Complex Systems and Optimization

Interdepartmental Program
No
The graduate program in Engineering Mechanics offers advanced education and research opportunities in the principles of mechanics applied to engineering systems and materials. This program prepares students for careers in academia, research institutions, industry, and government agencies by providing a strong foundation in theoretical knowledge and practical applications.
Nayan Deep Tiwari

Welcome aboard a program that offers unique facilities and advantages that will take your aspirations far beyond the horizon to a higher level of accomplishment.

The ISU Department of Aerospace Engineering – where research helps science take flight!


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)

Research Areas: 

  • Advanced Materials Systems
  • Aerodynamics, Combustion and Aero-Structural Interaction
  • Aviation Biofuels
  • Complex Systems and Optimization
  • Guidance, Controls, and Astrodynamics
  • Non-destructive Testing and Evaluation

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.3 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.3 years (Methods)

Learning Goals

  • Conduct comprehensive literature review/survey in the relevant field of study to identify knowledge gaps.
  • Formulate research objectives that will lead to significant contributions to the field of study.
  • Conduct quality research via appropriate scientific methods, in teams or independently.
  • Interpret research results appropriately, integrating them into the existing knowledge in the discipline.
  • Disseminate research findings orally and through technical and scholarly writing to advance the knowledge base.
  • Follow ethical practice and professionalism.
Dept of Mechanics Engineering
Iowa State University
537 Bissell Road
1200 Howe Hall
Ames, IA 50011

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 15 for following fall admission; September 1 for following spring admission.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 80
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo (approved through Spring 2026) 115
Program Interest Area
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
No
Program offers a Coursework Only?
No
Program Director
huhui@iastate.edu
Program Staff
madisone@iastate.edu
Interdepartmental Program
No
Embark on a journey into the future of flight and space exploration with Iowa State University's Aerospace Engineering graduate program. Our program offers an advanced curriculum designed to prepare students for careers in aerospace research, design, development, and manufacturing.
diagram

Our faculty and students conduct cutting-edge research in nondestructive evaluation; complex systems; computational and experimental aerodynamics; astrodynamics; guidance, navigation, and control; aircraft icing; composite structures; and micro/nano mechanics of materials. Our department has had the privilege to educate some of the most accomplished and distinguished leaders of industry, government, and academia.


Degrees Offered:

  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
  • Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.)
  • Online Master of Engineering (M.Engr.)

Research Areas: 

  • Advanced Materials Systems
  • Aerodynamics
  • Combustion and Aero-Structural Interaction
  • Aviation Biofuels
  • Complex Systems and Optimization
  • Guidance, Controls, and Astrodynamics
  • Non-destructive Testing and Evaluation

How long does it take to earn a degree?

  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 4.0 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: 1.8 years (Methods)

Learning Goals

  • Conduct comprehensive literature review/survey in the relevant field of study to identify knowledge gaps.
  • Formulate research objectives that will lead to significant contributions to the field of study.
  • Conduct quality research via appropriate scientific methods, in teams or independently.
  • Interpret research results appropriately, integrating them into the existing knowledge in the discipline.
  • Disseminate research findings orally and through technical and scholarly writing to advance the knowledge base.
  • Follow ethical practice and professionalism.
515-294-9669

Maddi England

aere-info@iastate.edu
Aerospace Engineering Graduate Program
Dept of Aerospace Engineering
Iowa State University
537 Bissell Road
1200 Howe Hall
Ames, IA 50011

Program Homepage Program Handbook

Application Requirements

Application Deadlines:

January 15 for following fall admission; September 1 for following spring admission.

Application Details:

This program is open to domestic and international students.

Application Instructions

Admission Requirements

Graduate College Requirements:

  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.

Program Specific Requirements:

International Requirements:

  • Financial Statement:  Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 550
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 80
    IELTS 6.5
    PTE 53
    Duolingo 115 (approved though Spring 2026)
Program Virtual Tour
Program Interest Area
Program Department
Does this Program Offer a Distance Option?
Yes
Online Degree Information
Program offers a Coursework Only?
Yes
Program Director
huhui@iastate.edu
Program Staff
madisone@iastate.edu
Postdoc Contact
huhui@iastate.edu
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