Engineering Degrees That Launch Space Careers Beyond Earth

From satellites orbiting Earth to missions headed deeper into space, engineers are the architects behind the technology powering exploration, communication and discovery.

At Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, engineering students learn to design and develop the systems that move people, data and missions across the globe and beyond it. Through hands-on learning, collaborative research and industry-driven coursework, they gain experience solving complex challenges where precision, innovation and teamwork are essential.

Across the Daytona Beach, Florida, and Prescott, Arizona, campuses, students studying electrical, computer, software and systems engineering combine classroom theory with practical application from the start. Research labs, capstone projects, internships and collaborative learning environments mirror the demands of the aerospace and engineering industries.

Graduates step into careers with organizations shaping aviation, defense, technology and space exploration, including Delta Air Lines, General Electric, Microsoft, NASA and Northrop Grumman.

The connection between engineering and space exploration is reflected at the highest levels of the industry. Two of the four astronauts selected for the Artemis II mission earned engineering degrees. Christina Koch holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Electrical Engineering, while Reid Wiseman earned a bachelor’s degree in Computer and Systems Engineering and a master’s in Systems Engineering.

The Daytona Beach Campus' Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) and the Prescott Campus' Department of Computer, Electrical and Software Engineering (CESE) offer programs designed to prepare students for careers advancing innovation on Earth and beyond.

At each of our residential campuses, students can pursue engineering degrees at every level, from bachelor’s to doctoral study, including:

Bachelor’s Degrees:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Software Engineering
• Systems Engineering

Master’s Degrees:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Computer Science
• Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Software Engineering
• Systems Engineering

Doctoral Degree:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Electrical Engineering & Computer Science
• Mechanical Engineering

Engineering Fields Driving the Space Industry

Engineering disciplines across computing, electronics, software and systems design play a critical role in the future of the space industry. From spacecraft communication systems to autonomous technologies and onboard computing, engineers help design the infrastructure that enables modern missions.

Career Paths in Space-Focused Engineering

These pathways translate into a wide range of careers across the space and aerospace industries.

Computer Engineer: Develops and tests computer systems and hardware that power advanced technologies and mission operations. Median annual wage: $161,740 based on comparable computer hardware engineer data (May 2025, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Computer Science: Creates advanced computing solutions that support emerging technologies, artificial intelligence and complex systems. Median annual wage: $140,300 based on comparable computer and information research scientist data (May 2025, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Electrical and Electronics Engineer: Designs, develops and tests electrical and electronic systems used in communications, robotics and aerospace technologies. Median annual wage: $125,040 (May 2025, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Systems Engineer: Oversees complex systems integration, ensuring hardware, software and operational components work together efficiently. Median annual wage: $102,440 based on comparable industrial engineering data (May 2025, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Software Engineer: Designs and develops software applications while improving system performance, functionality and reliability. Median annual wage: $134,040 based on comparable software developer, quality assurance analyst and tester data (May 2025, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

Engineering the Future of Space Exploration

Embry-Riddle engineering programs emphasize technical expertise and systems-level thinking, reflecting how modern space missions are designed and executed. Whether students develop onboard computing systems, build autonomous technologies or integrate spacecraft operations, they learn how individual components function together within larger mission environments.

Just as important as technical knowledge is collaboration. The space industry depends on multidisciplinary teams working together from concept to launch, requiring engineers who can communicate effectively, adapt quickly and lead under pressure.

For students aspiring to careers in mission operations, spacecraft design, robotics, software development or astronautics, engineering provides a direct pathway into the growing space industry.

Build What Comes Next Beyond Earth

As government agencies and private companies expand investments in lunar missions, satellite systems and deep-space exploration, the demand for skilled engineers continues to grow. From autonomous spacecraft and robotics to advanced communications and mission operations, engineers are helping define what comes next beyond Earth.

At Embry-Riddle, students gain the technical knowledge, hands-on experience and industry connections needed to contribute to the future of aerospace and space innovation.

Explore Embry-Riddle’s engineering degree programs and discover how your ideas could help shape the future of space exploration.