Air Traffic Control

Program
Degree Type
Associate in Science

Go to nashuacc.edu/programs for even more details about this and other NCC programs and certificates.

Program Overview

The Associate's Degree in Air Traffic Control (ATC) at Nashua Community College (NCC) will deliver fundamental traffic controller knowledge and competency through a mix of realistic lab simulations, classroom instruction, and computer-based learning.  Our program will be an ATC Tower program with graduates ready to assume positions at Air Traffic Control towers throughout the USA.  This program will be a part of the FAA’s Enhance College Training Initiative.  This program will allow for students to complete their entire FAA ATC Academy course work at NCC. Program fees apply, please contact the Admissions Department for details, 603.578.8908, NCCAdmissions@ccsnh.edu. 

 

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the degree in Aviation Technology, graduates will be able to:

  1. Coordinate and regulate the flow of Air Traffic.
  2. Interpret Flight plans and flight data to manage air traffic patterns.
  3. Function effectively and efficiently in a team.
  4. Apply FAA and NTSB regulations and security guidelines appropriately in various aviation and safety settings.
  5. Speak and communicate clearly and decisively using standard industry pilot-controller phraseology

In addition, the graduate will be able to demonstrate competency in the general education outcomes.

Accreditation

The program is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), 800 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20591.

Nashua Community College (NCC) is authorized to offer this program by the FAA, having been designated as part of the Enhanced Air Traffic–Collegiate Training Initiative (E-CTI) in August 2025.

Nashua Community College (NCC) was approved for the Control Tower Operator Partnership Program (CTO-P) on January 12, 2026.

Technical Standards
  • No older than 30 years old at completion of program
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Must be able to speak English Clearly
  • Have at least one year of outside work experience at completion of program
  • Be able to pass a routine security background check and drug test
  • Be able to pass a FAA 2nd Class Airman’s Medical Examination
  • Have a high school degree or equivalent
  • Have command of the English language
  • Have reading comprehension skills sufficient to read and comprehend service literature
  • Be able to understand and follow both written and oral instructions
  • Be able to complete requirements for college-level classes
Additional Program Information

This program carries additional fees. Visit nashuacc.edu/tuition-fees for more information.

Additional Program Details: 

  • Northern New England’s only FAA-certified program preparing airframe and powerplant mechanics
  • Support staff can provide guidance in finding available housing in the region
  • Multiple scholarship opportunities
  • Strong partnerships with local businesses serving the aviation industry
  • CTO-P (Control Tower Operator) pathway for employment opportunities outside of the FAA
    • This pathway allows students to be eligible for hire into Federal and non-Federal contract Air Traffic Control towers.
    • Must pass the written and practical CTO examination

Estimated Cost of Program (Tuition Only)

In-State
$13,800
New England Regional
$20,700
Out-Of-State
$30,300
Sub-Total Credits
60
Total Credits
60
Course Sequencing
Item #
Title
Class Hours
Lab Hours
Credits
General Education Elective  +
3
Sub-Total Credits
18
Item #
Title
Class Hours
Lab Hours
Credits
English/Communications Elective  +
3
Sub-Total Credits
14
Item #
Title
Class Hours
Lab Hours
Credits
Sub-Total Credits
15
Item #
Title
Class Hours
Lab Hours
Credits
Humanities/Fine Arts/World Language Elective  +
3
Sub-Total Credits
13