BS Aeronautics Air Traffic Management

If you want to launch a career as an air traffic controller, the University of North Dakota’s BS in Aeronautics with a major in Air Traffic Management is one of the most respected and technologically advanced programs in the world. UND’s program prepares you for the demands of the profession through rigorous academics, hands-on training, and state-of-the-art simulation facilities.

Here’s how UND builds your practical skills and experience:

• FAA-Endorsed Training: UND is an Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program partner, offering the same advanced curriculum and technology as the FAA Air Traffic Controller Academy. Graduates who meet all requirements and pass the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) can report directly to an FAA facility for training, bypassing the initial academy basics course.

• Advanced Simulation Labs: Train on the Adacel 360° MaxSim® ATC Tower/Radar System, featuring a 360° tower view and synchronised radar positions. You’ll also use the ATC Tower Radar Simulator System (TRSS), with a wrap-around virtual tower cab and simulated radar terminals, and the UFA ATC Radar Lab, the most modern 32-position radar simulation lab in the country.

• Specialised Coursework: Courses cover radar and tower operations, aviation safety management, meteorology, and more, ensuring you gain both broad-based aviation knowledge and specialised technical skills.

• Second Field of Study: You’ll pursue a required minor, aviation specialisation, or second major to broaden your expertise and career options.

• State-of-the-Art Simulators: Access to multiple advanced tower and radar simulators, including the Adacel 360° MaxSim® and the UFA ATC Radar Lab, giving you immersive, realistic training environments.

• Modern Classrooms and Labs: The John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences provides advanced classrooms, labs, and briefing rooms designed for professional air traffic management education.

• Largest Collegiate Aviation Fleet: While the focus is on air traffic management, you’ll benefit from UND’s extensive aviation infrastructure and resources, including exposure to the largest collegiate aircraft fleet in the country.

Graduates of the University of North Dakota’s BS in Aeronautics with a major in Air Traffic Management are ready to step into high-stakes, rewarding roles as air traffic controllers, tower and radar operators, aviation safety specialists, and airport operations managers. UND’s program is globally recognised for excellence, and you’ll be part of the next generation directing aircraft safely and efficiently through the National Airspace System.

Here’s how UND supports your future:

• Career Services: UND’s Aviation Department gives you access to the most advanced control tower and radar simulators in collegiate aviation, including the Adacel 360° MaxSim® ATC Tower/Radar System and the UFA ATC Radar Lab—the most modern 32-position radar simulation lab in the country. You’ll also benefit from a required secondary field of study, such as a minor or second major, to broaden your skills and marketability.

• Employment Stats: UND is now an Enhanced Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) school, meaning graduates can earn an official FAA endorsement and report directly to an FAA facility after passing the Air Traffic Skills Assessment and meeting medical/security requirements—bypassing additional introductory coursework at the FAA Academy.

• Industry Partnerships: The program is built in close collaboration with the FAA, and UND’s long-standing reputation means you’ll be learning with the same advanced technology and curriculum as the FAA Air Traffic Controller Academy. The university’s partnerships with airlines, government agencies, and industry leaders provide a direct link to employers and real-world experience.

• Accreditation: UND’s program is fully accredited and recognized by the FAA and industry worldwide, ensuring your degree is respected by employers across the US and internationally.

• Graduate Outcomes: You’ll master aviation fundamentals, radar and tower operations, safety management, and meteorology, graduating fully prepared for the technical and communication demands of air traffic control.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your BS in Aeronautics with a major in Air Traffic Management at UND, you’ll be well-prepared to pursue a master’s in aviation, aerospace management, or related fields. You’ll also be ready for advanced FAA certification or specialised training, all supported by UND’s industry-leading resources, faculty mentorship, and global alumni network.