Sinclair Community College
Academic Areas of Study

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Sinclair is moving to semesters for fall 2012. These pages reflect curriculum data as of Sinclair's 2011–2012 quarter-based academic year. In preparation for the transition, students are urged to consult an academic advisor before registering for a course or program.

Aviation Technology

Ready for New Heights… Aviation Technology Can Help You Take Flight!

Sinclair offers one of the most comprehensive aviation technology programs in the state and in the nation. Our programs build essential practical knowledge for professional pilots, flight attendants, flight dispatchers and air traffic controllers, aircraft mechanics, as well those who would like to learn more specifics in the field of airway science.

The aviation technology department’s pilot programs utilize outstanding simulation hardware. We also offer training with satellite tool kit software from Analytical Graphics, Inc., which provides you with state-of-the-art aerospace simulations and modeling tools for professional development, as well as personal interest.

This program might be for you if:

  • You would like to become a pilot or work in another aviation field.
  • You are interested in learning more about how airplanes work.
  • You are looking to gain hands-on experience in a challenging, high paying career path.
  • You desire to work in an industry that thrives in a variety of cities, states, and even countries.

There is a wealth of job prospects for graduates of aviation technology programs. The demand for major airline pilots is steadily increasing and the demand for general aviation positions are at an all-time high. The use of interstate commerce has increased the demand for cargo pilots. And, a shift in business travel from the major airlines to executive-size aircraft has created a new increase in the number of pilot jobs available. These changes in airline passenger and cargo traffic, along with an expected wave of retirements, will provide many job opportunities for new pilots and for flight instructors at all levels of the aviation industry.

Certificate Programs

One-year Technical Certificate

Airframe Aviation Maintenance

The Airframe Aviation Maintenance certificate will prepare the student with the Federal Aviation Administration knowledge and hours required for the FAA Airframe certificate. The subjects covered are welding, sheet metal, composites, fabric and wood structures, finishes, assembly and rigging, airframe electrical, cabin atmosphere control systems, instruments, communication, navigation, hydraulics, pneumatics, landing gear systems, position and warning, fuel systems, ice and rain, fire protection, and airframe inspections.

Interested in learning more about this certificate program?

General Aviation Maintenance

The General Aviation Maintenance certificate provides knowledge and skills for the general knowledge area required for FAA certification as an airframe and powerplant maintenance technician. Students will learn to apply mathematics and physics principles to practical aircraft maintenance problems, read and interpret aircraft drawings, conduct aircraft ground operations and servicing, interpret maintenance publications, understand maintenance technician responsibilities, understand FAA regulations, and perform weight and balance calculations.

Interested in learning more about this certificate program?

Powerplant Aviation Maintenance

The Powerplant Aviation Maintenance certificate will prepare the student with the knowledge and hours required for the Federal Aviation Administration s Powerplant certificate. The subjects covered include reciprocating and turbine engine operation theory, lubrication, powerplant electricity, ignition, starting, fire protection, auxiliary power units, engine instruments, induction, exhaust, cooling, fuel systems and fuel metering, propeller operation and overhaul, and powerplant inspection.

Interested in learning more about this certificate program?

Already know the program that is right for you?

Fill out an online admissions application to get started or visit the Sinclair Admissions Web site to find out more.

Short-term Technical Certificate

Aircraft Dispatcher

The Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate provides students with the theory and operating knowledge necessary to understand the policies, procedures, and means of compliance with the applicable Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) leading to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) aircraft dispatcher certification. The program develops the knowledge and skills required to enter a career in the aviation industry as an aircraft dispatcher. To that end, students explore aircraft performance, meteorology, crew resource management, air traffic control, advanced navigation, and airline operations which prepare the students for the FAA knowledge, oral and practical exams.

Interested in learning more about this certificate program?

Airline Flight Attendant

The Airline Flight Attendant certificate provides students with the basic theory of airline travel with an understanding of the policies, procedures, and means of compliance with the Federal Aviation Regulations. Students explore the business of air commerce and develop the skills of a travel professional. Includes exploration of communications, safety and security, air travel, customer service, airline operations, and crew resource management. This program develops the knowledge and skills required to serve as a flight attendant and to enter a career in the aviation industry.

Interested in learning more about this certificate program?

Unmanned Aerial Systems

This program prepares students for entry level positions as technicians in the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) industry by providing foundational knowledge and skill in UAS mission planning, decision making, and data management. Program content includes an introduction to the flight, history and theory of Unmanned Aerial Systems, as well as UAS avionics, UAS sensors, and UAS communications systems. Students will prepare for and conduct unmanned flights similar to those commonly performed in the industry. Students who complete the certificate will have a well-rounded basic knowledge of Unmanned Aerial Systems, which has been a focus of economic and infrastructure development efforts in the Dayton region and is expected to be an area of substantial job growth nationally throughout the decade.

Interested in learning more about this certificate program?

Already know the program that is right for you?

Fill out an online admissions application to get started or visit the Sinclair Admissions Web site to find out more.

Click here to view semester programs

Degree Programs

Associate of Applied Science - Aviation Technology

This is the primary degree in the Aviation Technology program which leads to an Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Technology. The student, having completed this course work, would have the background and skills to either continue towards a bachelor s degree in aviation science (or related field), or begin a career in the aviation field in various capacities.

Interested in learning more about this degree program?

Associate of Applied Science - Aviation Technology Maintenance Option

This option is designed for students who have completed Sinclair’s three Aviation Maintenance certificates, or hold Airframe and Powerplant certificates granted by the Federal Aviation Administration. This degree option can also be useful, without the maintenance certificates, for students who want to prepare for careers in aviation maintenance management.

Interested in learning more about this degree program?

Associate of Applied Science - Aviation Technology Professional Pilot & Airway Science

This option under the primary program is designed for students who want to pursue a career as a professional pilot. T he course and lab work prepare students for FAA pilot certifications. Students must meet minimum flight hour requirements and must pass FAA knowledge, oral, and flight exams.

Interested in learning more about this degree program?

Already know the program that is right for you?

Fill out an online admissions application to get started or visit the Sinclair Admissions Web site to find out more.

Transfer Opportunities

Make the most of your education by starting at Sinclair Community College. Our quality programs and low tuition make it a great place to start even if you intend to further your education beyond an associate degree or certificate. You would be surprised at the money you could save by completing your first two years of study at Sinclair—just take a look at our low tuition and see the savings for yourself. You can also learn more by visiting Sinclair’s Transfer Web site »

Articulation & Transfer Agreements

Sinclair works directly with many four-year schools in Ohio and beyond to ensure the college credit you earn will transfer easily to those schools. By developing articulation agreements, formal agreements between colleges detailing the recognition of college credit between the schools, you will know you are meeting the requirements needed at the four-year school of your choice. Learn more about articulation and transfer »

Aviation Technology Agreements

Sinclair Community College has worked to develop program-specific agreements to assist you in a more seamless process when transferring from a specific Sinclair degree program to a bachelor’s degree program in the same area of study.

Programs & Articulation Agreements

Aviation Technology, Associate of Applied Science
(Maintenance and Professional Pilot & Airway Science Options)

Articulation agreements are in place for transfer to:

  • Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
    (Professional Aeronautics)

Transferring Individual Classes

In addition to transferring with a degree, college credit for many courses, including many aviation program requirements, are accepted at other colleges and universities. Learn more about course equivalency »

General Agreements

While at Sinclair, if you plan to complete any associate degree program, there are agreements in place to help you easily transfer into a variety of bachelor’s degree completion programs.

Your transfer opportunities
may include:

  • Antioch University McGregor
  • Franklin University
  • Kaplan University
  • Ohio Dominican University
  • Ohio University
  • Purdue University
  • Strayer University
  • Wilberforce University
  • Wright State University
  • and more…

View articulation agreements »

Ohio Transfer Module

The Associate of Arts and the Associate of Science degree programs fulfill the requirements for the Ohio Transfer Module at other public colleges and universities. Students in applied associate degree programs may complete some individual transfer module courses within their degree program or continue beyond their program to complete the entire transfer module.

Upon completion of the Ohio Transfer Module, students will be able to enter most Ohio four-year colleges and universities as a junior with your general education requirements completed. Find out more about the Ohio Transfer Module…

Please Note: Sinclair continues to work with other colleges and universities to provide more opportunities through new articulation and transfer agreements. Please consult with an academic advisor for the most up-to-date information.

Related Programs

Sinclair Community College offers a wide variety of certificate and degree programs. With so many to choose from, we are sure that you can find a program that suits your needs. If you are interested in the aviation technology programs, you might also be interested in learning more about these programs at Sinclair: