<p>BigAarts, I work in a large research and development division within a major aerospace company, so that could account for our differences in perspective. Within MechE, we have 7 different departments…only one of which is “design” (actually, we have two “design” departments…structures and precision mechanical)…the other departments are largely analytical like you are talking about (similar to aero). All the more analytically-oriented departments pretty much require advanced degrees. Serious aero research at our company will require an advanced degree. Hence, a BS in aero as a terminal degree would actually be more limiting than an BS in MechE. Since a BS in MechE (with aero electives) is perfectly acceptable for admission into an aero grad school, I believe my original advice has merit, since, should the OP not want to pursue grad school, I believe the MechE would be somewhat more flexible across a range of industries and not limit him in aerospace (your experience to the contrary noted).</p>