BS Aviation Management in Air Traffic Control

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Jacksonville University

Program Overview

The BS in Aviation Management with an Air Traffic Control track at Jacksonville University is a four-year, on-campus program designed to prepare students for careers as air traffic controllers and aviation managers. The program is part of the FAA’s prestigious Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI), making JU one of only 31 universities in the U.S. selected for this pathway. The curriculum combines technical air traffic control training with a strong business core, ensuring graduates are equipped for both operational and leadership roles in the aviation industry. Upon completion, students are eligible to take the FAA Air Traffic Selection and Training (AT-SAT) Exam and, if successful, are recommended for employment and further training at the FAA Academy.

Curriculum structure:

  • Year 1: You’ll begin with foundational courses such as AVM 102 Aviation Management and Weather, general education requirements in communication and mathematics, and introductory business courses.

  • Year 2: You’ll progress to core modules including AVM 301 Aviation History and Development, AVM 302 Aviation Economics, AVM 304 Aviation Legislation, and business courses such as Principles of Management and Principles of Marketing.

  • Year 3: You’ll take specialised air traffic control courses, including Air Traffic Control I, Air Traffic Control II, and Air Traffic Control Lab. Additional modules cover aviation safety, aviation transport system environment, and crew resource management.

  • Year 4: In your final year, you’ll complete advanced air traffic control simulations, participate in an aviation internship, and undertake a capstone project. Business electives and leadership courses round out your studies, preparing you for both technical and managerial roles.

Focus areas: Air traffic control operations, aviation safety, aviation law and regulation, business management, aviation transport systems, crew resource management, and leadership.

Learning outcomes: Graduates are prepared to direct and control air traffic within U.S. airspace, manage aviation operations, and lead teams in both government and private aviation sectors. They gain technical proficiency, regulatory knowledge, and strong business skills.

Professional alignment (accreditation): Accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI) and recognised by the FAA as part of the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI), providing a direct pathway to FAA employment.

Reputation (employability rankings): Jacksonville University’s Air Traffic Control track boasts a nearly 100% employment rate for graduates, with strong industry and government partnerships and a record of successful FAA placements.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Jacksonville University, the Air Traffic Control (ATC) track is designed to give you direct, industry-aligned experience in air traffic management, combining technical ATC training with a strong business foundation. The program is one of only 31 in the U.S. selected by the FAA for the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI), ensuring your education meets the highest federal standards for air traffic controller preparation.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical skills and professional exposure:

  • FAA Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI): Jacksonville University is an FAA-selected AT-CTI partner, giving you priority consideration for FAA hiring after graduation and completion of the AT-SAT exam.

  • Air Traffic Control Simulation Labs: Coursework includes simulation-based training that mirrors real-world ATC environments, teaching you to direct and control air traffic in U.S. airspace using industry-standard tools and procedures.

  • Craig Municipal Airport Proximity: The campus is minutes from Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport (KCRG), providing opportunities for site visits, observation, and interaction with working air traffic professionals.

  • Internships & Shadowing: Signature internships and job-shadowing opportunities with air traffic control agencies and aviation companies are integrated into the program, offering hands-on experience and professional networking.

  • Business Core Integration: The curriculum includes accounting, economics, finance, management, and marketing, ensuring you graduate with the business acumen needed for leadership roles in ATC and aviation management.

  • FAA AT-SAT Exam Preparation: After completing the required courses, you are eligible to take the FAA’s Air Traffic Selection and Training (AT-SAT) exam, a key step toward employment as an air traffic controller.

  • Industry-Experienced Faculty: Learn from instructors with direct ATC and aviation industry backgrounds, providing mentorship and real-world insights.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Jacksonville University’s BS in Aviation Management with an Air Traffic Control (ATC) track are prepared for careers as FAA-certified air traffic controllers, airspace managers, and aviation safety specialists. This program combines rigorous technical ATC training with a strong business foundation, preparing you for a stable, well-compensated government career directing and controlling U.S. airspace.

Here’s how Jacksonville University supports your future:

  • University Services for Career Success: JU is one of only 31 U.S. universities selected by the FAA to offer the Collegiate Training Initiative (CTI) Air Traffic Control program. Students in the ATC track receive specialised coursework and training that qualify them to take the FAA Air Traffic Selection and Training (AT-SAT) exam. Personalised academic advising, career fairs, and internship opportunities with FAA facilities and regional airports help you gain practical experience and prepare for FAA employment.

  • Employment Stats & Salary Figures: Upon graduation and successful completion of FAA Academy training, students are recommended for FAA employment with priority hiring status. Air traffic controllers enjoy stable government jobs with excellent benefits and median salaries typically above $130,000 annually.

  • University–Industry Partnerships: The program maintains strong ties with the FAA and regional air traffic control facilities, providing students with internships, shadowing opportunities, and direct career pathways. Partnerships with airlines and airports also offer exposure to broader aviation operations.

  • Long-Term Accreditation Value: The Aviation Management program, including the ATC track, is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI), ensuring your degree meets rigorous industry and academic standards recognised worldwide.

  • Graduation Outcomes: You’ll complete courses such as Aviation Transport System Environment, Strategic Airport Planning & Management, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems alongside specialised ATC training. Completion of the program allows you to sit for the FAA AT-SAT exam and positions you for FAA Academy training and employment recommendation.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your BS in Aviation Management with an Air Traffic Control focus at Jacksonville University, you’ll be prepared to pursue advanced certifications or graduate studies in aviation leadership or management. You can also advance into supervisory or administrative roles within the FAA or other aviation agencies, leveraging JU’s strong industry connections and comprehensive business and technical training.

Program Key Stats

$48,500
$ 30
Aug Intake : 1st Jun


54 %
No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

ABB - BBB
3.0 - 3.5
26 - 30
70 - 75

1110 - 1270
24 - 28
6.5
79

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Air Traffic Controller
  • Airspace Systems Specialist
  • Air Traffic Operations Supervisor
  • Aviation Safety Specialist
  • Airport Operations Coordinator
  • Aviation Business Analyst
  • Aviation Operations Manager
  • Regulatory Compliance Specialist
  • Flight Dispatcher
  • Aviation Consultant

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