Programs of Study


Aviation Systems Technology AAS

Program Description

The Aviation Systems Technology program provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to qualify for an aircraft mechanic’s certificate with airframe and/or powerplant ratings. The curriculum is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under 14 CFR Part 147, which governs aviation maintenance schools.

Coursework includes aviation mathematics, FAA regulations, basic electricity, and aircraft drawings; aircraft structures, systems and components; aircraft engines theory, systems and components; and aircraft inspections. The program requires 91 SHC for degree completion and takes two full years (fall, spring and summer). Students receive hands-on training with a number of simulators and actual aircraft.

Admission Criteria

Admission to this program requires that students be high school graduates or have a recognized equivalency.  

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

  • Inspect airframe and powerplant components, systems and structures as allowed by FAA authority
  • Repair airframe and powerplant components, systems and structures within the prescribed limits as allowed by FAA authority
  • Demonstrate proper documentation of maintenance, servicing, and repair records as required by FAA standards and authority

Career Opportunities

Upon graduation, students may enter the workforce as mechanics with:

  • air carriers
  • aircraft manufacturers
  • repair stations
  • fixed base operators
  • flight schools 
  • government aviation operations

Transfer Opportunities

While the AAS is a degree leading to possible job placement upon graduation, Craven Community College has a special relationship for transfer to a BS degree in Industrial Technology with East Carolina University and a BS Degree in Aviation Management with Southern Illinois University.

Contact Information

Director of Aviation Programs 
252-444-1377

Admissions Office
252-638-7430 – New Bern
252-444-6012 – Havelock

Degree Requirements

The following suggested schedule is based on full-time enrollment. For information about prerequisites and corequisites, please refer to the catalog.

Courses in this program

First Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 19. WBL-112 or WBL-113 may be substituted for CIS-110.

Second Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 15

Third Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 9

Fourth Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 19; Take ENG-112 or ENG-114

Fifth Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 18. It is recommended to take MAT-151 or MAT-171 for students wishing to transfer to the university system.

Sixth Semester

Semester Credit Hours: 12