Program Overview
COVID-19 UPDATE:
Health and safety measures are in place for all programs. View our latest campus entry procedures for on-site classes to learn more.
For classes with on-site lab curriculum, students will be grouped and have specified times on campus in order to help maintain self distancing and keep everyone healthy. Current students should check with your instructor for more information.
Future Students: Please review our Steps to Enroll or, if you want more information, sign-up for a Virtual Information Session.
Join the Soaring Aviation Industry
King County has the most aerospace activity in the entire country, with 45,000 employees and 400 aerospace companies. Many in the workforce are retiring, and these companies need new skilled workers to fill those positions.
At South Seattle College, we have a long history of training the technicians that power the aviation and aerospace industries. Whether it be repair, advanced manufacturing, fabrication, or assembly, South’s Aeronautical Technology programs will prepare you with the skills needed to succeed in one of Washington’s strongest industries.
We train our student technicians in an industry-like setting on our main campus and in a hangar facility at King County Airport (Boeing Field). Students learn how to keep aircraft in peak operating condition by performing maintenance and inspections required and regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Our classes consist of a hands-on approach and focus on experiential learning. Their small size ensures personalized one-on-one education from our experienced instructors.
Degrees & Certificates
With fewer than 20 credits, short-term certificate programs generally cover an entry-level or specific skill set needed for that industry. Credits earned in these programs may apply toward a next-level certificate or degree. Typically offered in a condensed time period. Learn more.
- Credits to complete: 18.0
- Estimated program length in quarters: Full Time - 253 Clock Hours | Part Time - Part Time Option Not Available
Certificate programs provide students with a set of skills to find a job or stay current in a profession. Many certificates are designed to build on top of each other and eventually lead to a longer-term certificate or degree. These are called “stackable” certificates. Learn more.
- Credits to complete: 147.0
- Estimated program length in quarters: Full Time - 8 | Part Time - Part Time Option Not Available
Two-year degree for students who want to start a career immediately after graduation. Learn more.
- Credits to complete: 144.0
- Estimated program length in quarters: Full Time - 8 to 10 | Part Time - Part Time Option Not Available
Two-year, job-training degrees that prepare students for immediate employment. Students take additional general education electives, making this a good option if you intend to transfer to a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree program or may attend a university in the future to earn a bachelor’s degree. Learn more.
- Credits to complete: 156.0
- Estimated program length in quarters: Full Time - 8 to 10 | Part Time - Part Time Option Not Available
We Have a Place for You
Whatever your background, experience, or age you will fit right in. Our typical class includes men and women of all ages (even some in their 70s)! We have international students from all around the world including: Ethiopia, Japan, Kenya, Korea, Kuwait, Mexico, Pacific Islands, Saudi Arabia, Taiwan, Thailand, United States and Vietnam. Our students also include those who have many years of experience in aviation and those who are just beginning their discovery of the industry.
Additional Information
Academic Calendar
Required Equipment
Tools:
- Aviation Minimum Required Tool List: Students must acquire all the tools on this list by mid-term of AMT 111.
- Note: Snap-On and Sears will visit the Aviation Department to provide discounted prices.
- For information regarding tooling, contact the aviation tool room attendant at (206) 934-5374. (tooling questions only)
Books:
- View a list of required books.
- All students are required to obtain the books listed in the beginning of their respective quarter.
Program lengths are estimates, not guarantees. For the most current program information, please check with the program contact.