Distance-Learning Format Of Curriculum Allows Aviation
Professionals To Set Their Own Pace
Purdue University's College of Technology will offer an online
master's degree with an aviation concentration beginning this fall.
The degree program is designed for aviation professionals who are
looking to move into a leadership position.
"The College of Technology recognizes the need to make graduate
education available to individuals working full-time in business
and industry," said Dr. Mitchell Springer, who administers the
program through the College of Technology's Center for Professional
Studies in Technology and Applied Research (ProSTAR). "As a result
of job and family responsibilities, working students need a
nontraditional, in- and out-of-state, high-quality educational
experience, which enhances their professional development with
flexibility."
Courses are taught through a convenient distance-learning format
that is proven to provide flexibility for learning and allows the
professional to maintain obligations to career and family. The
program can be completed in as little as 22 months (five semesters,
including summer), but the online format will allow the student to
pace the completion of the requirements. Enhancing the online
experience are professors who are readily able to assist the
students as needed during the program.
The program is designed to build leadership skills within the
aviation environment, providing the technical statistical tools for
decision making in today's world and focusing on developing
analytic and problem-solving skills. Many of the courses focus on
safety and understanding and eliminating human error in decision
and process chains.
"The program is ideal for the person currently in a technical
position in an aviation-related industry who would like to enhance
their innovation and technology leadership skills," Springer
said.
In addition, courses in leading in a team environment, change
management, international organizational culture and training
models provide a base for handling leadership positions. During the
program a Capstone project, specific to the student's interest and
career, is selected and completed providing the student the chance
to apply the program tools in a real-life situation.
Classes are taught by Purdue College of Technology faculty and
administered by ProSTAR.
For students who may not be inclined to pursue a master's
degree, a certificate in Aviation Leadership is also
available. The certificate program consists of the first four
courses of the master's degree program, allowing the student to
apply the certificate courses towards the master's degree at a
future date.