Embry-Riddle Launches Associate Degree in Air Traffic Management

Embry-Riddle Introduces Associate Degree in Air Traffic Management

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is set to launch a new Associate of Science in Air Traffic Management program in August 2025, aiming to address the growing shortage of air traffic controllers in the United States. This two-year degree, recently approved under the Federal Aviation Administration’s Enhanced Air Traffic Controller Training Initiative (AT-CTI), offers an accelerated route for students to enter the workforce during a pivotal period for the aviation industry.

Accelerated Training and Industry Alignment

The Enhanced AT-CTI program distinguishes itself by allowing graduates to bypass the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City, proceeding directly to on-the-job training at air traffic control facilities upon successful completion of required written and simulator evaluations. Embry-Riddle’s new associate degree focuses specifically on tower operations and complements the university’s existing Bachelor of Science in Air Traffic Management, which covers both en route and terminal operations and was incorporated into the AT-CTI program last year.

“This unique program will prepare students to be safe and effective air traffic controllers at a critical time for aviation,” stated Embry-Riddle President P. Barry Butler, Ph.D. He emphasized the university’s commitment to providing an additional pathway for producing well-trained controllers to meet current and future workforce demands.

Housed within the Department of Applied Aviation Sciences at the Daytona Beach Campus, the associate degree curriculum is adapted from the bachelor’s program and delivered by faculty members with over 150 years of combined air traffic control experience. Students will benefit from training on advanced simulators equipped with AI-assisted voice recognition and high-fidelity visualizations, ensuring familiarity with cutting-edge industry technology.

Dr. Alan Stolzer, dean of the College of Aviation, highlighted the program’s commitment to excellence, noting, “Our Air Traffic Management graduates set the gold standard for reliability, safety, and excellence. This program will maintain that same standard for educating students to serve in our nation’s air traffic control facilities.”

Meeting Industry Needs Amid Workforce Challenges

To qualify for the Enhanced AT-CTI program, students must pass the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) exam and satisfy medical and security requirements. The FAA has approved the associate degree specifically for its Terminal Tower track, aligning with the agency’s ongoing efforts to bolster staffing levels amid a nationwide shortage.

The program’s launch coincides with increased demand for air traffic controllers. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy recently announced a multi-year hiring initiative, while the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median salary approaching $145,000 for air traffic controllers, with the FAA citing average earnings exceeding $160,000.

Despite its promise, Embry-Riddle’s new associate degree faces challenges, including competition from established four-year bachelor’s programs, the necessity to continuously adapt to evolving industry standards, and the requirement to maintain FAA approvals. The introduction of this accelerated pathway may stimulate higher enrollment in aviation programs and prompt other institutions to enhance or expand their air traffic management offerings in response to the sector’s growing needs.

By providing an industry-aligned curriculum and an expedited route into the profession, Embry-Riddle aims to help close a critical gap in the nation’s air traffic control workforce while navigating a competitive and rapidly changing educational environment.