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Is it more practical for me to become an aerospace engineer or a mechanical engineer ?
I've dreamed of making rovers and even designs for them to launch into space and discover new things in different planets. I recenetly went to a college fair where engineer professionals and college proffersors were presents and I had asked about a specific aerospace program to one for the college representatives. The representative told me that since aerospace engineering is such a niche career it isn't as practical to become one. He told me that a mechanical engineer is more likely to enter into space organizations (such as NASA and SpaceX) than a aerospace engineer. It left me with lingering thoughts of wether I should still focus of aerospace or view mechanical engineering as an alternative.
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Richard’s Answer
Hi Daniel. It's fantastic that you've already set your sights on a career in space exploration! This field is full of exciting opportunities and paths to explore. I agree with Brian's advice—look for companies working in this area and see what roles they're hiring for. If you notice a high demand for certain skills, you might focus on learning those. Just remember, it's wise to keep your options open at first. Gaining a wide range of experiences will help you find what you truly enjoy. Good luck on your journey!
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Karin’s Answer
Hi Daniel,
It is true that aerospace is a "niche career", but to be fair, aerospace and mechanical are not that different. You can go to a university website and compare the required courses.
Most large companies hire a mix of engineers anyway. I don't think any company would pass on you just because your degree is aerospace.
But if you are worried and prefer a more general degree, attend a university that has ME and AE programs, get the ME degree and a minor in AE or a concentration in AE. Participate in aerospace projects at university and try to get some internships in aerospace companies.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-engineering-schools/aerospace-rankings
https://cockrell.utexas.edu/academics/departments/
https://engineering.tamu.edu/academics/degrees/index.html
It is true that aerospace is a "niche career", but to be fair, aerospace and mechanical are not that different. You can go to a university website and compare the required courses.
Most large companies hire a mix of engineers anyway. I don't think any company would pass on you just because your degree is aerospace.
But if you are worried and prefer a more general degree, attend a university that has ME and AE programs, get the ME degree and a minor in AE or a concentration in AE. Participate in aerospace projects at university and try to get some internships in aerospace companies.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
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Brian’s Answer
Hi Daniel,
Something I recommend. See if the aerospace companies you want to work for have job oppenings and check the qualifications required for those openings.
Something I recommend. See if the aerospace companies you want to work for have job oppenings and check the qualifications required for those openings.
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Cory’s Answer
I wouldn’t worry about it being niche or general. Like previous posted check the qualify where you may want to work and see what’s required. Is it more aero or mechanical?
Most engineers end up no where they project when they start there education and then again their career. If you are concerned about opportunity then more general is better but will you be happy.
Sometimes we have to give up comfort and security for happiness. The kind of discomfort that pushes boundaries not gambles away life earnings. The decisions you are making now will ripple along for another 10 years. They are not permanent but need proper thought and the balance of living it to know it’s right or not.
I made similar decisions in college and was fortunate it worked out but I would haven’t gotten here without getting out of the norm. Being outside the norm was easier for me than staying inside the norm. For me pushing paper and sitting at a desk would have ruined me. Know yourself and chase a niche if you love it or should the idea of not being secure challenge your comfort then do ME cause you can always keep an eye out for Aero Jobs.
Most engineers end up no where they project when they start there education and then again their career. If you are concerned about opportunity then more general is better but will you be happy.
Sometimes we have to give up comfort and security for happiness. The kind of discomfort that pushes boundaries not gambles away life earnings. The decisions you are making now will ripple along for another 10 years. They are not permanent but need proper thought and the balance of living it to know it’s right or not.
I made similar decisions in college and was fortunate it worked out but I would haven’t gotten here without getting out of the norm. Being outside the norm was easier for me than staying inside the norm. For me pushing paper and sitting at a desk would have ruined me. Know yourself and chase a niche if you love it or should the idea of not being secure challenge your comfort then do ME cause you can always keep an eye out for Aero Jobs.
Updated
PR’s Answer
“It’s amazing that you’ve dreamed of designing rovers and exploring space—that passion is what drives innovation in aerospace.” “Aerospace engineering isn’t impractical; it’s specialized. Aerospace engineers work on aircraft, spacecraft, propulsion systems, and mission design. However, mechanical engineering is broader and overlaps heavily with aerospace. Many aerospace companies hire mechanical engineers because their skills apply to structures, thermal systems, and robotics.”
If your ultimate goal is space exploration, both paths can lead there.
Mechanical engineering gives flexibility across industries and still opens doors to NASA, SpaceX, and similar organizations.
Aerospace engineering offers deep specialization in flight and space systems, which can be an advantage for roles focused on spacecraft design.
Look at programs that allow dual focus or electives in aerospace within a mechanical engineering degree.
Consider internships and projects in aerospace regardless of your major—experience often matters more than the title.
Network with professionals in both fields and explore job postings to see which degrees they prefer.
“Choose the field that excites you most but keep your options open. Mechanical engineering can be a strong foundation, and you can specialize in aerospace later through graduate studies or certifications.”
If your ultimate goal is space exploration, both paths can lead there.
Mechanical engineering gives flexibility across industries and still opens doors to NASA, SpaceX, and similar organizations.
Aerospace engineering offers deep specialization in flight and space systems, which can be an advantage for roles focused on spacecraft design.
Look at programs that allow dual focus or electives in aerospace within a mechanical engineering degree.
Consider internships and projects in aerospace regardless of your major—experience often matters more than the title.
Network with professionals in both fields and explore job postings to see which degrees they prefer.
“Choose the field that excites you most but keep your options open. Mechanical engineering can be a strong foundation, and you can specialize in aerospace later through graduate studies or certifications.”