MISSION AND HISTORY

The principal mission of the School of Aerospace Sciences is to preserve, create, and disseminate knowledge and to demonstrate the principled use of knowledge for and about aerospace, atmospheric sciences, space studies, earth system science and policy, and computer science. In consort with other units of the University of North Dakota, it is committed to providing a comprehensive, high quality, relevant education for students preparing for careers in these fields.

Always at the forefront of technology, the School has earned national acclaim for its achievements in collegiate aviation education and atmospheric research. In just a few years, the School has received a steady stream of multi-million dollar research contracts and attracted students from every state and at least a dozen foreign countries.

The aviation program was founded in 1968 as an academic department within the College of Business and Public Administration. It offered the nation’s first four-year degree that combined an undergraduate business degree with an in-depth aviation education and professional flight training. Since then, new degree options and research programs have emerged at a rapid pace. In 1982, the Department of Aviation became the Center for Aerospace Sciences, now a degree-granting college within the University.

In 1992, the Center’s aviation degree programs became the first nationally accredited program recognized by the Council on Aviation Accreditation. In 1998, the Center was renamed the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, in honor of its founder and first Dean, John D. Odegard.

SCOPE

The college is comprised of five academic departments and four major research and support organizations. The department of aviation offers undergraduate degrees in aerospace fields including flight, air traffic control, aviation business and management, and aviation education, as well as a master’s degree in aviation. With its roots in research, the Department of Atmospheric Sciences undergraduate and graduate programs offer students unique opportunities to participate in funded research and operational forecasting enterprises, including atmospheric chemistry, surface transportation meteorology, and climate analysis, to name a few. The graduate program within the Department of Space Studies offers an interdisciplinary approach to space exploration, research, and development. The Department uses extra-terrestrial resources in its study of the broad area of activities beyond earth’s atmosphere. In addition to presenting the current and future technology needs, the program examines the social, political, economic, and legal issues of this new human experience. Computers are transforming almost every industry, especially the aerospace industry. To meet this challenge, the Department of Computer Science became a part of the Center in 1982 offering undergraduate majors and a master’s degree. The newest academic department of the college, Earth System Science and Policy, provides an integrated and creative learning environment, fostering intellectual growth and practical engagement in research and management of the earth system and resources. Two masters degrees and one doctoral program are offered through the department.

To facilitate its unique mix of activities, the School has formed five major support organizations. The Scientific Computing Center supports the high performance computing needs of the college for research, academic, and administrative functions, operating a variety of mainframe and mini-computers. The college’s Regional Weather Information Center houses a world class forecasting and weather analysis center for agricultural, aviation, transportation, education, research, and broadcast use. It utilizes a 24-hours-a-day vanguard approach to data gathering, storage, and analysis. The School for Aerospace Sciences is the home of a unique multimedia production facility called the AeroSpace Network. It supports distance learning activities via satellite and internet, develops state-of-the art multimedia classroom presentation tools for faculty, and develops computer-based instructional materials to aid student learning. UND Flight Operations, located at the Grand Forks International Airport, supports the flight training component of the School’s aviation programs operating a fleet of more than 120 aircraft and simulators.

FACILITIES

The state-of-the-art aerospace facilities, built largely with grants from the Federal Aviation Administration, are located on the western edge of campus. The five-building complex houses some of the finest classrooms and specialized laboratories available on any college campus today. Among its many features are advanced flight simulators, cockpit procedure trainers, a high altitude chamber for aerospace physiology training, a unique air traffic control simulation lab, weather forecasting facilities with satellite downlink, sophisticated computing labs, and the Arthur C. Anderson Atmospherium — a computerized planetarium and multi-media instructional theater.

The School’s computer facilities have developed into one of the most advanced technical and scientific computer systems in the nation. It has achieved a national reputation for the processing and analysis of digital radar data and cloud physics data collected during research flights. Fully integrated systems, with advanced networking, provide a wide range of computer support activities for academic, research, government, and industry programs. The facilities are linked by fiber optics to 20,000 square feet of space dedicated to computer studies.

The School operates a modern flight training facility with a fleet of more than 120 aircraft, including reciprocating and turbine powered airplanes and helicopters. A Canadair Regional Jet (CRJ) ASCENT® Full Flight Trainer™ is also available for those students taking upper division flight courses. Aviation students fly tens of thousands of flight hours each year as an integrated part of their undergraduate aviation degrees. A five-story office building with deli/cafeteria and seven hangars are among the expansive airport facilities. A 90-foot FAA Air Traffic Control Tower and an FAA Automated Flight Service Station are located within a short walking distance. A high-speed fiber optic link provides access to the School’s digital computer systems for dispatching, billing, student records, and weather data. A shuttle bus is available to transport students to and from the campus and flight operations.

ADMISSION

Students who are admitted to the University of North Dakota by the Office of Admissions are not necessarily accepted into the professional degree programs in aviation. Students must be admitted to the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences by completing a Change of Major form at the Student Services office located at Odegard Hall, room 259.
Aviation: A student pursuing a degree program in aviation will first be admitted to the program as a Pre-Commercial Aviation, Pre-Air Traffic Control, Pre-Aviation Systems Management, or a Pre-Flight Education student. In order to be fully admitted to a program leading to the Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics degree with a major n Air Traffic Control, Aviation Systems Management, Commercial Aviation, or Flight Education, a student must have:

1. Earned at least a 2.50 institutional GPA and overall GPA in all courses taken.

2. Completed a minimum of 24 credits.

3. Completed all required aviation courses with no grade lower than that of “C.”

Business: A student pursuing a degree program in business must be admitted to the College of Business and Public Administration as a Pre-Aviation Management or a Pre-Airport Management student. In order to be admitted to a program leading to the Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a major in Aviation Management or Airport Management, a student must have:

1. Satisfactorily completed the specified freshman/sophomore Pre-Business courses.

2. Earned at least a 2.50 overall GPA in all courses taken.

3. Completed the six Pre-Business Core courses (Acct 200 & 201; ISYS 117 & 317; Econ 201, 202 & 210) with no grade lower than “C.”

4. Completed all required aviation courses with no grade lower than “C.”

Further information can be obtained by contacting the Office of Academic Advisement located at Gamble Hall, room 127.

Transfer Credits. Undergraduate aviation programs, accredited through the Aviation Accreditation Board International, normally concentrate on general education courses during the first two years of a four-year program. Only a limited amount of aviation coursework is offered below the junior level. The objective of this policy is to permit the student to acquire a foundation of work in the basic arts and sciences, including a strong emphasis in mathematics and physics, as a prerequisite for professional coursework in aviation.

Students planning to take their first two years of work at a junior college should concentrate their efforts in completing the general education coursework. Students who already have received FAA pilot certification, but who have not received college credit will be required to retake the applicable aviation courses at UND in order to receive academic credit for graduation. If certain aviation courses are waived, the aviation credits are not waived, and a student must consult with his/her academic advisor as to the appropriate substitute aviation courses. Students who take aviation courses and receive credit at another academic institution may also be required to validate their aeronautical knowledge and skill before transfer credit will be granted. Questions regarding transfer credit should be directed to the Student Services office located at Odegard Hall, room 259.

DEGREES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADUATION

The Department of Atmospheric Sciences, through the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, offers the degrees of Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Atmospheric Sciences. These degrees are conferred upon a student who successfully fulfills the graduation requirements. A student must:

1. Complete the University’s General Education Requirements.

2. Earn minimum cumulative and institutional Grade Point Averages of 2.50. (Note: transfer students must not only earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50, but must also earn a minimum institutional GPA of 2.50 for studies completed at the University of North Dakota).

3. Complete the curriculum for the major as outlined in the departmental listings; and

4. Make formal application to the Registrar for the degree sought within four weeks of the beginning of the semester in which the student expects to graduate.

In addition, a student may earn a minor in Atmospheric Sciences. The curriculum for both the major and minor is outlined under the specific departmental listing.

The Department of Aviation, through the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, offers the degree of Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics. This degree is conferred upon a student who successfully fulfills the graduation requirements. A student must:

1. Complete the University’s General Education Requirements.

2. Earn minimum cumulative and institutional Grade Point Averages of 2.50. (Note: transfer students must not only earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50, but must also earn a minimum institutional GPA of 2.50 for studies completed at the University of North Dakota).

3. Complete all required aviation courses with a grade no lower than a “C.”

4. Complete the curriculum for the major as outlined in the departmental listings, and

5. Make formal application to the Registrar for the degree sought within four weeks of the beginning of the semester in which the student expects to graduate.

In addition, the Department of Aviation, in conjunction with the College of Business and Public Administration, offers the degree of Bachelor of Business Administration with majors in Aviation Management or Airport Management. Students may also earn minors in Aviation Management and Professional Flight. The curriculum for each of these programs is outlined under the specific departmental listings.

The Department of Computer Science, through the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, offers the degrees of Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, and Master of Science in Computer Science. These degrees are conferred upon a student who successfully fulfills the graduation requirements. A student must:

1. Complete the University’s General Education Requirements.

2. Earn minimum cumulative and institutional Grade Point Averages of 2.00. (Note: computer science majors must earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.20 in all computer science courses).

3. Complete the curriculum for the major as outlined in the departmental listings, and

4. Make formal application to the Registrar for the degree sought within four weeks of the beginning of the semester in which the student expects to graduate.

In addition, the Department of Computer Sciences, in conjunction with the College of Arts and Sciences, awards the degree of Bachelor of Arts with a major in Computer Science. Students may also earn a minor in Computer Science. The curriculum for each of these programs is outlined under the specific departmental listings.

The Department of Space Studies, through the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, offers an undergraduate program leading to a minor in Space Studies. This program introduces students to the variety of space related projects and issues that will affect their careers and lifestyles in the coming decades. At other universities, it is rare to find courses at the undergraduate level dealing with such topics as space mission design, life support systems, space commercialization, and space law. The curriculum for this program is outlined under the specific departmental listing.

The Earth System Science and Policy department offers graduate degrees only. The curriculum is outlined under the specific departmental listings.

OTHER PROGRAMS

Cooperative Education and Internships. The School encourages its students to gain practical on-the-job experience in their chosen field prior to graduation. Cooperative Education and Internship experiences allow students to secure salaried, career-related work experiences under the supervision of both a sponsoring employer and the appropriate academic department, while at the same time receiving academic credit.

Weather Modification Pilot Training. This one-of-a-kind cooperative education is offered in conjunction with the North Dakota Atmospheric Resource Board. Classes are offered in ground and air cloud seeding technology taught by nationally respected cloud physicists and meteorologists. Students selected to participate as weather modification pilots for the program must have a Commercial Pilot Certificate with instrument and multi-engine ratings.
Scholarships. An extensive scholarship program is available to recognize and reward high achievers in aviation, atmospheric science, and computer science. These scholarships are donated by numerous private individuals and companies who support the School’s tradition of excellence.

Youth Programs. The Aerospace Camp offers a ten-day summer program to introduce the excitement and challenge of aerospace to 16 and 17 year old prospective aviators.
Laptop Program. In 1998 the Aviation Department instituted a laptop computer program for all aviation majors. The laptop computer enables students to acquire those computer skills highly sought by employers in business and industry while they are becoming proficient in their career field. The Aviation Department provides students an exciting opportunity to advance their technical skills using the laptop computer. It is required for all students to participate in this program.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Alpha Eta Rho (AHP). The Delta Chapter of Alpha Eta Rho, an international aviation fraternity, stresses closer ties between students and the industry through education. The group annually sponsors Parents’ Day, an opportunity for parents to experience the excitement of aviation education.

American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE). Specifically geared towards students majoring in or interested in a career in airport management, this student chapter of AAAE promotes professional development and instills professional attitudes in students who are studying aviation industry related developments, administration, and operations.
American Meteorological Society. The Lake Agassiz Student Chapter of the American Meteorological Society seeks to promote advancement and understanding of meteorology. The organization help students build valuable network ties and gives them an opportunity to learn more about the careers offered in Atmospheric Sciences.

Army Aviation Association of America (AAAA). The UND Chapter of the Army Aviation Association of America is open to anyone with an interest in U.S. Army aviation. Emphasis is on exploring rotary wing flight and experiencing good fellowship. Each member receives the AAAA monthly publication “Army Aviation” magazine which keeps members abreast of the latest advances in Army aviation.

Association for Computing Machinery Computer Club. As the student branch of the National Association for Computing Machinery, this organization sponsors such events as computer programming contests, computer demonstrations, tutorial programs, and opportunities to visit and tour companies within the industry.

Aviation Safety Association (ASA). ASA examines safety and professionalism issues in the aviation industry. The organization brings students together with professionals in the aviation industry for candid discussions on aviation and related matters to become further educated about the concerns in the professional community. ASA is open to students of all disciplines.

Aviation Photographers and Enthusiasts (APE). The Aviation Photographers and Enthusiasts is a place to discuss the world of aviation. We discuss and participate in the commercial aviation industry. One way of doing this is through photographing airliners in Grand Forks and beyond. Our organization aims at increasing the aviation knowledge of our members, UND students and the community.

Dakota Space Society (DSS). The Dakota Space Society is a student organization which was established to educate and enlighten members and non-members about the benefits of space. DSS focuses on promoting space and establishing a relationship with the community of Grand Forks. DSS is open to all students from any field of study in both the undergraduate and graduate areas.

Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). The purpose of this UND student chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association is to bring together students and members of the community who are interested in recreational aviation, fly-ins, Oshkosh Air Show attendance, building airplanes, the EAA Young Eagles Program, and having fun with flying.

Flying Team. The UND Flying Team has won the National Championship title of the National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) numerous times. Students compete in regional and national events oriented toward increasing aviation safety, piloting skill, and aeronautical knowledge.

International Pilot’s Association. The purpose of this student group is to help ease the transition of international students into the U.S. aviation community. While providing a network of contacts and moral support, the association actively collects facts regarding immigration and visa issues as well as information on both U.S. and international internships and sponsorships.

Skies Astronomical Society. The Northern Skies Astronomical Society is an amateur astronomy club established for UND students, but open to the public. The club enjoys making astronomy observations and educating others about astronomy. Equipment and extensive knowledge of astronomy are not required.

Student Air Traffic Control Association (SATCA). Students interested in Air Traffic Control get involved with this organization to have a voice in the policies and procedures affecting their program and to provide a forum for hiring information and job opportunities. In addition, the group seeks to further aviation safety, awareness, and education through air traffic control forums and meetings.

Student Aviation Advisory Council (SAAC). The six-members of the Student Aviation Advisory Council are elected by their peers to collectively act as a liaison between students, aviation faculty, and administration. The council is a key player in the implementation of new student-oriented programs.

Student Aviation Management Association (SAMA). This student aviation organization promotes professionalism in the aviation industry at the college level, and is open to students from all of the aviation related majors. The group sponsors an annual conference featuring speakers from across the nation as well as aviation alumni. Trips to major aviation destinations are planned each year.

Student Aviation Technology Board (SATB). SATB was created to assist the School of Aerospace Sciences in remaining on the cutting edge of technology use in an educational environment. The Board addresses student needs and concerns, but also generates new ideas for increased utilization of technological developments that would be beneficial to students.
UND Aerospace R/C. This student-run organization is dedicated to the advancement of the arts, sciences, and technology of aviation and aerospace. The group stresses increased cooperative interdisciplinary opportunities for students in all disciplines, and is actively involved in radio-controlled aircraft design, construction, and development.
Upsilon Pi Epsilon Honor Society. The student group is the National Computer Science honorary organization. Members must be junior or senior Computer Science majors. Selection is based on high scholastic achievement and is by invitation only.

Wilderness Pilots Association (WPA). WPA was organized for aviation students who have a love of the outdoors, and for those who seek the challenge of conventional (tailwheel) airplanes, seaplanes, and skiplanes. The group promotes air safety as it relates to flying into remote areas.

Women in Aviation, International (WAI). This student organization was developed to encourage women who are seeking careers in aviation, however, all students are encouraged to participate. The group provides opportunities for women students to learn more about their chosen profession and to participate in a variety of aviation-related activities.

SERVICE

Service to the University, the community and the aerospace industry is a vital part of the School of Aerospace Science’s mission. This commitment is typified by such activities as hosting discipline specific workshops, seminars, and conferences.