Program Overview
The Social Sciences Air Transportation major at Ohio State equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the aviation industry, its social, economic, and political influences. Through a blend of courses from aviation studies and geography, students develop critical thinking, communication skills, and a foundation in geographic information science, preparing them for careers in aviation and related fields. The program also offers the opportunity to obtain flight ratings towards a Professional Pilot Certification, expanding career prospects in the aviation sector.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Social Sciences Air Transportation major at Ohio State provides students with a broad understanding of the impact of aviation on social forces such as the economy, international affairs, and government policy. The academic core of air transportation studies includes an introduction to the transportation industry, the sciences of physical conditions, aircraft and flight, as well as the social, economic, and political considerations that shape industry regulations and structures.
Objectives:
- Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the air transportation industry.
- Develop students' knowledge of the social, economic, and political factors that influence aviation.
- Prepare students for careers in the aviation industry or related fields.
Program Description:
The major features courses from both the Center for Aviation Studies (CAS) and the Department of Geography, supplemented by social science electives in communication, economics, international studies, political science, psychology, and sociology.
Outline:
Curriculum:
Freshman Year:
- Aircraft Performance and Weather
- Aviation Communications
- Economic and Social Geography
- Introduction to Aviation Industry
- Private Pilot Fundamentals
Sophomore Year:
- Aviation Management and Marketing
- Aviation Regulations
- Cartography and Map Design
- Transportation Security
Junior Year:
- Aviation Human Factors and Safety
- Fundamentals of Geographic Information Science
- Weather, Climate, and Global Warming
Senior Year:
- Aviation Capstone
- Geography of Transportation
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
Assessment methods may include exams, essays, presentations, projects, and case studies.
Assessment Criteria:
Students will be assessed on their knowledge of the subject matter, their ability to think critically, and their ability to communicate their ideas effectively.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
Courses are taught using a variety of methods, including lectures, discussions, group projects, and simulations.
Faculty:
The program is taught by a dedicated tenure-track faculty in the area of air transportation and related sciences. Faculty members conduct major-relevant research and are actively involved in the aviation industry.
Unique Approaches:
The program offers students the opportunity to obtain flight ratings toward the Center for Aviation Studies Professional Pilot Certification through the center's FAR Part 141 certified professional flight education curriculum. This certification allows graduates to apply for careers as flight instructors or pilots for various aviation sectors.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
Graduates of the program are prepared for employment in various roles within the airline industry, including flight dispatchers, flight attendants, airport operation planners, air traffic controllers, safety inspectors, airline schedulers, national transportation safety board accident investigators, and airport directors.
Career Opportunities:
With a professional pilot certification, graduates can pursue careers as flight instructors or pilots for charter flights, regional and national airlines, industrial aviation, business aviation, cargo aviation, and specialized flying.
Career Outcomes:
Graduates of the program are well-prepared for positions in the aviation industry and beyond due to their broad social science background and geographic perspectives. They have a strong foundation in geographical information science and spatial analysis, as well as competencies in business and communication, which are highly valued in both government and private sectors.
