California Institute of Technology

Master in Aeronautics

Pasadena, United States Taught in English Open to international students

Introduction

California Institute of Technology (Caltech) in Pasadena is internationally renowned for its focus on science and engineering and for a research environment that emphasizes discovery and innovation. Founded in 1891, Caltech combines small class sizes with world-class faculty and a culture that encourages independent inquiry. The institute’s achievements in fundamental research and technology transfer make it a top choice for students seeking an intensive STEM education and close mentorship from leading scholars.

Caltech offers a compact, high-impact academic setting where undergraduates and graduate students participate directly in cutting-edge projects across physics, biology, engineering and computation. Research opportunities are abundant and accessible, with students contributing to labs, observatories and centers that address global challenges. The collaborative, interdisciplinary approach cultivates both deep technical expertise and the ability to work across fields.

As a relatively small campus community, Caltech provides strong academic support, mentorship and networking in the greater Los Angeles research ecosystem. For international students drawn to rigorous STEM training, Caltech delivers concentrated resources, hands-on research experiences and pathways to meaningful scientific contribution in industry, academia and public service.

About the Program

The Master in Aeronautics at California Institute of Technology is a 1-year program that provides advanced training in aeronautics or space engineering. This Master's degree is for students who want to develop skills in areas such as aerodynamics, propulsion, and spacecraft engineering. The program is taught in English and is available to students with a Bachelor's degree.

The curriculum includes five core courses that cover topics such as aerodynamics, propulsion, and spacecraft engineering. Students learn about the principles of aeronautics and space engineering and develop skills in problem-solving and analysis. The program focuses on coursework and does not require a thesis.

Graduates of the Master in Aeronautics program can pursue careers as Aerospace Engineers, Systems Engineers, or Flight Test Engineers. They can work in industries such as aerospace, defense, or transportation. Employers may include NASA, private aerospace companies, or government agencies.

Tuition in Context

This program's tuition is 115% above the typical master's in the United States.

Median tuition for that cohort is 28,087 USD, across 10,215 programs in our catalog.

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Engineering scholarships plus 12-15 PhD fellowships a year covering tuition, fees and living costs.

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English Test Requirement

This program asks for IELTS 5.5-6.0. Here's what that's worth on the other tests universities accept, based on the official concordance tables:

TOEFL iBT
46–59
PTE Academic
42–49
Duolingo
85–95
CEFR level
B1/B2
Convert your own score

Equivalences are approximate — confirm the exact test and score the program accepts.

Similar Programs You Can Apply To

Direct application via Global Admissions is not available for this program. Browse similar partner programs below or visit the university's site to apply directly.

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