Hypersonics Engineers

High School

In high school, take a college preparatory curriculum that includes advanced classes in physics, chemistry, mathematics (especially algebra, trigonometry, and calculus), and computer science (especially programming, computer-aided design, and artificial intelligence). English, speech, and writing courses are important because engineers frequently make presentations and write reports, as well as need to be able to communicate effectively with colleagues and clients. Shop classes will teach you how to work with tools, use computer-aided design software, and build things.

Postsecondary Education

You will need a minimum of a master’s degree in aeronautical, aerospace, materials, electrical, electronics, mechanical, chemical, or a related field of engineering, or a degree in materials science, to work at prestigious employers that conduct research on hypersonics. Graduates with only a bachelor’s degree may be hired for low-level research positions and/or to work as a hypersonics technician. Once they earn a graduate degree, students complete post-graduate research in hypersonics that lasts two or three years.

More than 90 universities and colleges are members of the University Consortium for Applied Hypersonics (https://hypersonics.tamu.edu), which describes itself as “an inclusive, collaborative network of universities working with government, industry, national laboratories, federally funded research centers, and existing university affiliated research centers.” These schools provide comprehensive training in hypersonics. ABET accredits postsecondary aeronautics and engineering programs.

The U.S. military (Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy, and Space Force) also provides training to aspiring engineers. Here are a few of the occupational paths that you can receive training for in the U.S. armed forces. Visit TodaysMilitary.com for more information on these careers.

• aerospace engineer
• electrical engineer
• electronics engineer
• flight engineering technician
• industrial engineer
• software developer
• space operations officer
• space operations specialist

Certification

A growing number of colleges and universities offer certificates in hypersonics technology. For example, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign offers a graduate certificate in hypersonics to students who complete three of the following courses:

• Advanced Gas Dynamics
• Aeroelasticity
• Boundary Layer Theory
• Dynamics of Gas/Plasma-Surface Interactions
• Hypersonic Aerothermodynamics
• Molecular Gas Dynamics
• Planetary Entry

Contact colleges and universities in your area to learn about available options.

Other Education or Training

Colleges and universities, professional associations, and online learning platforms (such as edx) provide web-based and in-person classes for students who want to learn more about the field and current engineers who want to expand their knowledge base. For example, student members of the University Consortium for Applied Hypersonics can participate in biannual forums that feature academic and industry leaders in hypersonics and bimonthly seminars with hypersonic experts. On its Web site, the consortium lists learning opportunities that are offered by colleges, universities, and other providers. Recent classes included Advanced Technologies for Hypersonic Propulsive, Energetic and Reusable Platforms; Air, Missile, and Maritime Defense Technology Workshop; and Non-intrusive Laser-based Diagnostic Techniques for Hypersonic Flows. The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (which offers a 20-hour Hypersonic Flight Vehicle Design and Performance Analysis course and other coursework), National Defense Industrial Association, and other organizations also provide professional development opportunities.