The best degree for an air traffic controller is determined by the type of experience and background he or she already has. Someone with prior experience in this field, such as someone who has recently retired from the military, will likely require little additional training or education. A person entering this field without prior experience, on the other hand, should look for a two- or four-year program in aviation or air traffic management. Schools that offer an air traffic controller degree are frequently affiliated with a specific agency, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States.
There are a few different routes to becoming an air traffic controller, and not all of them require a degree. The procedure varies depending on the country in which one wishes to work, but in most cases, prior experience and education are essential. In the United States, for example, someone who has worked in air traffic control professionally before looking for work does not need a college diploma. This could include someone who has served in the military and has received training and worked in air traffic control before looking for civilian work in this field.
People without professional experience, on the other hand, may need a college diploma to work in this field. Depending on the name of the program a school offers, the best degree for an air traffic controller is often one that focuses on aviation or air traffic management. Some colleges offer a two-year program that culminates in an associate’s degree, while other universities offer a four-year program that culminates in a bachelor’s degree.
In some countries, such as the United States, a government agency may be in charge of overseeing the hiring of air traffic controllers. Future controllers will be tested by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States. Different schools collaborate with the FAA to develop an air traffic controller degree.
The Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative includes some colleges in the United States that offer this type of program (ATCTI). An ATCTI degree for an air traffic controller, which may be required to enter this field, can be obtained from a school that has a partnership with the FAA. National Air Traffic Services (NATS) in the United Kingdom, on the other hand, employs and trains air traffic controllers, requiring students to complete a rigorous certification program.
In some countries, such as the United States, a combination of education and professional experience may be required. Completing an air traffic controller degree, on the other hand, can reduce the amount of prior experience required. Anyone considering a career in this field should also ensure that they meet other requirements, such as health and security tests. In order to become an air traffic controller in the United States, applicants must be under the age of 31 and have no prior experience.