Re:Ask HN: Your thoughts on returning to college to “refresh...
by davidzweig on Sunday October 08, 2017 @10:32PM
(#15431216)
Fluid dynamics is only a part of an aerospace degree, I'm not sure studying materials science, control systems, or air traffic rules would help much in writing a CFD program. A couple of courses in fluid dynamics, one in thermodynamics, and a course like this would get you started: http://www.nptelvideos.in/2012/11/foundation-of-scientific-c...
Engineering Mathematics I and II (Stroud) are really nice self-study books.
OP, your aspiration is possible but difficult. CFD is a rarefied field of heads-down, highly quantitative minds. If you were outstanding at math in HS then I say go for it. Going back to undergrad isn't a bad idea. You'd be a non-traditional student, but I knew a few of those when I was in undergrad who did well. You should be pretty comfortable in math through vector calculus and linear algebra; if you're really struggling, you might want to reconsider paths. You have to be ready for 3-4 years of hardcore aerospace engineering and math courses, which could be a tough transition. Good luck.