Can You Train Online for Avionics?
Yes! Indeed, there are many colleges and universities currently offering a wide range of aviation courses online. If you intend to pursue a career in avionics, you’re encouraged to review these courses, find a great one, and enroll.
Advantages of Taking Aviation Classes Online
There are many benefits to taking an aviation course online. These include;
Attend classes from anywhere:
The most significant advantage of online courses is that you can take the courses from anywhere across the globe. You don’t have to be present in a specific physical location to learn.
Create your schedule:
Online courses also offer the flexibility to learn at your own time. Of course, there will be times when you’re required to take a test or lesson in real-time. However, most of the time, you choose when to read, watch, or listen to study material.
Playback lecturers:
It’s also worth noting that with online classes, lectures are recorded. As such, you can replay the courses repeatedly until you fully understand the material. This can prove especially valuable when preparing for an examination.
Overall lower costs:
Finally, taking classes online also reduces total costs throughout the course. Although you’re still required to pay tuition fees, things like housing and transportation are out of the equation, often leading to lower costs.
Potential Challenges
Despite the many advantages, however, taking online courses also comes with a few challenges. For example, some courses aren’t available online. Practical classes that require hands-on work, for instance, must be taken in a physical laboratory under the supervision of a lecturer.
Additionally, you need exceptional self-discipline to complete an online course. Since you learn on your schedule, it’s up to you to create the time to read, take tests/examinations, and complete all assigned homework on time.
How to Get Started
If you’re new to the world of online education, the first step is finding the right school. There are hundreds of aviation schools offering avionics courses online. In fact, some of the schools are exclusively internet-based. Begin by finding the right school.
In aviation, the right school is one that’s approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Make sure that the school offers the course you’re interested in and that the course itself is FAA-approved. Also, ensure that you’re comfortable with the fees and the course structure/mode of delivery.
Once you’ve identified a school and the course, apply. In most cases, you’ll need to pay an application fee. Make sure to get a printable receipt for the payment. If the application is accepted, you’ll be given a chance to enroll, pay the required fees, and start taking lessons.
Remember that although a significant portion of online avionics lessons is offered online, some units might require on-site attendance. All lab-related work, for example, can only be completed in a standard lab per FAA requirements.
An Opportunity for Learners with an A&P License
If you already have an A&P license, online education offers even better value as it allows you to quickly complete the additional course work required to earn a Bachelor’s degree specializing in avionics. Getting a Bachelor’s degree allows you to be eligible for more positions and better-paying jobs. It also puts you in a better position for promotion to managerial roles.
The Job Outlook is Exciting!
The avionics technicians sector has a very promising job outlook. Currently paying a median salary of $62,920, the sector is projected to grow at 5% annually for the next ten years. If you have the chance, start looking around and comparing schools today.