Online FAA General Coursework Now Available as Independent Study

Choose Aerospace, in partnership with the Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC), is expanding access to FAA-aligned mechanic education with a new online, independent-learning option for FAA A&P General coursework.

Through this partnership, Choose Aerospace and ATEC aim to increase flexibility and access in aviation education by providing a high-quality learning option that supports workforce development, instructor preparation, and industry engagement—while complementing, not replacing, FAA-certificated A&P programs.

This offering serves as an additional resource for professional development, instructor enrichment, and industry support—particularly for individuals seeking structured exposure to the general curriculum that can be completed on an independent timeline.

The program is primarily intended for adult learners, including aviation educators, industry professionals, and instructors at A&P schools who are not yet certificated but are seeking a deeper, more formal grounding in FAA general subjects. Homeschool students, highly motivated secondary and postsecondary learners, and private individuals are also welcome to enroll.

Program Structure, Time Commitment, and Learner Support

Participants will complete the coursework using Choose Aerospace’s FAA ACS–aligned curriculum, delivered through a learning management system (LMS). The program is self-paced and designed to accommodate individual schedules. The content includes video lectures, content reinforcing activities, and multiple assessments to measure progress.

The estimated time to complete the online General coursework is approximately 150 hours of computer-based instruction, though actual completion time may vary depending on prior knowledge and learning pace.

Learners are supported by a certificated A&P instructor serving in a coaching role. There are no required class meeting times; instead, the instructor provides assistance through office hours and asynchronous support, helping learners navigate content, clarify concepts, and stay on track.

In addition to the knowledge-based coursework, optional opportunities may be available to support hands-on labs or project-based learning via video conference, provided the learner has access to the necessary tools and equipment. These activities are supplemental in nature and intended to reinforce understanding of the curriculum.

More information about the FAA-aligned curriculum is available at:
​www.chooseaerospace.org/curriculum.html 

Important Notes on FAA Eligibility and Credit

Completion of the FAA A&P General coursework through this online option does not, by itself, qualify an individual to take the FAA General knowledge test.

However, students who complete the curriculum and pass a comprehensive ATEC written exam earn the ATEC General Aviation Maintenance Credential, which may be eligible for credit-bearing opportunities at participating FAA-certificated A&P schools, subject to each school’s eligibility requirements. As such, this program can serve as a preparatory or supplemental pathway for learners planning to enter or continue formal A&P training.

Students interested in a direct-to-work pathway can gain an edge on job applications and interviews in comparison to applicants with no prior experience in aviation. Employers will be able to see the  evidence that you have mastered the General aviation maintenance knowledge standards, helping you will stand out in the applicant pool.

Indicate Your Interest

Individuals who would like to enroll or request pricing information are encouraged to complete the interest form at: https://www.chooseaerospace.org/online-faa-mechanic-general-coursework.html