Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering
Engineering Degrees
Engineering Degrees
Overview
What Are Engineering Degrees?
Engineering degrees can prepare students to solve complex problems by applying mathematics, science and technology to the design, development, testing and improvement of systems, products and infrastructure. You can specialize in disciplines such as mechanical, civil, electrical, software or industrial engineering while developing skills in technical design, data analysis, teamwork and project management. Graduates can pursue careers in industries including manufacturing, construction, energy, aerospace, healthcare and technology.
Areas of Study
Types of Engineering Degrees
Engineering is a broad field with many specialized areas of study, each focused on solving different types of technical challenges. GCU offers engineering degree programs across multiple disciplines, allowing you to pursue an area of study that matches your aspirations.
Mechanical Engineering
Focuses on the design, development and testing of machines, mechanical systems and manufacturing processes. Mechanical engineers may work with robotics, automation, energy systems and product development.
Software Engineering
Explores designing, developing, testing and maintaining software applications and computer systems. Software engineers help create digital solutions used across industries, from business and healthcare to cybersecurity and technology.
Electrical Engineering
Examines electrical systems, electronics, power generation and emerging technologies. Electrical engineers may work with circuits, communications systems, renewable energy and automation.
Civil Engineering
Focuses on designing, building and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings and water systems. Civil engineers help develop projects that support communities and public services.
Computer Engineering
Combines principles of computer science and electrical engineering to develop computer hardware and integrated systems. Computer engineers may work with processors, embedded systems, networking technologies and computing devices.
Aeronautical Engineering
Explores the design, testing and development of aircraft, spacecraft and aerospace systems. Aeronautical engineers apply engineering principles to improve flight performance, safety and innovation.
Industrial Engineering
Teaches how to improve efficiency, productivity and quality within manufacturing and operational systems. Industrial engineers analyze processes, resources and workflows to help organizations optimize performance.
Systems Engineering
Integrates people, processes and technology to manage complex systems. Systems engineers help ensure that components work together effectively throughout a system's lifecycle.
Biomedical Engineering
Applies engineering principles to healthcare, medicine and biological systems. Biomedical engineers may contribute to the development of medical devices, diagnostic technologies and healthcare innovations.
Programs
Engineering Degree Programs at Every Level
Bachelor’s Degrees
A bachelor's degree in engineering provides foundational knowledge in mathematics, science and engineering principles while allowing students to specialize in a specific engineering discipline. Through coursework and hands-on learning experiences, students are taught technical, analytical and problem-solving skills that support a variety of engineering career paths or continued graduate study.
Master’s Degrees
Explore advanced engineering studies and innovation with our master’s in engineering programs, designed to elevate your skills across diverse specializations.
Certificate Programs
Our specialized graduate certificate programs offer focused study paths to help you enhance your engineering expertise and prepare you for professional challenges in the field.
Explore All Engineering Degrees
36 Matching Degrees
Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering
with an Emphasis in Pre-Med
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
with an Emphasis in Power Systems
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
with an Emphasis in STEM
Initial Program – Leads to Initial Teacher Licensure
Bachelor of Science in Engineering
with an Emphasis in Project Management
How To Choose
Which Type of Engineering Degree Should You Choose?
To choose the right engineering degree, start by identifying the types of problems you want to solve, the skills you enjoy using and the industries you may want to work in. Mechanical engineering may be a good fit for students interested in machines, robotics and product design, while software engineering may suit students who want to build applications and digital systems. Civil engineering aligns with infrastructure and construction, electrical engineering with circuits and power systems, and biomedical engineering with healthcare technology.
How To Choose an Engineering Degree in Four Steps
To narrow your options, start by comparing four factors:
Identify the problems you enjoy solving
Think about whether you are most interested in software, machines, electronics, infrastructure, healthcare technology, aviation or large-scale systems.
Match your strengths to engineering disciplines
Students who enjoy coding may consider software or computer engineering. Students who enjoy physics, mechanics and design may consider mechanical, aerospace or civil engineering. Students interested in circuits, power or electronics may consider electrical engineering.
Compare program format and hands-on learning
Review whether the program is offered online or on campus and whether it includes labs, simulations, design projects, capstones or other applied learning experiences.
Review accreditation, career paths and admissions requirements
ABET accreditation, career outcomes, degree level and admissions requirements can all influence which engineering program is the best fit for your goals.
Engineering Degree Decision Guide
The engineering degree that is right for you depends on the types of problems you want to solve, the skills you want to build and the career paths you may want to pursue. Use the table below to compare common engineering interests with related degree options. As you review each option, consider which discipline best aligns with your strengths, preferred learning format and long-term goals.
If Your Goal Is...
Design machines, products or robotics systems
Recommended Degree
Mechanical Engineering
Best For Students Interested In...
Machines, robotics, product design, manufacturing and automation
Why It May Be a Good Fit
Mechanical engineering focuses on designing, testing and improving machines, mechanical systems and manufacturing processes. It is one of the broadest engineering disciplines and can support careers in robotics, automation and product development.
If Your Goal Is...
Develop software and digital technologies
Recommended Degree
Software Engineering
Best For Students Interested In...
Coding, applications, software systems and digital technology
Why It May Be a Good Fit
Software engineering focuses on designing, building, testing and maintaining software applications and computer systems used across industries.
If Your Goal Is...
Work with electronics, power systems or emerging technologies
Recommended Degree
Electrical Engineering
Best For Students Interested In...
Circuits, electronics, power systems, communications and renewable energy
Why It May Be a Good Fit
Electrical engineering focuses on electrical systems, electronics, communication technologies and power generation.
If Your Goal Is...
Design roads, bridges and public infrastructure
Recommended Degree
Civil Engineering
Best For Students Interested In...
Infrastructure, construction, transportation systems and public works
Why It May Be a Good Fit
Civil engineering prepares students to help plan, build and maintain infrastructure that supports communities and transportation systems.
If Your Goal Is...
Build computer hardware and integrated systems
Recommended Degree
Computer Engineering
Best For Students Interested In...
Hardware, embedded systems, processors, networking and computing devices
Why It May Be a Good Fit
Computer engineering combines computing and electrical engineering principles to develop hardware, embedded systems and computing technologies.
If Your Goal Is...
Work in aviation or space-related industries
Recommended Degree
Aerospace Engineering
Best For Students Interested In...
Aircraft, spacecraft, flight systems and aerospace technology
Why It May Be a Good Fit
Aerospace engineering focuses on aircraft, spacecraft and aerospace systems, including design, testing and performance optimization.
If Your Goal Is...
Improve manufacturing processes and operational efficiency
Recommended Degree
Industrial Engineering
Best For Students Interested In...
Process improvement, operations, logistics, quality and efficiency
Why It May Be a Good Fit
Industrial engineering focuses on optimizing workflows, systems and processes to improve productivity, quality and efficiency.
If Your Goal Is...
Manage complex systems and technologies
Recommended Degree
Systems Engineering
Best For Students Interested In...
Systems integration, lifecycle planning, complex technologies and project coordination
Why It May Be a Good Fit
Systems engineering focuses on integrating people, processes and technology to help organizations manage large-scale systems.
If Your Goal Is...
Apply engineering principles to healthcare and medicine
Recommended Degree
Biomedical Engineering
Best For Students Interested In...
Medical devices, healthcare technology, biology and biomedical innovation
Why It May Be a Good Fit
Biomedical engineering combines engineering, biology and healthcare concepts to support medical devices, healthcare technologies and biomedical innovation.
If Your Goal Is...
Recommended Degree
Best For Students Interested In...
Why It May Be a Good Fit
Design machines, products or robotics systems
Mechanical Engineering
Machines, robotics, product design, manufacturing and automation
Mechanical engineering focuses on designing, testing and improving machines, mechanical systems and manufacturing processes. It is one of the broadest engineering disciplines and can support careers in robotics, automation and product development.
Develop software and digital technologies
Software Engineering
Coding, applications, software systems and digital technology
Software engineering focuses on designing, building, testing and maintaining software applications and computer systems used across industries.
Work with electronics, power systems or emerging technologies
Electrical Engineering
Circuits, electronics, power systems, communications and renewable energy
Electrical engineering focuses on electrical systems, electronics, communication technologies and power generation.
Design roads, bridges and public infrastructure
Civil Engineering
Infrastructure, construction, transportation systems and public works
Civil engineering prepares students to help plan, build and maintain infrastructure that supports communities and transportation systems.
Build computer hardware and integrated systems
Computer Engineering
Hardware, embedded systems, processors, networking and computing devices
Computer engineering combines computing and electrical engineering principles to develop hardware, embedded systems and computing technologies.
Work in aviation or space-related industries
Aerospace Engineering
Aircraft, spacecraft, flight systems and aerospace technology
Aerospace engineering focuses on aircraft, spacecraft and aerospace systems, including design, testing and performance optimization.
Improve manufacturing processes and operational efficiency
Industrial Engineering
Process improvement, operations, logistics, quality and efficiency
Industrial engineering focuses on optimizing workflows, systems and processes to improve productivity, quality and efficiency.
Manage complex systems and technologies
Systems Engineering
Systems integration, lifecycle planning, complex technologies and project coordination
Systems engineering focuses on integrating people, processes and technology to help organizations manage large-scale systems.
Apply engineering principles to healthcare and medicine
Biomedical Engineering
Medical devices, healthcare technology, biology and biomedical innovation
Biomedical engineering combines engineering, biology and healthcare concepts to support medical devices, healthcare technologies and biomedical innovation.
Hear From Our Students
"I really wanted a good engineering program, and when I came to look at GCU, their [mechanical engineering] program is actually ABET accredited, which means that it is held to very high industry standards."
Shailynn Ball
Mechanical Engineering Major
"I really wanted a good engineering program, and when I came to look at GCU, their [mechanical engineering] program is actually ABET accredited, which means that it is held to very high industry standards."
Shailynn Ball
Mechanical Engineering Major
Careers
What Can You Do With an Engineering Degree?
Explore various careers in engineering, each offering opportunities for professional growth and development. From aerospace engineering to renewable energy, the field encompasses diverse sectors where your skills can be applied. Consider your interests and strengths to pave the way for your career journey in engineering.
An engineering degree can help prepare you to pursue roles such as:
Architectural and engineering manager
Architectural and engineering managers oversee technical projects, lead engineering teams and help coordinate the planning, design and production of engineering work. They may manage budgets, schedules and project goals across a variety of industries.
Aerospace engineer
Aerospace engineers design, develop and test aircraft, spacecraft, satellites and related systems. They apply engineering principles to improve performance, safety and efficiency in aerospace technologies.
Electrical engineer
Electrical engineers design, develop and maintain electrical systems, equipment and components. Their work may involve power generation, communications systems, electronics or renewable energy technologies.
Software engineer
Software engineers create, test and maintain software applications and computer programs. They develop solutions that support businesses, consumers and organizations across many industries.
Mechanical engineer
Mechanical engineers design, analyze and improve machines, mechanical systems and manufacturing processes. They may work on products ranging from robotics and energy systems to transportation equipment.
Bioengineer and biomedical engineer
Bioengineers and biomedical engineers apply engineering principles to healthcare, medicine and biology. They may help develop medical devices, diagnostic equipment and technologies that support patient care.
Industrial engineer
Industrial engineers focus on improving the efficiency, productivity and quality of complex systems and processes. They analyze workflows, people, technology and resources to help organizations optimize operations across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, logistics and supply chain management.
$167,740
Median annual wage for architectural and engineering managers in May 2024(See disclaimer 1)
14,500
Openings expected for architectural and engineering managers, each year, from 2024 to 2034(See disclaimer 2)
Format
Online and On-Campus Engineering Degree Programs
We offer engineering degree programs in both online(See disclaimer 3) and on-campus formats to help students pursue an education that fits their schedules and learning preferences. While program availability varies by discipline, students can explore online(See disclaimer 3) engineering degrees in select fields or benefit from hands-on learning in classrooms and labs on campus.
Online Learning
Campus Life
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Engineering Degrees
Explore the answers below to learn more about engineering degrees and determine which engineering field may be the best fit for your interests and goals.
What industries can engineers work in?
What is the difference between software engineering and computer engineering?
What is the difference between mechanical engineering and electrical engineering?
Do engineering degree programs include hands-on learning?
Does ABET accreditation matter for engineering?
What should students look for in an engineering degree program?
What To Expect
What To Expect in an Engineering Program
Engineering programs combine foundational coursework in mathematics and science with specialized engineering topics, hands-on learning and technical problem-solving. Depending on your chosen discipline, you may study areas such as programming, mechanics, electronics, systems design or manufacturing while developing analytical, communication and collaboration skills. Students can also access engineering resources and support services to enhance their academic experience.
The College of Engineering and Technology offers eight programmatically accredited baccalaureate degree programs: three accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, four by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET and one by the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET.
GCU has been institutionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1968. The College of Engineering and Technology shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies.
Cost & Savings
Engineering Degree Tuition and Savings
Engineering degree tuition varies depending on factors such as your program, learning format and enrollment status. Explore tuition rates, financial aid opportunities and other funding options to determine what may be available to you.
Discover Your Financial Options
Learn more about tuition, scholarships and financial aid available to qualified students.
Ways To Save
Your education is an important financial investment, and there are several ways to help manage costs while earning your degree. GCU’s university counselors are available to help you explore available options and provide personalized guidance on your estimated cost of attendance.
Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually to determine eligibility for federal grants and student loans. Since some aid is awarded on a first‑come, first‑served basis, GCU recommends submitting the FAFSA as early as possible after Oct. 1 to maximize funding opportunities.
Transfer Your Credits
If you’ve earned college credits from another institution, you may be able to complete your degree sooner at GCU by transferring those credits. Submit the Lopes Unofficial Credit Evaluation form, then connect with a university counselor who can provide you with personalized guidance.
Scholarships & Grants
You may be able to reduce your college costs by applying for GCU’s on-campus or online student scholarships. We invite you to explore available institutional scholarships and determine which opportunities you may be eligible for. GCU also encourages students to seek out third‑party scholarships and grants.
Admission
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Engineering Program?
Admission requirements vary depending on the degree level, program and learning format. Applicants should review the specific admission criteria for their intended engineering degree program, as requirements may differ for first-time college students, transfer students and graduate applicants.
How To Apply to GCU
You can apply to a degree program at GCU in just three simple steps. Your university counselor is standing by to assist you with any questions about the application process.
It starts with selecting the program that aligns with your goals from one of GCU's 380+ academic programs — from undergraduate degrees to post-master’s certificate programs to doctoral degrees.
Pick your program
Explore our on-campus, online or evening cohort options under the Degree Programs page to find the right program for you.
Complete our online application
Your university counselor will direct you to the online application. Fill in all required information and submit the form.
Submit supporting documents
Submit your official transcripts and any relevant test scores, and confirm with your university counselor that all forms for your desired program are submitted.
Explore More Engineering Topics
Start Your Engineering Degree at GCU
Explore GCU’s engineering degree programs and find the path that aligns with your goals.
- The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Architectural and Engineering Managers as of May 2024, retrieved June 2026. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as architecture and engineering managers, nor does it reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc., against a pool of candidates.
- COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective August 2025, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Architecture and Engineering Occupations, retrieved June 2026.
Excluding residencies, practicums, internships and field experience.
Approved and verified accurate by the Assistant Dean of the College of Engineering and Technology on July 20, 2026.