Canada Aerospace Engineering Courses

Introduction to Aerospace Engineering in Canada

Aerospace engineers research and develop aircraft and its associated technologies. The subject is generally split into aeronautical engineering, concerned with atmospheric vehicles such as planes, and astronautic engineering, which focuses on aircraft and components which leave the atmosphere, such as satellites.

Aerospace engineering modules cover a number of related disciplines, all of which are necessary to create a full engineering team. They include fluid mechanics, mathematics, software design, propulsion and materials science. An emphasis on technical and management skills, as well as maths, physics and fluid mechanics, means that other branches of engineering and research are open to graduates.

Aerospace Engineering Degree Types

Bachelor’s

Undergraduate programs in aerospace engineering in Canada provide students with a comprehensive education in the principles and practices of aerospace engineering. Most of these programs aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, analyze, and develop aerospace systems, aircraft, and related technologies.

Coursework usually covers a wide range of subjects, including aerodynamics, flight mechanics, aerospace structures, propulsion, avionics, systems engineering, and space systems. Students also study mathematics, physics, and engineering principles that form the foundation of the discipline. Hands-on experience is an integral part of the undergraduate aerospace engineering programs in many Canadian institutions, wherein students engage in laboratory work, design projects, and practical exercises that allow them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.

• Course duration: Typically ranges from 4 to 5 years, depending on the specific university and program structure.
• Tuition fees: The average annual tuition fee ranges from approximately CAD 20,000 to CAD 50,000 per year.
• Entry requirements: Students are generally required to have completed high school or an equivalent secondary education program with a strong academic background in science and mathematics and coursework in subjects such as physics, chemistry, and calculus.

Master’s

Postgraduate programs in aerospace engineering offer advanced education and specialization opportunities for students who have completed their undergraduate studies in aerospace engineering or a related field. Students can choose to specialize in specific areas of aerospace engineering, such as aerodynamics, aircraft structures, propulsion systems, space systems, or avionics.

Most Master’s programs emphasize research and provide opportunities for students to engage in independent research projects under the guidance of experienced faculty members. The coursework covers advanced topics such as advanced aerodynamics, computational fluid dynamics, advanced aerospace materials, flight control systems, advanced propulsion, and optimization techniques. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the latest advancements and emerging technologies in aerospace engineering.

• Course duration: The duration of postgraduate programs in the discipline typically ranges from 1 to 2 years, depending on the specific program and university.
• Tuition fees: Average annual tuition fees for a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering ranges from approximately CAD 15,000 to CAD 40,000. 
• Entry requirements: Applicants are generally required to have completed a relevant undergraduate degree, such as a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or a closely related field. The minimum required GPA for admission may vary between universities but is typically in the range of 3.0 to 3.5 on a 4.0 scale or its equivalent. For international students whose first language is not English, proof of English language proficiency is required.

Aerospace Engineering Scholarships

There are several scholarships available for students pursuing aerospace engineering in Canada, including:

• AIAA Foundation Orville and Wilbur Wright Graduate Awards: Offered by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), this scholarship supports graduate students pursuing research in aerospace engineering or related fields.
• University of Toronto Institute for Aerospace Studies (UTIAS) Scholarships: The UTIAS offers various scholarships and fellowships for undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in aerospace engineering programs. Examples include the Graduate Excellence Scholarship, UTIAS MEng Entrance Scholarship, and the UTIAS Women in Science and Engineering Scholarship.
• Canadian Aerospace Scholarship Program: This scholarship program is administered by the Northern Lights Aero Foundation and supports female students pursuing aerospace-related studies, including aerospace engineering. 

Graduate Aerospace Engineering Jobs and Careers

Aerospace engineering graduates find roles in areas such as aircraft and component design, aircraft manufacture, maintenance and testing, flight simulation, patent engineering, systems engineering and structures engineering.

Aerospace engineering jobs are available at a range of different companies involved in the design and manufacture of aircraft and associated aspects of the industry. Huge companies such as Rolls-Royce Engines, British Airways, Airbus, BAE Systems and the Ministry of Defence constantly look at Canada Aerospace Engineering graduates when recruiting.

Aerospace Engineering Salary

• Average starting professional salary: C$ 79,391
• Average starting non-professional salary: C$60,000

Source: Payscale

Where can I study Aerospace Engineering in Canada?

To learn more about the best aerospace engineering universities in Canada, find details on the top ranking of Engineering – Mechanical Universities in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023 below:

1. University of Toronto
2. McGill University
3. University of Waterloo
4. University of British Columbia
5. Université de Montréal

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Aerospace Engineering FAQ 

Can I study aerospace engineering in Canada?

Many prestigious universities offer excellent programs in the subject at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, with coursework that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and applications of aerospace engineering, including aircraft design, aerodynamics, propulsion systems, materials science, and space technology.

What is the best school for aerospace engineering in Canada?

Canada is home to several top universities offering excellent programs. The University of Toronto’s Institute for Aerospace Studies (UTIAS) offers highly regarded undergraduate and graduate programs in aerospace engineering, which are considered the best in the country.

Is aerospace engineering in demand in Canada?

Yes, aerospace engineering is in great demand in Canada, as the industry plays a significant role in Canada’s economy and has a strong presence in various provinces. Canada is also home to several aerospace companies, including manufacturers, suppliers, and research organizations, which contribute to the demand for aerospace engineers at many levels. 

What universities have aerospace engineering in Canada?

Some of the most prominent universities that have aerospace engineering programs include:

1. University of Toronto – Institute for Aerospace Studies (UTIAS)
2. Carleton University – Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
3. University of British Columbia – Department of Mechanical Engineering (Aerospace Option)
4. École Polytechnique de Montréal – Department of Mechanical Engineering
5. Concordia University – Department of Mechanical, Industrial, and Aerospace Engineering. 

What college do most aerospace engineers go to?

Several universities in Canada are renowned for their vital aerospace engineering programs and have a track record of producing successful aerospace engineers. These include the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia, Carleton University, McGill University, the University of Waterloo, the University of Manitoba, and the University of Saskatchewan, among others.