The interdisciplinary Minor in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Houston introduces science and engineering students to the principles and applications of aeronautical and space systems while preparing them for careers in the aerospace sector or for advanced study in aerospace engineering. Through coursework integrating mechanics, fluids, materials, and control systems, students develop analytical and problem-solving skills applied to modern aerospace technologies. The program introduces core concepts including aerodynamics, structures, advanced materials, and dynamic control of mechanical systems, while integrating knowledge from mechanical engineering, materials science, systems engineering, controls, and data science. This preparation enables students to address complex challenges in aircraft and spacecraft systems, robotics, autonomous systems, and emerging aerospace technologies.
Texas and the Houston region are experiencing rapid expansion in aerospace activity. NASA Johnson Space Center continues to lead national initiatives such as Artemis and Moon to Mars, while the Houston Spaceport is emerging as a hub for commercial spaceflight. Aerospace companies including Intuitive Machines, Axiom Space, and SpaceX are expanding their presence across the region and the state, creating strong demand for a highly skilled workforce. As a result, graduates with aerospace expertise are actively recruited by organizations such as NASA, Boeing, Axiom Space, Intuitive Machines, SpaceX, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Collins Aerospace, and the United States Department of Defense.
The University of Houston maintains strong partnerships with NASA, commercial aerospace companies, and regional innovation networks. Through initiatives such as the NASA funded IDEAS² Center and the Sasakawa International Center for Space Architecture, the university contributes to the development of the next generation aerospace workforce. The Minor in Aerospace Engineering allows students to engage with this rapidly expanding sector while complementing their primary engineering or science degree.
Program Requirements
The Minor in Aerospace Engineering requires 18 credit hours.
Foundational Courses
One course from each category selected from the following list:
Dynamics
- MECE 3336 Mechanics II (Dynamics)
- MECE 3400 Intro to Mechanics
Materials Science
- MECE 3345 Materials Science
- CIVE 3332 Engineering Materials
- CHEE 3300 Materials Science and Engineering I
Fluid Mechanics
- MECE 3363 Introduction to Fluid Mechanics
- CHEE 3363 Fluid Mechanics for Chemical Engineers
- CIVE 3434 Fluid Mechanics and Hydraulic Engineering
- PETR 3363 Fluid Mechanics
Required Course
- MECE 3338 Dynamics and Control of Mechanical Systems
Elective Courses
Six semester credit hours selected from the following list:
For Mechanical Engineering majors:
- GEOL 3378 Principles of Atmospheric Science
- PHYS 3305 Introduction to Astrophysics
- MECE 5367 Control Systems Analysis and Design
- MECE 5388 Intelligent Structural Systems
- MECE 5397 System Identification
- MECE 5397 Aerospace Structures
- MECE 5397 Aerodynamics
- MECE 5397 Optimal Control Theory
- MECE 5397 Computational Design of Structures and Materials
For majors outside Mechanical Engineering:
- MECE 3381 Introduction to Finite Element Methods
- Any course from the Mechanical Engineering elective list above.
Grade Requirements
Students must earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 in all courses counted toward the minor.
No course with a grade lower than C minus may count toward the minor.
Application Process
Students wishing to declare the Minor in Aerospace Engineering must submit:
- a General Petition approved by their current major advisor
- the Aerospace Engineering Minor Application Form
Final approval is granted by the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Director of Undergraduate Studies.
Petition Deadlines
- Fall approval: April 1
- Spring approval: October 1
All required documents must be submitted by the deadline.
Eligibility
Students must be admissible to the University of Houston Cullen College of Engineering to apply for the Aerospace Engineering minor. Applications are reviewed by the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department.