mit physics phd application

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Applying to the Biological Engineering PhD program

Thank you for your interest in MIT BE – we want to receive your application! This page explains the application process and provides information specific to our program that you may use to strengthen your application. Our evaluation process begins with your electronic application folder and proceeds through an on-site interview.

We believe that our diverse, welcoming, and collaborative community fosters the most effective environment for training students to conduct world-class research. To maintain and further strengthen our culture, we depend on continuing to receive applications representing a broad range of academic and personal backgrounds. From 2019-2022, we invited applicants from 64 different undergraduate institutions holding and expecting bachelors degrees in many different disciplines to interview for admission. Of applicants invited to interview from 2019-2022, about 52% self-identified as female, and more than 18% self-identified as underrepresented minorities (as defined by MIT). Many students join the program immediately after completing their undergraduate studies, while others have already received advanced degrees or acquired post-baccalaureate professional experience.

The guidance below is intended to help prospective students understand the aspects of academic preparation and experience that poise applicants for success in our program and how to present this information effectively in their application materials. This guidance is not intended to describe any “ideal” application profile or minimum standards for admission (no quantitative standards exist). Every complete application received is reviewed holistically by BE faculty.

Application to MIT BE is competitive, with fewer than 10% of applicants receiving an offer to interview each year (we offer admission to the majority of interviewees). Applicants holding international undergraduate degrees may apply, and such applicants received about 3% of the interview offers made from 2019-2022. Interview offers are communicated asynchronously to applicants in January and February each year.

Evaluation of applications for PhD study in BE particularly focuses on:

• Evidence of strong academic preparation and demonstrated interest in both a quantitative discipline and a biological discipline
• Evidence of aptitude for and experience/accomplishment in scientific or engineering research
• Explanation of interest in pursuing a career that leverages PhD-level training in Biological Engineering under the guidance of MIT BE faculty advisors

Academic preparation. Success in the challenging coursework and research components of the MIT BE PhD program requires a strong academic background in both biology and quantitative engineering or science. While many successful applicants hold undergraduate engineering degrees and have completed substantial coursework in biology, there are many different ways to demonstrate the academic preparation needed. Applicants whose principal degree is quantitative, computational, engineering, or in the physical sciences can bolster their training in biology by taking core biology courses like biochemistry, genetics, and cell biology. Applicants whose principal degree is in a life science field can acquire quantitative training in courses beyond calculus, biostatistics, and programming/informatics such as differential equations, linear algebra, and advanced courses in probability, statistics, analysis, and computer science.

Understanding that every applicant’s personal and college experience is unique and that grading practices differ, BE has no minimum grade point average (GPA) requirement. We strongly consider the factors other than GPA described on this page in our admissions process. However, most applicants receiving an interview offer have a GPA in the A range (>3.6 on an A = 4.0 scale), and from 2019-2022 the median GPA of interviewees was 3.94. Many applicants with high GPAs do not receive interview invitations, and applicants with GPAs below the A range may be competitive for admission in our holistic evaluation process given other extraordinary aspects of their academic record, experiences, and achievements detailed in their application materials.

Applicant statement. This application component is a free-form opportunity to introduce yourself in writing to the admissions committee, explain your interest in Biological Engineering at MIT, and contextualize other application components including your academic record, research experience, and letters of recommendation. The admissions committee wants to hear why PhD-level training in Biological Engineering under the mentorship of MIT BE faculty is right for you, which research groups you may be interested in joining, how you have prepared to receive PhD training, and how this training may power your aspirations for the future. The MIT BE Communications Lab CommKit has additional content on writing statements of purpose . While not a particular focus of our evaluation, the statement is an opportunity to directly demonstrate your writing skills and attention to detail.

Letters of recommendation provide crucial evidence of research aptitude in successful applications. The most impactful support letters come from your faculty research supervisor(s) who know you well and have substantial experience advising PhD students. Support letters from other research supervisors, academic advisors, or course instructors may also be included. You can find general guidance (not specific to applications to study in the BE PhD program) on requesting letters of recommendation and on support letter content from the Biological Engineering Communication Lab.

To apply , go to the online application and create a user id and password. You do not need to complete the entire application in one sitting. You may begin the application, save it, and return to it at a later time using your user ID and password.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications ahead of the deadline and are responsible for ensuring that all admissions credentials are submitted on time. Your application will not be reviewed until all materials have been received. There is no separate application for financial support; all admitted applicants are offered a full support package.

The BE Department does not require the standardized Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test as part of our application process, but will consider scores if provided by the applicant.

To apply follow these steps.

1. Fill out the online application by 23:59, EST, December 15.

You will be providing the following information:

• Field(s) of interest
• Personal information/addresses
• International student data
• Three or more names and email addresses of letter writers
• Scanned copies of your College Transcripts
• For international students, scanned copies of your IELTS scores
• Academic preparation and research/work experience
• Applicant statement
• Credit card payment of $90 (Information on requesting a fee waiver is here )

2. Arrange for submission of the following (official reports only):

Scanned PDF transcripts and IELTS scores are considered unofficial documents but are sufficient for review purposes. Official documents are required before an admissions decision can be made. Please have any test scores electronically transmitted to MIT Admissions and mail official copies of your transcript(s) to:

MIT Department of Biological Engineering

77 Massachusetts Avenue, Bldg. 16-267

Cambridge, MA 02139

For international students:

IELTS scores should also be electronically sent directly to MIT.

• To register for a test, visit the IETLS website.
• IELTS does not require a code. Please write “Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology”. No address is required as scores are reported electronically.
• If you are an international student, you should take the IELTS test by November 15. The Department of Biological Engineering does not waive this requirement.

The IELTS is waived for applicants who are citizens of Australia, Canada, India, Ireland, New Zealand, Nigeria, Singapore, or the United Kingdom, or for applicants who have or will earn a BS degree at a US university.

Fully funded PhD positions (doctoral researcher) (f/m/d) | Quantum Materials

Are you interested in working in the rapidly evolving research field of quantum materials ?

The Max Planck Graduate Center for Quantum Materials ( MPGC-QM ) currently has an open call for multiple fully funded PhD student positions. Deadline for submission of your application is December 11 th 2024!

Six Max Planck Institutes (Dresden, Erlangen, Hamburg, Halle and Stuttgart) - all of them world-leading institutions in their respective fields - bring together their expertise in the research on quantum materials and thus offer a truly unique graduate program in this intriguing research area.

In addition, we offer a limited number of joint PhD projects with Oxford University. Students working on these projects will share their time between Oxford and one of the participating Max Planck Institutes, and will obtain their PhD degree from Oxford University.

• Vibrant research environment with access to a large number of world-class research facilities and cutting-edge research projects
• A modern, English-speaking structured PhD program
• Fully funded positions, no tuition costs and additional funding for scientific meetings and trainings
• Individual supervision and mentoring by research scientists who are leaders in their respective fields

Join our network

Becoming part of our interdisciplinary quantum materials community and our unique program will allow you to establish an international network that will last beyond your PhD. Connecting different research groups at six locations, MPGC-QM also connects diverse research topics with focus on quantum materials and fosters interdisciplinary collaborations.

More than 30 distinguished and internationally recognized group leaders actively participate in the PhD program and offer challenging and cutting-edge PhD projects.

Eligibility

Applicants should hold an MSc (or equivalent degree) with a strong background in physics, chemistry, mathematics or computer science, and have some knowledge of solid-state science, excellent English language skills and a drive to pursue their PhD in an international and multidisciplinary setting.

Outstanding candidates with a first-class four-year BSc degree (or equivalent degree) are eligible to apply for the fast-track option.

Your application

Are you interested? We invite highly motivated students with strong commitment to basic science from all over the world to apply to our international program centered on quantum materials.

Application deadline is December 11 th . Only applications submitted through our online application portal can be considered!

Details on the program, eligibility, and how to apply .

For further information, please browse the answers to Frequently Asked Questions and direct any further inquiries to the MPGC Coordination Office at [email protected]

The Max Planck Graduate Center for Quantum Mater as well as Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in its workforce in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.

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New Ph.D. programs welcome students this fall

Rit now offers doctoral programs in cognitive science and physics.

Scott Hamilton

RIT is beginning two new doctoral programs in cognitive science and physics. Both programs offer diverse research opportunities, including soft matter physics research.

Sophia Caruana was seeking an interdisciplinary doctoral program where she could pursue her interests in data ethics, AI, and human-centered computing. Kaitlin Boedigheimer was interested in exploring possible research opportunities in soft-matter physics. 

Both of them found their niche within two of RIT’s newest Ph.D. programs: cognitive science and physics.

The cognitive science Ph.D. program is jointly delivered by faculty experts from six colleges within the university: College of Liberal Arts ; College of Science ; Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences ; Kate Gleason College of Engineering ; College of Engineering Technology ; and National Technical Institute for the Deaf . The physics Ph.D . is offered by the College of Science .

An interdisciplinary approach to cognitive science

RIT’s cognitive science Ph.D. program provides an interdisciplinary study of the human mind that combines insights from psychology, computer science, linguistics, neuroscience, augmented reality, and philosophy. Students will gain the skills and abilities needed to analyze data, grasp complex concepts, and interpret and communicate concepts for a wider audience.

Matt Dye , professor and director of the cognitive science program and NTID’s Sensory, Perceptual, and Cognitive Ecology (SPACE) Center , explains that the joint offering between the six colleges is a unique asset for graduate students.

“Cognitive science itself is inherently interdisciplinary. It requires this kind of marriage of liberal arts, engineering, and technical thinking,” said Dye. “One of the advantages we have at RIT is that students can learn from experts from across six different colleges, so they can acquire a range of skills and abilities that they might not get at other universities.”

The multidisciplinary approach means students from all undergraduate backgrounds can apply for the program, provided it matches their academic and career interests. Four students were accepted into the program this year.

Sophia Caruana said she has a deep interest in interdisciplinary research and education, which made RIT’s cognitive science doctoral program a perfect fit for her. Here, she presents a previous research project, “How faculty and students at Nazareth University perceive and use chat bots.”

Caruana, from Rochester, N.Y., graduated this past May from Nazareth University with a bachelor’s degree in ethical data science and minors in psychology, philosophy, and math. When she made the decision to pursue her Ph.D., she wanted to find an interdisciplinary program that would work well with her current expertise.

In 2023, she met with Professor Cecilia Alm , who would become her Ph.D. faculty advisor at RIT, to learn more about Alm’s Computational Linguistics and Speech Processing (CLASP) lab . That meeting was the final push Caruana needed to apply to RIT.

“Professor Alm explained that my role in her lab as a cognitive science student would focus on using biologically-inspired systems to model human emotions with artificial intelligence. The questions surrounding that are really intriguing, and something I was already thinking about with my own research,” said Caruana. “I think the work in the CLASP lab is going to be monumental for ethical, human-centered AI, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it.”

Steadily growing opportunities in physics

Boedigheimer earned her bachelor’s degree in physics from University of Minnesota – Twin Cities and her master’s degree in physics from University of Minnesota – Duluth. But she realized there were more job opportunities in her field for Ph.D’s. Once she heard about RIT Professor Shima Parsa ’s soft matter research at a colloquium, her interest in RIT was piqued. After she visited the campus in March, she was convinced.

Kaitlin Boedigheimer believes she’ll have better job prospects with a Ph.D. in physics. She will be researching the filtration methods of nanoplastics to expand her interest in soft matter physics.

“The state-of-the-art technology here really impressed me,” said Boedigheimer.

She is one of seven students in the first class of physics Ph.D. students at RIT. The program offers a wide array of research areas including atomic/molecular/optical physics, multi-messenger astrophysics, photonics and the next quantum revolution, and physics for sustainable/renewable energy. Boedigheimer will be focusing on the filtration methods of nanoplastics, working closely with Parsa.

The new physics program had nearly 120 applicants in its first year. The recently announced National Science Foundation Research Traineeship Program (NRT) gives RIT the resources to grow the program by a few students each year in the future.

“Since the NRT is a highly prestigious fellowship, this allows us to actively recruit the very best and brightest graduate students into our new Ph.D. program,” said Seth Hubbard , program director and professor in the School of Physics and Astronomy.

These two new programs bring RIT’s total doctoral programs to 15. RIT’s other programs include astrophysical sciences and technology , biomedical and chemical engineering , business administration , color science , computing and information sciences electrical and computer engineering , imaging science , mechanical and industrial engineering , microsystems engineering , and sustainability .

RIT’s priority in building doctoral research programs is integral to the university’s future. These programs attract top-tier faculty who generate research funding and support teams of graduate student researchers. In turn, the faculty and research opportunities recruit Ph.D. students to the university.

More information is available on the cognitive science doctoral program website , or by emailing Matt Dye at [email protected] .

Go to the physics Ph.D. program website for more information.

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Program Requirements for Physics and Astronomy (Master of Quantum Science and Technology)

Applicable only to students admitted during the 2024-2025 academic year.

Physics and Astronomy

College of Letters and Science

Graduate Degrees

The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers the Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Astronomy and Astrophysics, the Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in Astronomy and Astrophysics, the Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Physics, the Master of Science (M.S.) and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degrees in Physics, and the Master of Quantum Science and Technology (M.Q.S.T.) degree.

Admissions Requirements

Master of Quantum Science and Technology

The Academic Program Director and faculty director will advise students in the program.

Areas of Study

Quantum science and technology

Foreign Language Requirement

Course Requirements

The UCLA MQST program is a one-year, full-time program that consists of ten courses (40 units), an internship, and a capstone presentation on the internship. The program is centered around hands-on research through three laboratory classes (QST 410 – 412), which introduce the students to the topics and technology of the field. These classes are completed with three theory classes (Physics 245, QST 402 – 403), which are crafted to bring students from diverse backgrounds to a working knowledge of QST topics. The students will also take two classes in programming quantum computers (CS 238 – 239) to prepare them for the workforce, as well as one approved elective in Biomathematics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Math, Physics, or Statistics & Data Science. Other elective courses may be substituted in special cases with prior approval of the Program Director.

Elective course approval (separate from the approved list of elective courses): Any course applied towards the degree must align with the technical goals of the program. Approval of an elective course is granted on a course-by-course basis after review of the syllabus. Course approval must be obtained in writing from the Program Director before the start of the quarter in which the course is being taken.

The list of approved electives is: BIOMATH 204; CHEM 115AB, 215AB, 219S, 219V; COM SCI 132, M146, 161, 259, 260B, 260C, 263, 267A; EC ENGR 100, 101B, 110, 110H, 110L, 111L, 113, 115ABC, 115AL, 121B, M146, M153, 163A, 163C, 170A, 170B, 170C, 163DA, 231E, 232E, C243A, 252; MATH 120AB, 156, 167, 226A, 210C, 226A; PHYSICS 115C, 117, 118, 123, 213ABC, 140AB, 170A, 170N, 192, 215A, 221C, 231B, 241ABC, 221ABC; STAT 202C.

Sample study plan:

Fall Quarter Physics 245: Introduction to Quantum Computing (4 units) CS 238: Quantum Programming (4 units) QST 410: Lab Module 1 (4 units)*

Winter Quarter QST 402: Introduction to Quantum Information (4 units) CS 239: Quantum Algorithms (4 units) QST 411: Lab Module 2 (4 units)*

Spring Quarter QST 403: Theory of Quantum Devices (4 units) Elective (4 units) QST 412: Lab Module 3 (4 units)*

*The Lab Modules do not need to be taken in order and will be taught simultaneously.

Summer Quarter QST 596: Directed Individual Studies (4 units) or QST 597: Research preparation for Oral Exam (4 units)

Teaching Experience

Not required

Field Experience

Capstone Plan

The requirement is met by the completion of QST 596 or QST 597. This class will begin during Summer Session A and consist of a research experience with a minimum length of 10 weeks. Students will either perform research in the group of a UCLA professor or through an improved internship at a QST-related company. During the final week of the research experience, students will present their work and be examined via an oral examination.

Successful completion of the MQST Capstone Project requires that the students participate in a QIS (quantum information science) related project in which they utilize the knowledge and skills obtained through their coursework and instructional laboratories during the academic year. It also requires that they prepare a presentation based on the work they performed for their Capstone Project and give an oral presentation to their chosen capstone committee. Upon approval of the committee and submission of their presentation to the MQST program, they pass the capstone project.

Thesis Plan

Time-to-Degree

From admission to award of degree: one calendar year (September-August)

Academic Disqualification and Appeal of Disqualification

University Policy

A student who fails to meet the above requirements may be recommended for academic disqualification from graduate study. A graduate student may be disqualified from continuing in the graduate program for a variety of reasons. The most common is failure to maintain the minimum cumulative grade point average (3.00) required by the Academic Senate to remain in good standing (some programs require a higher grade point average). Other examples include failure of examinations, lack of timely progress toward the degree and poor performance in core courses. Probationary students (those with cumulative grade point averages below 3.00) are subject to immediate dismissal upon the recommendation of their department. University guidelines governing academic disqualification of graduate students, including the appeal procedure, are outlined in Standards and Procedures for Graduate Study at UCLA .

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First-year applicants: International applicants

MIT has a very long history of educating international students, and we continue to welcome them today .

If you are an international student, you may not be familiar with the application process for American colleges, including MIT. This is a quick overview to help you understand how applying to an American school like MIT works. Some of the information in here is also true for American colleges other than MIT, but you should make sure to check with other schools before applying.

In addition to this page, there are several organizations that will help you learn how to apply to American universities, including MIT. We particularly recommend Education USA , especially their helpful 5 Steps to U.S. Study  and local advising centers .

Am I international?

For the purposes of the application, MIT considers any student who does not hold United States citizenship or permanent residency to be an international applicant, regardless of where they live or attend school. ⁠ 01 We recognize that this designation may not correspond to the lived experience of many applicants (including <a href="https://mitadmissions.org/blogs/entry/reaffirming-our-support-for-undocumented-students/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">undocumented students</a>) who have spent significant time in the United States, or those who have a liminal status as asylees, refugees, or stateless persons. This classification is federally defined for the purpose of statistical records, but please know that we understand life is more rich and complicated than a checkbox, and we take that into account when reading your essays and evaluating your application. U.S. permanent residents are those students who have an official copy of their green card in hand. If you are in the process of obtaining a green card, then you are considered by MIT to be an international student. If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, then you are considered a domestic applicant.

However, whether you are a domestic applicant or an international applicant does  not  impact when or how you apply or the financial aid you are offered. Rather, this page is simply intended to be a helpful resource for people who are less familiar with the American educational system and are trying to figure out how to apply to MIT.

When to apply

Most U.S. students apply to MIT at the beginning of their final year of high school, and international applicants should do the same. Only accepted students are required to send final grades, and we understand that they will not be available until the summer months. Most applicants are 17–19 years of age. Some may be younger, especially if they have studied ahead; some may be older, especially if their countries have mandatory military service after secondary school.

Students who have already enrolled ⁠ 02 Exceptions may be granted to students in the southern hemisphere, on an alternate calendar, who begin their college education <em>while</em> undergoing our application process. at another university—either in America or abroad—must apply to MIT as a transfer student.

Grades & coursework

If you attended high school outside of the United States, your grades and subjects of study might have been very different than those of most American students. However, this will not negatively impact your application to MIT.

MIT admissions counselors are trained to understand the educational system in your part of the world. We do not try to convert your grades to the American system, or to find other sorts of equivalence. You will not be competing against your classmates or students in other parts of the world; we do not have caps or quotas for countries. We consider each student as an individual as they proceed through our process.

However, all students need to demonstrate minimum competence in fields they will continue to study at MIT. Visit our What to do in high school page to see what we recommend that all students study.

Standardized tests

We require the SAT or the ACT for both prospective first year and transfer students. We do not require the ACT writing section or the SAT optional essay. We accept both the paper and digital SAT.

For non-native English speakers, we strongly recommend providing the results of an English proficiency exam if you have been using English for fewer than 5 years or do not speak English at home or in school, so that we may consider that information alongside the rest of your application.

Competitive scores

We do not have cut off or recommended scores for the ACT or SAT as scores are evaluated within an applicant’s context. We do have minimum and recommended scores for our English language tests, you can learn more on the Tests & scores page.

• We recognize that this designation may not correspond to the lived experience of many applicants (including undocumented students ) who have spent significant time in the United States, or those who have a liminal status as asylees, refugees, or stateless persons. This classification is federally defined for the purpose of statistical records, but please know that we understand life is more rich and complicated than a checkbox, and we take that into account when reading your essays and evaluating your application. ⁠ back to text ↑
• Exceptions may be granted to students in the southern hemisphere, on an alternate calendar, who begin their college education while undergoing our application process. ⁠ back to text ↑

Applying to the Medical Engineering and Medical Physics (MEMP) PhD Program

Passionate about the place where science, engineering, and medicine intersect earn a phd grounded in quantitative science or engineering, combined with extensive training in biomedical sciences and clinical practice..

Learn how to apply below, or explore the program further .

Who should apply?

HST thrives when it reflects the community it serves. We encourage students from groups historically underrepresented in STEMM, students with non-traditional academic backgrounds, and students from academic institutions that have not previously sent many students to Harvard and MIT to apply. 

What should I know before I apply?

The HST PhD Admissions Committee values new perspectives, welcoming students from a wide range of disciplines. Successful applicants will have a strong undergraduate background in an engineering discipline or a physical/quantitative science (for example, chemistry, physics, computer science, computational neuroscience).

In response to the challenges of teaching, learning, and assessing academic performance during the global COVID-19 pandemic, HST will take the significant disruptions of the outbreak in 2020 into account when reviewing students’ transcripts and other admissions materials as part of our regular practice of performing individualized, holistic reviews of each applicant.

In particular, as we review applications now and in the future, we will respect decisions regarding the adoption of Pass/No Record (or Credit/No Credit or Pass/Fail) and other grading options during the unprecedented period of COVID-19 disruptions, whether those decisions were made by institutions or by individual students. In addition, we do not accept GRE scores.  We expect that the individual experiences of applicants will richly inform applications and, as such, they will be considered with the entirety of a student’s record.

Ultimately, our goal remains to form graduate student cohorts that are collectively excellent and composed of outstanding individuals who will challenge and support one another.

How can I strengthen my application?

In addition to outstanding undergraduate performance, we look for students who have demonstrated a sustained interest in applications of engineering and physical/quantitative science to biology or medicine through classes, research, or work experience.

Are standardized tests required?

International applicants should review the additional requirements below.  We do not accept GRE or MCAT scores.

What about funding? 

HST MEMP is a fully-funded program. Students in good academic standing receive full financial support - consisting of living expenses, tuition, and health insurance - for the duration of their graduate studies. This support comes from a combination of fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships. For more detailed information regarding the cost of attendance, including specific costs for tuition and fees, books and supplies, housing and food as well as transportation, please visit the MIT Student Financial Services website .

MEMP PhD students enrolled through MIT can work in the labs of any Harvard or MIT faculty member, including those at the many local institutions affiliated with Harvard and with MIT . 

How do I apply?

All prospective MEMP PhD candidates must apply to HST via MIT.

Candidates who are simultaneously applying for graduate study with one of our partner units at Harvard - the Harvard Biophysics Graduate Program or the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) – may optionally follow these instructions to apply to participate in the MEMP curriculum in conjunction with their PhD at Harvard. This path is appropriate if you have a particular interest in the curriculum of Harvard's interdepartmental Biophysics Program, or if you’re interested in joining the lab of a Harvard SEAS faculty member to work on a SEAS-based project. 

How to apply

Applying to hst's memp phd program via mit.

Ready to take the next step with HST? You’ll submit your application through  MIT’s online application system . Our application will open and a link will be available here on August 1, 2024, for entry in fall 2025. Here’s what we’ll ask for:

1. Statement of objectives

Recommended Length: 800-1200 words

Please give your reasons for wishing to do graduate work in HST. Explain how your background has prepared you for this graduate program. Identify the research area(s) you plan to investigate during your graduate studies, the issues and problems you wish to address, and how HST's program supports your research interests. State your long-term professional goals and specify the unique aspects of the HST program that will help you to accomplish those goals.

• Prepare your Statement of Objectives in whatever format clearly presents your views.
• It is not necessary to name specific professors or labs you might want to join. HST requests that candiates wait to contact professors after applications have been reviewed.
• If applicable, describe any specific academic or research challenges you have overcome. The Admissions Committee will welcome any factors you wish to bring to its attention concerning your academic, research, and work experiences to date .

2. Personal Statement

Recommended Length: 400-800 words

The HST community is composed of individuals who come from a variety of backgrounds, may have faced personal challenges, and serve as leaders in society. Please discuss how your experiences and background inspire you to work for the betterment of your communities. Your response is not limited to, but may discuss, one or more of the following:

• Personal challenges that you may have faced and how they acted to inhibit your scholarly growth; 
• Strategies that you may have found or implemented to cope with challenges in your life or the lives of others;
• How you have fostered justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in the past, or how you will in the future at HST and beyond

3. Your unofficial transcript(s)

Upload unofficial transcripts or grade reports from any school where you received or expect to receive a degree.

Please do not send official transcripts until you are invited to interview and prompted to submit them. More info here .

4. Letters of recommendation

Ask a minimum of three (and maximum of five) people to submit letters of recommendation on your behalf.

At least two letters should be from people well acquainted with your academic work and research capabilities. Your recommenders must upload their letters online by the application deadline. The letter should be on institutional letterhead and include a legible signature.

5. Resume/CV

The online application will prompt you to upload a resume or CV.

Additional Notes

We do not accept copies of journal articles, certificates, photographs, or any other materials; they will not be reviewed. 

Training programs

MEMP offers optional training programs in Neuroimaging and Bioastronautics . To express your interest, simply choose one of these specializations from the Areas of Research section in your online application. Otherwise, you should select MEMP, with no sub-specialty.

Fee Waivers

Applying to graduate school can present a financial obstacle for many qualified applicants. Application fee waivers are available for US citizens and permanent residents who meet eligibility requirements set by the MIT Office of Graduate Education.  All requests are made through the MIT Office of Graduate Education process. 

Information for applicants to Harvard

Joining hst's memp phd program via harvard.

Are you simultaneously applying for graduate study with one of our partner units at Harvard? If so, you may optionally apply to participate in the MEMP curriculum in conjunction with your PhD at Harvard.

1. In addition to your MIT application (instructions above), submit a full application to either the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) or the Program in Biophysics .

2. notify hst of your harvard application..

Upload a PDF copy of your completed Harvard application to your MIT HST graduate application. 

Ideally, Harvard applications should be included with an MIT application and uploaded by our December 1 deadline. If the Harvard application is completed after this for a later Harvard deadline, send a PDF to hst-phd-admissions [at] mit.edu (hst-phd-admissions[at]mit[dot]edu) . 

We will only accept and add Harvard applications until 5 pm (ET) on December 16 . We will not accept or consider joint admission for Harvard applications received after December 16.

Successful applicants to MEMP through Harvard must be accepted by both the Harvard program and HST. Candidates then have three options for enrollment

• Participate in both programs -  accept the offer from Harvard as your primary PhD and degree granting institution and notify HST that you will participate in the j oint program .
• MIT MEMP PhD only - decline the offer from Harvard and accept the MIT HST offer. MIT would be the primary and PhD degree granting institution.
• Harvard PhD only -  accept the offer from Harvard only and decline MIT HST offer for both the primary institution and joint program.

Information for international applicants

Here are a few additional things to consider when applying from abroad.

1. Transcripts  Submit transcripts as described elsewhere for all candidates. Transcripts that do not already include an English version must be accompanied by a certified English translation.

2. English language proficiency You are required to take either the IELTS, Cambridge English or TOEFL exam unless:

• English is your first language;
• You have received a degree from a high school, college, or university where English is the primary language of instruction;
• You are currently enrolled in a degree program where English is the primary language of instruction. 

More information here . 

All applications are evaluated without consideration of nationality or citizenship. Funding offers to admitted candidates are typically the same for domestic and international candidates.

Have Questions?

Please check our  PhD Admissions FAQ .

Still have questions?

Just email the  hst-phd-admissions [at] mit.edu (HST PhD Admissions staff) . We’re here to help.

Key Dates (all Eastern Time)

August 1, 2024 Fall 2025 Applications Open

October 9, 2024, at 12pm* Virtual PhD Admissions Information Session - Register here . The Zoom webinar invitation is sent to all registered participants closer to the time of the event.

November 6, 2024, at 12pm* Virtual PhD Admissions Information Session - Register here . The Zoom webinar invitation is sent to all registered participants closer to the time of the event.

December 1, 2024, at 11:59pm* Deadline for applications via MIT

Mid-January 2025 Promising applicants invited to interview

Late January 2025 Virtual Interviews

Mid-February 2025 Admission decisions released

Early March 2025 Open House for admitted applicants

April 15, 2025 Last day for applicants to declare admission decision

*All times are in ET

Graduate Womxn in Physics

A group for transgender women, cisgender women, non-binary people, and gender diverse physics graduate students at MIT

Applying to MIT

Information about the MIT physics graduate program application can be found here . The deadline for September admission is December 15th . Be sure to read all of the requirements in advance. The department provides a helpful list of answers to frequently asked questions about the application process.

• Submit a guest post
• Undergrads: submit your research!
• Suggest a Paper Topic!

MIT PhysGAAP: Here to help with your physics graduate school application

by Lisa Drummond | Oct 25, 2021 | Applications , Career Navigation | 0 comments

Are you thinking of applying to a graduate physics program this year? We are here to help! 

Some questions about applying to a PhD program are best answered in real-time , by graduate students who have already been through the application process . This is especially true because graduate school application requirements and expectations change often and vary from school to school . 

So, it is really useful for potential PhD applicants to be able to (1) ask current graduate students their most pressing application-related questions (that are specific to the graduate school they are trying to apply to) and (2) get personalized advice and guidance about their application.

But not everyone applying to graduate school has access to this.

We are a group of current physics graduate students at MIT (called the Grads Advising Graduate Admissions or GAGA team) trying to close this gap and provide these resources to anyone who thinks they could benefit from it! Therefore, we launched a new initiative last year: the Physics Graduate Application Assistance Program (PhysGAAP), which is designed to help potential applicants with their applications to the MIT Physics PhD program. 

PhysGAAP: Our motivation

Some people applying to graduate school have institutional resources and social networks to draw on and help them with their application. For instance, they can ask for help from friends who have previously applied, use graduate school application resources provided by their university, or organize study sessions with peers to prepare for the GRE or graduate school interviews. However, there are many potential graduate school applicants who do not have access to these things.

The motivation behind PhysGAAP is to reduce the barriers for application to the MIT Physics PhD program and also address the underrepresentation of students from historically excluded communities. In order to do this, we have launched three student-led initiatives that provide application guidance for students considering our program: (1) the PhysGAAP Mentorship Program , (2) PhysGAAP Webinars , and (3) a Q&A service . From the beginning, we have been supported by MIT Physics leadership as well as staff from the Academic Programs Office.

These programs are all underway this year in advance of the MIT Physics PhD application deadline on December 15 . 

PhysGAAP Mentorship Program

This program pairs a current graduate student mentor with a prospective applicant mentee to guide them through the graduate program application process. The graduate student mentors provide feedback on the mentee’s application and insight into the graduate school experience, as well as the MIT Physics Department. 

• ​​The PhysGAAP Mentorship Program seeks prospective applicants who demonstrate that they are a good fit for mentoring; for example, if prospective applicants feel like they lack other resources to navigate the graduate school application process. Guidelines for when the program may be a good fit for you can be found here .
• Applications are open until November 6.

The first year of this program was very successful – we had over 80 mentee applications! Of these students, we were able to support 37 mentees (because we had limited capacity with 26 grad student mentors). We are encouraged by the high demand and hope to scale up this year in order to accommodate as many mentees as possible. If you are interested in the mentorship program, please apply here !

PhysGAAP Webinars 

Starting this year, we are holding two 2-hour application webinars for prospective applicants. These Zoom webinars are hosted by current MIT graduate students, including at least one graduate student representative on the Admissions Committee . The purpose of the webinars is to help applicants who have a few questions about the application process and would like to hear general tips on how to apply from current students. The webinars are an alternative to the mentorship program, providing broad guidance to many prospective applicants at once, in contrast to the more tailored experience of the PhysGAAP Mentorship Program.

While the first webinar has already happened, you can register for the second webinar here ! We record and share all webinars on the department website , so do not worry if you have a timezone/scheduling conflict! All registered participants will receive the Zoom link and a Slido link to submit questions for the interactive Q&A portion of the webinar a few days beforehand.

• The first webinar (on September 29, 10.00am – 12.00pm EDT ) included a brief ~15-minute presentation about what the Admissions Committee is looking for.
• The second webinar will be on December 1, 10.00am – 12.00pm EST . Register here ! 

Q&A Service

Another resource that the department provides is a Q&A service – current graduate students collaborate with staff members to answer questions about department culture, life as a graduate student, and coursework/research. This student email resource is designed for individual basic questions. More in-depth guidance, especially about the application itself, will be available through the PhysGAAP Webinars and/or PhysGAAP Mentorship Program described above.

We welcome you to reach out to [email protected] and clearly indicate in the subject line or in the first sentence that you’d like a current graduate student to reply to your question. An example subject line is: “Question for Current Grad Student about Student Life at MIT”. While current students may not be available to respond to questions sent after November 15, staff will continue to field questions throughout the application season at [email protected] . 

History of MIT-Wide GAAP Initiatives

Prior to the existence of PhysGAAP, there were similar GAAP initiatives throughout MIT. The effort has since grown significantly – the list of department GAAPs can be found here . For more details on the status of GAAP initiatives throughout the Institute, check out this information booklet .

More helpful resources

Here are some more online resources to help you out with your application!

Firstly, there are some fantastic guides for applying to graduate school in astronomy and physics here on Astrobites . Check out this bite for an overall timeline for graduate school applications in the US and look here and here for a detailed outline of what to do to apply for graduate school. If you are trying to figure out which type of program you should be applying to (physics or astronomy?), this bite is a great place to start! All of these bites have also been compiled into a mega-guide, which you can find here . 

Beyond Astrobites , there are also plenty of useful resources to check out. To list a few:

• George Iskander’s Github (comprehensive guide for STEM PhD applications)
• Resources for applying to grad school on Mia de los Reyes’ website
• Discord Server for Astro Grad School Applicants (set up by Dr. Melinda Soares-Furtado)
• The physics GRE requirements have changed for many physics graduate schools over the last few years (check out this spreadsheet for an up-to-date list of physics graduate schools sorted by whether or not they require the physics GRE). 

Feel free to reach out and get in touch with us at [email protected] if you have any questions! We hope we can encourage as many physics graduate schools as possible to introduce similar programs to MIT PhysGAAP.

Edited by Sasha Warren

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Degree programs

Mit offers a wide range of degrees and programs..

All graduate students, whether or not they are participating in an interdepartmental program, must have a primary affiliation with and be registered in a single department. Every applicant accepted by MIT is admitted through one of the graduate departments. MIT has a number of established interdepartmental programs, and there are many more opportunities for students to arrange interdepartmental programs with interested faculty members.

All MIT graduate degree programs have residency requirements, which reflect academic terms (excluding summer). Some degrees also require completion of an acceptable thesis prepared in residence at MIT, unless special permission is granted for part of the thesis work to be accomplished elsewhere. Other degrees require a pro-seminar or capstone experience.

Applicants interested in graduate education should apply to the department or graduate program conducting research in the area of interest. Below is an alphabetical list of all the available departments and programs that offer a graduate-level degree.

Interested in reading first-hand accounts of MIT graduate students from a variety of programs? Visit the Grad Blog . Prospective students who want to talk with a current student can reach out to their department(s) of interest for connections or, if they are interested in the MIT experience for diverse communities, can reach out to a GradDiversity Ambassador .

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MIT Physics Values Committee

Well-being - inclusion - collaboration - mentorship - respect, search form, graduate coursework and qualifying exams, on this page:.

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Official academic information

Department webpages about academic requirements.

• Guidelines for Physics Doctoral candidates
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Advising and Support Services

Your Academic and Research Advisors:  Every graduate student is assigned an academic advisor in addition to their primary research advisor. You'll have an academic advising meeting on Registration Day at the beginning of every semester, but you can email this person for advice any time during the year. 

Graduate Student Advocate:    A person you can go to outside of your advisors is  Claude Canizares , the department's Graduate Student Advocate. He works with graduate students to connect them to resources in the Department and around MIT, and to help them progress towards their degrees and develop professionally. Prof. Canizares is an X-ray astrophysicist who led the Center for Space Research (now the MIT Kavli Institute), served as Vice President for Research, and is deeply connected around MIT. His email address is crc at mit dot edu.

APO Staff:   The staff of the Physics Academic Programs Office supports every aspect of the Physics education program at MIT. We are a friendly, welcoming team of professionals dedicated to the success of all students in MIT Physics degree programs or taking an MIT Physics course. From inquiries about the undergraduate major or questions about admission to our doctoral program, to overseeing degree completion and celebrating graduates, we are available at every step of the Physics education journey: providing information, interpreting academic policy, administering advising, organizing classes, and solving problems. As a part of your extended support network, we’re also available to help with non-academic issues as well, pointing you towards opportunities and resources of all kinds. If you have a question about any aspect of academic life at MIT, ask the Academic Programs Office and we’ll help you find the answers you need.

GradSupport:   GradSupport in the Office of Graduate Education (OGE)  is a place you can go to outside the department for advice and counsel about academic matters. It is the rough equivalent of the undergrads' S3 . 

Core Course Tips

Resources and advice.

• From PGSC  - the most comprehensive info you'll find!
• From the Department  
• From physREFS

Astrophysics

• Students are provided with the  180 questions  they could be asked in advance

Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics

• Generally speaking, the exam covers all the material in Wolfgang Ketterle's two classes on Atomic Physics: 8.421 and 8.422 .
• Students typically take the exam during spring of their 2nd year or fall of their 3rd year and often will spend a full two to three months preparing.
• Students will be given a topic one week ahead of their scheduled exam.
• Students are expected to prepare a ~15 minute chalk-talk without any notes on their assigned topic.
• During the roughly one hour and forty-five minute exam, the committee (made up of three AMO faculty, not including the student's research advisor) will interrupt and ask questions about the topic, the student's research, and/or other unrelated AMO topics.
• See this document for the official list of topics students should be familiar with before the exam and a general description of the exam.
• 1st-3rd year AMO students have a bi-weekly study group for students to practice giving presentations on AMO topics to their peers. Contact Alyssa Rudelis at [email protected] to be added to the mailing list for this study group.
• Study guide currently posted on the PhysREFS website

Condensed matter experiment

• Students give a presentation about a topic they are assigned 1 month before the exam
• The rest of the exam consists of questions from the committee
• Expected to know the material in Introduction to Solid State Physics by Kittel
• Graduate students in the division keep an archive of past oral exam questions, study materials, and guides - ask students who have completed their oral exam for more information

Condensed matter theory

• General information on oral exams webpage
• Your research advisor gives you one problem in advance and the rest are from the committee
• Expected to know the material in textbooks:  Solid State Physics by Ashcroft and Mermin, Introduction to Solid State Physics by Kittel, and Intro to Stat Mec h by Kerson Huang

Nuclear/particle experiment

• According to the  department website  as of fall 2019:
• "The NUPAX oral exam consists of three parts: (a) a question prepared in advance based on a relevant topic in nuclear and particle physics, (b) a portion focusing on the student’s current research program, and (c) a broad set of questions in nuclear and particle physics.  Passing of the exam will depend on the student’s performance in the assigned question, as well as their proficiency in  nuclear physics ,  particle physic s,  and   detectors and experimental techniques .   The topics and questions are drawn primarily from material covered in the NUPAX required graduate classes (8.701, 8.711, and 8.811). The exam is a total of 90 minutes in duration and results are communicated to the student at the completion of the exam."

Nuclear/particle theory

• Students give a short presentation about a topic they are assigned a few weeks before the exam
• The rest of the exam is questions from three professors
• "The topics and questions are drawn primarily from material covered in NUPAT graduate classes, with emphasis on 8.325 and Field Theory of the Standard Model." - from 2019 CTP graduate student handbook
• The graduate students in the division keep an archive of old oral exam questions, study materials, and guides in a shared Dropbox folder. Ask a friend or officemate for access!

Plasma physics

• Students give a ~30-minute presentation on a topic (often a paper) assigned a few weeks before the exam by the student's official (senior) supervisor
• The committee often asks questions about the presentation for ~30 minutes, then general questions (total time of the exam is ~2 hours)
• Expected to know the material in  Introduction to Plasma Physics  by F. Chen; additional material from Hutchinson's Principles of Plasma Diagnonstics , Friedberg's Ideal MHD or Fusion Energy may be requested depending on the breadth of courses the student has taken
• Senior graduate students in the division can share notes and tips from past oral exams - get in touch with one of them to rehearse your presentation and answer some practice questions on the blackboard!

Quantum information

• Students give a short presentation on a topic assigned 2+ weeks before the exam
• According to the 2019 CTP graduate student handbook , "The topics and questions are drawn primarily from material covered in the textbook by Nielsen and Chuang."

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Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics

In the MIT Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AeroAstro), we look ahead by looking up.

At its core, aerospace empowers connection — interpersonal, international, interdisciplinary, and interplanetary. We seek to foster an inclusive community that values technical excellence, and we research and engineer innovative aerospace systems and technologies that have world-changing impact. We educate the next generation of leaders, creative engineers, and entrepreneurs who will push the boundaries of the possible to shape the future of aerospace. We do these things while holding ourselves to the highest standards of integrity and ethical practice. Working together with our partners in public and private sectors, we aim to expand the benefits of aerospace to create a more sustainable environment, strengthen global security, contribute to a prosperous economy, and explore other worlds for the betterment of humankind.

Our vision: to create an aerospace field that is a diverse and inclusive community, pushing the boundaries of the possible to ensure lasting positive impact on our society, economy, and environment.

MIT AeroAstro is a vibrant community of uniquely talented and passionate faculty, students, researchers, administrators, staff, and alumni. As the oldest program of its kind in the United States, we have a rich tradition of technical excellence, academic rigor, and research scholarship that has led to significant contributions to the field of aerospace for more than a century. Today, we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible to shape the future of air and space transportation, exploration, communications, autonomous systems, education, and national security.

Our department’s core research capabilities include the following:

• Autonomous systems and decision-making: autonomy, guidance, navigation, estimation, control, communications, and networks
• Computational science and engineering: computational mathematics and numerical analysis, high-performance computing, model reduction and multifidelity modeling, uncertainty quantification, and optimization approaches to engineering design
• Earth and space sciences: environmental impact of aviation, environmental monitoring, sciences of space and atmosphere, space exploration, Earth observation, energy, plasma physics, aircraft/atmospheric interaction, and astrodynamics
• Human-system collaboration: human-machine systems; interactive robotics for aerospace, medical, and manufacturing; human factors; supervisory control and automation; biomechanics; life support; and astronaut performance
• Systems design and engineering: system architecture, safety, optimization, lifecycle costing, in-space manufacturing, and logistics
• Transportation and exploration: aviation, space flight, aircraft operations, instrumentation, flight information systems, infrastructure, air traffic control, industry analysis, and space missions
• Vehicle design and engineering: fluids, materials, structures, propulsion, energy, durability, turbomachinery, aerodynamics, astrodynamics, thermodynamics, composites, and avionics

In the latest version of the department’s strategic plan, we identified seven additional areas of focus, or strategic thrusts, to pursue in tandem with our core capabilities. Strategic thrusts are forward-thinking, high-level initiatives that take into account both the current and future states of the aerospace field.

Our three research thrusts include: integrate autonomy and humans in real-world systems; develop new theory and applications for satellite constellations and swarms; and aerospace environmental mitigation and monitoring. These areas focus on long-term trends rather than specific systems and build upon our strengths while anticipating future changes as the aerospace field continues to evolve. Our two educational thrusts include: lead development of the College of Computing education programs in autonomy and computational science and engineering; and develop education for digital natives and digital immigrants. Both goals leverage the evolving MIT campus landscape as well as the increasing role of computing across society.

Our culture and leadership thrusts include: become the leading department at MIT in mentoring, advising, diversity, and inclusion; and make innovation a key component in MIT AeroAstro leadership. These areas respond to the priorities of our students and alumni while addressing pervasive challenges in the aerospace field.

The AeroAstro undergraduate engineering education model motivates students to master a deep working knowledge of the technical fundamentals while providing the skills, knowledge, and attitude necessary to lead in the creation and operation of products, processes, and systems.

The AeroAstro graduate program offers opportunities for deep and fulfilling research and collaboration in our three department teaching sectors — air, space, and computing — as well as across MIT. Our students work side-by-side with some of the brightest and most motivated colleagues in academia and industry.

Our world-renowned faculty roster includes a former space shuttle astronaut, secretary of the Air Force, NASA deputy administrator, Air Force chief scientist, and NASA chief technologist, and numerous National Academy of Engineering members and American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics fellows.

Upon leaving MIT, our students go on to become engineering leaders in the corporate world, in government service, and in education. Our alumni are entrepreneurs who start their own businesses; they are policy-makers shaping the direction of research and development for years to come; they are educators who bring their passion for learning to new generations; they are researchers doing transformative work at the intersection of engineering, technology and science.

Whether you are passionate about flying machines, pushing the boundaries of human civilization in space, or high-integrity, complex systems that operate in remote, unstructured, and dynamic environments, you belong here .

Sectors of Instruction

The department's faculty are organized into three sectors of instruction: air, space, and computing. Typically, a faculty member teaches both undergraduate and graduate subjects in one or more of the sectors.

The Air Sector is concerned with advancing a world that is mobile, sustainable, and secure. Achieving these objectives is a multidisciplinary challenge spanning the engineering sciences and systems engineering, as well as fields such as economics and environmental sciences.

Air vehicles and associated systems provide for the safe mobility of people, goods, and services covering urban to global distances. While this mobility allows for greater economic opportunity and connects people and cultures, it is also the most energy-intensive and fastest growing form of transportation. For this reason, much of the research and teaching in the Air Sector is motivated by the need to reduce energy use, emissions, and noise. Examples of research topics include improving aircraft operations, lightweight aerostructures, efficient engines, advanced aerodynamics, and quiet urban air vehicles. Air vehicles and associated systems also provide for critical national security and environmental observation capabilities. As such research and teaching in the sector are also concerned with topics including designing air vehicles for specialized missions, high-speed aerodynamics, advanced materials, and environmental monitoring platforms.

Teaching in the Air Sector includes subjects on aerodynamics, materials and structures, thermodynamics, air-breathing propulsion, plasmas, energy and the environment, aircraft systems engineering, and air transportation systems.

Space Sector

The design, development, and operation of space systems require a depth of expertise in a number of disciplines and the ability to integrate and optimize across all of these stages. The Space Sector faculty represent, in both research and teaching, a broad range of disciplines united under the common goal to develop space technologies and systems for applications ranging from communications and Earth observation, to human and robotic exploration. The research footprint of the sector spans the fundamental science and the rigorous engineering required to successfully create and deploy complex space systems. There is also substantive research engagement with industry and government, both in the sponsorship of projects and through collaboration.

The research expertise of the Space Sector faculty includes human and robotic space exploration, space propulsion, orbital communications, distributed satellite systems, enterprise architecture, systems engineering, the integrated design of space-based optical systems, reduced gravity research into human physiology, and software development methods for mission-critical systems. Numerous Space Sector faculty design, build, and fly spaceflight experiments ranging from small satellites to astronaut space missions. Beyond these topics, there is outreach and interest in leveraging our skills into applications that lie outside the traditional boundaries of aerospace.

Academically, the Space Sector organizes subjects relevant to address the learning objectives of students interested in the fundamental and applied aspects of space engineering theories, devices, and processes. This includes courses in astrodynamics, space propulsion, space systems engineering, plasma physics, and humans in space.

Computing Sector

Most aerospace systems critically depend upon, and continue to be transformed by, advances in computing. The missions of many aerospace systems are fundamentally centered on gathering, processing, and transmitting information. Aerospace systems rely on computing-intensive subsystems to provide essential on-board functions, including navigation, autonomous or semi-autonomous guidance and control, cooperative action (including formation flight), and health monitoring systems. Computing technologies are also central to communication satellites, surveillance and reconnaissance aircraft and satellites, planetary rovers, global positioning satellites, transportation systems, and integrated defense systems. Almost every aircraft or satellite is one system within a larger system, and information plays a central role in the interoperability of these subsystems. Equally important is the role that computing plays in the design of aerospace vehicles and systems.

Faculty members in the Computing Sector teach and conduct research on a broad range of areas, including guidance, navigation, control, autonomy and robotics, space and airborne communication networks, air and space traffic management, real-time mission-critical software and hardware, and the computational design, optimization, and simulation of fluid, material, and structural systems. In many instances, the functions provided by aerospace computing technologies are critical to life or mission success. Hence, uncertainty quantification, safety, fault-tolerance, verification, and validation of large-scale engineering systems are significant areas of inquiry.

The Computing Sector has linkages with the other sectors through a common interest in research on autonomous air and space operations, methodologies for large-scale design and simulation, and human-automation interactions in the aerospace context. Moreover, the sector has strong links to the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and the Schwarzman College of Computing through joint teaching and collaborative research programs.

Research Laboratories and Activities

The department's faculty, staff, and students are engaged in a wide variety of research projects. Graduate students participate in all the research projects. Projects are also open to undergraduates through the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) . Some projects are carried out in an unstructured environment by individual professors working with a few students. Most projects are found within the departmental laboratories and centers . Faculty also undertake research in or collaborate with colleagues in the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Draper Laboratory, Laboratory for Information and Decisions Systems, MIT Lincoln Laboratory, Operations Research Center, Research Laboratory of Electronics, and the Program in Science, Technology, and Society, as well as in interdepartmental laboratories and centers listed in the introduction to the School of Engineering .

Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering (Course 16)

Bachelor of science in engineering (course 16-eng), double major, undergraduate study.

Undergraduate study in the department leads to the Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering (Course 16), or the Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Course 16-ENG) at the end of four years.

This program is designed to prepare the graduate for an entry-level position in aerospace and related fields and for further education at the master's level; it is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET . The program includes an opportunity for a year's study abroad.

The formal learning in the program builds a conceptual understanding in the foundational engineering sciences and professional subjects that span the topics critical to aerospace. This learning takes place within the engineering context of conceiving-designing-implementing-operating (CDIO) aerospace and related complex high-performance systems and products. The skills and attributes emphasized go beyond the formal classroom curriculum and include modeling, design, the ability for self-education, computer literacy, communication and teamwork skills, ethics, and—underlying all of these—appreciation for and understanding of interfaces and connectivity between various disciplines. Opportunities for formal and practical (hands-on) learning in these areas are integrated into the departmental subjects through examples set by the faculty, subject content, and the ability for substantive engagement in the CDIO process in the department's Learning Laboratory for Complex Systems.

The curriculum includes the General Institute Requirements (GIRs) and the departmental program, which covers a fall-spring-fall sequence of subjects called Unified Engineering, subjects in dynamics and principles of automatic control, a statistics and probability subject, a subject in computers and programming, professional area subjects, an experimental project laboratory, and a capstone design subject. The program also includes subject 18.03 Differential Equations .

Unified Engineering is offered in sets of two 12-unit subjects in two successive terms. These subjects are taught cooperatively by several faculty members. Their purpose is to introduce new students to the disciplines and methodologies of aerospace engineering at a basic level, with a balanced exposure to analysis, empirical methods, and design. The areas covered include statics, materials, and structures; thermodynamics and propulsion; fluid mechanics; and signals and systems. Several laboratory experiments are performed and a number of systems problems tying the disciplines together and exemplifying the CDIO process are included.

Unified Engineering is usually taken in the sophomore year, 16.09 Statistics and Probability in the spring of the sophomore year, and the subjects 16.07 Dynamics and 16.06 Principles of Automatic Control respectively in the first and second term of the junior year. Subjects 6.100A Introduction to Computer Science Programming in Python and 6.100B Introduction to Computational Thinking and Data Science can be taken at any time, starting in the first year of undergraduate study, but the fall term of the sophomore year is recommended.

The professional area subjects offer a more complete and in-depth treatment of the materials introduced in the core courses. Students must take four subjects (48 units) from among the professional area subjects, with subjects in at least three areas. Students may choose to complete an option in Aerospace Information Technology by taking at least 36 of the 48 required units from a designated group of subjects specified in the degree chart .

Professional area subjects in the four areas of Fluid Mechanics, Materials and Structures, Propulsion, and Computational Tools represent the advanced aerospace disciplines encompassing the design and construction of airframes and engines. Topics within these disciplines include fluid mechanics, aerodynamics, heat and mass transfer, computational mechanics, flight vehicle aerodynamics, solid mechanics, structural design and analysis, the study of engineering materials, structural dynamics, and propulsion and energy conversion from both fluid/thermal (gas turbines and rockets) and electrical devices.

Professional area subjects in the four areas of Estimation and Control, Computer Systems, Communications Systems, and Humans and Automation are in the broad disciplinary area of information, which plays a dominant role in modern aerospace systems. Topics within these disciplines include feedback, control, estimation, control of flight vehicles, software engineering, human systems engineering, aerospace communications and digital systems, fundamentals of robotics, the way in which humans interact with the vehicle through manual control and supervisory control of telerobotic processes (e.g., modern cockpit systems and human-centered automation), and how planning and real-time decisions are made by machines.

The capstone subjects serve to integrate the various disciplines and emphasize the CDIO context of the AeroAstro curriculum. They also satisfy the Communication Requirement as Communication-Intensive in the Major (CI-M) subjects. The vehicle and system design subjects require student teams to apply their undergraduate knowledge to the design of an aircraft or spacecraft system. One of these two subjects is required and is typically taken in the second term of the junior year or in the senior year. (The completion of at least two professional area or concentration subjects is the prerequisite for capstone subjects 16.82 and 16.83[J] .) The rest of the capstone requirement is satisfied by one of four 12–18 unit subjects or subject sequences, as outlined in the Course 16 degree chart; these sequences satisfy the Institute Laboratory Requirement. In 16.821 and 16.831[J] students build and operate the vehicles or systems developed in 16.82 and 16.83[J] . In 16.405[J] , students specify and design a small-scale yet complex robot capable of real-time interaction with the natural world.

To take full advantage of the General Institute Requirements and required electives, the department recommends the following: 3.091 Introduction to Solid-State Chemistry for the chemistry requirement; the ecology option of the biology requirement; a subject in economics (e.g., 14.01 Principles of Microeconomics ) as part of the HASS Requirement; and elective subjects such as 16.00 Introduction to Aerospace and Design , a mathematics subject (e.g., 18.06 Linear Algebra , 18.075 Methods for Scientists and Engineers , or 18.085 Computational Science and Engineering I ), and additional professional area subjects in the departmental program. Please consult the department's Academic Programs Office (Room 33-202) for other elective options.

Course 16-ENG is an engineering degree program designed to offer flexibility within the context of aerospace engineering and is a complement to our Course 16 aerospace engineering degree program. The program leads to the Bachelor of Science in Engineering . The 16-ENG degree is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET . Depending on their interests, Course 16-ENG students can develop a deeper level of understanding and skill in a field of engineering that is relevant to multiple disciplinary areas (e.g., robotics and control, computational engineering, mechanics, or engineering management), or a greater understanding and skill in an interdisciplinary area (e.g., energy, environment and sustainability, or transportation). This is accomplished first through a rigorous foundation within core aerospace engineering disciplines, followed by a six-subject concentration tailored to the student's interests, and completed with hands-on aerospace engineering lab and capstone design subjects.

The core of the 16-ENG degree is very similar to the core of the 16 degree. A significant part of the 16-ENG curriculum consists of electives (72 units) chosen by the student to provide in-depth study of a field of the student's choosing. A wide variety of concentrations are possible in which well-selected academic subjects complement a foundation in aerospace engineering and General Institute Requirements. Potential concentrations include aerospace software engineering, autonomous systems, communications, computation and sustainability, computational engineering, embedded systems and networks, energy, engineering management, environment, space exploration, and transportation. AeroAstro faculty have developed specific recommendations in these areas; details are available from the AeroAstro Academic Programs Office (Room 33-202) and on the departmental website. However, concentrations are not limited to those listed above. Students can design and propose technically oriented concentrations that reflect their own needs and those of society.

The student's overall program must contain a total of at least one and one-half years of engineering content (144 units) appropriate to his or her field of study. The required core, lab, and capstone subjects include 102 units of engineering topics. Thus, concentrations must include at least 42 more units of engineering topics. In addition, each concentration must include 12 units of mathematics or science.

The culmination of the 16-ENG degree program is our aerospace laboratory and capstone subject sequences. The capstone subjects serve to integrate the various disciplines and emphasize the CDIO context of our engineering curriculum. They also satisfy the Communication Requirement as CI-M subjects. The laboratory and capstone options in the 16-ENG degree are identical to those in the Course 16 degree program (see the description of this program for additional details on the laboratory and capstone sequences).

Students may pursue two majors under the Double Major Program . In particular, some students may wish to combine a professional education in aeronautics and astronautics with a liberal education that links the development and practice of science and engineering to their social, economic, historical, and cultural contexts. For them, the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics and the Program in Science, Technology, and Society offer a double major program that combines majors in both fields.

Other Undergraduate Opportunities

To take full advantage of the unique research environment of MIT, undergraduates, including first-year students, are encouraged to become involved in the research activities of the department through the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) . Many of the faculty actively seek undergraduates to become a part of their research teams. Visit research centers' websites to learn more about available research opportunities. For more information, contact Marie Stuppard in the AeroAstro Academic Programs Office, Room 33-202, 617-253-2279.

Advanced Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program

Juniors and seniors in Course 16 may participate in an advanced undergraduate research program, SuperUROP , which was launched as a collaborative effort between the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) and the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) . For more information, contact Joyce Light , AeroAstro Headquarters, (617) 253-8408, or visit the website.

Undergraduate Practice Opportunities Program

The Undergraduate Practice Opportunities Program (UPOP) is a program sponsored by the School of Engineering and administered through the Office of the Dean of Engineering. Open to all School of Engineering sophomores, this program provides students an opportunity to develop engineering and business skills while working in industry, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies. UPOP consists of three parts: an intensive one-week engineering practice workshop offered during IAP, 10–12 weeks of summer employment, and a written report and oral presentation in the fall. Students are paid during their periods of residence at the participating companies and also receive academic credit in the program. There are no obligations on either side regarding further employment.

Summer Internship Program

The Summer Internship Program provides undergraduates in the department the opportunity to apply the skills they are learning in the classroom in paid professional positions with employers throughout the United States. During recruitment periods, representatives from firms in the aerospace industry will visit the department and offer information sessions and technical talks specifically geared to Course 16 students. Often, student résumés are collected and interviews conducted for summer internships as well as long-term employment. Employers wishing to offer an information session or seeking candidates for openings in their company may contact Marie Stuppard , 617-253-2279.

Students are also encouraged to take advantage of other career resources available through the MIT Career Advising and Professional Development Office (CAPD) or through the MIT International Science and Technology Initiatives (MISTI). AeroAstro students can also apply through MISTI to participate in the Imperial College London-MIT Summer Research Exchange Program. CAPD coordinates several annual career fairs and offers a number of workshops, including workshops on how to navigate a career fair as well as critique on résumé writing and cover letters.

Year Abroad Program

Through the MIT International Science and Technology Initiatives (MISTI) students can apply to study abroad in the junior year. In particular, the department participates in an academic exchange with the University of Pretoria, South Africa, and with Imperial College, United Kingdom. In any year-abroad experience, students enroll in the academic cycle of the host institution and take courses in the local language. They plan their course of study in advance; this includes securing credit commitments in exchange for satisfactory performance abroad. A grade average of B or better is normally required of participating AeroAstro students.

For more information, contact Marie Stuppard . Also refer to Undergraduate Education for more details on the exchange programs.

Massachusetts Space Grant Consortium

MIT leads the NASA-supported Massachusetts Space Grant Consortium (MASGC) in partnership with Boston University, Bridgewater State University, Harvard University, Framingham State University, Northeastern University, Mount Holyoke College, Olin College of Engineering, Tufts University, University of Massachusetts (Amherst, Dartmouth, and Lowell), Wellesley College, Williams College, Worcester State University, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Boston Museum of Science, the Christa McAuliffe Center, the Maria Mitchell Observatory, and the Five College Astronomy Department. The program has the principal objective of stimulating and supporting student interest, especially that of women and underrepresented minorities, in space engineering and science at all educational levels, primary through graduate. The program offers a number of activities to this end, including support of undergraduate and graduate students to carry out research projects at their home institutions, support for student travel to present conference papers, and summer workshops for pre-college teachers. The program coordinates and supports the placement of students in summer positions at NASA centers for summer academies and research opportunities. MASGC also participates in a number of public outreach and education policy initiatives in Massachusetts to increase public awareness and inform legislators about the importance of science, technology, engineering, and math education in the state.

For more information, contact Helen Halaris, Massachusetts Space Grant Consortium program coordinator, 617-258-5546.

For additional information concerning academic and undergraduate research programs in the department, suggested four-year undergraduate programs, and interdisciplinary programs, contact Marie Stuppard , 617-253-2279.

Master of Science in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Science

Graduate Study

Graduate study in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics includes graduate-level subjects in Course 16 and others at MIT, and research work culminating in a thesis. Degrees are awarded at the master's and doctoral levels. The range of subject matter is described under Sectors of Instruction . Departmental research centers' websites offer information on research interests. Detailed information may be obtained from the Department Academic Programs Office or from individual faculty members.

Admission Requirements

In addition to the general requirements for admission to the Graduate School, applicants to the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics should have a strong undergraduate background in the fundamentals of engineering and mathematics as described in the Undergraduate Study section.

International students whose language of instruction has not been English in their primary and secondary schooling must pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a minimum score of 100 out of 120, or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) with a minimum score of 7 out of 9 to be considered for admission to this department. TOEFL waivers are not accepted. No other exams fulfill this requirement.

New graduate students are normally admitted as candidates for the degree of Master of Science. Admission to the doctoral program is offered through a two-step process to students who have been accepted for graduate study: 1) passing performance on a course-based field evaluation (FE); 2) a faculty review consisting of an examination of the student's achievements, including an assessment of the quality of past research work and evaluation of the student's academic record in light of the performance on the FE.

The Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics requires that all entering graduate students demonstrate satisfactory English writing ability by taking the Graduate Writing Examination offered by the Comparative Media Studies/Writing Program. The examination is usually administered in July, and all entering candidates must take the examination electronically at that time. Students with deficient skills must complete remedial training specifically designed to fulfill their individual needs. The remedial training prescribed by the CMS/Writing Program must be completed by the end of the first Independent Activities Period following initial registration in the graduate program or, in some cases, in the spring term of the first year of the program.

All incoming graduate students whose native language is not English are required to take the Department of Humanities English Evaluation Test (EET) offered at the start of each regular term. This test is a proficiency examination designed to indicate areas where deficiencies may still exist and recommend specific language subjects available at MIT.

Degree Requirements

All entering students are provided with additional information concerning degree requirements, including lists of recommended subjects, thesis advising, research and teaching assistantships, and course and thesis registration.

Degrees Offered

The Master of Science (SM) degree is a one- to two-year graduate program with a beginning research or design experience represented by the SM thesis. This degree prepares the graduate for an advanced position in the aerospace field, and provides a solid foundation for future doctoral study.

The general requirements for the Master of Science degree are cited in the section on General Degree Requirements for graduate students. The specific departmental requirements include at least 66 graduate subject units, typically in subjects relevant to the candidate's area of technical interest. Of the 66 units, at least 21 units must be in departmental subjects. To be credited toward the degree, graduate subjects must carry a grade of B or better. In addition, a 24-unit thesis is required beyond the 66 units of coursework. Full-time students normally must be in residence one full academic year. Special students admitted to the SM program in this department must enroll in and satisfactorily complete at least two graduate subjects while in residence (i.e., after being admitted as a degree candidate) regardless of the number of subjects completed before admission to the program. Students holding research assistantships typically require a longer period of residence.

In addition, the department's SM program requires one graduate-level mathematics subject. The requirement is satisfied only by graduate-level subjects on the list approved by the department graduate committee. The specific choice of math subjects is arranged individually by each student in consultation with their faculty advisor.

Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Science in Aeronautics and Astronautics Fields

AeroAstro offers the doctor of philosophy and doctor of science (PhD and ScD) degrees in aeronautics and astronautics and in other fields of specialization . The doctoral program emphasizes in-depth study, with a significant research project in a focused area. The admission process for the department's doctoral program is described previously in this section under Admission Requirements. The PhD or ScD degree is awarded after completion of an individual course of study, submission and defense of a thesis proposal, and submission and defense of a thesis embodying an original research contribution.

All doctoral students must fulfill MIT's General Degree Requirements . The general program requirements for the PhD and ScD degrees in aeronautics and astronautics are outlined in this degree chart. Additional information is available on the department website. After successful admission to the doctoral program, the doctoral candidate selects a field of study and research in consultation with the thesis advisor and forms a doctoral thesis committee, which assists in the formulation of the candidate's research and study programs and monitors their progress. Demonstrated competence for original research at the forefront of aerospace engineering is the final and main criterion for granting the doctoral degree. The candidate's thesis serves in part to demonstrate such competence and, upon completion, is defended orally in a presentation to the faculty of the department, who may then recommend that the degree be awarded.

Interdisciplinary Programs

The department participates in several interdisciplinary fields at the graduate level, which are of special importance for aeronautics and astronautics in both research and the curriculum.

Aeronautics, Astronautics, and Statistics

The Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program in Statistics provides training in statistics, including classical statistics and probability as well as computation and data analysis, to students who wish to integrate these valuable skills into their primary academic program. The program is administered jointly by the departments of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Economics, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, and Political Science, and the Statistics and Data Science Center within the Institute for Data, Systems, and Society. It is open to current doctoral students in participating departments. For more information, including department-specific requirements, see the full program description under Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs.

Air Transportation

For students interested in a career in flight transportation, a program is available that incorporates a broader graduate education in disciplines such as economics, management, and operations research than is normally pursued by candidates for degrees in engineering. Graduate research emphasizes one of the four areas of flight transportation: airport planning and design, air traffic control, air transportation systems analysis, and airline economics and management, with subjects selected appropriately from those available in the departments of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Economics, and the interdepartmental Master of Science in Transportation (MST) program. Doctoral students may pursue a PhD with specialization in air transportation in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics or in the interdepartmental PhD program in transportation or in the PhD program of the Operations Research Center (see the section on Graduate Programs in Operations Research under Research and Study).

The department offers opportunities for students interested in biomedical instrumentation and physiological control systems where the disciplines involved in aeronautics and astronautics are applied to biology and medicine. Graduate study combining aerospace engineering with biomedical engineering may be pursued through the Bioastronautics program offered as part of the Medical Engineering and Medical Physics PhD program in the Institute for Medical Engineering and Science (IMES) via the Harvard-MIT Program in Health Sciences and Technology (HST).

Students wishing to pursue a degree through HST must apply to that graduate program. At the master's degree level, students in the department may specialize in biomedical engineering research, emphasizing space life sciences and life support, instrumentation and control, or in human factors engineering and in instrumentation and statistics. Most biomedical engineering research in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics is conducted in the Man Vehicle Laboratory.

The  Master of Science in Computational Science and Engineering (CSE SM)  is an interdisciplinary program for students interested in the development, analysis, and application of computational approaches to science and engineering. The curriculum is designed with a common core serving all science and engineering disciplines and an elective component focusing on specific disciplinary topics. Students may pursue the CSE SM as a standalone degree or as leading to the CSE PhD program described below.

The Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program in Computational Science and Engineering (CSE PhD) allows students to specialize at the doctoral level in a computation-related field of their choice through focused coursework and a thesis through one of the participating host departments in the School of Engineering or School of Science. The program is administered jointly by the Center for Computational Science and Engineering (CCSE) and the host departments; the emphasis of thesis research activities is the development of new computational methods and/or the innovative application of computational techniques to important problems in engineering and science.

For more information, see the program descriptions under Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs.

Joint Program with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

The Joint Program with the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)  is intended for students whose primary career objective is oceanography or oceanographic engineering. Students divide their academic and research efforts between the campuses of MIT and WHOI. Joint Program students are assigned an MIT faculty member as academic advisor; thesis research may be advised by MIT or WHOI faculty. While in residence at MIT, students follow a program similar to that of other students in their home department. The program is described in more detail under Interdisciplinary Graduate Programs.

The 24-month Leaders for Global Operations (LGO)  program  combines graduate degrees in engineering and management for those with previous postgraduate work experience and strong undergraduate degrees in a technical field . During the two-year program, students complete a six-month internship  at one of LGO's partner companies, where  they conduct  research that  forms the basis of a dual-degree thesis. Students finish the program with two MIT degrees: an MBA (or SM in management) and an SM from one of eight engineering programs, some of which have optional or required LGO tracks.  After graduation, alumni  lead strategic initiatives in high-tech, operations, and manufacturing companies.

System Design and Management

The System Design and Management (SDM)  program is a partnership among industry, government, and the university for educating technically grounded leaders of 21st-century enterprises. Jointly sponsored by the School of Engineering and the Sloan School of Management, it is MIT's first degree program to be offered with a distance learning option in addition to a full-time in-residence option.

The Master of Science in Technology and Policy is an engineering research degree with a strong focus on the role of technology in policy analysis and formulation. The Technology and Policy Program (TPP) curriculum provides a solid grounding in technology and policy by combining advanced subjects in the student's chosen technical field with courses in economics, politics, quantitative methods, and social science. Many students combine TPP's curriculum with complementary subjects to obtain dual degrees in TPP and either a specialized branch of engineering or an applied social science such as political science or urban studies and planning. See the program description under the Institute for Data, Systems, and Society.

Financial Support

Financial assistance for graduate study may be in the form of fellowships or research or teaching assistantships. Both fellowship students and research assistants work with a faculty supervisor on a specific research assignment of interest, which generally leads to a thesis. Teaching assistants are appointed to work on specific subjects of instruction.

A special relationship exists between the department and the Charles Stark Draper Laboratory. This relationship affords fellowship opportunities for SM and PhD candidates who perform their research as an integral part of ongoing projects at Draper. Faculty from the department maintain close working relationships with researchers at Draper, and thesis research at Draper performed by Draper fellows can be structured to fulfill MIT residency requirements. Further information on Draper can be found in the section on Research and Study.

For additional information concerning admissions, financial aid and assistantship, and academic, research, and interdisciplinary programs in the department, contact the AeroAstro Student Services Office, Room 33-202, 617-253-0043.

Faculty and Teaching Staff

Julie A. Shah, PhD

H. N. Slater Professor in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Head, Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Olivier L. de Weck, PhD

Apollo Program Professor of Astronautics and Engineering Systems

Associate Head, Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Hamsa Balakrishnan, PhD

William E. Leonhard (1940) Professor

Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Member, Institute for Data, Systems, and Society

Kerri Cahoy, PhD

Sheila Evans Widnall (1960) Professor

Professor of Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences

Edward F. Crawley, ScD

Ford Foundation Professor of Engineering

David L. Darmofal, PhD

Jerome C. Hunsaker Professor

Mark Drela, PhD

Terry J. Kohler Professor

Edward M. Greitzer, PhD

(On leave, fall)

Steven Hall, ScD

R. John Hansman Jr, PhD

T. A. Wilson (1953) Professor in Aeronautics

Wesley L. Harris, PhD

Charles Stark Draper Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Daniel E. Hastings, PhD

Cecil and Ida Green Professor in Education

Jonathan P. How, PhD

Richard Cockburn Maclaurin Professor in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Sertac Karaman, PhD

Nancy G. Leveson, PhD

Jerome C. Hunsaker Professor in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Paulo C. Lozano, PhD

M. Alemán-Velasco Professor

Youssef M. Marzouk, PhD

Breene M. Kerr (1951) Professor

David W. Miller, ScD

David A. Mindell, PhD

Frances and David Dibner Professor in the History of Engineering and Manufacturing

Eytan H. Modiano, PhD

Dava Newman, PhD

Affiliate Faculty, Institute for Medical Engineering and Science

Member, Health Sciences and Technology Faculty

Jaime Peraire, PhD

Raúl Radovitzky, PhD

Nicholas Roy, PhD

Sara Seager, PhD

Class of 1941 Professor of Planetary Sciences

Professor of Physics

Zoltan S. Spakovszky, PhD

T. A Wilson Professor in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Russell L. Tedrake, PhD

Toyota Professor

Professor of Computer Science and Engineering

Professor of Mechanical Engineering

Ian A. Waitz, PhD

Vice Chancellor for Undergraduate and Graduate Education

Brian L. Wardle, PhD

Apollo Program Professor

Brian C. Williams, PhD

Moe Z. Win, PhD

Robert R. Taylor Professor

Associate Professors

Luca Carlone, PhD

Boeing Career Development Professor in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Associate Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Zachary Cordero, PhD

Esther and Harold E. Edgerton Professor

Chuchu Fan, PhD

Leonardo Career Development Professor in Engineering

Carmen Guerra García, PhD

Charles Stark Draper Professor

Richard Linares, PhD

Rockwell International Career Development Professor

Lonnie Petersen, MD, PhD

Samuel A. Goldblith Professor of Applied Biology

Core Faculty, Institute for Medical Engineering and Science

(On leave, spring)

Qiqi Wang, PhD

Assistant Professors

Andreea Bobu, PhD

Assistant Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Masha Folk, PhD

Professors of the Practice

Jeffrey A. Hoffman, PhD

Professor of the Practice of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Robert Liebeck, PhD

Professor of the Practice of Aerospace Engineering

Visiting Professors

Donna Nelson, PhD

Martin Luther King, Jr. Visiting Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Visiting Assistant Professors

Justin Wilkerson, PhD

Martin Luther King, Jr. Visiting Assistant Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Senior Lecturers

Charles Oman, PhD

Senior Lecturer in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Rudrapatna V. Ramnath, PhD

Jayant Sabnis, PhD

Erik Antonsen, PhD

Lecturer of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Javier deLuis, PhD

Rea Lavi, PhD

Andrew Menching Liu, PhD

Brian Nield, PhD

Technical Instructors

Todd Billings

Senior Technical Instructor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

David Robertson, BEng

Research Staff

Senior research engineers.

Choon S. Tan, PhD

Senior Research Engineer of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Principal Research Engineers

Marshall C. Galbraith, PhD

Principal Research Engineer of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Principal Research Scientists

Ngoc Cuong Nguyen, PhD

Principal Research Scientist of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Raymond L. Speth, PhD

Research Engineers

Steven R. Allmaras, PhD

Research Engineer of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Matthew Boyd, PhD

David Gonzalez Cuadrado, PhD

John Thomas, PhD

Research Scientists

Luiz Henrique Acauan, PhD

Research Scientist of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Florian Allroggen, PhD

Paul Serra, PhD

Afreen Siddiqi, PhD

Rajat Rajendrad Talak, PhD

Parker Vascik, PhD

Research Specialists

Matthew Pearlson, MS

Research Specialist of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Professors Emeriti

John J. Deyst Jr, ScD

Professor Emeritus of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Steven Dubowsky, PhD

Professor Emeritus of Mechanical Engineering

Alan H. Epstein, PhD

Richard Cockburn Maclaurin Professor Emeritus

Manuel Martínez-Sánchez, PhD

Earll M. Murman, PhD

Ford Professor of Engineering Emeritus

Amedeo R. Odoni, PhD

T. A. Wilson (1953) Professor Emeritus

Professor Emeritus of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Thomas B. Sheridan, ScD

Professor Emeritus of Engineering and Applied Psychology

Robert Simpson, PhD

Sheila E. Widnall, ScD

Institute Professor Emerita

Professor Emerita of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Core Undergraduate Subjects

16.001 unified engineering: materials and structures.

Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) and Physics I (GIR) ; Coreq: 16.002 and 18.03 U (Fall) 5-1-6 units. REST

Presents fundamental principles and methods of materials and structures for aerospace engineering, and engineering analysis and design concepts applied to aerospace systems. Topics include statics; analysis of trusses; analysis of statically determinate and indeterminate systems; stress-strain behavior of materials; analysis of beam bending, buckling, and torsion; material and structural failure, including plasticity, fracture, fatigue, and their physical causes. Experiential lab and aerospace system projects provide additional aerospace context.

R. Radovitzky, D. L. Darmofal

16.002 Unified Engineering: Signals and Systems

Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) ; Coreq: Physics II (GIR) , 16.001 , and ( 18.03 or 18.032 ) U (Fall) 5-1-6 units

Presents fundamental principles and methods of signals and systems for aerospace engineering, and engineering analysis and design concepts applied to aerospace systems. Topics include linear and time invariant systems; convolution; Fourier and Laplace transform analysis in continuous and discrete time; modulation, filtering, and sampling; and an introduction to feedback control. Experiential lab and system projects provide additional aerospace context. Labs, projects, and assignments involve the use of software such as MATLAB and/or Python.

16.003 Unified Engineering: Fluid Dynamics

Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) , Physics II (GIR) , and ( 18.03 or 18.032 ); Coreq: 16.004 U (Spring) 5-1-6 units

Presents fundamental principles and methods of fluid dynamics for aerospace engineering, and engineering analysis and design concepts applied to aerospace systems. Topics include aircraft and aerodynamic performance, conservation laws for fluid flows, quasi-one-dimensional compressible flows, shock and expansion waves, streamline curvature, potential flow modeling, an introduction to three-dimensional wings and induced drag. Experiential lab and aerospace system projects provide additional aerospace context.

D. L. Darmofal

16.004 Unified Engineering: Thermodynamics and Propulsion

Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) , Physics II (GIR) , and ( 18.03 or 18.032 ); Coreq: Chemistry (GIR) and 16.003 U (Spring) 5-1-6 units

Presents fundamental principles and methods of thermodynamics for aerospace engineering, and engineering analysis and design concepts applied to aerospace systems. Topics include thermodynamic state of a system, forms of energy, work, heat, the first law of thermodynamics, heat engines, reversible and irreversible processes, entropy and the second law of thermodynamics, ideal and non-ideal cycle analysis, two-phase systems, and introductions to thermochemistry and heat transfer. Experiential lab and aerospace system projects provide additional aerospace context.

Z. S. Spakovszky, D. L. Darmofal

16.06 Principles of Automatic Control

Prereq: 16.002 U (Spring) 3-1-8 units

Introduction to design of feedback control systems. Properties and advantages of feedback systems. Time-domain and frequency-domain performance measures. Stability and degree of stability. Root locus method, Nyquist criterion, frequency-domain design, and some state space methods. Strong emphasis on the synthesis of classical controllers. Application to a variety of aerospace systems. Hands-on experiments using simple robotic systems.

16.07 Dynamics

Prereq: ( 16.001 or 16.002 ) and ( 16.003 or 16.004 ) U (Fall) 4-0-8 units

Fundamentals of Newtonian mechanics. Kinematics, particle dynamics, motion relative to accelerated reference frames, work and energy, impulse and momentum, systems of particles and rigid body dynamics. Applications to aerospace engineering including introductory topics in orbital mechanics, flight dynamics, inertial navigation and attitude dynamics.

16.09 Statistics and Probability

Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) U (Fall) 4-0-8 units

Introduction to statistics and probability with applications to aerospace engineering. Covers essential topics, such as sample space, discrete and continuous random variables, probability distributions, joint and conditional distributions, expectation, transformation of random variables, limit theorems, estimation theory, hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, statistical tests, and regression.

Y. M. Marzouk

16.C20[J] Introduction to Computational Science and Engineering

Same subject as 9.C20[J] , 18.C20[J] , CSE.C20[J] Prereq: 6.100A ; Coreq: 8.01 and 18.01 U (Fall, Spring; second half of term) 2-0-4 units Credit cannot also be received for 6.100B

Provides an introduction to computational algorithms used throughout engineering and science (natural and social) to simulate time-dependent phenomena; optimize and control systems; and quantify uncertainty in problems involving randomness, including an introduction to probability and statistics. Combination of 6.100A and 16.C20[J] counts as REST subject.

D. L. Darmofal, N. Seethapathi

Mechanics and Physics of Fluids

16.100 aerodynamics.

Prereq: 16.003 and 16.004 U (Fall) 3-1-8 units

Extends fluid mechanic concepts from Unified Engineering to aerodynamic performance of wings and bodies in sub/supersonic regimes. Addresses themes such as subsonic potential flows, including source/vortex panel methods; viscous flows, including laminar and turbulent boundary layers; aerodynamics of airfoils and wings, including thin airfoil theory, lifting line theory, and panel method/interacting boundary layer methods; and supersonic and hypersonic airfoil theory. Material may vary from year to year depending upon focus of design problem.

16.101 Topics in Fluids

Prereq: Permission of department U (Fall, IAP, Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department Units arranged Can be repeated for credit.

Provides credit for work on undergraduate-level material in fluids outside of regularly scheduled subjects. Intended for transfer credit and study abroad. Credit may be used to satisfy specific degree requirements in the Course 16 and Course 16-ENG programs. Requires prior approval. Consult department.

16.110 Flight Vehicle Aerodynamics

Prereq: 16.100 or permission of instructor G (Fall) 3-1-8 units

Aerodynamic flow modeling and representation techniques. Potential farfield approximations. Airfoil and lifting-surface theory. Laminar and turbulent boundary layers and their effects on aerodynamic flows. Nearfield and farfield force analysis. Subsonic, transonic, and supersonic compressible flows. Experimental methods and measurement techniques. Aerodynamic models for flight dynamics.

16.120 Compressible Internal Flow

Prereq: 2.25 or permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered 3-0-9 units

Internal compressible flow with applications in propulsion and fluid systems. Control volume analysis of compressible flow devices. Compressible channel flow and extensions, including effects of shock waves, momentum, energy and mass addition, swirl, and flow non-uniformity on Mach numbers, flow regimes, and choking.

E. M. Greitzer

16.122 Aerothermodynamics

Prereq: 2.25 , 18.085 , or permission of instructor G (Spring) 3-0-9 units

Analysis of external inviscid and viscous hypersonic flows over thin airfoils, lifting bodies of revolution, wedges, cones, and blunt nose bodies. Analyses formulated using singular perturbation and multiple scale methods. Hypersonic equivalence principle. Hypersonic similarity. Newtonian approximation. Curved, detached shock waves. Crocco theorem. Entropy layers. Shock layers. Blast waves. Hypersonic boundary layers.

W. L. Harris

16.13 Aerodynamics of Viscous Fluids

Prereq: 16.100 , 16.110 , or permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered 3-0-9 units

Boundary layers as rational approximations to the solutions of exact equations of fluid motion. Physical parameters influencing laminar and turbulent aerodynamic flows and transition. Effects of compressibility, heat conduction, and frame rotation. Influence of boundary layers on outer potential flow and associated stall and drag mechanisms. Numerical solution techniques and exercises.

16.18 Fundamentals of Turbulence

Prereq: 2.25 or permission of instructor G (Fall) Not offered regularly; consult department 3-0-9 units

Introduces the fundamentals of turbulent flows, i.e., the chaotic motion of gases and liquids, along with the mathematical tools for turbulence research. Topics range from the classic viewpoint of turbulence to the theories developed in the last decade. Combines theory, data science, and numerical simulations, and is designed for a wide audience in the areas of aerospace, mechanical engineering, geophysics, and astrophysics.

A. Lozano-Duran

Materials and Structures

16.20 structural mechanics.

Prereq: 16.001 U (Spring) 5-0-7 units

Applies solid mechanics to analysis of high-technology structures. Structural design considerations. Review of three-dimensional elasticity theory; stress, strain, anisotropic materials, and heating effects. Two-dimensional plane stress and plane strain problems. Torsion theory for arbitrary sections. Bending of unsymmetrical section and mixed material beams. Bending, shear, and torsion of thin-wall shell beams. Buckling of columns and stability phenomena. Introduction to structural dynamics. Exercises in the design of general and aerospace structures.

16.201 Topics in Materials and Structures

Provides credit for undergraduate-level work in materials and structures outside of regularly scheduled subjects. Intended for transfer credit and study abroad. Credit may be used to satisfy specific degree requirements in the Course 16 program. Requires prior approval. Consult M. A. Stuppard.

16.202 Manufacturing with Advanced Composite Materials

Prereq: None U (Fall) Not offered regularly; consult department 1-3-2 units

Introduces the methods used to manufacture parts made of advanced composite materials with work in the Technology Laboratory for Advanced Composites. Students gain hands-on experience by fabricating, machining, instrumenting, and testing graphite/epoxy specimens. Students also design, build, and test a composite structure as part of a design contest. Lectures supplement laboratory sessions with background information on the nature of composites, curing, composite machining, secondary bonding, and the testing of composites.

P. A. Lagace

16.215[J] Topology Optimization of Structures (New)

Same subject as 1.583[J] , 2.083[J] Prereq: None Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Fall) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered 3-0-9 units

See description under subject 1.583[J] .

J. Carstensen

16.221[J] Structural Dynamics

Same subject as 1.581[J] , 2.060[J] Subject meets with 1.058 Prereq: 18.03 or permission of instructor G (Fall) 3-1-8 units

Examines response of structures to dynamic excitation: free vibration, harmonic loads, pulses and earthquakes. Covers systems of single- and multiple-degree-of-freedom, up to the continuum limit, by exact and approximate methods. Includes applications to buildings, ships, aircraft and offshore structures. Students taking graduate version complete additional assignments.

16.223[J] Mechanics of Heterogeneous Materials

Same subject as 2.076[J] Prereq: 2.002 , 3.032, 16.20 , or permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

Mechanical behavior of heterogeneous materials such as thin-film microelectro- mechanical systems (MEMS) materials and advanced filamentary composites, with particular emphasis on laminated structural configurations. Anisotropic and crystallographic elasticity formulations. Structure, properties and mechanics of constituents such as films, substrates, active materials, fibers, and matrices including nano- and micro-scale constituents. Effective properties from constituent properties. Classical laminated plate theory for modeling structural behavior including extrinsic and intrinsic strains and stresses such as environmental effects. Introduction to buckling of plates and nonlinear (deformations) plate theory. Other issues in modeling heterogeneous materials such as fracture/failure of laminated structures.

B. L. Wardle, S-G. Kim

16.225[J] Computational Mechanics of Materials

Same subject as 2.099[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered 3-0-9 units

Formulation of numerical (finite element) methods for the analysis of the nonlinear continuum response of materials. The range of material behavior considered includes finite deformation elasticity and inelasticity. Numerical formulation and algorithms include variational formulation and variational constitutive updates; finite element discretization; constrained problems; time discretization and convergence analysis. Strong emphasis on the (parallel) computer implementation of algorithms in programming assignments. The application to real engineering applications and problems in engineering science are stressed throughout. Experience in either C++, C, or Fortran required.

R. Radovitzky

16.230[J] Plates and Shells: Static and Dynamic Analysis

Same subject as 2.081[J] Prereq: 2.071 , 2.080[J] , or permission of instructor G (Spring) 3-1-8 units

See description under subject 2.081[J] .

16.235 Design with High Temperature Materials

Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Spring) 3-0-9 units

Introduction to materials design for high-temperature applications. Fundamental principles of thermodynamics and kinetics of the oxidation and corrosion of materials in high-temperature, chemically aggressive environments. Relationship of oxidation theory to design of metals (iron-, cobalt-, nickel-, refractory- and intermetallic alloys), ceramics, composites (metal-, ceramic- and carbon-matrix, coated materials). Relationships between deformation mechanisms (creep, viscoelasticity, thermoelasticity) and microstructure for materials used at elevated temperature. Discussions of high-temperature oxidation, corrosion, and damage problems that occur in energy and aerospace systems.

Z. C. Cordero

Information and Control Engineering

16.30 feedback control systems.

Subject meets with 16.31 Prereq: 16.06 or permission of instructor U (Fall) 4-1-7 units

Studies state-space representation of dynamic systems, including model realizations, controllability, and observability. Introduces the state-space approach to multi-input-multi-output control system analysis and synthesis, including full state feedback using pole placement, linear quadratic regulator, stochastic state estimation, and the design of dynamic control laws. Also covers performance limitations and robustness. Extensive use of computer-aided control design tools. Applications to various aerospace systems, including navigation, guidance, and control of vehicles. Laboratory exercises utilize a palm-size drone. Students taking graduate version complete additional assignments.

S. R. Hall, C. Fan

16.301 Topics in Control, Dynamics, and Automation

Provides credit for work on undergraduate-level material in control and/or dynamics and/or automation outside of regularly scheduled subjects. Intended for transfer credit and study abroad. Credit may be used to satisfy specific degree requirements in the Course 16 program. Requires prior approval. Consult department.

16.31 Feedback Control Systems

Subject meets with 16.30 Prereq: 16.06 or permission of instructor G (Fall) 3-1-8 units

Graduate-level version of 16.30 ; see description under 16.30 . Includes additional homework questions, laboratory experiments, and a term project beyond 16.30 with a particular focus on the material associated with state-space realizations of MIMO transfer function (matrices); MIMO zeros, controllability, and observability; stochastic processes and estimation; limitations on performance; design and analysis of dynamic output feedback controllers; and robustness of multivariable control systems.

16.32 Principles of Optimal Control and Estimation

Prereq: 16.31 G (Spring) 3-0-9 units

Fundamentals of optimal control and estimation for discrete and continuous systems. Briefly reviews constrained function minimization and stochastic processes. Topics in optimal control theory include dynamic programming, variational calculus, Pontryagin's maximum principle, and numerical algorithms and software. Topics in estimation include least-squares estimation, and the Kalman filter and its extensions for estimating the states of dynamic systems. May include an individual term project.

16.332 Formal Methods for Safe Autonomous Systems

Covers formal methods for designing and analyzing autonomous systems. Focuses on both classical and state-of-the-art rigorous methods for specifying, modeling, verifying, and synthesizing various behaviors for systems where embedded computing units monitor and control physical processes. Additionally, covers advanced material on combining formal methods with control theory and machine learning theory for modern safety critical autonomous systems powered by AI techniques such as robots, self-driving cars, and drones. Strong emphasis on the use of various mathematical and software tools to provide safety, soundness, and completeness guarantees for system models with different levels of fidelity.

16.338[J] Dynamic Systems and Control

Same subject as 6.7100[J] Prereq: 6.3000 and 18.06 G (Spring) 4-0-8 units

See description under subject 6.7100[J] .

M. A. Dahleh, A. Megretski

16.343 Spacecraft and Aircraft Sensors and Instrumentation

Prereq: Permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered 3-0-9 units

Covers fundamental sensor and instrumentation principles in the context of systems designed for space or atmospheric flight. Systems discussed include basic measurement system for force, temperature, pressure; navigation systems (Global Positioning System, Inertial Reference Systems, radio navigation), air data systems, communication systems; spacecraft attitude determination by stellar, solar, and horizon sensing; remote sensing by incoherent and Doppler radar, radiometry, spectrometry, and interferometry. Also included is a review of basic electromagnetic theory and antenna design and discussion of design considerations for flight. Alternate years.

16.346 Astrodynamics

Prereq: 18.03 G (Spring) 3-0-9 units

Fundamentals of astrodynamics; the two-body orbital initial-value and boundary-value problems with applications to space vehicle navigation and guidance for lunar and planetary missions with applications to space vehicle navigation and guidance for lunar and planetary missions including both powered flight and midcourse maneuvers. Topics include celestial mechanics, Kepler's problem, Lambert's problem, orbit determination, multi-body methods, mission planning, and recursive algorithms for space navigation. Selected applications from the Apollo, Space Shuttle, and Mars exploration programs.

S. E. Widnall, R. Linares

16.35 Real-Time Systems and Software

Prereq: 1.00 or 6.100B U (Spring) 3-0-9 units

Concepts, principles, and methods for specifying and designing real-time computer systems. Topics include concurrency, real-time execution implementation, scheduling, testing, verification, real-time analysis, and software engineering concepts. Additional topics include operating system architecture, process management, and networking.

16.355[J] Concepts in the Engineering of Software

Same subject as IDS.341[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Spring) 3-0-9 units

Reading and discussion on issues in the engineering of software systems and software development project design. Includes the present state of software engineering, what has been tried in the past, what worked, what did not, and why. Topics may differ in each offering, but are chosen from the software process and life cycle; requirements and specifications; design principles; testing, formal analysis, and reviews; quality management and assessment; product and process metrics; COTS and reuse; evolution and maintenance; team organization and people management; and software engineering aspects of programming languages.  Enrollment may be limited.

N. G. Leveson

16.36 Communication Systems and Networks

Subject meets with 16.363 Prereq: ( 6.3000 or 16.002 ) and ( 6.3700 or 16.09 ) U (Spring) 3-0-9 units

Introduces the fundamentals of digital communications and networking. Topics include elements of information theory, sampling and quantization, coding, modulation, signal detection and system performance in the presence of noise. Study of data networking includes multiple access, reliable packet transmission, routing and protocols of the internet. Concepts discussed in the context of aerospace communication systems: aircraft communications, satellite communications, and deep space communications. Students taking graduate version complete additional assignments.

E. H. Modiano

16.363 Communication Systems and Networks

Subject meets with 16.36 Prereq: ( 6.3000 or 16.004 ) and ( 6.3700 or 16.09 ) G (Spring) 3-0-9 units

Introduces the fundamentals of digital communications and networking, focusing on the study of networks, including protocols, performance analysis, and queuing theory. Topics include elements of information theory, sampling and quantization, coding, modulation, signal detection and system performance in the presence of noise. Study of data networking includes multiple access, reliable packet transmission, routing and protocols of the internet. Concepts discussed in the context of aerospace communication systems: aircraft communications, satellite communications, and deep space communications. Students taking graduate version complete additional assignments.

16.37[J] Data-Communication Networks

Same subject as 6.7450[J] Prereq: 6.3700 or 18.204 Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

See description under subject 6.7450[J] .

16.391 Statistics for Engineers and Scientists

Prereq: Calculus II (GIR) , 18.06 , 6.431, or permission of instructor G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

Rigorous introduction to fundamentals of statistics motivated by engineering applications. Topics include exponential families, order statistics, sufficient statistics, estimation theory, hypothesis testing, measures of performance, notions of optimality, analysis of variance (ANOVA), simple linear regression, and selected topics.

16.393 Statistical Communication and Localization Theory

Prereq: None G (Spring) 3-0-9 units

Rigorous introduction to statistical communication and localization theory, covering essential topics such as modulation and demodulation of signals, derivation of optimal receivers, characterization of wireless channels, and devising of ranging and localization techniques. Applies decision theory, estimation theory, and modulation theory to the design and analysis of modern communication and localization systems exploring synchronization, diversity, and cooperation. Selected topics will be discussed according to time schedule and class interest.

16.395 Principles of Wide Bandwidth Communication

Prereq: 6.3010 , 16.36 , or permission of instructor G (Fall) Not offered regularly; consult department 3-0-9 units

Introduction to the principles of wide bandwidth wireless communication, with a focus on ultra-wide bandwidth (UWB) systems. Topics include the basics of spread-spectrum systems, impulse radio, Rake reception, transmitted reference signaling, spectral analysis, coexistence issues, signal acquisition, channel measurement and modeling, regulatory issues, and ranging, localization and GPS. Consists of lectures and technical presentations by students.

Humans and Automation

16.400 human systems engineering.

Subject meets with 16.453[J] , HST.518[J] Prereq: 6.3700 , 16.09 , or permission of instructor U (Fall) 3-0-9 units

Provides a fundamental understanding of human factors that must be taken into account in the design and engineering of complex aviation, space, and medical systems. Focuses primarily on derivation of human engineering design criteria from sensory, motor, and cognitive sources. Includes principles of displays, controls and ergonomics, manual control, the nature of human error, basic experimental design, and human-computer interaction in supervisory control settings. Students taking graduate version complete a research project with a final written report and oral presentation.

16.401 Topics in Communication and Software

Provides credit for undergraduate-level work in communications and/or software outside of regularly scheduled subjects. Intended for transfer credit and study abroad. Credit may be used to satisfy specific degree requirements in the Course 16 program. Requires prior approval. Consult M. A. Stuppard.

16.405[J] Robotics: Science and Systems

Same subject as 2.124[J] , 6.4200[J] Prereq: (( 1.00 or 6.100A ) and ( 2.003[J] , 6.1010 , 6.1210 , or 16.06 )) or permission of instructor U (Spring) 2-6-4 units. Institute LAB

See description under subject 6.4200[J] . Enrollment limited.

L. Carlone, S. Karaman, D. Hadfield-Manell, J. Leonard

16.410[J] Principles of Autonomy and Decision Making

Same subject as 6.4130[J] Subject meets with 6.4132[J] , 16.413[J] Prereq: 6.100B , 6.1010 , 6.9080 , or permission of instructor U (Fall) 4-0-8 units

Surveys decision making methods used to create highly autonomous systems and decision aids. Applies models, principles and algorithms taken from artificial intelligence and operations research. Focuses on planning as state-space search, including uninformed, informed and stochastic search, activity and motion planning, probabilistic and adversarial planning, Markov models and decision processes, and Bayesian filtering. Also emphasizes planning with real-world constraints using constraint programming. Includes methods for satisfiability and optimization of logical, temporal and finite domain constraints, graphical models, and linear and integer programs, as well as methods for search, inference, and conflict-learning. Students taking graduate version complete additional assignments.

B. C. Williams

16.412[J] Cognitive Robotics

Same subject as 6.8110[J] Prereq: ( 6.4100 or 16.413[J] ) and ( 6.1200[J] , 6.3700 , or 16.09 ) G (Spring) 3-0-9 units

Highlights algorithms and paradigms for creating human-robot systems that act intelligently and robustly, by reasoning from models of themselves, their counterparts and their world. Examples include space and undersea explorers, cooperative vehicles, manufacturing robot teams and everyday embedded devices. Themes include architectures for goal-directed systems; decision-theoretic programming and robust execution; state-space programming, activity and path planning; risk-bounded programming and risk-bounded planners; self-monitoring and self-diagnosing systems, and human-robot collaboration. Student teams explore recent advances in cognitive robots through delivery of advanced lectures and final projects, in support of a class-wide grand challenge. Enrollment may be limited.

16.413[J] Principles of Autonomy and Decision Making

Same subject as 6.4132[J] Subject meets with 6.4130[J] , 16.410[J] Prereq: 6.100B , 6.9080 , or permission of instructor G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

16.420 Planning Under Uncertainty

Subject meets with 6.4110 Prereq: 16.413[J] Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

Concepts, principles, and methods for planning with imperfect knowledge. Topics include state estimation, planning in information space, partially observable Markov decision processes, reinforcement learning and planning with uncertain models. Students will develop an understanding of how different planning algorithms and solutions techniques are useful in different problem domains. Previous coursework in artificial intelligence and state estimation strongly recommended.

N. Roy, Staff

16.422 Human Supervisory Control of Automated Systems

Prereq: Permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall) 3-1-8 units

Principles of supervisory control and telerobotics. Different levels of automation are discussed, as well as the allocation of roles and authority between humans and machines. Human-vehicle interface design in highly automated systems. Decision aiding. Trade-offs between human control and human monitoring. Automated alerting systems and human intervention in automatic operation. Enhanced human interface technologies such as virtual presence. Performance, optimization, and social implications of the human-automation system. Examples from aerospace, ground, and undersea vehicles, robotics, and industrial systems.

16.423[J] Aerospace Biomedical and Life Support Engineering

Same subject as HST.515[J] , IDS.337[J] Prereq: 16.06 , 16.400 , or permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Spring) 3-0-9 units

Fundamentals of human performance, physiology, and life support impacting engineering design and aerospace systems. Topics include effects of gravity on the muscle, skeletal, cardiovascular, and neurovestibular systems; human/pilot modeling and human/machine design; flight experiment design; and life support engineering for extravehicular activity (EVA). Case studies of current research are presented. Assignments include a design project, quantitative homework sets, and quizzes emphasizing engineering and systems aspects.

D. J. Newman

16.445[J] Entrepreneurship in Aerospace and Mobility Systems

Same subject as STS.468[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered 3-0-9 units

Examines concepts and procedures for new venture creation in aerospace and mobility systems, and other arenas where safety, regulation, and infrastructure are significant components. Includes space systems, aviation, autonomous vehicles, urban aerial mobility, transit, and similar arenas. Includes preparation for entrepreneurship, founders' dilemmas, venture finance, financial modeling and unit economics, fundraising and pitching, recruiting, problem definition, organizational creation, value proposition, go-to-market, and product development. Includes team-based final projects on problem definition, technical innovation, and pitch preparation.

D. A. Mindell

16.453[J] Human Systems Engineering

Same subject as HST.518[J] Subject meets with 16.400 Prereq: 6.3700 , 16.09 , or permission of instructor G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

L. A. Stirling

16.456[J] Biomedical Signal and Image Processing

Same subject as 6.8800[J] , HST.582[J] Subject meets with 6.8801[J] , HST.482[J] Prereq: ( 6.3700 and ( 2.004 , 6.3000 , 16.002 , or 18.085 )) or permission of instructor G (Spring) 3-1-8 units

See description under subject 6.8800[J] .

J. Greenberg, E. Adalsteinsson, W. Wells

16.459 Bioengineering Journal Article Seminar

Prereq: None G (Fall, Spring) 1-0-1 units Can be repeated for credit.

Each term, the class selects a new set of professional journal articles on bioengineering topics of current research interest. Some papers are chosen because of particular content, others are selected because they illustrate important points of methodology. Each week, one student leads the discussion, evaluating the strengths, weaknesses, and importance of each paper. Subject may be repeated for credit a maximum of four terms. Letter grade given in the last term applies to all accumulated units of 16.459 .

16.470 Statistical Methods in Experimental Design

Prereq: 6.3700 , 16.09 , or permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered 3-0-9 units

Statistically based experimental design inclusive of forming hypotheses, planning and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and interpreting and communicating results. Topics include descriptive statistics, statistical inference, hypothesis testing, parametric and nonparametric statistical analyses, factorial ANOVA, randomized block designs, MANOVA, linear regression, repeated measures models, and application of statistical software packages.

16.475 Human-Computer Interface Design Colloquium

Prereq: None G (Fall) Not offered regularly; consult department 2-0-2 units

Provides guidance on design and evaluation of human-computer interfaces for students with active research projects. Roundtable discussion on developing user requirements, human-centered design principles, and testing and evaluating methodologies. Students present their work and evaluate each other's projects. Readings complement specific focus areas. Team participation encouraged. Open to advanced undergraduates.

16.485 Visual Navigation for Autonomous Vehicles

Prereq: 16.32 or permission of instructor G (Fall) 3-2-7 units

Covers the mathematical foundations and state-of-the-art implementations of algorithms for vision-based navigation of autonomous vehicles (e.g., mobile robots, self-driving cars, drones). Topics include geometric control, 3D vision, visual-inertial navigation, place recognition, and simultaneous localization and mapping. Provides students with a rigorous but pragmatic overview of differential geometry and optimization on manifolds and knowledge of the fundamentals of 2-view and multi-view geometric vision for real-time motion estimation, calibration, localization, and mapping. The theoretical foundations are complemented with hands-on labs based on state-of-the-art mini race car and drone platforms. Culminates in a critical review of recent advances in the field and a team project aimed at advancing the state-of-the-art.

L. Carlone, J. How, K. Khosoussi

Propulsion and Energy Conversion

16.50 aerospace propulsion.

Prereq: 16.003 and ( 2.005 or 16.004 ) U (Spring) 3-0-9 units

Presents aerospace propulsive devices as systems, with functional requirements and engineering and environmental limitations. Requirements and limitations that constrain design choices. Both air-breathing and rocket engines covered, at a level which enables rational integration of the propulsive system into an overall vehicle design. Mission analysis, fundamental performance relations, and exemplary design solutions presented.

S. Barrett, J. Sabnis

16.501 Topics in Propulsion

Provides credit for work on undergraduate-level material in propulsion outside of regularly scheduled subjects. Intended for transfer credit and study abroad. Credit may be used to satisfy specific degree requirements in the Course 16 and Course 16-ENG programs. Requires prior approval. Consult department.

16.511 Aircraft Engines and Gas Turbines

Prereq: 16.50 or permission of instructor G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

Performance and characteristics of aircraft jet engines and industrial gas turbines, as determined by thermodynamic and fluid mechanic behavior of engine components: inlets, compressors, combustors, turbines, and nozzles. Discusses various engine types, including advanced turbofan configurations, limitations imposed by material properties and stresses. Emphasizes future design trends including reduction of noise, pollutant formation, fuel consumption, and weight.

Z. S. Spakovszky

16.512 Rocket Propulsion

Prereq: 16.50 or permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

Chemical rocket propulsion systems for launch, orbital, and interplanetary flight. Modeling of solid, liquid-bipropellant, and hybrid rocket engines. Thermochemistry, prediction of specific impulse. Nozzle flows including real gas and kinetic effects. Structural constraints. Propellant feed systems, turbopumps. Combustion processes in solid, liquid, and hybrid rockets. Cooling; heat sink, ablative, and regenerative.

C. Guerra-Garcia

16.522 Space Propulsion

Prereq: 8.02 or permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Spring) 3-3-6 units

Reviews rocket propulsion fundamentals. Discusses advanced concepts in space propulsion with emphasis on high-specific impulse electric engines. Topics include advanced mission analysis; the physics and engineering of electrothermal, electrostatic, and electromagnetic schemes for accelerating propellant; and orbital mechanics for the analysis of continuous thrust trajectories. Laboratory term project emphasizes the design, construction, and testing of an electric propulsion thruster.

P. C. Lozano

16.530 Advanced Propulsion Concepts

Prereq: 16.50 , 16.511 , 16.512 , or 16.522 G (Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department 3-0-9 units

Considers the challenge of achieving net-zero climate impacts, as well as the opportunities presented by the resurgence of investment in new or renewed ideas. Explores advanced propulsion concepts that are not in use or well-developed, but that have established operation principles and could either contribute to environmental performance or are applicable to new aerospace services. Topics vary but may include: electric and turbo-electric aircraft propulsion; batteries, cryogenic fuels, and biofuels; combustion and emissions control concepts; propulsion for UAVs and urban air mobility; propulsion for supersonic and hypersonic vehicles; reusable space access vehicle propulsion; and propulsion in very low earth orbit. Includes a project to evaluate an advanced propulsion concept.

S. Barrett, J. J. Sabnis, Z. Spakovszky

16.540 Internal Flows in Turbomachines

Prereq: 2.25 or permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Spring) 3-0-9 units

Internal fluid motions in turbomachines, propulsion systems, ducts and channels, and other fluid machinery. Useful basic ideas, fundamentals of rotational flows, loss sources and loss accounting in fluid devices, unsteady internal flow and flow instability, flow in rotating passages, swirling flow, generation of streamwise vorticity and three-dimensional flow, non-uniform flow in fluid components.

16.55[J] Ionized Gases

Same subject as 22.64[J] Prereq: 8.02 or permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

Properties and behavior of low-temperature plasmas for energy conversion, plasma propulsion, and gas lasers. Equilibrium of ionized gases: energy states, statistical mechanics, and relationship to thermodynamics. Kinetic theory: motion of charged particles, distribution function, collisions, characteristic lengths and times, cross sections, and transport properties. Gas surface interactions: thermionic emission, sheaths, and probe theory. Radiation in plasmas and diagnostics.

C. Guerra Garcia

Other Undergraduate Subjects

16.00 introduction to aerospace and design.

Prereq: None U (Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department 2-2-2 units

Highlights fundamental concepts and practices of aerospace engineering through lectures on aeronautics, astronautics, and the principles of project design and execution. Provides training in the use of Course 16 workshop tools and 3-D printers, and in computational tools, such as CAD. Students engage in teambuilding during an immersive, semester-long project in which teams design, build, and fly radio-controlled lighter-than-air (LTA) vehicles. Emphasizes connections between theory and practice and introduces students to fundamental systems engineering practices, such as oral and written design reviews, performance estimation, and post-flight performance analysis.

J. A. Hoffman, R. J. Hansman

16.UR Undergraduate Research

Prereq: None U (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer) Units arranged [P/D/F] Can be repeated for credit.

Undergraduate research opportunities in aeronautics and astronautics.

Consult M. A. Stuppard

16.C25[J] Real World Computation with Julia

Same subject as 1.C25[J] , 6.C25[J] , 12.C25[J] , 18.C25[J] , 22.C25[J] Prereq: 6.100A , 18.03 , and 18.06 U (Fall) 3-0-9 units

See description under subject 18.C25[J] .

A. Edelman, R. Ferrari, B. Forget, C. Leiseron,Y. Marzouk, J. Williams

16.EPE UPOP Engineering Practice Experience

Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Offered under: 1.EPE , 2.EPE , 3.EPE , 6.EPE , 8.EPE , 10.EPE , 15.EPE , 16.EPE , 20.EPE , 22.EPE Prereq: None U (Fall, Spring) 0-0-1 units Can be repeated for credit.

See description under subject 2.EPE . Application required; consult UPOP website for more information.

K. Tan-Tiongco, D. Fordell

16.EPW UPOP Engineering Practice Workshop

Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Offered under: 1.EPW , 2.EPW , 3.EPW , 6.EPW , 10.EPW , 16.EPW , 20.EPW , 22.EPW Prereq: 2.EPE U (Fall, IAP, Spring) 1-0-0 units

See description under subject 2.EPW . Enrollment limited to those in the UPOP program.

16.S684 Special Subject in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Prereq: None U (IAP, Spring; partial term) Units arranged [P/D/F] Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for study or lab work related to aeronautics and astronautics not covered in regularly scheduled subjects. Subject to approval of faculty in charge. Prior approval required.

16.S685 Special Subject in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Prereq: Permission of instructor U (IAP; partial term) Units arranged [P/D/F] Can be repeated for credit.

Basic undergraduate topics not offered in regularly scheduled subjects. Subject to approval of faculty in charge. Prior approval required.

Consult Y. M. Marzouk

16.S686 Special Subject in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Prereq: Permission of instructor U (Fall, Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department Units arranged Can be repeated for credit.

16.S688 Special Subject in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Prereq: None U (Fall, Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department Units arranged Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity for study or lab work related to aeronautics and astronautics but not covered in regularly scheduled subjects. Prior approval required.

16.63[J] System Safety

Same subject as IDS.045[J] Prereq: None U (Fall) 3-0-9 units. REST

Introduces the concepts of system safety and how to analyze and design safer systems. Topics include the causes of accidents in general, and recent major accidents in particular; hazard analysis, safety-driven design techniques; design of human-automation interaction; integrating safety into the system engineering process; and managing and operating safety-critical systems.

16.632 Introduction to Autonomous Machines

Prereq: None. Coreq: 2.086 or 6.100A U (Fall, IAP) 2-2-2 units

Experiential seminar provides an introduction to the fundamental aspects of robust autonomous machines that includes an overall systems/component-level overview. Projects involve hands-on investigations with a variety of sensors and completely functioning, small-scale autonomous machines utilized for in-class implementation/testing of control algorithms. Students should have concurrent or prior programming experience. Preference to students in the NEET Autonomous Machines thread.

J. P. How, S. Karaman, G. Long

16.633 NEET Junior Seminar: Autonomous Machines

Prereq: None U (Fall) 1-1-1 units

Project-based seminar provides instruction on how to program basic autonomy algorithms for a micro aerial vehicle equipped with a camera. Begins by introducing the constituent hardware and components of a quadrotor drone. As this subject progresses, the students practice using simple signal processing, state estimation, control, and computer vision algorithms for mobile robotics. Students program the micro aerial vehicle to compete in a variety of challenges. Limited to students in the NEET Autonomous Machines thread.

16.634 NEET Senior Seminar: Autonomous Machines

Provides a foundation for students taking 16.84 as part of the NEET Autonomous Machines thread. Through a set of focused activities, students determine the autonomous system they will design, which includes outlining the materials, facilities, and resources they need to create the system. Limited to students in the NEET Autonomous Machines thread or with instructor's permission.

16.64 Flight Measurement Laboratory

Prereq: 16.002 U (Spring) 2-2-2 units

Opportunity to see aeronautical theory applied in real-world environment of flight. Students assist in design and execution of simple engineering flight experiments in light aircraft. Typical investigations include determination of stability derivatives, verification of performance specifications, and measurement of navigation system characteristics. Restricted to students in Aeronautics and Astronautics.

R. J. Hansman

16.645[J] Dimensions of Geoengineering

Same subject as 1.850[J] , 5.000[J] , 10.600[J] , 11.388[J] , 12.884[J] , 15.036[J] Prereq: None G (Fall; first half of term) Not offered regularly; consult department 2-0-4 units

See description under subject 5.000[J] . Limited to 100.

J. Deutch, M. Zuber

16.650 Engineering Leadership Lab

Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Offered under: 6.9110 , 16.650 Subject meets with 6.9130[J] , 16.667[J] Prereq: None. Coreq: 6.9120 ; or permission of instructor U (Fall, Spring) 0-2-1 units Can be repeated for credit.

See description under subject 6.9110 . Preference to students enrolled in the Bernard M. Gordon-MIT Engineering Leadership Program.

L. McGonagle, J. Feiler

16.651 Engineering Leadership

Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Offered under: 6.9120 , 16.651 Prereq: None. Coreq: 6.9110 ; or permission of instructor U (Fall, Spring) 1-0-2 units Can be repeated for credit.

See description under subject 6.9120 . Preference to first-year students in the Gordon Engineering Leadership Program.

J. Magarian

16.653 Management in Engineering

Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Offered under: 2.96 , 6.9360 , 10.806 , 16.653 Prereq: None U (Fall) 3-1-8 units

See description under subject 2.96 . Restricted to juniors and seniors.

H. S. Marcus, J.-H. Chun

16.6621[J] Introduction to Design Thinking and Innovation in Engineering

Same subject as 2.7231[J] , 6.9101[J] Prereq: None U (Fall, Spring; first half of term) 2-0-1 units

See description under subject 6.9101[J] . Enrollment limited to 25; priority to first-year students.

16.662A Design Thinking and Innovation Leadership for Engineers

Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Offered under: 2.723A , 6.910A , 16.662A Prereq: None U (Fall, Spring; first half of term) 2-0-1 units

See description under subject 6.910A .

16.662B Design Thinking and Innovation Project

Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Offered under: 2.723B , 6.910B , 16.662B Prereq: 6.910A U (Fall, Spring; second half of term) 2-0-1 units

See description under subject 6.910B .

16.667 Engineering Leadership Lab

Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Offered under: 6.9130 , 16.667 Subject meets with 6.9110[J] , 16.650[J] Prereq: 6.910A , 6.9110 , 6.9120 , or permission of instructor U (Fall, Spring) 0-2-4 units Can be repeated for credit.

See description under subject 6.9130 . Preference to students enrolled in the second year of the Gordon-MIT Engineering Leadership Program.

16.669 Project Engineering

Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Offered under: 6.9140 , 16.669 Prereq: ( 6.910A and ( 6.9110 or 6.9120 )) or permission of instructor U (IAP) 4-0-0 units

See description under subject 6.9140 . Preference to students in the Bernard M. Gordon-MIT Engineering Leadership Program.

O. de Weck, J. Feiler, L. McGonagle, R. Rahaman

16.671[J] Leading Innovation in Teams

Same subject as 6.9150[J] Prereq: None U (Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department 3-0-6 units

See description under subject 6.9150[J] . Enrollment limited to seating capacity of classroom. Admittance may be controlled by lottery.

D. Nino, J. Schindall

16.676 Ethics for Engineers

Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Offered under: 1.082 , 2.900 , 6.9320 , 10.01 , 16.676 Subject meets with 6.9321 , 20.005 Prereq: None U (Fall, Spring) 2-0-4 units

See description under subject 10.01 .

D. A. Lauffenburger, B. L. Trout

16.680 Project in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Prereq: None U (Fall, IAP, Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department Units arranged [P/D/F] Can be repeated for credit.

Opportunity to work on projects related to aerospace engineering outside the department. Requires prior approval.

16.681 Topics in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Opportunity for study or laboratory project work not available elsewhere in the curriculum. Topics selected in consultation with the instructor.

16.682 Selected Topics in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Prereq: None U (IAP) Units arranged Can be repeated for credit.

Study by qualified students. Topics selected in consultation with the instructor. Prior approval required.

16.683 Seminar in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Prereq: None U (Fall, IAP, Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department 2-0-0 units Can be repeated for credit.

Speakers from campus and industry discuss current activities and advances in aeronautics and astronautics. Restricted to Course 16 students.

16.687 Selected Topics in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Prereq: None U (IAP; partial term) Units arranged [P/D/F] Can be repeated for credit.

16.691 Practicum Experience

For Course 16 students participating in curriculum-related off-campus experiences in aerospace engineering and related areas. Before enrolling, a student must have an offer from a company or organization; must identify an appropriate advisor in the AeroAstro department who, along with the off-campus advisor, evaluate the student's performance; and must receive prior approval from the AeroAstro department. At the conclusion of the training, the student submits a substantive final report for review and approval by the MIT advisor. Can be taken for up to 3 units. Contact the AeroAstro Undergraduate Office for details on procedures and restrictions.

Consult M. Stuppard

Flight Transportation

16.701 topics in flight transportation (new).

Prereq: None U (Fall, IAP, Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department Units arranged

Provides credit for undergraduate-level work in flight transportation outside of regularly scheduled subjects. Intended for transfer credit and study abroad. Credit may be used to satisfy specific degree requirements in the Course 16 or Course 16-ENG program. Requires prior approval. Consult department.

16.71[J] The Airline Industry

Same subject as 1.232[J] , 15.054[J] Prereq: None G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

Overview of the global airline industry, focusing on recent industry performance, current issues and challenges for the future. Fundamentals of airline industry structure, airline economics, operations planning, safety, labor relations, airports and air traffic control, marketing, and competitive strategies, with an emphasis on the interrelationships among major industry stakeholders. Recent research findings of the MIT Global Airline Industry Program are showcased, including the impacts of congestion and delays, evolution of information technologies, changing human resource management practices, and competitive effects of new entrant airlines. Taught by faculty participants of the Global Airline Industry Program.

P. P. Belobaba, H. Balakrishnan, A. I. Barnett, R. J. Hansman, T. A. Kochan

16.715 Aerospace, Energy, and the Environment

Prereq: Chemistry (GIR) and ( 1.060 , 2.006 , 10.301 , 16.003 , 16.004 , or permission of instructor) Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

Addresses energy and environmental challenges facing aerospace in the 21st century. Topics include: aircraft performance and energy requirements, propulsion technologies, jet fuels and alternative fuels, lifecycle assessment of fuels, combustion, emissions, climate change due to aviation, aircraft contrails, air pollution impacts of aviation, impacts of supersonic aircraft, and aviation noise. Includes an in-depth introduction to the relevant atmospheric and combustion physics and chemistry with no prior knowledge assumed. Discussion and analysis of near-term technological, fuel-based, regulatory and operational mitigation options for aviation, and longer-term technical possibilities.

16.72 Air Traffic Control

Prereq: Permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

Introduces the various aspects of present and future Air Traffic Control systems. Descriptions of the present system: systems-analysis approach to problems of capacity and safety; surveillance, including NAS and ARTS; navigation subsystem technology; aircraft guidance and control; communications; collision avoidance systems; sequencing and spacing in terminal areas; future directions and development; critical discussion of past proposals and of probable future problem areas. Requires term paper.

H. Balakrishnan

16.763[J] Air Transportation Operations Research

Same subject as 1.233[J] Prereq: 6.3702 , 15.093, 16.71[J] , or permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered 3-0-9 units

Presents a unified view of advanced quantitative analysis and optimization techniques applied to the air transportation sector. Considers the problem of operating and managing the aviation sector from the perspectives of the system operators (e.g., the FAA), the airlines, and the resultant impacts on the end-users (the passengers). Explores models and optimization approaches to system-level problems, airline schedule planning problems, and airline management challenges. Term paper required.

H. Balakrishnan, C. Barnhart, P. P. Belobaba

16.767 Introduction to Airline Transport Aircraft Systems and Automation

Prereq: Permission of instructor G (IAP) Not offered regularly; consult department 3-2-1 units

Intensive one-week subject that uses the Boeing 767 aircraft as an example of a system of systems. Focuses on design drivers and compromises, system interactions, and human-machine interface. Morning lectures, followed by afternoon desktop simulator sessions. Critique and comparison with other transport aircraft designs. Includes one evening at Boston Logan International Airport aboard an aircraft. Enrollment limited.

C. M. Oman, B. Nield

16.781[J] Planning and Design of Airport Systems

Same subject as 1.231[J] , IDS.670[J] Prereq: None Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered 3-0-9 units

Focuses on current practice, developing trends, and advanced concepts in airport design and planning. Considers economic, environmental, and other trade-offs related to airport location, as well as the impacts of emphasizing "green" measures. Includes an analysis of the effect of airline operations on airports. Topics include demand prediction, determination of airfield capacity, and estimation of levels of congestion; terminal design; the role of airports in the aviation and transportation system; access problems; optimal configuration of air transport networks and implications for airport development; and economics, financing, and institutional aspects. Special attention to international practice and developments.

R. de Neufville, A. R. Odoni

Aerospace Systems

16.801 topics in aerospace systems (new).

Prereq: None U (Fall, IAP, Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department Units arranged Can be repeated for credit.

Provides credit for work on undergraduate-level material in aerospace systems outside of regularly scheduled subjects. Intended for transfer credit and study abroad. Credit may be used to satisfy specific degree requirements in the Course 16 and Course 16-ENG programs. Requires prior approval. Consult department.

16.810 Engineering Design and Rapid Prototyping

Prereq: ( 6.9110 and 6.9120 ) or permission of instructor U (IAP) 3-3-0 units

Builds fundamental skills in engineering design and develops a holistic view of the design process through conceiving, designing, prototyping, and testing a multidisciplinary component or system. Students are provided with the context in which the component or system must perform; they then follow a process to identify alternatives, enact a workable design, and improve the design through multi-objective optimization. The performance of end-state designs is verified by testing. Though students develop a physical component or system, the project is formulated so those from any engineering discipline can participate. The focus is on the design process itself, as well as the complementary roles of human creativity and computational approaches. Designs are built by small teams who submit their work to a design competition. Pedagogy based on active learning, blending lectures with design and manufacturing activities.  Limited to 30 students. Preference given to students in the Gordon-MIT Engineering Leadership Program.

O. L. de Weck, J. Magarian

16.82 Flight Vehicle Engineering

Prereq: Permission of instructor U (Fall) 3-3-6 units

Design of an atmospheric flight vehicle to satisfy stated performance, stability, and control requirements. Emphasizes individual initiative, application of fundamental principles, and the compromises inherent in the engineering design process. Includes instruction and practice in written and oral communication, through team presentations and a written final report. Course 16 students are expected to complete two professional or concentration subjects from the departmental program before taking this capstone. Offered alternate Spring and Fall terms.

R. J. Hansman, M. Drela

16.821 Flight Vehicle Development

Prereq: Permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: U (Spring) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered 2-10-6 units. Institute LAB

Focuses on implementation and operation of a flight system. Emphasizes system integration, implementation, and performance verification using methods of experimental inquiry, and addresses principles of laboratory safety. Students refine subsystem designs and fabricate working prototypes. Includes component integration into the full system with detailed analysis and operation of the complete vehicle in the laboratory and in the field, as well as experimental analysis of subsystem performance, comparison with physical models of performance and design goals, and formal review of the overall system design. Knowledge of the engineering design process is helpful. Provides instruction in written and oral communication.

16.83[J] Space Systems Engineering

Same subject as 12.43[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor U (Spring) 3-3-6 units

Design of a complete space system, including systems analysis, trajectory analysis, entry dynamics, propulsion and power systems, structural design, avionics, thermal and environmental control, human factors, support systems, and weight and cost estimates. Students participate in teams, each responsible for an integrated vehicle design, providing experience in project organization and interaction between disciplines. Includes several aspects of team communication including three formal presentations, informal progress reports, colleague assessments, and written reports. Course 16 students are expected to complete two professional or concentration subjects from the departmental program before taking this capstone. Offered alternate fall and spring terms.

16.831[J] Space Systems Development

Same subject as 12.431[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: U (Spring) 2-10-6 units. Institute LAB

Students build a space system, focusing on refinement of sub-system designs and fabrication of full-scale prototypes. Sub-systems are integrated into a vehicle and tested. Sub-system performance is verified using methods of experimental inquiry, and is compared with physical models of performance and design goals. Communication skills are honed through written and oral reports. Formal reviews include the Implementation Plan Review and the Acceptance Review. Knowledge of the engineering design process is helpful.

16.839[J] Operating in the Lunar Environment

Same subject as MAS.839[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department 2-2-8 units

See description under subject MAS.839[J] . Enrollment limited; admission by application.

J. Hoffman, A. Ekblaw

16.84 Advanced Autonomous Robotic Systems

Prereq: 6.4200[J] or permission of instructor U (Spring) 2-6-4 units

Students design an autonomous vehicle system to satisfy stated performance goals. Emphasizes both hardware and software components of the design and implementation. Entails application of fundamental principles and design engineering in both individual and group efforts. Students showcase the final design to the public at the end of the term.

J. P. How, S. Karaman

16.842 Fundamentals of Systems Engineering

Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Fall) 2-0-4 units

General introduction to systems engineering for aerospace and more general electro-mechanical-cyber systems. Built on the V-model as well as an agile approach. Topics include stakeholder analysis, requirements definition, system architecture and concept generation, trade-space exploration and concept selection, design definition and optimization, system integration and interface management, system safety, verification and validation, and commissioning and operations. Discusses the trade-offs between performance, life-cycle cost and system operability. Readings based on systems engineering standards. Individual homework assignments apply concepts from class. Prepares students for the systems field exam in the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics.

E. F. Crawley

16.851 Introduction to Satellite Engineering

Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Fall; first half of term) 2-0-4 units

Covers the principles and governing equations fundamental to the design, launch, and operation of artificial satellites in Earth's orbit and beyond. Material includes the vis-viva equation; the rocket equation; basic orbital maneuvers, including Hohmann transfers; bielliptic trajectories, as well as spiral transfers; the link budget equation; spacecraft power and propulsion; thermal equilibrium and interactions of spacecraft with the space environment, such as aerodynamic drag; electrostatic charging; radiation; and meteorids. Spacecraft are initially treated parametrically as point masses and then as rigid bodies subject to Euler's equations of rotational motion. Serves as a prerequisite for more advanced material in satellite engineering, including the technological implementation of various subsystems. Lectures are offered in a hybrid format, in person and remote.

K. Cahoy, O. L. de Weck

16.853 Advanced Satellite Engineering

Prereq: 16.851 or permission of instructor G (Fall; second half of term) 2-0-4 units

Advanced material in satellite engineering, including the physical implementation of spacecraft hardware and software in payloads and bus subsystems, including structures, attitude determination and control, electrical power systems (EPS), control and data handling (CDH), guidance navigation and control (GNC), thermal management, communications, and others. Examples of spacecraft technologies and design tradeoffs are highlighted based on past, current, and future missions. Emphasis on mission success and identification and preventation of spacecraft and mission failures modes. Prepares students for the design of Earth observation as well as interplanetary science missions. Advanced assignments require computational skills in Matlab or Python and short presentations. Guest speakers from NASA and industry. Serves as a basis for the field examination in space systems.

16.854 Spacecraft Laboratory

Prereq: 16.851 and permission of instructor G (Spring; second half of term) Not offered regularly; consult department 1-2-3 units

Practical work in a spacecraft laboratory environment, including learning about cleanroom environments, satellite integration, and testing. Topics include handling of electrostatic discharge (ESD) sensitive electronics, working in a cleanroom, performing spacecraft component and qualification testing using shaker tables to simulate launch and deployment loads, thermal and vacuum testing, and designing and executing a successful spacecraft/instrument test campaign. Emphasis on obtaining laboratory data from sensors such as accelerometers, thermal sensors, and small satellite hardware, and comparing expected results against actual behaviors. Students carry out exercises in small teams and submit digital laboratory reports.

R. A. Masterson

16.855[J] Systems Architecting Applied to Enterprises

Same subject as EM.429[J] , IDS.336[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Spring) 3-0-9 units

See description under subject IDS.336[J] .

16.857[J] Asking How Space Enabled Designs Advance Justice and Development

Same subject as MAS.858[J] Prereq: None G (Fall) Not offered regularly; consult department 3-0-9 units

See description under subject MAS.858[J] . Limited to 15.

16.858 Introduction to Discrete Math and Systems Theory for Engineers

General discrete math topics include mathematical reasoning, combinatorial analysis, discrete structures (sets, permutations, relations, graphs, trees, and finite state machines), algorithmic thinking and complexity, modeling computation (languages and grammars, finite state machines), and Boolean algebra. Emphasis is on the use of the basic principles to solve engineering problems rather than applying formulae or studying the theoretical mathematical foundations of the topics. Real aerospace engineering examples are used. Enrollment may be limited.

N. Leveson, O. de Weck, J. Thomas

16.859[J] Space Technology for the Development Leader (New)

Same subject as MAS.859[J] Prereq: None G (Spring) 3-0-3 units

See description under subject MAS.859[J] .

16.861 System Design and Management for a Changing World: Combined

Engineering School-Wide Elective Subject. Offered under: 1.146 , 16.861 , EM.422 , IDS.332 Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Fall) 3-0-9 units Credit cannot also be received for EM.423[J] , IDS.333[J]

See description under subject IDS.332 . Enrollment limited.

R. de Neufville

16.863[J] System Safety Concepts

Same subject as IDS.340[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

Covers important concepts and techniques in designing and operating safety-critical systems. Topics include the nature of risk, formal accident and human error models, causes of accidents, fundamental concepts of system safety engineering, system and software hazard analysis, designing for safety, fault tolerance, safety issues in the design of human-machine interaction, verification of safety, creating a safety culture, and management of safety-critical projects. Includes a class project involving the high-level system design and analysis of a safety-critical system. Enrollment may be limited.

16.88[J] Prototyping our Sci-Fi Space Future: Designing & Deploying Projects for Zero Gravity Flights

Same subject as MAS.838[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Fall) 2-2-8 units

See description under subject MAS.838[J] . Enrollment limited; admission by application.

J. Paradiso, A. Ekblaw

16.885 Aircraft Systems Engineering

Holistic view of the aircraft as a system, covering basic systems engineering, cost and weight estimation, basic aircraft performance, safety and reliability, life cycle topics, aircraft subsystems, risk analysis and management, and system realization. Small student teams retrospectively analyze an existing aircraft covering: key design drivers and decisions; aircraft attributes and subsystems; operational experience. Oral and written versions of the case study are delivered. Focuses on a systems engineering analysis of the Space Shuttle. Studies both design and operations of the shuttle, with frequent lectures by outside experts. Students choose specific shuttle systems for detailed analysis and develop new subsystem designs using state of the art technology.

R. J. Hansman, W. Hoburg

16.886 Air Transportation Systems Architecting

Prereq: Permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Fall) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered 3-2-7 units

Addresses the architecting of air transportation systems. Focuses on the conceptual phase of product definition including technical, economic, market, environmental, regulatory, legal, manufacturing, and societal factors. Centers on a realistic system case study and includes a number of lectures from industry and government. Past examples include the Very Large Transport Aircraft, a Supersonic Business Jet and a Next Generation Cargo System. Identifies the critical system level issues and analyzes them in depth via student team projects and individual assignments. Overall goal is to produce a business plan and a system specifications document that can be used to assess candidate systems.

16.887[J] Technology Roadmapping and Development

Same subject as EM.427[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Fall) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered 3-0-9 units

Provides a review of the principles, methods and tools of technology management for organizations and technologically-enabled systems including technology forecasting, scouting, roadmapping, strategic planning, R&D project execution, intellectual property management, knowledge management, partnering and acquisition, technology transfer, innovation management, and financial technology valuation. Topics explain the underlying theory and empirical evidence for technology evolution over time and contain a rich set of examples and practical exercises from aerospace and other domains, such as transportation, energy, communications, agriculture, and medicine. Special topics include Moore's law, S-curves, the singularity and fundamental limits to technology. Students develop a comprehensive technology roadmap on a topic of their own choice.

O. L. de Weck

16.888[J] Multidisciplinary Design Optimization

Same subject as EM.428[J] , IDS.338[J] Prereq: 18.085 or permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall) 3-1-8 units

Systems modeling for design and optimization. Selection of design variables, objective functions and constraints. Overview of principles, methods and tools in multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO). Subsystem identification, development and interface design. Design of experiments (DOE). Review of linear (LP) and non-linear (NLP) constrained optimization formulations. Scalar versus vector optimization problems. Karush-Kuhn-Tucker (KKT) conditions of optimality, Lagrange multipliers, adjoints, gradient search methods, sensitivity analysis, geometric programming, simulated annealing, genetic algorithms and particle swarm optimization. Constraint satisfaction problems and isoperformance. Non-dominance and Pareto frontiers. Surrogate models and multifidelity optimization strategies. System design for value. Students execute a term project in small teams related to their area of interest. 

16.89[J] Space Systems Engineering

Same subject as IDS.339[J] Prereq: 16.842 , 16.851 , or permission of instructor G (Spring) 4-2-6 units

Focus on developing space system architectures. Applies subsystem knowledge gained in 16.851 to examine interactions between subsystems in the context of a space system design. Principles and processes of systems engineering including developing space architectures, developing and writing requirements, and concepts of risk are explored and applied to the project. Subject develops, documents, and presents a conceptual design of a space system including a preliminary spacecraft design.

16.891 Space Policy Seminar

Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Spring) 2-0-4 units

Explores current and historical issues in space policy, highlighting NASA, DOD, and international space agencies. Covers NASA's portfolios in exploration, science, aeronautics, and technology. Discusses US and international space policy. NASA leadership, public private partnerships, and innovation framework are presented. Current and former government and industry leaders provide an "inside the beltway perspective." Study of Congress, the Executive, and government agencies results in weekly policy memos. White papers authored by students provide policy findings and recommendations to accelerate human spaceflight, military space, space technology investments, and space science missions. Intended for graduate students and advanced undergraduates interested in technology policy. Enrollment may be limited.

D. J. Newman, D. E. Hastings

16.893 Engineering the Space Shuttle

Prereq: None Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall) 4-0-8 units

Detailed historical and technical study of the Space Shuttle, the world's first reusable spacecraft, through lectures by the people who designed, built and operated it. Examines the political, economic and military factors that influenced the design of the Shuttle; looks deeply into the it's many subsystems; and explains how the Shuttle was operated. Lectures are both live and on video. Students work on a final project related to space vehicle design.

J. A. Hoffman

16.895[J] Engineering Apollo: The Moon Project as a Complex System

Same subject as STS.471[J] Prereq: None Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall) 4-0-8 units

See description under subject STS.471[J] .

Computation

16.90 computational modeling and data analysis in aerospace engineering.

Prereq: 16.001 , 16.002 , 16.003 , 16.004 , or permission of instructor; Coreq: 6.3700 or 16.09 U (Spring) 4-0-8 units

Introduces principles, algorithms, and applications of computational techniques arising in aerospace engineering. Techniques include numerical integration of systems of ordinary differential equations; numerical discretization of partial differential equations; probabilistic modeling; and computational aspects of estimation and inference. Example applications will include modeling, design, and data analysis.

16.901 Topics in Computation

Prereq: None U (Fall, Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department Units arranged

Provides credit for undergraduate-level work in computation outside of regularly scheduled subjects. Intended for transfer credit and study abroad. Credit may be used to satisfy specific degree requirements in the Course 16 program. Requires prior approval. Consult M. A. Stuppard.

16.910[J] Introduction to Modeling and Simulation

Same subject as 2.096[J] , 6.7300[J] Prereq: 18.03 or 18.06 G (Fall) 3-6-3 units

See description under subject 6.7300[J] .

16.920[J] Numerical Methods for Partial Differential Equations

Same subject as 2.097[J] , 6.7330[J] Prereq: 18.03 or 18.06 G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

Covers the fundamentals of modern numerical techniques for a wide range of linear and nonlinear elliptic, parabolic, and hyperbolic partial differential and integral equations. Topics include mathematical formulations; finite difference, finite volume, finite element, and boundary element discretization methods; and direct and iterative solution techniques. The methodologies described form the foundation for computational approaches to engineering systems involving heat transfer, solid mechanics, fluid dynamics, and electromagnetics. Computer assignments requiring programming.

16.930 Advanced Topics in Numerical Methods for Partial Differential Equations

Prereq: 16.920[J] Acad Year 2024-2025: G (Spring) Acad Year 2025-2026: Not offered 3-0-9 units

Covers advanced topics in numerical methods for the discretization, solution, and control of problems governed by partial differential equations. Topics include the application of the finite element method to systems of equations with emphasis on equations governing compressible, viscous flows; grid generation; optimal control of PDE-constrained systems; a posteriori error estimation and adaptivity; reduced basis approximations and reduced-order modeling. Computer assignments require programming.

16.940 Numerical Methods for Stochastic Modeling and Inference

Prereq: ( 6.3702 and 16.920[J] ) or permission of instructor Acad Year 2024-2025: Not offered Acad Year 2025-2026: G (Fall) 3-0-9 units

Advanced introduction to numerical methods for treating uncertainty in computational simulation. Draws examples from a range of engineering and science applications, emphasizing systems governed by ordinary and partial differential equations. Uncertainty propagation and assessment: Monte Carlo methods, variance reduction, sensitivity analysis, adjoint methods, polynomial chaos and Karhunen-Loève expansions, and stochastic Galerkin and collocation methods. Interaction of models with observational data, from the perspective of statistical inference: Bayesian parameter estimation, statistical regularization, Markov chain Monte Carlo, sequential data assimilation and filtering, and model selection.

Other Graduate Subjects

16.thg graduate thesis.

Prereq: Permission of department G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer) Units arranged Can be repeated for credit.

Program of research leading to an SM, EAA, PhD, or ScD thesis; to be arranged by the student with an appropriate MIT faculty member, who becomes thesis advisor. Restricted to students who have been admitted into the department.

16.971 Practicum Experience

Prereq: None G (Fall, IAP, Spring, Summer) Units arranged [P/D/F] Can be repeated for credit.

For Course 16 students participating in curriculum-related off-campus experiences in aerospace engineering and related areas. Before enrolling, a student must have an offer from a company or organization; must identify an appropriate advisor in the AeroAstro department who, along with the off-campus advisor, evaluate the student's work; and must receive prior approval from the AeroAstro department. At the conclusion of the training, the student submits a substantive final report for review and approval by the MIT advisor. Can be taken for up to 3 units. Contact the AeroAstro Graduate Office for details on procedures and restrictions.

Consult B.Marois

16.980 Advanced Project

Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Fall, Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department Units arranged Can be repeated for credit.

Study, original investigation, or lab project work level by qualified students. Topics selected in consultation with instructor. Prior approval required.

16.981 Advanced Project

Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Fall, IAP, Spring) Units arranged Can be repeated for credit.

Study, original investigation, or lab project work by qualified students. Topics selected in consultation with instructor. Prior approval required.

16.984 Seminar

Prereq: None G (Fall, IAP, Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department 2-0-0 units Can be repeated for credit.

Discussion of current interest topics by staff and guest speakers. Prior approval required. Restricted to Course 16 students.

16.985[J] Global Operations Leadership Seminar

Same subject as 2.890[J] , 10.792[J] , 15.792[J] Prereq: None G (Fall, Spring) 2-0-0 units Can be repeated for credit.

See description under subject 15.792[J] . Preference to LGO students.

16.990[J] Leading Creative Teams

Same subject as 6.9280[J] , 15.674[J] Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Fall, Spring) 3-0-6 units

See description under subject 6.9280[J] . Enrollment limited.

16.995 Doctoral Research and Communication Seminar

Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Fall, Spring) 2-0-1 units

Presents fundamental concepts of technical communication. Addresses how to articulate a research problem, as well as the communication skills necessary to reach different audiences. The primary focus is on technical presentations, but includes aspects of written communication. Students give two technical talks during the term, and provide oral and written feedback to each other. Enrollment may be limited.

16.997 How To Do Excellent Research

Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Fall) Not offered regularly; consult department 1-0-2 units

Presents and discusses skills valuable for starting research in the department, including time management; reading, reviewing, and writing technical papers; how to network in a research setting, how to be effective in a research group, and how to get good mentoring. In-class peer review is expected. Students write a final paper on one or more of the class topics. Enrollment is limited.

D. E. Hastings

16.999 Teaching in Aeronautics and Astronautics

Prereq: None G (Fall, Spring) Units arranged Can be repeated for credit.

For qualified students interested in gaining teaching experience. Classroom, tutorial, or laboratory teaching under the supervision of a faculty member. Enrollment limited by availability of suitable teaching assignments. Consult department.

16.S198 Advanced Special Subject in Mechanics and Physics of Fluids

Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Fall, Spring; second half of term) Not offered regularly; consult department Units arranged Can be repeated for credit.

Organized lecture or laboratory subject consisting of material not available in regularly scheduled fluids subjects. Prior approval required.

16.S199 Advanced Special Subject in Mechanics and Physics of Fluids

16.s298 advanced special subject in materials and structures.

Organized lecture or laboratory subject consisting of material not available in regularly scheduled materials and structures subjects. Prior approval required.

16.S299 Advanced Special Subject in Materials and Structures

Consult B. L. Wardle

16.S398 Advanced Special Subject in Information and Control

Organized lecture or laboratory subject consisting of material not available in regularly scheduled subjects. Prior approval required.

16.S399 Advanced Special Subject in Information and Control

16.s498 advanced special subject in humans and automation, 16.s499 advanced special subject in humans and automation, 16.s598 advanced special subject in propulsion and energy conversion, 16.s599 advanced special subject in propulsion and energy conversion, 16.s798 advanced special subject in flight transportation, 16.s799 advanced special subject in flight transportation, 16.s811 advanced manufacturing for aerospace engineers (new).

Prereq: 16.001 , 16.002 , 16.003 , and 16.004 U (Fall) 3-3-6 units. Institute LAB

Focuses on design, fabrication, and test of a high-speed rotating machine using advanced manufacturing modalities, subject to constraints on time, cost, and schedule. Emphasizes key principles of manufacturing and machine design, system integration, implementation, and performance verification using methods of experimental inquiry. Students refine subsystem designs and fabricate working prototypes. Includes component integration into the full system with detailed analysis and operation of the complete device in the laboratory, as well as experimental analysis of subsystem performance, comparison with physical models of performance and design goals, and formal review of the overall system design. Provides extensive instruction in written, graphical, and oral communication. Licensed for academic year 2024-25 by the Committee on Curricula. Enrollment limited. Preference given to Course 16 majors.

Z. C. Cordero, Z. S. Spakovszky

16.S890 Advanced Special Subject in Aerospace Systems

Prereq: Permission of instructor G (IAP; partial term) Units arranged [P/D/F] Can be repeated for credit.

M. A. Stuppard

16.S893 Advanced Special Subject in Aerospace Systems

Prereq: None G (Fall, IAP, Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department Units arranged [P/D/F] Can be repeated for credit.

16.S896 Advanced Special Subject in Aerospace Systems

Consult Consult: M. A. Stuppard

16.S897 Advanced Special Subject in Aerospace Systems

Prereq: Permission of instructor G (Fall, Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department Units arranged

16.S898 Advanced Special Subject in Aerospace Systems

Consult D. Miller

16.S899 Advanced Special Subject in Aerospace Systems

16.s948 advanced special subject in computation, 16.s949 advanced special subject in computation, 16.s982 advanced special subject.

Prereq: Permission of department G (Fall, IAP, Spring) Not offered regularly; consult department Units arranged Can be repeated for credit.

16.S983 Advanced Special Subject

16.s987 special subject (new).

O. L. de Weck, Staff

16.S988 Special Subject (New)

O. de Weck, Staff

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