The aviation maintenance programs at Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) offer hands-on training for students pursuing careers in aircraft maintenance and repair. With short-term certificate options in Aviation Mechanic, Airframe Mechanics, and Powerplant Mechanics, plus an A.S. degree in Aviation Maintenance Management, students can train for FAA certification and enter the workforce in under a year.
Quick Facts
- Length: 5 months - 24 months
- Cost: $1,200 -$9,000
- Location: Jacksonville, FL
- Website: https://www.fscj.edu/academics/programs/certs/6119
Aviation Mechanic Technical Certificate (T.C.)
The Aviation Mechanic Technical Certificate (T.C.) at FSCJ is a short-term, selective-access program designed to train students for immediate entry into the aviation maintenance workforce.
This 5 month, 12-credit program emphasizes hands-on training aligned with FAA regulations and prepares students for the FAA Mechanic “General” written, oral, and practical exams.
Curriculum
The curriculum includes two required courses:
- AMT 1752C – Aviation Maintenance Technology General II
Covers electrical theory and systems, structural materials, inspection methods, corrosion control, weight and balance, and aircraft servicing, with a blend of hands-on training and limited online instruction. - AMT 1751C – Aviation Maintenance Technology General I
Introduces safety practices, regulations, tools, aerodynamics, and technical documentation used in aviation maintenance, combining classroom instruction with web-facilitated learning.
Instruction is delivered through classroom lectures and lab-based training, with up to 30% of the instruction offered online.
Aviation Airframe Mechanics Technical Certificate
The Aviation Airframe Mechanics Technical Certificate (T.C.) at FSCJ prepares students for entry-level employment in the aviation maintenance industry.
This hands-on program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and practical skills required to maintain and repair aircraft airframes safely and effectively.
Curriculum
The program spans 10 months and includes 24 credit hours of professional coursework.
Students complete four sequential courses:
- AMT 1761C – Aviation Maintenance Technology Airframe I
Covers the fundamentals of aircraft structural assembly, rigging, non-metallic materials, and electrical systems through hands-on training and online-supported instruction. - AMT 1762C – Aviation Maintenance Technology Airframe II
Focuses on aircraft finishes, fabric covering, sheet metal repair, and basic welding techniques, combining lab exercises with partial online content. - AMT 1763C – Aviation Maintenance Technology Airframe III
Introduces hydraulic and pneumatic systems, landing gear components, and climate control systems found in aircraft, delivered in a blended format. - AMT 1764C – Aviation Maintenance Technology Airframe IV
Explores fuel, anti-ice, fire protection, instrumentation, navigation, and inspection systems, preparing students for comprehensive airframe maintenance tasks.
Upon completion, students are eligible to take the FAA Airframe Mechanic written, oral, and practical exams.
More information here: https://catalog.fscj.edu/programs/6115
Aviation Powerplant Mechanics Technical Certificate
The Aviation Powerplant Mechanics Technical Certificate program at FSCJ prepares students for entry-level roles in aircraft engine maintenance. Students gain hands-on experience with aircraft systems and engines while learning to follow FAA-approved methods and safety procedures.
The 10 month program is designed to help students pass the FAA written, oral, and practical exams required for Powerplant Mechanic certification. It is FAA-certified under FAR Part 147 and requires a minimum grade of C in all professional coursework.
Curriculum
- AMT 1771C – Aviation Maintenance Technology Powerplant I
Introduces the fundamentals of aircraft reciprocating engines, covering ignition, fuel, induction, exhaust, cooling, lubrication systems, and propeller operations. Students gain hands-on experience with key components and systems. - AMT 1772C – Aviation Maintenance Technology Powerplant II
Focuses on reciprocating engine overhaul procedures, engine removal and installation, and techniques for inspection, troubleshooting, and maintenance. Delivered in a hybrid format with up to 30% online instruction. - AMT 1773C – Aviation Maintenance Technology Powerplant III
Covers turbine engine principles, including fire protection systems, engine instruments, and powerplant electrical systems. Combines theoretical knowledge with practical application in a web-facilitated format. - AMT 1774C – Aviation Maintenance Technology Powerplant IV
Provides training in turbine engine overhaul, removal, installation, operation, and maintenance. Emphasizes inspection and troubleshooting skills with a mix of hands-on and online instruction.
More information: https://catalog.fscj.edu/programs/6117
Aviation Maintenance Management
The Aviation Maintenance Management Associate in Science (A.S.) degree prepares students for entry-level supervisory roles in the aviation maintenance industry. The program combines FAA-certified technical training in airframe and powerplant systems with coursework focused on communication, leadership, and management skills.
Students who already possess an FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certificate may receive credit toward the degree. Graduates are qualified for technician roles and are well-positioned for advancement into maintenance management positions.
Curriculum
This program requires a total of 83 credit hours, divided into general education, professional, and elective coursework.
Students must complete 15 general education credits, which include courses in communication, humanities, mathematics, natural sciences, and social sciences, offering a broad academic foundation.
The 62 credit hours of professional coursework cover core aviation maintenance training in general, airframe, and powerplant systems, preparing students for FAA certification. Students may substitute this section with proof of an FAA A&P certification.
The curriculum also includes a capstone or internship experience.
Additionally, students must complete at least 6 credit hours of professional electives from options like avionics, non-destructive testing, technical writing, or finance, allowing customization based on career goals.
More information: https://catalog.fscj.edu/programs/6115
FSCJ Tuition
Based on the current tuition rate of $104.88 per credit hour, the estimated tuition for each FSCJ aviation program is as follows:
- Aviation Mechanic Technical Certificate (12 credits) costs approximately $1,258
- Aviation Airframe Mechanics Technical Certificate (24 credits) totals around $2,517
- Aviation Powerplant Mechanics Technical Certificate (24 credits) also comes to about $2,517
- Aviation Maintenance Management A.S. degree, which includes 83 credit hours, is estimated at $8,710 in tuition.
These figures do not include additional expenses such as books, lab fees, tools, or testing costs.
Tuition details available here: https://www.fscj.edu/student-financial-services/tuition-and-fees
Accreditation
FSCJ’s aviation coursework complies with Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 147 and is certified by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Admissions and Advising
Enrollment requires meeting with a program advisor to ensure proper course sequencing. Students must also pass a drug screening and background check before participating in FAA-required practical coursework due to safety-sensitive industry regulations.