Applied Aviation Technology

The BS in Applied Aviation Technology offers a strong applied technology focus for a career that supports many aspects of the aviation/aerospace industry.  Students will learn to operate Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) in the National Airspace System (NAS) in addition to applying technology solutions to a wide range of management and flight operations issues.  

What You Will Learn

• An understanding of the impact of aviation and technology within societal and global contexts
• An ability to apply techniques, skills, and modern aviation tools to a wide range of aviation, aerospace, and flight operations
• An ability to function on a multi-disciplinary team
• An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science and aerodynamic principles to ensure safe and efficient aerospace operations
• An ability to accurately analyze and interpret data to solve a variety of problems
• An ability to recognize and apply ethical and professional excellence for responsible decision making
• An ability to communicate effectively with precision and clarity within aviation and related industries
• An ability to recognize the need for and engage in lifelong learning
• Knowledge of contemporary aviation/aerospace industry issues
• Students will demonstrate knowledge of business applications relating to the management of technology issues

Program of Study

The Applied Aviation Technology major includes a set of Aviation Core courses, technology courses and program electives.  Students will understand regulations, industry and social implications, and components for successful UAS operations.  Students will complete hands-on training in UAV design including electrical systems, avionics and optical equipment.  All students will experience actual and simulated hands-on flight of UAV small aircraft systems.

Schedule a visit today! Tour the University campus and Flight Operations Center at the Dubuque Regional Airport. Speak with our professors about career paths in aviation and meet our friendly staff. We can't wait to share our passion for aviation.

Program Assessment

The Aviation Department uses an annual (Academic Year) process to look formally at an outcome or set of outcomes. Plans are developed in August, lead faculty for each outcome are assigned, interim reviews are conducted in January, draft reports are due in June, and final reports are due no later than October.

We collect signature data from a minimum of one course per learning outcome. The Aviation Department uses external and internal assessments to identify areas of weakness and where possible areas of interest. When shortcomings are determined, plans are developed and resources are gathered to address these issues.

Minutes are the primary set of evidence indicating future actions. Formal assessments do result in plans to address shortcomings as well as to take no action when the process provides validation.

The following departments and committees participate in assessment of outcomes. Identified program recommendations are followed up with syllabi changes, course flow adjustments, and program development to address short comings.

• The Curriculum Committee and Core Committee
• Assessment Committee

Careers in Aviation Technology

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) is an emerging and dynamic field in the aviation industry.  Their primary use is in military applications however there is growing demand in areas of agriculture, first response and law enforcement, delivery services, real estate, oil and gas, and telecommunications.  Segments of the military have switched to the RPA (remotely piloted aircraft) platform, utilizing operational skills of flight from outside the cockpit.  The FAA passed Part 107 regulations for UAS operations which will integrate UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) into the NAS (National Airspace).  In the next decade, we should see 70,000 new jobs according to a AUVSI economic impact study conducted in 2013.  

Bachelor of Science Opportunities

An aviation student with a bachelor of science in applied aviation technology is prepared to enter almost any position within flight management and flight operations within the aviation industry. The aviation department provides students with the professional skills that allow for success in all segments of the aviation industry while enhancing their critical thinking and decision making skills. Accordingly, an aviation student is well-qualified and comes with the experiences to enter most entry level positions within the aviation industry. 

Post-graduate Opportunities

The Aviation Program provides the educational and experiential base not only for entry-level management but also as a foundation to build a career through graduate level study in the aviation industry. The University of Dubuque Aviation Department encourages all of our graduates to strive for higher levels of experience and education, to advance the students capacity to enhance the quality of their education and experience in serving the aviation industry. Most of our graduates have gone on to complete advanced level training in flight operations, and for some this has included pursuing post-graduate degrees.