The Associate of Applied Science in Applied Technology provides workplace-ready training in many of Pennsylvania’s high priority industries. This associate degree program is built on a unique model which permits you to complete field training while attending PennWest, or to transfer your certification or training previously received from other accredited institutions.
As a student, you will complete general education, technology and business courses while you develop analytical thinking skills and polish your ability to speak and write effectively. Working under the guidance of experienced faculty, you will learn computer applications, general management principles, production and operations management, project management, quality control, safety and health issues and statistics.
You may opt for a concentration in Aeronautical Science (Edinboro campus only), which offers specialized courses including flight and ground training to become a pilot, or complete more electives for the general Applied Technology associates degree.
Whatever your choice, you’ll graduate well-prepared to manage people and systems in technology-based industries, government agencies and non-profit organizations.
Credits: 60-63, Varies by concentration
Contact:
Lisa Kovalchick
Kovalchick@pennwest.edu
724-938-4146
For Aeronautical Science Concentration:
Korey Kilburn
kkilburn@pennwest.edu
814-732-1183
Choose to continue to work while you earn your degree on a part-time basis or attend classes full-time.
Transfer certification or field experience credits from another technical school.
Prepare for a high-paying, in-demand career as a professional pilot.
Help your career take flight with the concentration in Aeronautical Science. Working in collaboration with FAA-approved flight schools, PennWest University prepares you to fly aircraft for personal use and qualifies you to sit for the FAA pilot’s license examination.
You’ll gain broad knowledge through general education and major courses. The additional ground and flight training needed to prepare for a career in this high-demand field is provided by our flight school partners, including North Coast Flight School in Erie, Pa., and Prior Aviation Flight School in Buffalo, N.Y. (ground and flight training have additional associated costs). The training requirements may be satisfied if you have a current license or appropriate certification.
Your instruction will include principles of aircraft design and performance, aircraft flight systems and controls, flight crew operations and procedures, radio communications and navigation procedures and systems, airways safety and traffic regulations, and governmental rules and regulations pertaining to piloting aircraft.
Thanks to an accelerated 60-credit program, you’ll be able to complete all of your academic coursework and flight training in just 16 months. Upon completion, you’ll be prepared for a job as a commercial industry pilot (non-passenger), a private charter pilot or a flight instructor.
When you hold an Associate of Applied Science degree in Applied Technology, you'll be prepared for careers in engineering technology leadership in a variety of roles:
When you complete the Aeronautical Science concentration, you will be prepared to fill a growing need. According to Boeingmediaroom.com, Boeing projects a need for 635,000 commercial pilots and 96,000 business pilots worldwide by the year 2037. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for commercial pilots was $99,640 in May 2021.
PennWest’s three campuses, California, Clarion and Edinboro universities, have been delivering award-winning online programs for more than 20 years. You’ll graduate with a degree from Pennsylvania Western University, completely supported by the expertise and community of learners on our brick-and-mortar campuses.