Why is it that some sites say you dont need a degree for Air Traffic control and some do?

Question

How good at math do you need to be? is it the basic math or complex math?

Answer 1

You can get a degree or you can join the military. All you need is an associates degree in an applied science (which is the ATC). I went to CCBC in PA and only took algebra. I had the choice of that or physics. The math you do is basically common sense. This airplane is faster than that one so he'll land first or slow one of them down. They teach you everything you need to know repetitiously. Embry-Riddle in FLA is a good college too but it takes 4 years where CCBC is 2 years. There's also a waiting list for CCBC, but when you graduate they put your name on the FAA hire list and eventually you will get hired. Go to www.faa.gov and look up "how to be an air traffic controller." It will tell you everything you need to have to qualify and where you can go to school. They do an extensive background check when you get hired. As far as the test the other person was talking about, it's called the OPM. You get 2 chances to take it. There's a test prep you can buy that is similar to the test. If your really interested, call you local airport air traffic control tower and ask for a tour. They can answer a lot of your questions. If you have any other questions you can e-mail me.

Answer 2

The mathematical skills required are not great, but mental agility is needed. Degrees aren't worth a pinch of goat's sh*t these days, so many are meaningless and are far to easy to get.

The critical skills for a controller are judgement, the ability to make a decision based on numerous inputs, an ability to reappraise those decisions, and also to be prepared to make another decision.

My experience is that high academic levels result in too much analysis and not enough (or too slow) action.

Answer 3

It is pretty basic math, with some advanced formulas that anyone can master with a little practice and a good calculator... such as mach, groundspeed, and time problems... a degree really helps your chances from what I've been told, and a degree in Air Traffic control almost guarantees you a job if you pass...

Answer 4

You need to pass an air-traffic contollers exam. You must
contact airport admin-stration to get time and date for exam.
These exams are only given periodically, they are timed and
contain lots of mind twisting puzzles of sorts. Very difficult to
complete an entire test section in alotted time. There are three
or four different sections of test. Test are normally taken at
air-port Ramada or Holiday inn conference rooms on specific
time & dates. If you miss the test time your out of luck.