The science of flight, aircraft design and aviation systems come together in a degree focused on the technical and operational side of aviation.
Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»’s B.S. in aeronautical science builds a strong foundation in aeronautical technology, aviation systems and safety—and in the mathematics and physics behind them.
You’ll use the same software and tools as industry professionals while developing the technical skills and regulatory knowledge to launch a career in flight operations, air traffic management, aviation safety, training or research.
Specialized options let you prepare for targeted roles in:
Whatever your career goals, you will graduate with the skills, versatility and professional insight to stand out in the aviation industry and beyond.
Specialize in air traffic control and graduate ready for the FAA selection process. The ATC specialization meets the requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program.
Students in this specialization earn an A.A. degree in air traffic control along with their bachelor's degree. They qualify to bypass the FAA Air Traffic Basics course, starting instead as trainees at the FAA Academy before advancing into tower, terminal or en route facilities as an air traffic controller.
Your aeronautical science degree enhances your career flexibility with insight into flight operations, navigation systems and aviation safety. This background is valuable for roles in airline operations, airport management, aviation safety and training, opening doors beyond traditional ATC positions.
Prepare to step confidently into airline operations by specializing in aircraft dispatch.
The program builds essential aviation knowledge, and a special airline operations course—as an elective or as part of the Aircraft Dispatcher Minor—prepares you for FAA dispatcher certification exams.
Typical early-career positions in dispatch include assistant dispatcher, flight operations specialist or operations control coordinator, where you help plan flights, monitor real-time operations and ensure regulatory compliance.
The broader aeronautical science curriculum adds depth in aircraft performance, meteorology and systems knowledge, giving you an edge in advancing to senior dispatcher, operations supervisor or airline management roles.
Specializing in UAS prepares you to operate and manage drones across commercial, research and government applications.
Your degree coursework will give you the background knowledge you need, and UAS flight training is offered as an elective or as part of the UAS Minor.
Entry-level roles include UAS pilot, operations technician, remote sensing analyst or field technician in industries such as agriculture, construction, environmental science and aerial surveying.
The strong foundation in airspace, flight systems and aviation safety you get in the aeronautical science program supports career growth into mission planning, data analysis or UAS program management—and emerging sectors like autonomous aerial systems and drone delivery operations.
At Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³», you’ll learn from world-class faculty in a close-knit academic community.
Our professors are experts across aviation—from aviation law and safety to avionics, environmental science, airport consulting, airline and general aviation management, human factors, meteorology and air traffic control. They are active in research, experienced in the industry and dedicated to helping you reach your goals.
As part of a leading STEM university, you’ll benefit from connections across science, technology, engineering and math—fields that drive innovation in aviation.
This integrated environment provides a deeper technical perspective and the personal guidance of faculty who are passionate about preparing the next generation of aviation professionals.
Most of your classes take place in Skurla Hall, home to advanced computer labs where you’ll work on projects in airport design, planning and other aviation applications. In the Air Traffic Control Lab, you’ll apply what you learn through real-world scenarios in a simulated control tower environment.
Faculty and students often collaborate on projects that bridge coursework and research, turning classroom learning into practical experience.
You’ll have access to the Emil Buehler Center for Aviation Training and Research at the Melbourne Orlando International Airport, where you can observe flight operations and training activities.
Unmanned systems are central to today’s industry, and you can explore them firsthand in the UAS Lab at the Enterprise Building next to the airport.
At Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³», you’ll turn ideas into action through collaborative, interdisciplinary, real-world research.
Undergraduates engage in team projects that tackle aviation challenges—from human factors and UAS operations to environmental science and aviation management—gaining skills that carry directly into careers.
Students often have opportunities to work in cutting-edge labs alongside faculty, including:
ATLAS Lab: Applying findings on learning and human interaction to pilots, urban air mobility and UAS training.
HF ASSIST Lab: Investigating human factors to improve aviation safety and performance.
PEGASAS: Exploring topics such as runway safety, rotorcraft data systems and other innovations in general aviation. Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³» is a core university in PEGASAS, the Partnership to Enhance General Aviation Safety, Accessibility and Sustainability—an FAA Center of Excellence for General Aviation.
Research and internships go hand in hand. Faculty mentorship, hands-on projects and industry collaborations help you build experience, expand your professional network and prepare for aviation roles after graduation.
Internships play a crucial role in launching your career in aeronautics, providing valuable hands-on experience that complements your academic studies.
Aeronautical science internships offer opportunities to apply what you've learned in the classroom and lab to real-world settings, working alongside industry professionals at leading airlines and aviation organizations such as JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines and Melbourne Orlando International Airport.
Through internships you will acquire specialized firsthand knowledge in airline operations, airport management and the business of aviation. These opportunities expand your industry connections and may even lead to job offers upon graduation.
Our 130-acre campus is located in a high-tech corridor on the Space Coast—NASA-Kennedy Space Center on Cape Canaveral is just north of us—and many high-tech corporations and government and military organizations are located nearby.
Our location provides an abundance of internship and employment opportunities for our students, ideal for immersion in aeronautical science.
When it’s time to relax, Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³» is just over the causeway from the Atlantic Ocean, with its 72 miles of beautiful beaches. We are minutes from the Indian River Lagoon, a highly biodiverse estuary, and it’s a short trip to the Florida Keys and the Orlando theme parks.
We also have a rich campus life that includes a wide range of intramural and , .
The B.S. in aeronautical science opens doors to a wide range of aviation careers, giving you the skills, industry insight and hands-on experience employers value. You’ll be ready to take on technical, operational and management roles from day one.
Jobs in aeronautical science include:
Graduates have launched careers with airlines, government agencies and companies such as:
While some paths may require additional certification or advanced study, the aeronautical science, B.S., provides a strong foundation for professional growth across the aviation industry.
Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»’s Career Services assists students, alumni and employers in their search for careers and employee candidates. We help students develop career plans and job-search skills. Explore our Career Toolbox to learn more about our services and access additional resources.
The , published by the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), provides information about specific jobs including median annual pay, working conditions and job outlook. Check the handbook for information on the outlook for aeronautical science-related careers.
After receiving their aeronautical science degree, many of our alumni pursue graduate degrees in specialties such as aviation human factors, aviation safety and airport development and management, including:
The Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science is career focused and well-rounded—and immerses you in aeronautics right from the start.
Foundational courses in aerodynamics, aviation physical science and the National Airspace System will give you a strong understanding of how aircraft operate and how the air transportation network functions.
From there, you’ll delve into topics such as air traffic control, aviation law, security, systems safety, UAS, human factors and environmental considerations in aviation.
This combination of technical, operational and management-focused coursework is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a wide range of careers across the aviation industry.
Classes include:
At Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³», we prepare you to become a true aviation professional. Our program gives you the skills, confidence and real-world experience that employers value.
Work on projects that mirror industry challenges, engage in research that advances aviation knowledge, and complete internships with leading airlines and organizations such as JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines and Melbourne Orlando International Airport. These experiences provide practical exposure to aviation operations and management while helping you build industry connections that can lead to job opportunities.
Sharpen your focus and expand your opportunities with specialized focus in UAS, air traffic control or flight dispatch, preparing you for targeted roles while maintaining a broad understanding of aviation operations.
Take a dedicated aviation career planning course that guides you through career paths, professional development, certification requirements and key industry organizations. Faculty and staff provide personal mentorship throughout your degree, helping you map your path and achieve your goals.
Learn more about Aeronautical Science at Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³» on the website.
Aeronautical science majors at Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³» can gain leadership and professional experience through a variety of student organizations, honor societies and . Options include:
Beyond these professional and academic groups, there are over where you can explore your interests, make friends and have fun.
The Aeronautical Science and Aeronautical Science-Flight programs are accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI) through 2027. Visit the College of Aeronautics Accreditation and Memberships page to learn more about the following Student Achievement Data: