Aviation Maintenance Technology Degree

Associate of Applied Science: Aviation Maintenance Technology 

AAS Degree: 104 credits. Advising Guide

Career Description

The Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) Associate of Applied Science (AAS) prepares students to test for the Federal Aviation Administration A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) mechanic license. Students with an FAA A&P license may find employment as mechanics in the aviation industry with commercial airlines or at small regional airports. According to Boeing's Pilot & Technician Outlook report for the period of 2019-2038, 769,000 new maintenance technicians will be needed globally over the next 20 years and 193,000 within the U.S. alone. Currently, the number of mechanics retiring will outpace those entering the profession. The Bureau of Labor Statistics and Oregon Employment Department estimate current Oregon Aviation Maintenance jobs to be approximately 1,440 with a projected increase of 13% over the next eight years.

Course of Study

The Aviation Maintenance Technology AAS degree prepares students in the same FAA required skills as the Aviation Maintenance Technology two-year certificate. The AAS's additional 12 credits of general education courses strengthen students' options for transfer to four-year universities, where they may continue their education by earning a Bachelor’s or even Master’s degree and gain a competitive advantage in the aviation industry workforce. The Aviation Airframe, Aviation Powerplant and Aviation Maintenance Technology certificates are fully contained in the Aviation Maintenance Technology AAS degree and, as such, all coursework in these certificates may be applied to the completion of the AAS degree. Stackable certificates allow students to apply to take the FAA's General, Airframe and Powerplant licensure exams as each area of coursework is completed.

Program Outcomes

Students who successfully complete this degree will be able to:

1. Service, maintain, troubleshoot and repair airplanes and rotorcraft.
2. Perform proficient, entry-level aviation maintenance skills.
3. Apply knowledge of FAA regulations and industry standards.
4. Apply math and physics principles in solving problems associated with aviation maintenance.
5. Communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
6. Use critical thinking and problem solving skills to identify and resolve aviation maintenance issues.
7. Work effectively in a team and/or group setting.
8. Sit for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification exams (written, oral and practical) for the airframe and powerplant (A&P) airman certificate.

Prerequisites

• MTH 65 Beginning Algebra (4 credits) or equivalent placement
• WR 115 Introduction to Expository Writing (4 credits) or IRW 115 Critical Reading and Writing (5 credits) or equivalent placement.