Air Traffic Controller Option

• Successfully complete an air traffic controller degree program
• Pass the Air Traffic Controller aptitude test
• Apply to the FAA
• When accepted, attend the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, OK
• Pass the required courses at the Academy
• Report to your assigned ATC facility, where your training continues in an operational environment.  Training is conducted in stages and consists of a combination of classroom, simulation, and on-the-job training that leads to becoming a fully certified air traffic controller

An air traffic controller must consider the lifestyle and FAA qualifications when choosing a career path.

• ATC is a 24/7 operation
• Generally, shifts are rotational
• Usually controllers will remain at their facility for their entire career; a limited number of controllers are permitted to change facilities per year
• Controllers are closely monitored and all transmissions are taped
• Applicants must be United State citizens
• Applicants must be no more than 30 years of age at the time of hiring by the FAA
• Extensive background checks are conducted prior to an employment offer
• Must be able to read, speak, and understand the English language (meet International Civil Aviation Organization level 4 standards)
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a second class medical certificate (must meet or exceed standards for vision, hearing, cardiovascular, neurological, psychiatric, and psychological exams.  Diabetes and substance abuse/dependency will be reviewed and extensively investigated)
• Current FAA regulations require controllers to retire from controlling aircraft at age 56

Starting pay for ATC recruits* (at FAA academy)
AT-CTI graduates	$1,420
Veterans Appointments	$2,760
Retired military controllers	$2,760
At facility
Based on class of facility and seniority	$4,750 - 11,580
Supervisor
Longmont Center	$12,300 - 14,350

*Note: Plus per diem while at the FAA academy

1st Semester	Credits
AVT 101 Private Pilot Ground School	4
AVT 103 Introduction to Air Traffic Control	3
AVT 105 Aviation Meteorology	4
ENG 121 English Composition	3
Total Credits	14
2nd Semester
AVT 111 Instrument Pilot Ground School	4
AVT 113 Instrument Flight Trainer	4
AVT 115 ATC Phraseology	1
AVT 218 ATC Procedures	4
PHY 105 Conceptual Physics	4
Total Credits	17
3rd Semester
AVT 242 ATC Phraseology II	1
AVT 245 Non-Radar Simulation	9
AVT 247 ATC Special Procedures	4
Social and Behavioral Sciences Course	3
Total Credits	17
4th Semester
AVT 246 Radar Simulation	9
Arts & Humanities Course	3
MAT 121 College Algebra	4
Total Credits	16
Total credits for 4 semesters	64

	In District	Out-of-District	Out-of-State
College tuition and fees	$ 6,495	$ 9,915	$ 30,190
Books and supplies*	1,749	1,749	1,749
Miscellaneous fees*	40	40	40
Simulation fees*	2,000	2,000	2,000
Approximate total costs for program:	$ 9,284	$ 12,704	$ 32,979

* All costs are approximate and are subject to change without notice.