Employability of Aerospace Engineer without BSAE

Graduate School
1

Hello!

Background: I received my bachelor’s in Economics but have taken many math and science courses because I originally majored in Biochemistry. After a few years working, I realized that I want to pursue a career in aerospace engineering, so I applied to several Cal States M.S. programs, to which I was recently accepted. They do require me to take about 7 deficiency courses and their applicable pre-requisites. To sum up, I’m taking a little shortcut by skipping out on 2 semesters worth of undergrad courses.

My question is, will having an MSAE without a BSAE significantly hurt my chance of employment at big employers like SpaceX, LM, Boeing, Northrop in the future? The BSAE programs are ABET accredited, but MSAE programs are not, so will I still be considered an “engineer” and qualified to work in the field if I don’t receive an ABET-accredited degree? I’m not too fond of the significance of ABET accreditation, so any light on this topic will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

2

Additional note: San Jose State University website claims that “SJSU’s AE Department offers an ABET-accredited Bachelor of Science (BSAE) and a Master of Science (MSAE) in Aerospace Engineering”. However, ABET website lists no such master’s program.

3

Generally, your highest degree is what matters. No one is going to care if your BS is in a different field as long as you have the requisite skills.

4

MS degrees are generally not ABET accredited in any case. Having an MS in engineering will be more than sufficient to access careers in the field.

5

The only limitation is that you will lack some breadth. Having the MS will definitely make you employable in your specialty, but you will have a harder time branching out. With large employers, this is not much of a problem - they prefer specialists - but might be a turnoff for small employers that would want you to fill multiple roles.

Regardless, you will be employable at the companies you mentioned, and it should not impair your career.