AVIATION MAINTENANCE TECHNOLOGY

Aviation Maintenance

Aviation Maintenance Technology Programs (Part 147)

UAA's Aviation Maintenance Technology program is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as an aviation maintenance technician school under FAR Part 147.  Graduates from the airframe and powerplant programs are prepared to take FAA exams to become certificated aircraft mechanics and to begin careers as aviation maintenance professionals in general, corporate, or airlines settings, as well as positions with aerospace manufacturing.  (note: for individuals pursuing mechanic certification through on-the-job training, see page for UAA's MHEP program).  

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What does it mean to be an A&P mechanic?

    A&P stands for airframe and powerplant.  These are the ratings needed to be an aircraft mechanic.  The powerplant rating allows mechanics to repair and maintain turbine and reciprocating aircraft engines.  The airframe rating allows mechanics to repair and maintain anything on the body of an aircraft (basically everything but the engine).  

  • How can I become an A&P mechanic?

    Airframe and powerplant ratings can be earned through on-the-job training or by going through FAA approved training programs, like the one at UAA.  After completing on-the-job training or an approved curriculum, applicants will take three written tests (general, airframe & powerplant), followed by oral & practical exams with an FAA examiner.   

  • Which program should I apply to? 

    Despite having to apply to Airframe and Powerplant separately as two applications, both will be strongly recommended for entry into the program. Both Airframe and Powerplant courses are dually integrated into the daily schedule and at this time we are not able to cater to individual needs. 

    Students will finish coursework for one rating before the other, but must graduate to be eligible for the FAA qualifying exams. Students who are admitted should anticipate to test for the Powerplant certificate program first and the Airframe Certificate second. 

    We also encourage students to pursue an Associates of Applied Science degree (AAS) in Aircraft Maintenance Technology. For this degree, students will typically take 4-6 general education courses in addition to the curriculum for airframe and powerplant certificates. The AAS program is designed to be taken in addition to airframe and powerplant, and is optional. 

  • How long is the program, when are classes held, and how many classes would I take each semester? 

    The program takes 4 total semesters, 2 years to complete with courses only offered in the Spring or Fall semester. (Students pursuing the AAS program will likely take an additional semester). 

    Classes are typically held between 8:00-5:00 Monday-Thursday with one Friday class during the first block. Students should expect to be in eight total classes (w/ some being part-of-term) for a total of 15 credits each semester. 

    While there are no aviation maintenance classes during summer semesters, many students pursuing the associates degree will complete their general education requirements between school years. 

  • Can I transfer in credits from another program?

    On occasion we are able to accept certain credits from other schools.  However, because this program is regulated by the FAA and accreditation rules, transferring credits from another institution can be a very long process.  Students applying to use transfer credits must provide transcripts as well as detailed course descriptions for courses to be considered.  Most evaluations will be completed within 3-4 months.  

  • Do I need my own tools?   

    Students will need their own set of tools after the first semester.  Although tool costs will vary by brand, we recommend budgeting to spend $3000-5000 on your tool set.  Students will learn more about what kind of tools are required during their first semester.   

     

  • Are there limited seats in this program?

     YES! Due to the major being impacted, not every student that applies will get a seat in the program. 

  • What is the New Cohort system in AMT? 

     Every Fall and Spring semester the AMT program will accept up to 24 students each semester (some exceptions may apply). The cohort of students who will go on to take every course together over a 4 semester period until graduation.

  • How can I best be successful in the AMT program? 

    Due to the program being known to be intensive should you decide to work while attending school we recommend having a flexible and/or weekend job as all of the AMT courses take place during regular business hours. 

    We also recommend taking only AMT courses per semester and leaving any other general education courses for the summer semesters. 

    Additionally, because this is a hands-on, cohort-based learning experience attendance, participation, timeliness, and maturity will be pivotal for success in the classroom. 

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Aircraft Mechanics

Aircraft Inspectors