2026-2027 General Catalog [Effective Fall 2026]
Department of Aviation Sciences
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Overview of Programs
Summary of Fields of Study
The Department of Aviation Sciences offers two specializations within the BS Aerospace/Aviation Sciences degree program (Fixed-Wing and Rotor-Wing), two specializations within the Aviation AAS degree program (Fixed-Wing and Rotor-Wing), an Aviation Maintenance Technician AAS degree program, and a BA/BS degree in Aviation Management. Specializations are also offered in undergraduate academic certificates in Aviation - Certified Flight Instructor Rating and Commercial Pilot Rating. These specializations may consist of rotor-wing (helicopter) pilot, fixed-wing (airplane) pilot, airframe, powerplant, and avionics and electronics.
Mission
The School of Aviation at Southern Utah University educates, trains, and inspires the next generation of aviation professionals through quality and safety-focused programs in flight, maintenance, and management. With focus on the core values of Safety First, Quality Instruction, and Leadership Development, the School empowers future leaders to support local, regional, and global aviation industries.
Vision
The School of Aviation at Southern Utah University will be recognized as a premier example of excellence in aviation education. Our flight, management, and maintenance programs empower students to lead safely, think critically, and serve globally. The School fosters a culture of lifelong commitment to excellence and leadership that elevates the aviation profession.
Department/Program Learning Outcomes
Assessment Criteria & Activities
Aviation Management (Bachelor of Arts/Science)
Mission Statement
The mission of the Bachelor of Arts/Science in Aviation Management program at Southern Utah University is to develop within graduates a comprehensive understanding of airport and aviation management principles including the operational, economic, and legal dimensions that shape modern aviation enterprises. Through quality instruction, highlighting safety containment and leadership skills, the program cultivates the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary for graduates to proactively manage aviation operations within diverse environments.
Program Educational Goals
The Bachelor of Arts/Science in Aviation Management program at Southern Utah University develops leaders for the aviation industry by providing a comprehensive education that integrates safety awareness, business acumen, and aviation-specific knowledge. Degree requirements will:
- Provide students with a strong foundation in business, safety management, and leadership principles applicable to aviation organizations and operations.
- Develop students’ ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, within professional aviation contexts.
- Enable students to interpret and apply knowledge about aviation regulations, industry standards, and safety information associated with global operational frameworks.
- Cultivate analytical and technical competencies necessary to evaluate aviation operations, safety systems, and human factors.
- Ensure students gain a broad understanding of the aviation industry including its economic, technological, and environmental dimensions.
- Foster ethical and professional business practices, decision-making skills, leadership capabilities, teamwork attributes, and an understanding of the importance of commitment to lifelong excellence in aviation through continuous professional development.
- Integrate academic learning through a culminating capstone, internship, or applied research experience that demonstrates mastery of communication, leadership, teamwork, and analytical skills essential for success in aviation management.
Aerospace/Aviation Sciences (Bachelor of Science) / Aviation (Associate of Applied Science)
Mission Statement
The mission of the Aviation/Aerospace Sciences and Aviation programs at Southern Utah University is to educate, train, and qualify the next generation of professional pilots and aviation leaders. Guided by the core values of Safety First, Quality Instruction, and Leadership Development, the programs provide academic, flight, and ground instruction that cultivate technical proficiency, safety awareness, leadership attributes, and lifelong commitments to excellence in aviation. The programs qualify students for national professional pilot certification and inspire their graduates to excel as competent, responsible, and adaptive pilots dedicated to the highest standards of performance and safety.
Program Educational Goals
The Bachelor of Science in Aerospace/Aviation Sciences and Associate of Applied Science in Aviation programs at Southern Utah University provide students with a comprehensive education that integrates advanced flight training, applied science, and professional development. Through classroom, laboratory, and flight experiences, the programs prepare graduates to function competently, safely, and ethically as professional pilots. At the completion of degree requirements, the programs will provide students with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies to:
- Apply principles of scientific, technical, and aeronautical knowledge essential for safe and efficient operation of fixed-wing or rotor-wing aircraft in both visual and instrument flight environments.
- Achieve FAA pilot certification and associated ratings appropriate to their chosen emphasis, meeting or exceeding commercial and instructor-level standards.
- Employ modern aviation technologies and data-driven decision-making to enhance flight operations, safety, and performance.
- Demonstrate sound judgment, leadership, and ethical responsibility consistent with the expectations of aviation professionals.
- Integrate safety management and human factors principles to promote and maintain a strong safety culture in all aspects of aviation operations.
- Communicate effectively and work collaboratively in diverse and dynamic aviation environments.
- Understand the national and global aviation environment, including the integration of airports, airspace, air traffic control, meteorology, environmental sustainability, national regulations, and international regulations.
- Pursue lifelong excellence in aviation and career readiness, demonstrating the adaptability and continuous improvement necessary for advancement in the aviation field.
Aviation Maintenance (Associate of Applied Science)
Mission Statement
The mission of the Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Maintenance program is to qualify students for national certification as aircraft maintenance technicians and prepare students for gainful employment in local, regional, and global aviation industries. The program provides excellence in applied learning, instills a culture of aviation safety, and develops leadership attributes within its graduates. Each graduate will be transformed by their journey through the program in a way that generates a commitment to excellence in aviation maintenance and forms attitudes conducive to lifelong learning.
Program Educational Goals
Upon completion of the degree, the Aviation Maintenance program will provide students with the educational foundation and applied learning experiences necessary to:
- Achieve Technical Competence - Attain theoretical knowledge and practical proficiency, consistent with FAA Mechanic Airmen Certification Standards (ACS) standards, in the inspection, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of aircraft airframe and powerplant systems.
- Qualify for National Certification - Complete the academic coursework and laboratory exercises necessary to qualify for the examinations required to receive the FAA Certified Aircraft Mechanic certification with the Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) ratings, or an equivalent national credential.
- Apply Safety and Regulatory Knowledge - Demonstrate the ability to interpret, apply, and comply with FAA regulations, manufacturer specifications, and airworthiness requirements.
- Exhibit Leadership Conduct - Demonstrate personal integrity, accountability, and foundational leadership behaviors that positively influence the aviation maintenance industry such as responsibility, ethical decision-making, and teamwork.
- Communicate Effectively - Use appropriate technical vocabulary, written documentation, and oral communication skills in maintenance environments and regulatory contexts.
- Commit to Lifelong Excellence in Aviation - Maintain a sustained commitment to aviation excellence through continued professional learning, skill enhancement, and adaptation to evolving aviation technologies, regulations, and industry practices.
- Promote Aviation Safety Culture - Apply principles of human factors, risk management, and safety management systems (SMS) to contribute to a culture of safety in aviation maintenance operations.
Admissions & Graduation Information
Admission to Program
To gain a spot in a flight or maintenance lab, each applicant must meet the specific requirements for flight or maintenance labs. Minimum standards for admission may be adjusted as desired by the School of Aviation. Admission to aviation flight and maintenance labs may be suspended or restricted if the program is operating at capacity or near capacity. Application for flight or maintenance labs is submitted through the regular SUU Admissions Portal. Students will be contacted by the School of Aviation for additional application requirements that lead to a flight or maintenance spot.
In addition to the minimum SUU admissions requirements, aviation applicants must also satisfy the following requirements:
- Depending on program needs, the successful completion of a program aptitude test or knowledge entrance exam may be required.
- Fees may apply to satisfy admission requirements.
Graduation Information
- A grade of C (2.0) or better is required for any course counted toward a major or certificate within the Department of Aviation Sciences.
Other Information
Aviation Student Handbook
The SUU Aviation Student Handbook contains additional program policies and standards. This handbook can be accessed using the link found in the Student Information link on the main menu of the SUU Aviation home page. The most recent revision of this handbook applies.
Credit for Prior Education, Training, or Experience
Students may request evaluations of any prior education, training, or experience they may have when they join a program within the Department of Aviation Sciences. These items will be evaluated according to policies and procedures of the university as well as by procedures exercised by the department. University policies are found in this catalog as well as SUU policy handbooks. Procedures enforced by the department are found in this catalog as well as in the current SUU Aviation Student Handbook.
Credit by Exam
Students may receive credit-by-exam for certain courses within the Department of Aviation Sciences. A request for credit-by-exam must be made to the Chair of the Department of Aviation Sciences. A student may only attempt an exam for credit after authorization is granted by the Department Chair. Exams for credit may be administered online or in person at the discretion of the Chair. FAA Exams are allowed to fulfill requirements for credit-by-exam appropriate for the course or lab affiliated with the FAA exam. A student may earn up to a maximum of 16 credits through the credit-by-exam option.
Internships
Internships are a fantastic way for students to apply what they have learned in real world work settings. Internships are strongly encouraged. Only aviation majors possessing a Commercial Pilot Certificate or a Remote Pilot Certificate and with the appropriate prerequisite courses may enroll for internship credit within the department. Students must contact the department for internship prerequisites and other information in advance of internship work. A maximum of six (6) internship credits can be applied toward the BS Aerospace/Aviation Sciences degree and a maximum of four (4) internship credits can be applied toward the required credits in the Aviation AAS degree.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Various scholarships and other financial aid may be available to Aviation students who qualify for these resources. A financial aid counselor in the Financial Aid and Scholarships Office has been specifically assigned to assist aviation students. Students must meet all requirements and submit applications for scholarships and other financial aid to the appropriate parties by their due dates. Students should contact the Financial Aid and Scholarships Office to schedule appointments with the financial aid counselor for Aviation at (435) 586-7735.
A scholarship for commercial-level training in rotorcraft has been established by the department. Please contact the financial aid counselor for Aviation for additional details about this scholarship.
Students qualifying for veteran educational benefits must contact the SUU Veteran Center for verification and use of said benefits. Contact SUU Veteran Center at (435) 865-8477 or veterans@suu.edu.
ProgramsAssociate’s DegreeBachelor’s DegreeAcademic Certificate (Undergraduate)Academic Certificate (Post-bachelor’s)
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Department Chair
