Best Aerospace Engineering Programs in Everett Washington

Key Takeaways

• Everett, Washington sits at the heart of one of the largest aerospace hubs in the world, home to Boeing’s widebody manufacturing facility.
• While Everett has limited standalone aerospace degree programs, several high-quality engineering pathways exist through Everett-based campuses and nearby universities.
• Top options include Washington State University Everett, University of Washington Seattle, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide (Seattle), and Everett Community College transfer programs.
• Accreditation, internship access, Boeing pipelines, and transfer agreements are essential decision factors.
• Students can build strong aerospace careers locally through strategic bachelor’s and transfer pathways.

Why Study Aerospace Engineering in Everett, Washington?

Everett is not just another city in Washington. It is home to Boeing’s largest manufacturing complex, where models like the 747, 767, 777, and 787 have been assembled. The region offers unparalleled access to:

• Major aerospace employers including Boeing and aerospace suppliers
• Engineering internships and co-op opportunities
• STEM networking events and professional associations
• A strong advanced manufacturing ecosystem

Although comparatively few universities operate full aerospace engineering departments inside Everett city limits, the surrounding Puget Sound region provides nationally ranked programs within commuting distance.

Best Aerospace Engineering Programs Near Everett, WA

1. University of Washington (Seattle) – Aeronautics & Astronautics

Location: Seattle, WA (approximately 30 miles from Everett)
Degree Levels: BS, MS, PhD
Accreditation: ABET-accredited

The University of Washington consistently ranks among the top public engineering schools in the United States. Its Department of Aeronautics & Astronautics offers:

• Comprehensive aerospace curriculum covering structures, propulsion, controls, and space systems
• Access to advanced research labs and flight simulation facilities
• Strong partnerships with Boeing and regional aerospace employers
• Undergraduate research and capstone design opportunities

This is the strongest academic aerospace option within commuting distance of Everett. Graduates frequently transition into engineering roles at Boeing, Blue Origin, SpaceX, and defense contractors.

Best For:

Students seeking a traditional, research-intensive aerospace engineering degree with strong industry placement.

2. Washington State University Everett – Mechanical Engineering (Aerospace Pathway)

Location: Everett, WA
Degree Level: BS in Mechanical Engineering
Accreditation: ABET-accredited

WSU Everett offers an engineering program designed specifically around regional industry needs. While it does not offer a dedicated aerospace engineering major, its Mechanical Engineering degree includes aerospace-relevant coursework in:

• Thermodynamics
• Fluid mechanics
• Structural analysis
• Materials engineering
• Advanced manufacturing

The campus was developed in collaboration with Boeing and other regional employers. Students benefit from smaller class sizes and direct alignment with aerospace manufacturing in Snohomish County.

Best For:

Students who want to remain in Everett and pursue aerospace careers through a mechanical engineering pathway.

3. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide – Seattle Campus

Location: Seattle area
Degree Levels: BS, MS options
Accreditation: Institutionally accredited; aerospace industry recognized

Embry-Riddle is globally known for aviation and aerospace education. Its Worldwide campus serving the Seattle region provides flexible learning for working professionals.

Programs often include:

• Aeronautics
• Aerospace engineering fundamentals
• Unmanned systems studies
• Aviation management

This option is especially appealing to Boeing employees or active-duty military students seeking advancement while working.

Best For:

Working professionals seeking flexible or hybrid aerospace education programs.

4. Everett Community College – Engineering Transfer Program

Location: Everett, WA
Degree: Associate of Science (AS-T) Engineering Transfer

Everett Community College offers one of the most affordable and strategic entry points into aerospace engineering. Through its transfer agreements with institutions such as University of Washington and Washington State University, students can:

• Complete foundational calculus, physics, and engineering courses
• Save significantly on tuition during first two years
• Transfer into ABET-accredited aerospace or mechanical engineering programs

For budget-conscious students, this pathway is often the most cost-effective route to a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering.

Best For:

Students seeking an affordable entry into competitive engineering programs.

Program Comparison: Aerospace Pathways Near Everett

InstitutionDistance from EverettDedicated Aerospace Degree?ABET AccreditedBest FeatureUniversity of Washington30 milesYesYesTop-ranked aerospace researchWSU EverettIn EverettNo (Mechanical)YesIndustry-aligned local campusEmbry-Riddle WorldwideSeattle RegionYesYes (program dependent)Flexible for working professionalsEverett Community CollegeIn EverettNo (Transfer)N/AAffordable transfer pathway

What to Look for in an Aerospace Engineering Program

1. ABET Accreditation

Accreditation from ABET ensures the program meets national engineering education standards. This is critical for professional engineering licensure and employer recognition.

2. Industry Partnerships

Proximity to Boeing and aerospace suppliers provides a tangible advantage. Seek programs offering:

• Internship pipelines
• Co-op programs
• Capstone projects with aerospace sponsors

3. Research and Lab Facilities

Top aerospace programs provide access to wind tunnels, propulsion labs, composites manufacturing facilities, and advanced simulation tools.

4. Career Outcomes

Strong programs publish job placement rates and employer lists. In the Everett region, aerospace engineering graduates commonly secure positions in:

• Aircraft design and manufacturing
• Systems engineering
• Structural analysis
• Defense contracting
• Space technology startups

Cost Considerations

Washington residents benefit from lower in-state tuition rates at public universities. Estimated annual tuition ranges:

• University of Washington (In-State): Approximately $12,000 to $14,000
• Washington State University: Comparable in-state rates
• Community College (EvCC): Significantly lower, often under $5,000 per year

Starting at a community college and transferring can reduce total bachelor’s degree costs substantially.

Local Advantage: Boeing and the Snohomish Aerospace Corridor

One major reason to study aerospace engineering in Everett is direct proximity to Boeing’s widebody production facility. Students often gain access to:

• Engineering internships
• Supplier facility tours
• Mentorship from aerospace professionals
• Entry-level engineering roles post-graduation

Few regions in the United States provide this level of real-world aerospace immersion within driving distance of campus.

Recommended Pathways Based on Student Goals

If You Want a Traditional Aerospace Degree

Enroll at the University of Washington and commute or relocate for a top-tier ABET-accredited aerospace engineering education.

If You Want to Stay in Everett

Pursue Mechanical Engineering at WSU Everett and specialize coursework toward aerospace applications.

If You Need Flexibility While Working

Consider Embry-Riddle Worldwide for industry-recognized and flexible aerospace-focused programs.

If Budget Is Your Primary Concern

Start at Everett Community College, complete your AS-T in Engineering, and transfer to a four-year university.

Career Outlook for Aerospace Engineers in Washington

Washington State consistently ranks among the top aerospace employment states in the country. According to federal labor data, aerospace engineers earn competitive salaries often exceeding $120,000 annually at mid-career.

Demand remains steady due to commercial aviation, defense contracts, advanced materials development, and emerging space technology companies operating throughout the Puget Sound region.

Frequently Asked Questions about Aerospace Engineering Programs near Everett, WA

Can you study aerospace engineering while living in Everett, Washington?

Yes. You can live in Everett and study aerospace-related programs through options like the University of Washington in Seattle, Washington State University Everett’s Mechanical Engineering degree, Embry-Riddle Worldwide in the Seattle area, and Everett Community College’s engineering transfer pathway.

Which schools near Everett offer the most direct aerospace engineering degree?

The University of Washington in Seattle offers a dedicated, ABET-accredited Aeronautics and Astronautics program. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide also offers aerospace-focused degrees in the Seattle region, often in flexible formats for working adults.

Is WSU Everett good for an aerospace career even without an aerospace major?

Yes. WSU Everett’s ABET-accredited Mechanical Engineering program includes courses in fluids, thermodynamics, structures, and materials that apply directly to aircraft and space systems. The campus was planned with local aerospace employers in mind, including Boeing.

How can you start at Everett Community College and end up in aerospace engineering?

You can earn an Associate of Science–Transfer (AS-T) in Engineering at Everett Community College, complete math, physics, and intro engineering courses, and then transfer into an ABET-accredited aerospace or mechanical engineering program at schools like the University of Washington or Washington State University.

Why is ABET accreditation important for aerospace engineering programs near Everett?

ABET accreditation shows that an engineering program meets national quality standards. It helps you qualify for Professional Engineer licensure, supports visa and credential reviews, and is valued by major aerospace employers such as Boeing and regional suppliers.

What are typical tuition costs for aerospace-related programs in Washington State?

For Washington residents, in-state tuition at public universities such as the University of Washington and Washington State University is often around $12,000–$14,000 per year. Everett Community College is usually under $5,000 per year, which can lower your total cost if you transfer after two years.