Overview of the Online BA in Aerospace and Defense Management

The online Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies with a major in Aerospace and Defense Management is a flexible, 100% online program designed for working professionals who are at least 25 years old or five years post-high school or GED and have completed a minimum of 60 college credit hours.

Program Details

• Time to Complete: 12+ Months
• Credit Hours: 30+
• Time Commitment: 10 to 20 Hours Weekly
• Start Dates: Fall, Spring, Summer
• Cost: The BA in Aerospace and Defense Management delivers a strong return on investment, equipping you with the knowledge and leadership skills to thrive in high-demand aerospace and defense careers. This degree completion program requires 120 credit hours, with 60–90 hours eligible for transfer from other accredited institutions, allowing you to finish your degree faster and more affordably. Tuition and fees range from $15,450–$30,900 ($515 per credit hour), depending on the number of transfer credits. Costs for books and additional materials are not included.

About the Bachelor of Arts in Aerospace and Defense Management

The OU Online BA in Aerospace and Defense Management is a 30- to 60-credit-hour degree completion program designed for students who have already earned at least 60 college credit hours. This streamlined path helps you finish your bachelor’s degree faster and advance your career sooner.

What Can I Do with a BA in Aerospace and Defense Management?

Earning your online BA in Aerospace and Defense Management from the University of Oklahoma positions you for advancement across a wide range of high-demand fields. Take your career to the next level in roles such as:

• Electronics Engineering Manager
• Communications Equipment Manager
• Navigation Equipment Manager

Industry Insights

• Median Pay: $122,090 per year
• Job Outlook: Employment in management occupations is projected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations
• Job Openings: Approximately 1.2 million openings are projected each year, on average, due to growth and workforce replacement needs

Program Outcomes: What You’ll Learn in Aerospace and Defense Management

OU’s online BA in Aerospace and Defense Management stands out for its career versatility and real-world relevance. Graduates leave the program equipped with advanced leadership and management skills, enhanced data analysis capabilities, and a forward-looking perspective on emerging trends in technology, politics, and global affairs.

Through this program, you will:

• Apply innovative problem-solving strategies to real-world challenges in both personal and professional settings
• Communicate effectively from a management perspective using writing, presentations, and digital media
• Use digital literacy to assess the credibility and relevance of information sources
• Lead teams and manage projects using industry-specific leadership strategies and knowledge
• Evaluate current and emerging aerospace and defense practices for their impact on national security and global politics
• Interpret and apply data using statistical and analytical techniques to support decision-making
• Leverage technological tools to manage operations, people, and projects in the aerospace and defense industry

Course Details

The BA in Aerospace and Defense Management delivers a strong foundation in leadership, communication, and digital literacy, enhanced by specialized coursework in industry-specific management, national security, and data analysis. This combination equips you with the tools and knowledge needed to lead confidently and effectively in the aerospace and defense sector. Students will work with their advisor to choose additional courses if more than 30 credit hours of coursework are needed to complete their degree.

Effective Communication

• Credit Hours: 3
• Students will enhance their interpersonal and professional communication skills in this course. Special attention is paid to recognizing the role of listening in communication, in addition to enhancing verbal, nonverbal, written, and presentation skills. Throughout the course, students will apply these concepts to real-world situations and reflect on the impact of communication in their personal and professional lives.

Critical Inquiry in Interdisciplinary Studies

• Credit Hours: 3
• This course requires students to locate, critique, and integrate literature/concepts to demonstrate their understanding of the foundational principles of interdisciplinary studies and their primary area of concentration. During the course, students will complete a series of assignments that will be used in the development of a comprehensive ePortfolio in the program practicum course.

Portfolio in Interdisciplinary Studies

• Credit Hours: 3
• The practicum course for the Interdisciplinary Studies program requires students to create a comprehensive ePortfolio, which showcases their key learnings about effective communication, digital literacy, data analysis, innovative problem-solving, and their primary area of concentration.

Software and Information Technology Systems

• Credit Hours: 3
• This course provides students with an overview of core computer technology concepts common to complex modern organizations. Students will be exposed to a range of software and information technology topics needed by managers and decision-makers in a variety of organizations, including core ideas of software, data storage, collaborative work systems, web-based applications, data security, hardware, networks, and programming.

Considerations for Future Aerospace and Defense

• Credit Hours: 3
• This course provides an overview of the aerospace and defense industry, with a focus on the development of national strategy and doctrine, international political environment, contemporary and future procurement, and future developments in technology and planning. Students will learn about the key players in the industry, the challenges and opportunities, and the role of aerospace and defense in national security.

Digital Literacy & Data Analysis

• Credit Hours: 3
• This course is designed to increase students' knowledge and application of digital and quantitative data literacy. Students will also be introduced to principles of ethical decision-making. Using applied activities and analyses, students will learn how to utilize these skills in the real world and the workplace.

Innovative Problem-Solving

• Credit Hours: 3
• This course is intended to empower students to think clearly and analytically about information and beliefs. Students will be prepared to recognize bias and common fallacies in reasoning and evaluate informational resources. An introduction to innovative thinking and creative decision-making will help position students to tackle problem-solving at the personal, academic, and career levels.

Introduction to Aerospace and Defense

• Credit Hours: 3
• This course provides an overview of topics needed by decision makers in the aerospace and defense field. Topics related to the development and history of the field, technology, intelligence, weapons, procurement, strategy, and future trends will be examined. Students will be exposed to a range of ideas and competencies needed by policymakers in a variety of aerospace and defense organizations.

Applied Statistics for Data Analytics

• Credit Hours: 3
• This course provides students with an overview of core concepts and techniques in statistical data analysis. Students will be exposed to a range of statistical and data analytic techniques needed by managers and decision makers in a variety of organizations. Students will gain understanding of the core ideas of validity, the empirical method, statistical testing, and insight into quantitative data analysis.

Leadership in Organizations

• Credit Hours: 3
• The general purpose of this course is to learn about contemporary thinking regarding leadership in organizations and the applications of these insights for growth as a leader.

Why Choose OU Online for a BA in Aerospace and Defense Management

OU Online delivers high-quality, affordable undergraduate and graduate programs in a flexible, fully online format—backed by the reputation of a top-tier public research university. With more than 1,000 aerospace companies operating in Oklahoma alone, the state is a hub for innovation across the entire aerospace and defense supply chain. Gain the skills to thrive in this dynamic industry and create new opportunities for your future.

Faculty Expertise

The Aerospace and Defense Management bachelor’s degree is built on the foundation of world-class University of Oklahoma faculty, mixed with professors of practice providing valuable instruction. By linking industry experts with our online programs, we offer the most advanced curriculum and prepare students for future career success.

Robust Student Support

OU Online offers robust student support services, including academic support, online tutoring, mental health counseling, and an online career development center. The program accommodates the needs of working professionals, allowing you to expand your career possibilities while maintaining full-time employment.

Global Alumni Network

With more than 250,000 alumni across the world, becoming a Sooner means you’ll have access to a strong network of aerospace and defense leaders to accelerate your career. As a Sooner, you’ll be part of a powerful network of leaders working in organizations across the world, helping you expand your career potential.

Cost & Financial Aid

Earning your BA in Aerospace and Defense Management is a powerful investment in your future—and OU Online is committed to making that investment accessible, affordable, and transparent.

Tuition is $515 per credit hour, with total program costs ranging from $15,450 to $30,900, depending on the number of transfer credits. Please note that books and additional materials are not included in this estimate.

Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance may be available to help reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Our dedicated financial services team is here to support you every step of the way—so you can stay focused on your education and career goals.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the online BA in Aerospace and Defense Management is designed for adult learners who are ready to complete their degree and advance in a high-demand industry. The program welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds who bring valuable academic, professional, and life experience to the classroom. To be considered for admission, applicants must:

• Be at least 25 years old or five years post high school graduation or GED by the first day of class
• Have completed a minimum of 60 college credit hours from a regionally accredited institution
• Hold a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 on prior college coursework

This admissions approach ensures that students are well-prepared to succeed in a flexible, career-focused academic environment tailored to the needs of working professionals.

University of Oklahoma Summary

---

Overview:

The University of Oklahoma (OU) is a comprehensive research university with a strong focus on innovation and educational excellence. It is a major contributor to the state of Oklahoma, impacting the lives of Oklahomans through scholarship, research, and healthcare. OU boasts a diverse student body representing 50 states, 76 Oklahoma counties, and 125+ countries.

---

Services Offered:

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

OU offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience with over 400 student organizations. The university has a strong sense of community and is known for its spirited and driven atmosphere.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Research Focus:

OU is a highly ranked research university, designated as a Highest Research Activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation.

Top-Ranked Programs:

OU is ranked #1 in the country for Aviation and Atmospheric Science & Meteorology.

Diverse Student Body:

OU welcomes students from across the globe, fostering a rich and inclusive learning environment.

Vibrant Campus Life:

With over 400 student organizations, OU offers a wide range of opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities and build community.

---

Academic Programs:

OU offers over 170 academic programs across various disciplines. The university is particularly known for its strengths in research, aviation, atmospheric science, and healthcare.

---

Other:

• OU has three campuses located in Norman, Oklahoma City, and Tulsa.
• The university is committed to supporting the state of Oklahoma through its research and educational initiatives.
• OU has a strong alumni network, with 80% of Oklahoma's healthcare professionals being OU graduates.