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Aeronautics

In partnership with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), FPCHS is able to offer the Aeronautics program of study to all 10th–12th grade students. All ERAU aeronautics courses are taught on the FPCHS campus by an ERAU professor. Coursework is centered around aviation, aerospace, and engineering with a focus on unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Through this program students have the opportunity to earn free college credits.

There are many other opportunities for students in the Aeronautics program of study. Many students participate in field trips and UAS competitions. In addition, students in the program are eligible to apply for ERAU scholarships that will help them complete their degree.

Courses

  • Principles of Aeronautical Science
  • Intro to Unmanned Aircraft Systems
  • UAS Applications in Aerial Photography
  • UAS Systems Operator
  • FAA Private Pilot Ground School

Industry Certifications

Many of the  Aeronautics courses offer students the opportunity to take industry certifications, including the FAA Ground School exam, the UAS Safety Certification, and the Visual Line of Sight System Operator certification. All of these exams are offered free of charge to our aeronautics students who complete program requirements and are ready for the exam.

Eligibility and Enrollment

To enter the program, students must have a minimum 2.5 GPA and are required to keep at least a 2.0 GPA to remain in the program. Enrollment for this program of study begins in the spring of each year. Interested students should choose the program courses on their course selection sheet. For more information, please see your guidance counselor or Professor Brian Jacobi in room 7-108.

 If you are applying to the program as part of school choice, please complete the Program of Choice Application. 

 

Aeronautics ERAU Dual Enrollment

Program Overview

Embry Riddle Dual Enrollment courses focus on classes in the fields of Space, Manufacturing, Aviation, Robotics and Technology.

Program Offerings:

  • Credentialed professors teaching high school students on FPC’s campus
  • Two FAA certifications available Industry certifications built into curriculum
  • Actual flight operations using small UAS Courses taught on high school campus within the school schedule
  • Comprehensive program with relevant industry-driven curriculum
  • Online access to all course material, curriculum and learning management system
Students Working on an Airplane

Course Progression

9th grade:

  • Journey of Flight (high school credit only)

10th grade:

  • AS 121- Private Pilot Ground School
    (ERAU dual enrollment credit)

11th grade:

  • AS 220- Unmanned Aircraft Systems
  • AS 235- Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations and Cross Country Data Entry
    (ERAU dual enrollment credits)

12th grade:

  • AS 237- UAS Applications in Aerial Photography
  • EGR 101- Introduction to Engineering
    (ERAU dual enrollment credits)

 

Students in an Air Traffic Control Tower

Frequently Asked Questions

What is concurrent enrollment?
Concurrent enrollment, sometimes called “dual enrollment”, provides students with the opportunity to take college credit courses at their high school campus. Students gain exposure to the academic challenges of college while in a supportive high school environment and earn college credit upon successful course completion.

How do you apply for this program?
Complete Student Consent form and Embry Riddle Application and review with Guidance Counselor/Parents

What areas of Aviation Careers can you pursue with
this program?

Available Aviation Career pathways targeted include:

  • Aeronautics & Flight
  • Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones)
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Aviation Maintenance
  • Cybersecurity & Technology
  • Commercial Space Operations
  • JROTC

How much does this program cost the student?
No cost to the student, and students receive college
credits, if all requirements are met (approx. $1433/credit)

Opportunities

Available Industry Certifications:

  • FAA Private Pilot Ground School
  • Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems
  • Safety Certification Visual Line-of-Sight Safety Operations
  • FAA Remote Pilot-in Command (Part 107)

Gaetz students graduate from high school with experience in college as a Freshman at EmbryRiddle and a STEM-focused education with up to 18 college credits (worth $25,800).

Requirements

  • Guidance counselor screening and approval: academic readiness, social maturity, and motivation to complete college level coursework
  • Minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) = 2.5
  • Parental approval
  • Make up all absences (both excused and unexcused)
  • Maintain 70% or higher for college transcript transfer credit