Lewis University Aviation Maintenance Programs

Lewis University’s Aviation Maintenance Technology programs offer comprehensive training pathways from certificate to bachelor’s degree levels, preparing students for high-demand careers in aircraft maintenance with FAA-approved curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities at the Harold E. White Aviation Center. With flexible scheduling options for working adults, 100% job placement rates, and strategic location near O’Hare and Midway airports, these programs provide direct pathways to lucrative positions at major airlines and aerospace companies.

Quick Facts

Programs

Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology

This comprehensive four-year program is designed for students planning careers in aviation maintenance management. Students complete core aviation maintenance courses, electives, and general education requirements while earning Lewis University Certificates of Completion for both Airframe and Powerplant certifications.

Graduates must also obtain Federal Aviation Administration Airframe and Powerplant Certifications.

Curriculum

The program includes 71 credit hours of core courses covering everything from aviation fundamentals to helicopter maintenance theory, plus 6 credit hours of electives and 49-55 credit hours of general education.

Courses include:

  • AVMT-10600 Aviation Fundamentals – This foundational course introduces students to essential aviation concepts including aerodynamics, aircraft design principles, stability and control systems, Federal Aviation Administration regulations and publications, weight and balance calculations, and proper ground handling procedures for aircraft. The 90 contact hours combine 60 hours of classroom instruction with 30 hours of hands-on laboratory experience, ensuring students meet all requirements outlined in 14 CFR 147.
  • AVMT-11000 Aircraft Structures 1 – Students develop fundamental metalworking skills through comprehensive training in riveting techniques and sheet metal repair procedures, specifically focusing on aluminum materials, forming and layout processes, and oxyacetylene welding operations. The course also covers critical topics in corrosion identification and control methods. With 180 contact hours divided between 60 hours of lecture and 120 hours of laboratory practice, this course meets the standards established by 14 CFR 147.
  • AVMT-12000 Aircraft Electricity 1 – This course provides thorough instruction in direct current electrical systems, covering fundamental concepts such as Ohm’s Law, magnetism principles, generators, regulators, motors, aircraft electrical circuit components, wiring diagram interpretation, battery systems, and electrical meter usage. Students receive 120 contact hours of training equally split between classroom lectures and practical laboratory exercises, fulfilling 14 CFR 147 requirements.
  • AVMT-13000 Airframe Inspection – Through combined lecture and laboratory sessions, students master various nondestructive testing methods including liquid penetrant, magnetic particle, eddy current, radiographic, sonic, and ultrasonic evaluation procedures specifically applicable to aircraft structures and engines. The course emphasizes practical application of inspection concepts to successfully conduct comprehensive airframe inspections in accordance with 14 CFR 147 standards.
  • AVMT-20000 Aircraft Instruments – Students explore the operation and maintenance of various aircraft instrumentation systems including pressure, mechanical, and electrical instruments, compass systems, gyroscopic instruments and associated systems, radio communications and navigation equipment, and autopilot systems. The 120 contact hours provide equal emphasis on theoretical knowledge through lectures and practical application through laboratory work, meeting 14 CFR 147 requirements.
  • AVMT-20100 Aviation Math and Physics – This course applies fundamental physics laws to aviation contexts, examining the structure of matter, gas laws, heat transfer principles, and properties of liquids while incorporating basic algebraic concepts into practical aviation scenarios. Students develop mathematical problem-solving skills essential for aviation maintenance work in compliance with 14 CFR 147 standards.
  • AVMT-21000 Aircraft Structures 2 – Building upon Aircraft Structures 1, this advanced course explores different types of airframe construction including wood and fabric applications and repair techniques, aircraft assembly and rigging procedures, and specialized work with plastics and honeycomb materials and their repair methods. The 180 contact hours combine 60 hours of theoretical instruction with 120 hours of intensive laboratory practice, meeting 14 CFR 147 requirements.
  • AVMT-22000 Aircraft Electricity 2 – This advanced electrical course continues from Aircraft Electricity 1, focusing on alternating current circuits, capacitance and inductance principles, AC generators, transformers, resonant circuits, electron tubes, and solid-state electronic components. Students receive comprehensive training through 120 contact hours evenly distributed between classroom lectures and hands-on laboratory sessions, satisfying 14 CFR 147 standards.
  • AVMT-23000 Aircraft Systems 1 – Students gain expertise in various aircraft support systems including hydraulic systems, oxygen systems, fire detection and firefighting systems, pneumatic systems, and water and waste management systems. This course provides essential knowledge for maintaining critical aircraft operational systems in accordance with 14 CFR 147.3C requirements.
  • AVMT-31000 Aircraft Reciprocating Engines – This comprehensive course covers the construction and operation of all reciprocating engine types, including engine nomenclature, operating principles, horsepower calculations, engine efficiencies, cylinder arrangements, and complete procedures for disassembly, cleaning, inspection, magnaflux testing, repairs, assembly, and regulatory compliance for repair and overhaul operations. Students receive 105 contact hours combining 45 hours of classroom instruction with 60 hours of laboratory practice, meeting 14 CFR 147 standards.
  • AVMT-32000 Aircraft Systems 2 – This advanced systems course teaches students about aircraft jacking procedures, fuel system operations, landing gear systems, wheels, tires, and brake systems, air conditioning and heating systems, anti-icing and de-icing systems, and cabin pressurization systems. The comprehensive curriculum ensures compliance with 14 CFR 147.3C requirements for aircraft systems knowledge.
  • AVMT-33000 Aircraft Engine Accessories – Students master the operation and maintenance of critical engine support systems including aircraft fuel systems, float-type and pressure injection carburetors, direct injection systems, water injection systems, jet engine fuel controls, various ignition systems, magneto theory and timing, spark plug maintenance, and engine analyzer usage. The extensive 180 contact hours provide equal emphasis on theoretical knowledge and practical application through 90 hours each of lecture and laboratory work, meeting 14 CFR 147 standards.
  • AVMT-41000 Gas Turbine Powerplants – This course explores the evolution and operation of jet engines, covering the history of jet propulsion, turbojet and turboprop engine components and systems, and gas turbine troubleshooting and trimming procedures. Students receive 150 contact hours of training with 60 hours of classroom instruction and 90 hours of hands-on laboratory experience, fulfilling 14 CFR 147 requirements.
  • AVMT-42000 Aircraft Propellers – Students study propeller theory and operation, governor systems, and comprehensive overhaul and servicing procedures for fixed-pitch, ground-adjustable, controllable, and turboprop propellers. The course provides 120 contact hours equally divided between theoretical instruction and practical laboratory work, meeting 14 CFR 147 standards.
  • AVMT-42500 Aviation and Aerospace Propulsion Systems – This advanced course examines cutting-edge propulsion technologies designed to propel aircraft through the stratosphere with enhanced efficiency, increased speeds, and reduced carbon emissions. Students explore commercial aircraft turbofan engines, scramjet technology, space rocket propulsion systems, and thruster propulsion mechanisms.
  • AVMT-43000 Aircraft Inspection and Engine Testing – This capstone course reviews various inspection types, proper use of inspection forms, logbook entry procedures, utilization of FAA publications, shop management responsibilities, engine operating procedures, troubleshooting techniques, symptom diagnosis, and engine instrumentation systems. Students receive comprehensive training through 180 contact hours combining 60 hours of classroom instruction with 120 hours of laboratory practice, meeting 14 CFR 147 requirements.
  • AVMT-46100 Aviation Maintenance Management – Students explore the functions and responsibilities of aviation maintenance managers across different operational levels including fixed-base operators, commuter and regional airlines, and major air carriers. The course examines aviation maintenance management challenges through case study methodologies, preparing students for leadership roles in the industry.
  • AVMT-47000 Helicopter Maintenance and Theory – This specialized course focuses on the design, operation, and maintenance procedures for small to medium-size helicopters, with students gaining practical experience through actual overhaul work on light helicopters. The intensive 60 contact hours combine theoretical instruction with hands-on maintenance experience.
  • AVTR-30000 Professional Development for Aviators – Students develop essential career skills including internship acquisition strategies, resume building techniques, professional networking methods, interview preparation, and professionalism standards specific to the aviation industry, preparing them for successful career entry and advancement.
  • AVTR-37300 Transportation Safety Management Systems – This course introduces students to safety management systems applied to transportation safety programs, emphasizing proactive and preventative risk management processes that include hazard identification techniques and mitigation strategies to enhance overall transportation safety.
  • AVMT-46000 Aviation Shop Management – Students apply fundamental skills required for effective aircraft maintenance shop operations, identifying areas for improvement and learning to streamline maintenance hangar operations for enhanced efficiency and productivity.
  • AVTR-43000 Labor Relations in Transportation – This course examines labor relations within the transportation industry, covering union operations, labor legislation, collective bargaining processes, contract administration, and conflict resolution strategies specific to transportation sector employment.
  • AVTR-45000 Issues and Trends in Transportation – Students analyze contemporary issues, problems, and trends affecting various transportation industry segments including manufacturers, government agencies, and stakeholders in surface, maritime, and air transportation, applying previously learned principles to solve practical industry problems.
  • AVTR-46300 Aircraft Accident Investigation – This course provides comprehensive study of general principles and procedures involved in aircraft accident investigation, exploring both Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board investigative techniques and understanding how the NTSB determines probable cause in aviation accidents.
  • AVTR-47500 Large Jet Familiarization – Students gain specialized knowledge and familiarity with the systems and operations of major commercial aircraft including the MD-82, Boeing 777, and Boeing 787, preparing them for work on large commercial aviation platforms.
  • AVTR-49800 Internship or Field Placement – This practical internship program provides students with real-world experience in aviation and aerospace industry organizations or government agencies, combining on-site supervision with academic monitoring and requiring completion of an internship paper or report for up to three credit hours.

Curriuclum details available here: https://lewisu.smartcatalogiq.com/en/undergrad-2024-2025/undergrad-2024-2025/college-of-aviation-science-and-technology/aviation-maintenance-technology/aviation-maintenance-technology-bachelor-of-science/

Cost & Length

Program Length: Approximately 48 months (4 years) for full-time students

Tuition Cost Options:

  • Full-time students (12-18 credits/semester): $155,200 – $194,000 (8-10 semesters at $19,400 per semester)
  • Part-time students: $144,256 – $148,764 (128-132 credits at $1,127 per credit hour)

Aviation Maintenance Technology / Associate Degree

This five-semester program prepares students for careers in aviation maintenance while providing foundational business and communication skills. Students complete 62 credit hours of core aviation maintenance courses plus 15 credit hours of general education including communication, economics, English writing, mathematics, and theology. Graduates receive Lewis University Certificates of Completion for both Airframe and Powerplant certifications.

Cost & Length

  • Total Credit Hours: 77
  • Major Credit Hours: 62
  • Program Length: 20 months (5 semesters)
  • Tuition Cost Options:
    • Full-time students: $96,250 (5 semesters at $19,400 per semester, assuming 15-16 credits per semester)
    • Part-time students: $86,779 (77 credits at $1,127 per credit hour)

Aviation Maintenance Technology Certificate

This intensive certificate program represents the core Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) curriculum that forms the foundation of all maintenance degree programs. The program consists of 16 FAA-approved courses delivered over four semesters, requiring students to attend classes an average of 34 hours per week. This accelerated program focuses exclusively on technical aviation maintenance skills without general education requirements.

Cost & Length

  • Total Credit Hours: 61
  • Program Length:
    • With summer sessions: 15 months
    • Without summer sessions: 21 months
  • Tuition Cost Options:
    • Full-time students: $77,600 (4 semesters at $19,400 per semester)
    • Part-time students: $68,747 (61 credits at $1,127 per credit hour)

Aviation Maintenance Technology / Minor

This minor program is designed for non-aviation maintenance technology majors who want to gain foundational knowledge in aircraft maintenance. Students choose five courses from a selection of core aviation maintenance subjects including aviation fundamentals, aircraft structures, electrical systems, instruments, engines, and propellers. Classes combine both lecture and hands-on shop experience, though aviation maintenance technology majors receive registration priority.

Cost & Length

  • Minor Credit Hours: 20
  • Program Length: Varies depending on course sequencing and student schedule (typically 2-4 semesters)
  • Tuition Cost: $22,540 (20 credits at $1,127 per credit hour)

FAA Certification and Pass Rates

The program prepares students to take FAA exams in General, Airframe, and Powerplant, all of which are required to become a licensed Aviation Maintenance Technician.

Career Outcomes and Job Placement

Graduates are highly sought after, with a 100% job placement rate upon program completion. Alumni secure positions at major employers such as Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Republic Airways, and UPS. Roles include Aircraft Maintenance Technician, Crew Scheduler, and Aircraft Maintenance Supervisor.

Flexible Study Options

Lewis offers a blended program format for working adults. Lectures are delivered online, while hands-on labs are scheduled in the evenings, 4–5 nights per week. This flexible format allows full-time employees to pursue licensure without interrupting their careers.

Facilities and Equipment

Training occurs at the Harold E. White Aviation Center on the Romeoville campus. Students gain hands-on experience with a fleet of Cessna 172 and Piper Seminole aircraft, as well as advanced Frasca Flight Simulators. These resources prepare students for real-world maintenance scenarios.

Accreditation and Institutional Support

Lewis University is an FAA Part 147-approved maintenance training school and holds AABI accreditation. The university received a $496,016 FAA Aviation Workforce Development Grant to support underrepresented students entering aviation careers.

Parkland College Transfer Option

Lewis partners with Parkland College to offer a dual-degree pathway. Students can complete an Associate of Science in aviation at Parkland and then transfer to Lewis to finish the bachelor’s program. A 3.0 GPA guarantees admission to Lewis.

Community and Mission

Founded in 1932 as an aviation technical school, Lewis University operates under a Catholic Lasallian mission and emphasizes ethical, professional, and global education. With proximity to O’Hare and Midway Airports, the campus is located in a strategic hub of aviation activity.

Additional Information

Lewis University reports a 100% FAA exam pass rate, ensuring graduates meet industry certification standards.

Students benefit from career fairs, networking events, and opportunities such as the Get Hired in Aviation Maintenance Conference. The program also supports graduate-level study through a 4+1 master’s option in Aviation and Transportation.

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