If you want to become a pilot, you might be wondering which aviation science degree programs can help you reach your goals.
The Federal Aeronautics Administration (FAA) does not require you to have a degree to become a pilot. However, employers often prefer to hire pilots who have earned accredited degrees in relevant fields. In addition, the FAA requires two months of ground training, plus at least 1,500 flight hours, before you can qualify for a commercial pilot’s license.
Here is more about aviation degrees that are available and which can best help you become a commercial pilot.
What Kind of Aviation Degrees Are Available?
Both undergraduate and graduate aviation degrees can help you prepare for a career as a commercial pilot. Some programs offer specialized degrees, such as a Bachelor of Science in Air Traffic Management. Others offer a bachelor’s degree that allows you to choose your area of focus.
Aviation-related degrees include the following:
- Aeronautical Science
- Aerospace Engineering
- Air Traffic Management
- Aviation Safety
- Aviation Management
- Aviation Maintenance Management
- Aviation Operations Management
- Aviation Security
Any type of aviation science degree can open up your career options. If you’re looking for a job as a commercial pilot, however, you may want to focus on degrees such as these:
- Bachelor of Science with a major in Aviation
- Bachelor of Science with a Flight Operations Concentration
- Bachelor of Science in Aviation Technology
- Master’s in Aviation Science
What Will I Learn in an Aviation Science Degree Program?
While the exact content of aviation degrees depends partly on the area of concentration, they typically share a core curriculum. Your coursework as an aviation science student may include the following:
- Aviation safety
- Aviation history
- Human factors in aviation
- Airport/aviation planning
- Aviation law and regulations
- Aerodynamics
- Introduction to aeronautics
- Critical thinking and decision-making
- Project management
If your goal is to become a pilot, you will want to find a degree that also includes relevant coursework such as the following:
- Airline management
- Aviation insurance and risk management
- Aviation labor relations
- Corporate aviation operations
- Air traffic control
- Aviation meteorology
Note that some schools include flight training in their degree program, while others target students who already hold a commercial pilot’s license.
Take Your Next Step to Become a Pilot at Everglades University
The large majority of commercial airlines look for pilots with four-year college degrees. Even though not all employers require it, an aviation science degree shows your discipline, commitment, and depth of industry knowledge.If you’re looking for an academic aviation degree to complement your technical background, Everglades University can help take your career to the next level. Depending on your previous education level and experience, check out the bachelor’s degree with a major in Aviation/Aerospace or master’s degree in Aviation Science today.