Saint Francis University Launches Bachelor of Applied Science in Aviation Maintenance Management

New Degree Announced in Aviation Portfolio

Saint Francis University, a recognized leader in innovative aviation education, has announced the launch of its new online Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Aviation Maintenance Management, a forward-looking degree designed to meet critical workforce needs in the rapidly evolving aviation industry. Applications are being accepted for Fall 2026. 

Saint Francis University continues to strengthen its position at the forefront of aviation education with this launch, offering a highly differentiated pathway that combines applied learning, flexible online delivery, and stackable credentialing-an uncommon combination in the national market. 

Building on its momentum as a regional leader following the opening of the Saint Francis University Aviation Education Center in August 2024, the University now offers a comprehensive portfolio of aviation programs, including an Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certificate, Professional Pilot Training with an aviation specialization, and an online Associate of Applied Science in Specialized Studies. 

While more than 190 FAA Part 147 Aviation Maintenance Technician Schools across the United States prepare students for entry-level certification, few provide clear, accessible pathways to bachelor's-level advancement. Saint Francis University's BAS program directly addresses this gap, empowering FAA-certified Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) technicians and other maintenance professionals to advance into leadership roles without interrupting their careers. 

"This program reflects Saint Francis University's commitment to innovation and workforce development in aviation," said Fr. Malachi Van Tassell, TOR, PhD, University President. "As the newest addition to our expanding portfolio of aviation offerings, it prepares professionals to step into critical leadership roles and help address one of the industry's most pressing workforce challenges." 

Designed for Today's Aviation Workforce 

Unlike traditional Bachelor of Science programs, the BAS in Aviation Maintenance Management is intentionally built for working professionals. Its fully online format removes geographic and scheduling barriers, making it accessible to students nationwide. The program features a stackable credential pathway that allows students to build on prior learning, including FAA A&P certification or associate degrees, accelerating time to completion. Its applied, career-focused curriculum emphasizes real-world application, operational decision-making, and leadership development in aviation maintenance environments, while strong workforce alignment prepares graduates for advancement into supervisory and management roles across airlines, maintenance repair organizations (MROs), corporate aviation, and government sectors. Designed with flexibility in mind, the program enables students to advance their education without leaving the workforce. 

Meeting Industry Demand with a Distinctive Approach 

Industry data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics and aviation workforce organizations point to sustained demand for aircraft maintenance professionals, driven by industry growth and retirements. Yet pathways for technicians to advance into leadership roles remain limited. 

The BAS in Aviation Maintenance Management bridges this gap by combining technical expertise with management and leadership training, preparing graduates to move from the hangar floor into decision-making roles. 

While several universities offer aviation maintenance management degrees, most are structured as traditional Bachelor of Science programs and do not integrate applied learning with stackable pathways. Few combine fully online delivery, a maintenance management focus, and an applied BAS structure designed specifically for A&P technicians, positioning Saint Francis University in a uniquely competitive space.

 Expanding Saint Francis University's Aviation Leadership 

The launch of the BAS in Aviation Maintenance Management further strengthens Saint Francis University's growing reputation as a leader in aviation education. 

By aligning academic programs with industry demand and workforce development priorities, the University continues to expand access to high-impact, career-focused degrees that serve both students and employers. 

The program is now accepting applications for the Fall 2026 semester start. For more information, visit: francis.edu/amm