PhDTaught in English

    PhD in Aerospace Science and Technology

    An English-taught, research-based doctoral program in one of NUAA's flagship disciplines, covering aircraft design, aerodynamics, flight dynamics and control, aerospace structures and propulsion, astronautics and helicopter technology. Doctoral candidates conduct independent research under NUAA supervisors in national key laboratories.

    Apply for September 2027Check if I qualify
    PhD in Aerospace Science and Technology
    4 yearsDuration
    EnglishTeaching Language
    CNY 37,800Tuition / year
    SeptIntake
    CNY 400Application Fee
    No entry testEntry Test

    Why study PhD in Aerospace Science and Technology at NUAA?

    NUAA was founded in 1952 to build China's aviation industry. Today its aerospace research ranks third in the world, and its graduates design the aircraft, drones and engines China flies.

    Why study PhD in Aerospace Science and Technology

    ESI Top 1%

    NUAA's engineering discipline ranks among the top 1% worldwide in ESI global rankings

    Double First-Class

    Aerospace Science and Technology is a national "Double First-Class" discipline at NUAA

    5 research units

    Supervision available across Aerospace Engineering, Energy & Power, Mechanical & Electrical, Astronautics and the Helicopter Research Institute

    National key labs

    Research in national key laboratories including the National Key Laboratory of Helicopter Aeromechanics

    Your four-year doctoral research journey

    Advanced coursework in the first year, followed by qualifying exams, a research proposal, independent research, publications and the doctoral dissertation defense.

    CORE · REQUIREDYEAR 1 — CORE COURSES
    Advanced Engineering Mathematics
    Numerical Methods & Computational Mechanics
    Advanced Aerodynamics
    Advanced Flight Dynamics & Control
    Research Methodology & Academic Writing
    Chinese Language & Culture
    ELECTIVE · Choose based on interestExplore subjects that match your interestsElective courses allow students to explore specialised topics beyond the required curriculum.
    Aerospace Structures & Composites
    Aircraft Propulsion Theory
    Spacecraft Dynamics
    Helicopter Aeromechanics

    Build practical Chinese skills alongside your degree

    Your program is taught in English, while Chinese language classes are included throughout your studies.

    YEAR 1Everyday ChineseBuild confidence for daily communication and campus life.
    YEAR 2Workplace ChineseLearn language for teamwork, presentations and professional situations.
    YEARS 3–4Professional ChineseDevelop communication skills for internships, engineering projects and future careers in China.

    Three paths after graduation

    Lead aerospace research

    Join universities and research institutes as a postdoctoral researcher or faculty member in aerospace engineering.

    Design next-generation aircraft

    Apply advanced expertise in aircraft, helicopter and UAV design at leading aerospace manufacturers.

    Shape space and propulsion technology

    Work on spacecraft, satellites and propulsion systems in national space agencies and industry.

    Cost & scholarships

    Clear first-year financial projection before starting your journey.

    Estimated first-year cost

    CNY ¥38,200

    *Includes tuition, mandatory fees & normal living standards in Nanjing

    Tuition¥37,800 / year
    Application fee¥400 (non-refundable)

    On-campus accommodation

    Annual accommodation cost

    Standard room
    DoubleCNY 4,000
    SingleCNY 8,000
    Large room
    DoubleCNY 7,000
    SingleCNY 14,000

    Scholarships

    Year 1: Choose one

    Priority for early applicants

    Full tuition fee for one year
    NUAA Fly-High Scholarship
    One-off award: CNY 10,000 (Bachelor's) or CNY 20,000 (Master's and PhD)
    Nanjing Government Scholarship
    Full tuition fee waiver
    Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)

    Year 2 onwards

    Apply again every year based on your results.

    One-off award: CNY 10,000 (Bachelor's) or CNY 20,000 (Master's and PhD)
    Nanjing Government Scholarship
    View all scholarships

    Check your eligibility

    Review the key entry criteria before starting your formal application. Our system helps pre-evaluate your eligibility in under 2 minutes.

    Check my eligibility now

    Takes approximately 2 minutes. Eligibility check powered by WiseAdmit.

    Entry requirements

    01

    Nationality & age

    Non-Chinese citizen with a valid passport · Under 40 years old · Good physical and mental health with no criminal record

    02

    Academic background

    Master's degree (or bachelor's degree) in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering or a related field · Strong academic record and research ability

    03

    English proficiency

    IELTS 6.0 or above, TOEFL 70 or above, or an equivalent English proficiency letter

    04

    Supervisor acceptance

    Acceptance letter from a NUAA doctoral supervisor and a study plan signed by the supervisor

    Documents list

    • Passport (scanned copy of photo page)
    • Notarized highest degree certificate (bachelor and master)
    • Notarized academic transcripts
    • NUAA Supervisor Acceptance Letter
    • Study plan signed by NUAA supervisor
    • Two recommendation letters from professors or associate professors
    • Physical Examination Record for Foreigner with blood test (within 6 months)
    • English proficiency certificate (IELTS/TOEFL)
    • Financial guarantee letter or bank statement
    • CSC application form (CSC applicants only)
    • Police Clearance Certificate
    How to apply

    Four steps to your offer

    01

    Choose your intake

    Pick the intake that fits you

    02

    Create your account

    Choose the programme you want to apply for.

    03

    Upload & pay

    Upload your documents and pay the CNY 400 mandatory, non-refundable application fee

    04

    Get your offer

    Admission letter and JW202 visa form by email

    Start your application

    On the next page, choose NUAA’s standard portal or guided application support from WiseAdmit.

    Frequently asked questions

    Find quick answers to key queries regarding living cost, scholarship applications, and course delivery

    Need custom assistance?

    Contact admission

    September 2027

    Ready to start your journey?

    Choose the intake that fits your situation and begin your NUAA application.

    Apply for September 2027

    Get the program brochure

    Receive the PhD in Aerospace Science and Technology brochure and an invitation to our weekly admissions webinar.

    ✓  Programme brochure (PDF)✓  Answers from admissions officers