Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Georgia Tech's aerospace engineering program launches graduates into strong careers with starting salaries nearly $80,000—about 10% above the national median for the major. The debt load of $22,750 translates to a ratio of 0.29, meaning graduates earn nearly four times their debt in the first year alone. That's a solid foundation, especially considering this is the only aerospace engineering program in Georgia, giving it a natural monopoly on in-state talent development for the aerospace industry.

What's particularly encouraging is the earnings trajectory. While some engineering programs see graduates plateau or even decline after a few years, Georgia Tech aerospace majors see steady growth to $90,670 by year four—a 14% increase that suggests employers value their training over time. The 93rd percentile national ranking confirms this program competes with elite aerospace schools across the country, even though it sits at the median when compared only within Georgia (which makes sense given it's the sole in-state option).

The 16% admission rate signals you're looking at a highly selective program that attracts top students, but if your child can get in, the investment math works cleanly. This is the rare combination of prestigious name, reasonable debt, and strong earning power that justifies the competitive admissions process. For families paying in-state tuition, it's an especially good deal.