Air and Space Operations Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Prepares students for advanced roles in aerospace systems through a rigorous, technology-driven curriculum focused on the operational and technical foundations of air and space environments. This program integrates engineering principles with real-world applications to equip learners with the expertise needed to manage, maintain, and innovate within complex aerospace systems.
- Astronomy and Astronautics: Explores the science of celestial bodies and human space travel, emphasizing orbital mechanics, space mission planning, and the physical environment of outer space.
- Solid State Theory: Examines the behavior of electrons in solid materials, forming the basis for understanding semiconductor devices critical in aerospace electronics and instrumentation.
- Air and Space Operations: Focuses on tactical and strategic coordination of aerospace missions, including mission planning, execution, and integration across air and space domains.
- Electronics and Computer Science: Provides foundational and advanced knowledge in circuit design, embedded systems, and software architecture essential for modern aerospace control and communication systems.
- Aviation and Space Flight Safety: Addresses risk assessment, hazard mitigation, and regulatory compliance to ensure mission integrity and crew safety in high-stakes aerospace environments.
- Life Support Systems: Covers the design and operation of environmental control and life support systems that sustain human life during extended air and space missions.
- Flight Operations Management Systems: Teaches the integration of data, logistics, and real-time decision-making tools used to optimize flight performance and mission efficiency.
- Programming and Software Development: Develops skills in coding, algorithm design, and system integration, with applications in flight control software and autonomous aerospace platforms.
- Propulsion Systems: Analyzes the principles and engineering of rocket engines, jet propulsion, and alternative propulsion technologies used in aircraft and spacecraft.
- Weaponry and Defense Systems: Examines the integration, operation, and strategic use of aerospace-based defense technologies within military and security contexts.
- Maintenance Management and System Applications: Focuses on predictive maintenance, diagnostic techniques, and operational lifecycle management of aerospace equipment and systems.
Air and Space Operations Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Air and Space Operations Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Air and Space Operations Technology degrees, including Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 9,060 professionals.
National Average Salaries
Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
---|---|---|---|---|
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians 17-3021 | $79,830 | $53,730 - $120,440 | 9,060 | $38.38 |
Air and Space Operations Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $46,620 in Michigan to $124,290 in Colorado—a 167% difference. The highest-paying states include Colorado, Washington, and Alaska. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 9,060 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Air and Space Operations Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 4 institutions offering Air and Space Operations Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Air and Space Operations Technology is found at Cochise County Community College District (74 graduates), Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), Daytona Beach (31 graduates), College of Western Idaho (CWI) (7 graduates), and University of Dayton (UD) (2 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 114 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cochise County Community College District |
Associate's
|
74 | Sierra Vista, Arizona | Public | cochise.edu |
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) |
Bachelor's
|
31 | Daytona Beach, Florida | Private | daytonabeach.erau.edu |
College of Western Idaho (CWI) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Other Award
|
7 | Nampa, Idaho | Public | cwi.edu |
University of Dayton (UD) |
Postbac Cert.
|
2 | Dayton, Ohio | Private | udayton.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Air and Space Operations Technology programs
How much can I earn with a Air and Space Operations Technology degree?
Salaries for Air and Space Operations Technology graduates vary by role and location. Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians earn a median of $79,830 annually. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Colorado average $124,290 compared to $46,620 in Michigan. Approximately 9,060 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Air and Space Operations Technology programs?
Currently 4 accredited institutions offer Air and Space Operations Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Cochise County Community College District (74 graduates), Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), Daytona Beach (31 graduates), and College of Western Idaho (CWI) (7 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Air and Space Operations Technology growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 263 in 2010 to 114 in 2023-24. This represents a 57% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Air and Space Operations Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians. Related occupations employ approximately 9,060 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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