byDinesh
Updated on - 1 Jul, 2024
Doctor of Philosophy in Aeronautical Engineering or Ph.D. in Aeronautical Engineering is the third cycle degree program in aeronautical engineering deals with theoretical research and development in the aeronautical engineering and aerospace technology studies. The normal periods of completion of Ph.D. Aeronautical Engineering course is between 3- 5 years full time. The academic program elements consist of advanced level aerodynamics, propulsion, aerospace structures, flight mechanics and control, with a research orientation. Doctoral students are mandated to perform research work and write a thesis in an effort to be awarded their doctorate degree.
The entry criteria that are allowed for admission into the Ph.D. Aeronautical Engineering programs include the following tests that are conducted by most institutes and universities in India: GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) and CSIR-UGC NET (National Eligibility Test). Some institutes also prefer valid scores in exams like GRE, TOEFL/IELTS for students who have had some form of academic background and want to do research. Further, interview and evaluation process is required to qualify for the candidate and based on interests aptitude as well as proposals for the doctoral studies. It is worth mentioning that performance in master’s degree is also taken into account while considering the candidate for admission to the Ph.D. program besides research potential.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Doctor of Philosophy in Aeronautical Engineering |
| Duration | 4-6 years (full-time), Varies (part-time) |
| Course Level | Doctoral |
| Eligibility | Master's degree in Aeronautical Engineering or related field |
| Top Colleges | IIT Bombay, IISc Bangalore, MIT Chennai, IIT Kanpur, IIT Delhi |
| Entrance Exam | GATE, BITSAT (may vary by college) |
1. A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Aerospace /Aeronautical engineering/any other branch of engineering with not less than 60 percent marks from a recognized university.
2. GATE/CSIR-NET or any other equivalent national level examination score card in the relevant subject/field.
3. Sponsored candidates should possess minimum 2 years of work experience in the specific industry or a research organization.
4. However, candidates in their final year of Bachelor’s degree may also apply for the post, but they are required to furnish proof of passing the degree before taking up the position.
5. Few institutes may require a written test in addition to an interview as a condition for admission instead of the GATE / CSIR-NET score.
6. Experience in academic background with interest in research and analysis would be expected of any aspiring candidate.
| Subject | Important Topics |
|---|---|
| Advanced Aerodynamics | Hypersonic flows, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Boundary layer theory, Rarefied gas dynamics, Unsteady aerodynamics |
| Advanced Propulsion | Advanced air-breathing engines, Rocket propulsion, Electric and hybrid propulsion, Combustion processes, Propulsion system integration |
| Flight Mechanics and Control | Nonlinear flight dynamics, Optimal control theory, Guidance and navigation, Autonomous flight systems, Spacecraft dynamics and control |
| Aircraft Structures | Composite materials, Finite element analysis, Aeroelasticity, Structural optimization, Damage mechanics |
| Advanced Avionics | Advanced navigation systems, Flight control systems, Sensor fusion, Autonomous systems, Avionics system integration |
| Research Methodology | Scientific writing, Literature review, Research proposal development, Statistical methods for data analysis, Ethical considerations in research |
| Electives (may vary) | Hypersonics, Rotorcraft aerodynamics, Computational solid mechanics, Spacecraft structures, |
| Specialization | Job Title | Average Salary (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Aerodynamics | Computational Aerodynamicist | $120,000 |
| Propulsion | Aerospace Propulsion Engineer | $135,000 |
| Flight Mechanics & Control | Flight Dynamics Engineer | $115,000 |
| Aircraft Structures | Aerospace Structures Engineer | $110,000 |
| Avionics | Avionics Systems Engineer | $125,000 |