aviation safety degree student watching monitor

Aviation Safety Degree

Bachelor of Science in Aviation Safety and Operations

Gain the knowledge and expertise to keep air and ground personnel and aviation support systems safe and secure.

A demanding but rewarding career in aviation safety requires broad-based aviation knowledge and specialized technical and procedural knowledge. UND offers a comprehensive curriculum to prepare you to be part of the next generation of aviation safety experts.

Program type:
Major
Format:
On Campus or Online
Est. time to complete:
4 years
Credit hours:
120

Why earn an Aviation Safety degree?

Application Deadlines
Fall:
Aug. 15
Spring:
Dec. 15
Summer:
May 1

 

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

Embark on a journey at UND’s John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, renowned worldwide for academic excellence. In our Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Aeronautics, with a major in Aviation Safety and Operations, you'll get a unique learning experience that is second to none. You’ll learn using our custom state-of-the-art flight data software empowering you with the knowledge and skills required to harness aircraft data effectively in your future aviation roles.

Here's what you can expect at UND:

  • Real-World Research: You'll engage in real-world research initiatives focused on aviation safety. Your contributions will be at the forefront of advancing safety practices within the aviation industry.
  • A Focus on Safety Culture: Safety is paramount in aviation, and at UND, we place a strong emphasis on cultivating a robust safety culture within the aviation industry. You'll receive specialized training on how to promote safety awareness and best practices.
  • Industry-Aligned Skills: We focus on developing skills that are directly applicable to careers in aviation safety. These skills encompass:
    • Safety management systems
    • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines
    • Human factors in aviation safety
    • Aviation regulations

You'll graduate well-prepared to navigate the challenges and intricacies of aviation safety and operations.

Aviation Safety Degree Program

  • Pursue opportunities for internships with airlines, NTSB, FAA, aviation insurance companies and aircraft manufacturers.

  • UND Aerospace is a world-renowned center for aerospace learning. We are nationally acclaimed for our achievements in collegiate aviation education, atmospheric research, space studies and earth system science and policy research.

  • We offer specialized academic and career advisement to aviation students. Our graduates are highly recruited by major airlines and the FAA.

  • Raise your grades by getting free academic support at UND. We offer individual tutoring sessions, along with specialized writing and math support programs.

  • Let our team of academic advisors help you plan your major. You'll also have access to personalized software to keep you on track to graduate in four years.

  • Succeed at UND with student success services. You'll be supported every step of the way to earning a degree.

Aviation Safety Jobs

78k

Median annual salary for occupational health and safety specialists and technicians, 2023

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

14%

Projected job outlook for occupational health and safety specialists and technicians through 2032

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Professionals with a degree in Aviation Safety & Operations play a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and security of every facet of the aviation industry. It's a field that demands precision, expertise, and a relentless commitment to excellence. Their responsibilities encompass a spectrum of critical functions, all dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of safety. Some of their key duties include:

  • Development of Best Practices and Standards: Aviation Safety & Operations experts are at the forefront of shaping the industry's best practices and standards. They meticulously craft and update guidelines that are essential for the safe operation of aircraft, airports, and aviation-related services. These standards serve as the backbone of aviation safety.
  • Procedures and Guidelines for Passenger Safety: A paramount concern is the safety and well-being of passengers. Professionals in this field create and enforce procedures and guidelines that guarantee passengers' safety, from boarding to disembarkation. This includes protocols for emergency evacuations, safety demonstrations, and the proper use of safety equipment.
  • Oversight of Flight Crew and Ground Operations: Aviation Safety & Operations experts are responsible for overseeing the training, practices, and compliance of flight crews and ground operations personnel. They ensure that all individuals involved in aviation operations adhere to strict safety protocols and regulations.

By pursuing a degree in aviation safety, you open the door to a range of career opportunities within the aviation industry, including:

  • Safety Managers are entrusted with the vital role of developing and overseeing safety programs within an aviation organization. Your responsibilities include creating safety policies, conducting risk assessments, and leading efforts to enhance safety culture throughout the organization.
  • Accident Investigators are responsible for scrutinizing aviation accidents and incidents. They work meticulously to determine the causes of accidents, contributing to a better understanding of safety issues, and recommending preventive measures to mitigate risks.
  • Safety Analysts evaluate data and information related to aviation operations to identify trends and potential safety issues. They play a crucial role in assessing safety risks and proposing strategies for improvement.
  • Safety Inspectors ensure compliance with safety regulations and standards. They conduct inspections of aircraft, facilities, and operations, issuing certifications and recommendations to maintain a high level of safety within the aviation industry.

Aviation Safety Degree Courses

AVIT 412. Aviation Safety Analysis. 3 Credits.

This course will examine the various techniques and processes used to assess and predict organizational risk as it pertains to aviation operations. The role of quality assurance within a Safety Management System (SMS) will be also explored. An introduction to specific aviation safety assurance programs will be conducted and will include safety surveys and formalized observations. Prerequisite: AVIT 311 and a minimum GPA of 2.6. S.

AVIT 276. OSHA Safety Standards for Industry. 3 Credits.

This course covers OSHA Standards, policies, and procedures in general industry. Topics include scope and application of the OSHA General Industry Standards, general industry principles and special emphasis on those areas in general industry, which are most hazardous. Prerequisite: Minimum GPA of 2.6; open to Aerospace majors, or consent of the instructor. On demand.

AVIT 311. Safety Management System (SMS). 3 Credits.

This course provides instruction and practical application of Safety Management Systems (SMS) and how SMS relates to Accident Prevention Program Management. Students receive the necessary instruction required to design, develop, implement, manage, and foster an effective organizational level SMS and accident prevention program. Course topics include theory and application of SMS program elements. Prerequisite: AVIT 208 and a minimum GPA of 2.6. S.

AVIT 476. Risk Management. 3 Credits.

To provide an overview of methods used in aviation risk analysis. This course of provides the students will the knowledge and skills to apply various aspects of risk management issues faced in the aviation industry. Information will be provided and students will engage in scenarios and discussions to gain an understanding of the risk management systems in the aviation industry. Students will be introduced to different perspectives of risk management using guest lectures/speakers from various industries. Prerequisite: Minimum GPA of 2.6. On demand.

AVIT 405. Airline Operations and Management. 3 Credits.

This course examines the four major areas of air carrier operations, including ground, technical, flight and system operations, as well as airline economics, utilizing a management simulation tool. There is an intensive examination of regional, point-to-point and network carrier operations. Student management teams make weekly decisions in seven categories: Overall Strategy; Marketing; Operations Management; Human Resource Development; Finance; Asset Management; and Behavioral Elements. A portion of each class time is devoted to simulation activities, and the reading assignments focus on management decisions pertinent to the topic assigned, relying in part on current industry events, with an emphasis on ethical decision making. Prerequisite: Junior or Senior status, open to Aviation majors and minors only, and a minimum GPA of 2.6. F,S,SS.

AVIT 250. Human Factors. 2 Credits.

This course introduces the student to issues influencing human performance in the complex operational aviation environments. Theory and practical applications of cognitive processing, decision-making, interpersonal interaction and communication will be presented. This course also provides an introduction to design elements intended to optimize man-machine interaction. Prerequisite: Minimum GPA of 2.6. F,S,SS.

 

Why consider UND's Aviation Safety degree?

#1

best online college in North Dakota

Forbes

160+

online programs

Our bachelor's in Aviation Safety and Operations is 100% online. You never have to come to campus. Plus, you'll pay the same affordable online tuition rate regardless of your legal residency.

You will be fully prepare a successful career in aviation safety. Courses are taught by faculty who bring years of aviation and safety experience. You'll gain the fundamental knowledge to help employers and employees prevent accidents, injuries and losses.

Aviation Safety Online Student Resources

Over a third of UND's student population is exclusively online; plus, more take a combination of online and on campus classes. You can feel reassured knowing you won't be alone in your online learning journey and you'll have resources and services tailored to your needs.

No matter how you customize your online experience, you’ll get the same top-quality education as any other on campus student.

  • Same degree: All online programs are fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Your transcript and diploma are exactly the same as our on-campus students.
  • Same classes: You’ll take courses from UND professors, start and end the semesters at the same time and take the same classes as a student on campus.
  • Real interaction: You can ask questions, get feedback and regularly connect with your professors, peers and professionals in the field.
  • Your own academic advisor: As an invaluable go-to, they’re focused on you, your personal success and your future career.
  • Free online tutoring: We're here to help you one-on-one at no cost. Plus, get access to a variety of self-help online study resources.
  • Unlimited academic coaching: Need support to achieve your academic goals or feeling stumped by a tough course? We'll help with everything from stress and time management to improving your memory to achieve higher test scores.
  • Full online access: Dig into virtual research at UND's libraries. Improve your writing skills with online help from the UND Writing Center. Get online access to career services, veteran and military services, financial services and more.
  • 24/7 technical support: UND provides free computer, email and other technical support for all online students.
  • Networking opportunities: Our significant online student population means you’ll have a large pool of peers to connect with. UND has numerous online events and activities to keep you connected.

Best Online College

Our high alumni salaries and job placement rates, with affordable online tuition rates make UND a best-value university for online education. UND's breadth of online programs rivals all other nonprofit universities in the Upper Midwest making UND one of the best online schools in the region.

UND ranks among the best online colleges in the nation for:

  • Affordability
  • Student satisfaction (retention rate)
  • Academic quality (4-year graduate rate)
  • Student outcomes (20-year return on investment per Payscale.com)

Flexible Online Aviation Safety Classes

With asynchronous classes, you do not attend class at a set time. If you need to balance work, family, and other commitments, this flexible format allows you to learn anywhere at any time.

Depending on your instructor, you’ll learn online through:

  • Lesson modules
  • Streaming video content
  • Virtual libraries
  • Posted lectures
  • Online simulations

There will be times when you interact with your instructor and classmates through online discussion boards, polls, and chat rooms.

Your learning revolves around materials that can be accessed on your own time within a set time frame. However, this is not a self-paced course. You’ll have structure and deadlines.

UND Aviation Student

Best Online Aviation Degree

Our Aviation Safety and Operations degree consistently ranks among the best for educational quality, affordability, and career outcomes.

#9 Most Affordable Online Aviation Degree

Military Friendly® School

Top Military Friendly School Badge Silver

UND is a top college for military affiliates. In fact, 1 in 7 students are veterans, active duty, spouses, or military dependents. 

  • Dedicated Support Services: You’ll have access to the Veteran & Military Services office, where you can get personalized help with VA benefits, advising, scholarships, and counseling resources.
  • Military Affiliated Peer Support (MAPS): At UND, you’ll find peer student support staff ready to guide you, offer encouragement, and connect you with the resources you need to achieve your academic and personal goals.
  • ROTC Programs: If you’re looking to grow as a leader, UND’s Army and Air Force ROTC programs provide you with hands-on leadership training and the opportunity to build lasting camaraderie.
  • Priority Registration: Individuals using VA funding benefit from priority course registration, ensuring you can build a schedule that fits your other commitments.

FAQs

Graduates with an aviation safety degree can play a crucial role in maintaining safety standards. They develop industry best practices, create guidelines for passenger safety and oversee the training and compliance of flight crews and ground operations personnel to ensure strict adherence to safety protocols.

The typical duration to complete a bachelor's degree in aviation safety is four years, which is the standard duration at UND for full-time students.

Of course! At UND, the bachelor's in Aviation Safety and Operations is 100% online, providing flexibility for students to complete their degree without the need to come to campus.

A degree in aviation safety opens up various career opportunities within the aviation industry. Graduates may pursue roles such as safety managers, accident investigators, safety analysts and safety inspectors, developing and overseeing safety programs, accident investigation, data analysis and regulatory compliance. The median annual wage of occupational health and safety specialists and technicians, which encompasses aviation safety, is $75,240 per year.

Certifications and licenses associated with aviation safety degrees may vary based on specific programs and career paths. Some common certifications include Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Certified Aviation Safety Officer (CASO) and various Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifications relevant to aviation safety roles.

Leaders in Aerospace

Develop leadership skills to make an impact and leave your legacy at UND.

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