Aeronautical and aerospace engineering are good career options for students who are interested in the technology of airplanes, rockets and satellites. Students who have studied Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics (PCM) in 12th standard can do BTech in these fields. Both courses teach aircraft design, engine and flight related technologies, but differ in their scope. Aeronautical engineering focuses primarily on aircraft and helicopters, while aerospace engineering also includes rocket, spaceship, and satellite technology. Let’s find out what is the difference between these two courses, how to get admission and what are the job opportunities available after the studies.
What is taught in Aeronautical Engineering?
Aeronautical engineering teaches techniques related to the design, construction, testing and maintenance of airplanes and helicopters. It includes subjects like aerodynamics, aircraft structure, engine, flight mechanics and material science. In this course, students understand how aircraft fly in the air and what techniques are used to ensure their safety and efficiency. Students interested in this field can pursue a career in aircraft manufacturing, aviation and defense sectors.
What is special about aerospace engineering?
The scope of aerospace engineering is wider than aeronautical engineering. It deals with the design, construction and testing of aircraft and helicopters along with rockets, missiles, satellites and spacecraft. Subjects like aerodynamics, propulsion system, spacecraft design and flight control can be taught in this course. This field can be a useful option for students interested in space exploration and satellite technology.
How to take admission after 12th?
The duration of both the courses is generally four years. For admission, 12th Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics (PCM) subjects are required. The minimum mark requirement may vary from college to college. For admission in IITs, one has to complete the process of JEE Advanced after JEE Main. In other institutes, admission can be through JEE Main or related entrance exam.
You can study in these colleges
For aerospace related courses, students can look at options from institutes like IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, IIT Kanpur, IIT Kharagpur, IIT Delhi, Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram and Punjab Engineering College (PEC), Chandigarh. Course availability and admission conditions should be checked according to the institution.
Where to get a job after education?
After completing the degree, one can get opportunities for relevant posts in organizations like Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), ISRO, DRDO and National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL). There are also possibilities in private aircraft manufacturing companies and space-tech startups. Students can work as aerospace engineers, design engineers, propulsion engineers, flight test engineers, avionics engineers and research scientists. However, appointment to government institutions depends on the relevant recruitment rules and qualifications.
How much salary can I get?
Salary varies depending on company, college, technical skills and job role. At an initial level, the aerospace sector has an annual turnover of Rs. A package of 5 to 10 lakhs may be available, while students from some of the top institutes get even more packages. These are estimates, not guaranteed fixed salaries.
Which course would be better to choose?
If your interest lies in the technology of airplanes, helicopters and aircraft, you can consider aeronautical engineering. At the same time, if you want to work on rockets, satellites and spacecraft along with aircraft, then aerospace engineering can be a good option for you. Make sure to check the course, fees, admission process and career opportunities of the college before choosing the course.
