BATN - Aeronautical Technology (BS)

The Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Technology provides students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills for careers across the aviation and aerospace industries. This interdisciplinary program integrates technical training, operational knowledge, and applied sciences to prepare graduates for a wide range of aviation-related professions. Students develop competencies in areas such as aircraft systems and maintenance, flight operations, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), aviation safety, and industry regulations.

The curriculum combines hands-on learning with theoretical instruction, allowing students to gain real-world experience through labs, simulators, and flight or maintenance training environments. Core coursework emphasizes aviation technology, safety management, aerodynamics, and regulatory compliance, while also incorporating essential studies in communication, leadership, and problem-solving.

Graduates of the Aeronautical Technology program are prepared for diverse career paths, including aircraft maintenance, flight operations, aviation management, and UAS operations. With a strong foundation in both technical and operational aspects of aviation, students are well-positioned for advancement in sectors such as commercial aviation, aerospace, defense, and emerging aviation technologies.

Students may tailor their degree through specialized options aligned with industry needs. The Aviation Maintenance option focuses on aircraft systems, inspection, and repair, preparing graduates for FAA certification and technical roles. The Professional Aviation and Professional Pilot options emphasize flight training, navigation, and airline operations, equipping students for careers as commercial pilots or aviation managers. The Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) option provides training in drone operations, data collection, and remote sensing technologies, preparing graduates for rapidly expanding applications in industry and government.

K-State Salina's professional pilot degree option is FAA part 141 approved, allowing students to complete commercial pilot training in as little as 190 hours instead of 250 hours, for a bachelor's degree. The training also allows students to qualify for a Restricted Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (R-ATP) in as few as 1,000 hours with a bachelor's degree or 1250 hours with an associate degree. (Students are required to meet the minimum credits for R-ATP approved courses. Earning a degree does not equate to an automatic R-ATP.) The R-ATP can be beneficial to students by providing them with the ability to fly for the airlines earlier. Training and education are provided by highly qualified faculty and staff, with years of both industry and education experience.