the total requirements for the

minor. All courses for the minor require a grade of C or higher. Information on all minors offered

can be found at https://bulletins.psu.edu/programs/#filter=.filter_24 or consult the department of your

choice via their webpage for entrance to minor information.

The Information Sciences and Technology for Aerospace Engineering minor (ISASP) is

available only to aerospace students. Students can enroll in the minor via “update academics” in

LionPath. Questions can be directed to Dr. Amy Pritchett, the professor in charge of the ISASP minor,

at apritchett@psu.edu .

Space Systems Engineering Certificate

The Space Systems Engineering Certificate Program is primarily designed for students in

the College of Engineering who wish to be recognized for completing a core set of courses in

space systems engineering-related topics and for participating in a space-systems project. The

project work is to be documented through a report. This certificate program, under the direction

of, and jointly administered by the electrical engineering department's Communications and

Space Sciences Laboratory (CSSL) and the aerospace engineering department, is designed to

help prepare students for a career in the space industry. It is also relevant to students with an

interest in systems engineering and who wish to bolster their credentials.

More information can be found at: Space Systems Engineering Certificate Guidelines

230510.pdf

INTEGRATED UNDERGRADUATE/GRADUATE (IUG) PROGRAM

The Integrated Undergraduate/Graduate (IUG) program in the Schreyer Honors College

(SHC) is designed exclusively for Schreyer Scholars who have exceptional academic records;

whose progress in the major is so advanced that they would be taking graduate courses in later

semesters even without IUG status; whose general education progress and plans indicate a

readiness to forge ahead with specialization; and who are ready for the particular challenge of

graduate work, research and advancing knowledge. Schreyer Scholars who believe they fit this

profile are encouraged to apply to be IUG Scholars. The application process for IUG must begin

during the 4th, 5th or 6th semester of study.

More information can be found at http://www.shc.psu.edu/students/iug/program/ or talk

with your scholar advisor.

COMPUTER FACILITIES

The University’s Learning Applications and Technologies (LAT) unit provides up-to-date

computer platforms running a full spectrum of industry standard software. At the University Park

campus, more than 3000 computers are available in over 100 locations in nearly 40 buildings,

including classroom buildings, residence halls, and libraries. Computer platforms are available in

Windows and Mac to accommodate a range of software and computational needs. Within these

computing facilities are 12 dedicated Media Commons Labs with specialized facilities such as 3-

D scanners and immersive technologies. Additionally, students work on their own devices using

the campus-wide wireless network. Students have access to a variety of technical support services

including a real-time display of current lab use (see www.it.psu.edu) that enables students to know

in advance of going to a laboratory the number of seats available and hours of operation. Other

support provided to students including printing services, online help lines, student consultants, and

support guides.

ITS regularly holds classes and/or information sessions on operating systems and popular

systems and application software available on the various computer platforms. Information regarding

ITS and its services may be obtained from any of the campus student computer labs. Lab operators

are often stationed in the computer labs to help with student computer needs. They are an excellent

source of information if you have trouble with computer hardware/software or just need information.

What follows is a summary list of popular software used by aerospace engineering students,

grouped by type of application. This is not an all-inclusive list; rather, it is intended to give the student

a feel for some of the software packages available for use. Detailed information on the software

available can be obtained from ITS, computer labs, the lab operators, or at: http://www.it.psu.edu

 Programming

o Programming software is used to create your own programs, often to solve engineering

problems. Various programming languages, including C, C++, and MATLAB, are available

on most computer platforms.

 Wordprocessing

o Wordprocessing software can be used to write, edit, and print reports, letters, documents,

resumes, and theses. Popular wordprocessing software includes Microsoft Word. These

software packages are available on the computers.

 Spreadsheets

o Spreadsheet software is essentially used for dealing with numerical data. Data can be

manipulated, analyzed, and plotted in a spreadsheet program. EXCEL is a spreadsheet

available on the computers.

 Computer Aided Design (CAD)

o Computer aided design (CAD) software allows the user to build and manipulate a structure on

a computer. Some advanced CAD packages on the PC's perform static and dynamic structural

analysis and optimization.

 Presentations

o Presentation software can be used to create, edit, and print slide shows, handouts, and

speeches. Powerpoint is the presentation software package available on the computers.

 Math Software

o Several math software packages are available to solve simple and complex mathematical

problems. Mathematica is a symbolic math software processor. Matlab is also available on

some computers.

Students can also access a variety of engineering software tools, listed below, via a VDI

computer. This can be accessed from a personal computer at https://weblabs.engr.psu.edu by signing

in with your user id and password. Two Factor Authentication is also required. Questions regarding

account access can be directed to aerohelpdesk@engr.psu.edu

Software available on the VDI includes:

 Matlab

 Solidworks

 Fieldview

 Techplot

 Mathematica

 Adobe

 Office

 Star CCM+

 STK/Ansys

 Labview

 Python

 Visual Studio

 Notepad ++

 PuTTy

 Freeflyer

 7-zip

 MS Project A

 Auto CAD

 One API (Fortran)

 Windographer

 Furow

RESEARCH FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT

IN THE AEROSPACE ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT

Major research facilities include a low-turbulence subsonic wind tunnel with a 3.25 x 5 foot

test section, speed range to 150 mph, and a floor mounted six-component strain gauge balance; an

additional low-turbulence wind tunnel with a 2-foot by 3-foot test section; a laminar flow water

channel (2.5 x 1.5 foot test section); an axial flow turbine facility with heavily instrumented blading

to measure unsteady pressures, heat transfer, and shear stresses; a heat transfer facility to simulate

turbine flow; a linear turbine cascade for heat transfer research; a real time color image processing

system for the post processing of liquid crystal images in convective heat transfer research; various

probe calibration jets; several laser Doppler anemometers including a subminiature semiconductor

model; an ATC/510G flight simulator; aeroacoustic research facilities—a jet noise facility, an

anechoic chamber, and a reverberant room; a vacuum tank facility for low-density flow (pressure

range to 10

-4

Torr, pumping approximately 5000 cfm at 5 x 10

-3

Torr) and associated instrumentation;

an unsteady propellant combustion facility and a variable power microwave generator; and a

compressed air flow facility (300-psi reservoir); a thermal analysis system, an ultrasonic inspection

system, an acoustic emission system, a high temperature bi-axial tension/torsion testing facility, a

fiberoptic interferometer, a reflection polariscope used in material fabrication and characterization;

structural dynamics laboratory; a space environmental simulator, a spectrometer and a CW Nd laser

for space propulsion research.

For more detailed information on these labs, please visit

https://www.aero.psu.edu/research/facilities-and-labs/overview.aspx

LABORATORY AND SAFETY MANAGERS

LABORATORY DIRECTOR

The Laboratory Director assists the Aerospace faculty, staff, and students as needed in all

technical aspects of instructional, academic and research related laboratory activities. This position

is presently filled by Prof. Richard Auhl, located in 226 Hammond Building. His areas of

responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

· Assist the Department Head with the implementation of department management strategies,

staff software training, information systems development and strategic planning.

· Assist the faculty with undergraduate laboratory course instruction. (AERSP 305W)

· Coordinate the laboratory facility and department space allocation.

· Provide engineering and fabrication advice or assistance to faculty and students involved in

project activity.

· Supervise the part-time laboratory assistants involved in general department maintenance.

· Serve as the primary contact person for the Dean's Office with regard to department space and

facilities management.

· Coordinate and supervise all Machine Shop activities.

LABORATORY SAFETY

The department values the importance of safety in its laboratories. Students who are

engaged in laboratory work or who take a course with a laboratory component will be given a

printed copy of the laboratory safety manual, which can also be found at

http://www.aero.psu.edu/Facilities/Facilities.html

APPENDIX A: AERSP 494 & 496 Registration Forms