What are the best small colleges for aerospace engineering?

I'm interested in aerospace engineering but prefer smaller campus environments. Can anyone recommend some of the best small colleges that offer strong aerospace engineering programs?

Certainly! It's great that you've identified your favored field of study, which is often considered quite specialized. Here are a few smaller institutions known for their reputable Aerospace Engineering programs:

1. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Prescott, AZ and Daytona Beach, FL campuses): Embry-Riddle is one of the top known institutions for aeronautical and aerospace engineering and has small class sizes that promote a tight-knit community.

2. Cooper Union (New York City, NY): Although it doesn’t specifically have an Aerospace Engineering major, its strong Mechanical Engineering program is designed so that students can go on to pursue careers in Aerospace if they so desire.

3. Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI - Worcester, MA): This is a polytechnic university that offers Aerospace Engineering and is on the smaller side in terms of student enrollment (around 5,500 students in recent years).

4. Santa Clara University (Santa Clara, CA): SCU's School of Engineering offers an Aerospace Engineering minor and is a smaller campus in terms of student size, especially compared to other institutions in the Bay Area. Do be aware that, since there is only a minor available, you would need to focus your main studies on some other field, potentially also within engineering, and pursue your work in Aerospace Engineering specifically on the side.

5. University of Colorado at Boulder (CU Boulder): While not as small as the others mentioned, CU Boulder is exceptionally strong in Aerospace and has a smaller, more intimate feel within its Aerospace Engineering department in particular.

Remember, these are just a few examples and there might be others out there that suit your needs better. You should consider visiting these colleges (if possible) or exploring their websites to get a feel of the campus life and academic rigor. You should also look at what kind of research opportunities, internships, and job placements these schools offer for their aerospace programs. Good luck with your college search!