Aircraft Mechanic School Cost & Student Resources

The program offers two pathways: a one-year certificate (45 hours of instruction) and a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree (60 hours). The curriculum includes hands-on training in airframe and powerplant mechanics, covering aircraft engines, frames, and systems maintenance, aligned with FAA standards for Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification. Additionally, several specialized certificates are layered into the program, qualifying students in aerospace coating applications, avionics, and composite maintenance. For a detailed course list, contact Brandon Sanders, Aviation Director, at brandon.sanders@texarkanacollege.edu, or request a program outline from Enrollment Services.

Tuition is based on Texarkana College’s standard hourly rate (approximately $46 per credit hour for in-district Texas residents as of recent data, subject to 2025 adjustments). The certificate program (45 hours) costs around $2,070 in tuition, plus a $2,800 course materials fee, totaling approximately $4,870. The associate’s degree (60 hours) tuition is about $2,760, plus the $2,800 fee, totaling roughly $5,560. Additional costs for tools, books, or fees may apply. An earlier estimate of $13,000 might reflect out-of-district rates or extra expenses. Financial aid, including Pell Grants and GI Bill benefits, may be available to assist with aircraft mechanic school costs. Contact the Business Office at 903-823-3331 for current rates and funding options.

The certificate requires 45 hours of instruction, completed in one year, while the associate’s degree requires 60 hours over two years. Cohorts of 20 students start throughout the day (e.g., morning, afternoon, or evening blocks), with four-hour sessions Monday through Friday. Specific times vary by cohort and semester. The program includes remote video lectures for flexibility, complementing hands-on training that simulates a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility at Texarkana Regional Airport.

No specific entrance test is required beyond Texarkana College’s general admission standards. The FAA mandates that applicants read, write, speak, and understand English, assessed during the certification process, not enrollment. Contact an advisor at 903-823-3012 to confirm if placement tests (e.g., for math or English) are needed based on your prior education.

The program prepares students for FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification through its core curriculum. Additional layered certificates in aerospace coating applications, avionics, and composite maintenance enhance qualifications. After completing the required coursework (45 hours for the certificate or 60 hours for the degree), students take the FAA’s written, oral, and practical exams. The FAA-approved curriculum ensures readiness, with the certificate path taking one year for quick workforce entry and low aircraft mechanic school costs.

Contact Texarkana College’s Office of Enrollment Services at 903-823-3012 or email recruitment@texarkanacollege.edu to apply. Complete an application and meet general admission requirements. Each cohort is capped at 20 students, so early application is recommended. An admissions advisor can assist with transcripts and other steps.

The aviation maintenance industry faces a projected shortage of 143,000 mechanics in North America over the next 20 years (per Boeing estimates). Graduates with A&P certification and additional qualifications in aerospace coatings, avionics, and composites are highly employable, with starting aircraft mechanic salaries from $40 per hour ($83,200 annually) to $80,000 or more at airlines, repair stations, and airports. The diverse certifications broaden career options.

The program’s partnership with Texarkana Regional Airport aims to create local opportunities, with graduates able to “cross the runway to go from school to work.” Director Paul Mehrlich has noted interest from maintenance, repair, and overhaul companies, suggesting jobs for early graduates. While the airport is small, its 20-year master plan and growth initiatives may attract employers. Local hiring chances are strong due to the program’s focus, though some may explore nearby cities like Shreveport or Little Rock for additional roles.

Yes, the GI Bill typically covers FAA-approved programs like this at Texarkana College, a public institution. Contact Veterans Services or Financial Aid at 903-823-3267 to confirm eligibility and apply benefits to aircraft mechanic school costs including tuition and fees.