Graduate Admissions
We invite excellent students from all backgrounds, including those from historically underrepresented groups in engineering, to consider Stanford University for their graduate studies. In making admissions decisions, the Aeronautics and Astronautics Department will comply with the requirements of the law as determined by the Supreme Court of the United States, evaluating each applicant based on their "experiences as an individual—not on the basis of race.” We continue to value a diverse student body that benefits the educational experience of our students and our mission of generating knowledge at Stanford University.
The Master of Science (MS) degree program in Aeronautics and Astronautics is intended for students whose ultimate goal is to pursue a professional career in Aeronautics and Astronautics, or a related field. The MS degree is primarily course-based, and provides a broad, advanced curriculum spanning the core areas of Aeronautics and Astronautics.
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is intended primarily for students who desire a career in research, advanced development, or teaching. Students in the PhD program obtain a broad education in the core areas of Aeronautics and Astronautics through coursework, while also engaging in intensive research in a specialized area, culminating in a doctoral thesis.
Honors Cooperative Program (HCP) Admissions
Prospective Honors Cooperative Program (HCP) students follow the same admissions process and must meet the same admissions requirements as full-time graduate students.This program works best for students employed locally because some on-campus course work will be necessary.
Find answers to questions most frequently asked about the admissions process.