Find your perfect college degree
Aviation is among the most popular degree programs. This makes sense because the aviation industry offers the sole fast global transit network, making it crucial for international trade. It fosters job creation and economic expansion and eases travel and trade abroad; aviation graduates frequently have intriguing careers and earn above-average wages.
If you love the skies and want an exciting career, consider pursuing a bachelor’s degree in aviation. Thanks to fast-evolving technologies, you can now earn an aviation degree online. You’ll undergo the same rigorous curriculum as your on-campus counterparts but with added flexibility and lower cost.
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The Lowdown
Aviation offers an extensive scope of education. A bachelor’s degree in aviation offers students several specializations within the field with the same objectives: to give a student a thorough education in aeronautics.
Several specializations are available with a bachelor’s degree in aeronautics; the most popular include Aerospace Engineering, Air Traffic Control, Aviation Management, Aviation Safety, Aviation Transport, And Aircraft Maintenance.
Furthermore, an online bachelor’s degree in aviation typically requires four to six years. Common core courses in this degree program include Aviation Management, Business Ethics, Aviation Legislation, Aviation Safety, Aerodynamics, and Airline Operations.
Airline pilots, air traffic controllers, and airplane mechanics are common professions in aviation. Business-minded professionals in the industry frequently pursue careers in aviation management.
Organizations involved in air travel, such as airports, airlines, and aircraft producers, have managers who coordinate their staff, business operations, and financial resources.
Methodology
Many schools offer an online bachelor’s degree in aviation, but not all are respected. To help you choose the best programs, we have gathered a list of the best online aviation undergraduate degrees.
First, colleges and universities with regional accreditation offer the degree programs listed to ensure a high caliber of education and training. Here are other guidelines used in selecting the best bachelor in aviation programs:
- The program has a faculty of experts with years of experience in the aviation sector.
- They have a good reputation and are top-ranked in other reputable sources, including student reviews and academic journals.
- Coursework is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI).
- Given appropriate accreditation according to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
- The curriculum provides knowledge for current technology use and future applications to support a strong basis for the continuous use of technology in the aviation industry.
- Offers various specializations for a more tailored learning experience.
- Provides free access to academic counselors, technical support, and financial aid opportunities.
For more information, see our Methodology page.
The 15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Aviation Colleges
University of North Dakota
Online Aviation Studies Bachelor’s Degree
UND’s Department of Aviation is one of the few AABI-accredited divisions that offer an Online Aviation Studies Bachelor’s Degree. This online aviation degree can be completed entirely online with no on-campus requirement.
- Online students will have asynchronous classes, allowing them to access coursework anytime.
- Students are required to complete 120 credit hours to graduate.
- The program offers two specializations: Safety and Business.
- The general education requirements of the online program are focused on developing a student’s communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
- Students can connect with the faculty and their peers.
What Makes This Program Unique:
In addition to the required core courses, electives, and specialization courses, students can enroll in credit hours beyond aviation to satisfy graduation requirements.
Some courses include Introduction to Business, Operations Management, Principles of Microeconomics, Fundamentals of Computer Information Systems, and many more.
Did You Know?
This is one of the most affordable online degrees in aviation. Regardless of your residency status, you’re entitled to pay in-state tuition.
Liberty University
Online Bachelor of Science in Aviation
Liberty University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Aviation is accredited by the SACSCOC – Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. This program, however, is designed for students who have already earned their pilot’s license.
- The program requires students to complete 120 credit courses within an 8-week format to graduate faster.
- Non-pilot-licensed students can enroll in Liberty’s Flight Training Affiliates (FTAs) programs to earn a pilot’s license.
- Students will receive knowledge about airplane aerodynamics and instrument panel controls, among other things.
- Liberty offers an Experience Plus program to help students earn college credit for their licenses and certificates for various aviation careers.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The School of Aeronautics has several connections with many airlines nationwide. Because of this, Liberty’s BS in Aviation offers excellent job placement rates.
Did You Know?
As the country’s best all-around collegiate aviation program, Liberty University’s School of Aeronautics won the Loening Trophy in 2017-19, making it one of the rarest and oldest collegiate aviation accolades.
LeTourneau University
Online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Studies
The Online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Studies at LeTourneau University is one of the three FAA-approved aviation degrees of the School of Aviation & Aeronautical Science.
- The program requires students to complete 120 credit hours, including courses in Aviation Safety Factors, Aviation Management, Financial Analysis for Managers, and Business Ethics.
- The curriculum mixes aviation and managerial courses to help students succeed in the aviation sector with strong managerial skills.
- Students with prior learning and flying experience can use them as credits for transfer to the program.
- Students who want hands-on learning experience can enroll in some on-campus courses and study in a hybrid learning method.
What Makes This Program Unique:
With a BS in Aviation Studies, military-affiliated students can transform their professional experience into academic success and earn a management-focused aviation degree to become more competitive as aviation leaders.
Did You Know?
LETU requires students to enroll in theology and vocation courses (12 hours). It allows their students to understand the main world religions, their historical history, and their interactions with the contemporary world.
Utah Valley University
Online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management
Utah Valley University offers an Online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working students. The FAA approves the curriculum of this BS in aviation management.
- This 120-credit hour aviation degree program requires students to complete a thorough AVSC 4900 Strategic Aviation Management exam.
- It aims to produce graduates with strong capabilities to execute appropriate procedures and manage private and public aviation enterprises.
- In addition to online courses, students must complete an airline management simulation to assess market circumstances and implement strategic and tactical actions.
- Students will exhibit self-directed learning to finish a professional industry certification, a training program, or an authorized internship program.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The program allows students to learn and collaborate with specialists on courses based on current aviation demands.
In addition to airline and airport operations management, marketing, aviation finance, human resources, and many other topics, the program will equip students with knowledge and abilities applicable to other closely related sectors.
Did You Know?
Online aviation programs at UVU are very affordable. On top of this, students can apply for internships while studying.
Purdue University Global
Bachelor of Science in Professional Flight
The Online Bachelor of Science in Professional Flight at Purdue University Global is an aviation degree that focuses on training students to become professional pilots or flight instructors. The curriculum of the program is FAA-approved.
- Instead of completing 120 credit hours, students in the professional flight program must complete 180 credit hours.
- Allow students to complete general education and aviation requirements online for added flexibility.
- The program curriculum enhances the student’s understanding of the aviation sector to help them get to know their aircraft and manage aviation operations.
- Students’ training and education will help them obtain the necessary ratings and licenses to compete in the industry.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Purdue Global offers various FAA-approved program options for students who don’t have a pilot’s license.
These programs allow students to fly many times every week and gain knowledge from experts in the field. Flight training is done in the daytime, while homework is done at night.
Did You Know?
The online aviation degree program students can graduate with various industry certifications; Commercial Pilot Flight Certification, Flight Instructor Flight Certification, Instrument Rating Certification, and Multi-Engine Flight Certification.
Eastern New Mexico University
Online Bachelor’s in Aviation Science
Eastern New Mexico University offers a Bachelor’s in Aviation Science accredited by the HLC. ENMU offers various financial aid opportunities for its online students.
- This online aviation degree is best for students who want to have a liberal arts foundation on top of their aviation courses.
- Students can take the program entirely online or use a hybrid learning method.
- While the program focuses on training students for aviation administration and military service careers, students can pursue careers as pilots, air traffic managers, and airport management experts through concentration courses.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The program will help students become members of some of the industry’s top organizations, such as:
- Association for Women in Aviation Maintenance (AWAM)
- Alpha Eta Rho (AHP), American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), and Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA). Students will have access to networking and learning opportunities.
Did You Know?
ENMU provides a high-quality, cost-effective aviation program. In addition to affordable rates and financial aid opportunities, out-of-state students can pay the in-state tuition rate by enrolling in 6 or fewer hours every semester.
National American University
Aviation Management Online Bachelor’s Degree
The National American University offers an Aviation Management Online Bachelor’s Degree that focuses on combining management and business principles into aviation. The curriculum of the program is well-respected and known to offer rigorous courses.
- This program has 180 credit hours, including general education coursework, core aviation management courses, and open electives.
- Additionally, students should complete professional pilot training or another accepted aviation sub-specialty — such as FAA certifications in Airframe and Powerplant (A&P), military training in aviation, or avionics — to meet the program’s core requirements.
- The online bachelor’s in aviation management program equips students for managerial positions in airlines, aerospace and aviation firms, and governmental organizations.
What Makes This Program Unique:
NAU offers several student services. In addition to free tutoring and the Ask-a-Librarian service, available seven days a week, NAU provides free access to current scholarly journals in the aviation industry.
Did You Know?
Students who have earned 46-90 credit hours save 10% per credit hour, while those who have earned 91-135 save 15%, and students with 163-180 credit hours save 20% per credit hour.
Lynn University
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation Operations
Lynn University’s Online Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation Operations offers an FAA-approved curriculum. It provides a foundation in business, technology, and aeronautics.
- Students thoroughly understand the intricate management and operations facets of the aviation business.
- Students will work toward obtaining their professional pilot’s license and ratings and learn the crucial abilities required for efficient organizational administration and leadership.
- Airport management, air traffic control, aviation law, aviation technology, and airline operations are all covered in the course material.
- Students will have the chance to take theoretical classes on the principles of flight and aerodynamics as a college requirement.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Graduates will be well-prepared to work in various aviation operations fields, such as airline operations, airport management, and aviation safety and security.
They will be equipped to handle the complexity of aviation operations professionally and effectively since they will be completely aware of the aviation business and its difficulties.
Did You Know?
The FAA has accredited Lynn University’s Burton D. Morgan College of Aeronautics. The school has a CFR Part 141 certificate, allowing it to undertake flight training for various Pilot School Ratings.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Online Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics
The Online Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI). It means the program’s curriculum is far more comprehensive than non-AABI accredited programs.
- Students will undergo extensive training in various fields, including avionics equipment mechanics, airline operations, aviation safety and security, and airport management.
- The 120 credit hours program is designed to have intensive coursework emphasizing safety, training, operations, dispatch, and transportation.
- In addition to the coursework offered, students can access various co-ops and internship opportunities with some of the nation’s top airline, aviation, and air transportation organizations.
- Aviation Maintenance, Air Traffic Control, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems are some of the program’s available specialties.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Students wanting a master’s degree can enroll in ERAU’s BSA-MSA 4+1 Combined Pathway Program.
Students in the accelerated program will complete three academic years of undergraduate study before being allowed to substitute up to three graduate-level MSA courses for an equivalent number of BSA elective courses during their senior year.
Did You Know?
ERAU offers two more AABI-accredited BS programs: Aeronautical Science and Air Traffic Management.
Florida Institute of Technology
Online BA in Aviation Management
Florida Tech, a core partner in the Federal Aviation Administration’s Center of Excellence PEGASAS, offers the Online Bachelor of Arts in Aviation Management.
This degree is earned 100% online and taught by leaders in the aviation industry.
- Students will complete 120 credit hours covering business best practices and modern aviation technology courses.
- In addition to core courses, students can choose courses in the Humanities: Mythology, Art Appreciation, Integrated Arts, Philosophy of Human Nature, or Religions of the World 1: Western Religions.
- The program will also require students to make an airline business plan to know how airspace and airport capacity are affected by various circumstances and what facilities and tools are needed to conduct an aircraft maintenance operation.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Students who complete the curriculum will understand how aviation influences and influences social forces.
This degree program is an arts degree, making it the perfect fit for students who want to become professional pilots but are uncomfortable with comprehensive physics and calculus courses.
Did You Know?
Students with certificates in Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, General Mechanic, Airframe Mechanic, Powerplant Mechanic, or Aircraft Dispatcher are qualified to gain college credits and have fewer credit hours required to graduate upon passing Florida Tech’s exam.
Hallmark University
Online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance Management
Hallmark University is an FAA-approved aviation maintenance school. HU offers a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance Management that can be completed online with an optional hands-on learning experience.
- With a two-year completion time, this is one of the fastest-accelerated online degree programs in aviation management.
- The program offers three concentration-specific courses: Human Factors in Aviation Safety, Airlines Operations/Compliance, and Aviation Maintenance Management.
- The curriculum’s design helps students learn about management and its relation to the aircraft maintenance sector.
- This will help students develop their business and administrative abilities while gaining awareness and expertise in aviation maintenance management.
- Online students have access to on-campus faculty, resources, and tools.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Students use various tools while learning to repair and maintain engines and training equipment. They’ll practice their skills and put their knowledge to the test by working on an operating jet and turbine engines and airframes that have flown before instead of doing it on virtual simulations.
Additionally, the school provides a wide range of aeronautical equipment currently used in the aviation sector.
Did You Know?
This online bachelor’s degree in aviation is about three times faster than the country’s average for completing a bachelor’s degree. This fast and accelerated degree option helps students spend less time and money schooling while having the same ROI as graduates of the traditional four-year bachelor programs.
Kent State University
Online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance Management
Kent State University’s online Online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance Management is a 100% online degree program.
- This is a complete program, meaning qualified students must be holders of FAA-approved Airframe and Powerplant certificates.
- Alternatively, students with no FAA-approved certificates must be certified by an International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) member state.
- The curriculum builds on the student’s knowledge as aircraft maintenance technicians.
- It equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to further their professional development and management, leadership, and communication careers.
- This is a 120-credit hour program that can be completed in less than four years.
- The program explores courses that teach students how to oversee the examination, maintenance, and resumption of flight for aircraft, emphasizing efficiency and safety.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Students can have a business major, which allows them to work in various sectors outside of aviation. Graduates can work in business, education, industry, and government sectors.
Did You Know?
Kent State’s online bachelor of science in aviation maintenance management program is new but progressive. The College of Aeronautics and Engineering recently submitted its Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI) accreditation application.
Indiana Wesleyan University
Online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management
Indiana Wesleyan University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management is one of the best FAA-approved programs that allow students to graduate with various FAA-approved certificates.
- The program’s coursework can be completed online with some on-site flight training at nearby partner flight schools, including Jeff Air Pilot Services, Lift Academy, and Sweet Aviation.
- Students must complete 120 credit hours of coursework and have a GPA of 2.25 or higher to graduate.
- Students are equipped with the capabilities and qualifications to supply the demand of pilot shortages.
- Coursework combines leadership and flying lessons to help students safely fly an airplane in various situations, following Airman Certification Standards (ACS) standards.
What Makes This Program Unique:
A typical flight course lasts 12 weeks. Courses in general education and majors last six weeks, so you can work and study without temporarily leaving your obligations.
Did You Know?
There are numerous accessible starts for Indiana Wesleyan University’s BS in Aviation Management program all year round.
Everglades University
Online Bachelor of Science with a major in Aviation/Aerospace
Everglades University offers an accredited Online Bachelor of Science Degree in Aviation/Aerospace that accepts students with only a high school diploma.
- The program requires students to complete 123 credit hours, which includes specialization courses that will deepen their understanding of the aviation sector.
- Specialization/concentration courses are aviation safety, maintenance, security, operations management, and flight operations management.
- Students will develop enhanced analytical and communication skills in aviation and aerospace regardless of the chosen concentration. It will help them understand general aviation and aerospace principles, laws, regulations, and operations.
- Graduates will be equipped to tackle the difficulties of the diversified and evolving aviation sector.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The curriculum equips aviation professionals with a strong academic foundation to support their technical training in various ways through validated FAA certifications. With the necessary courses, people without FAA certifications can finish the program.
Did You Know?
Online aviation students at Everglades who want hands-on learning experience can enroll in a hybrid learning format. Students can choose from five campuses where to study for optional on-campus classes.
University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh
Online Bachelor of Applied Studies Aviation Management
The University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh’s Online Bachelor of Applied Studies Aviation Management is one of the best programs to transfer credits from an A&P diploma, FAA certification, associate degree, or military credits.
- The online format is done through an accelerated seven-week session to help students get more flexibility.
- The program may require set due dates and deadlines for projects, assignments, and conversations, but no set times are needed for meetings.
- The program helps students develop skills necessary for success in the aviation industry, such as Airline management, Strategic and operational planning, Conflict resolution, negotiation and arbitration skills, and many more.
- Students will study in small class sizes taught by the same distinguished on-campus faculty.
What Makes This Program Unique:
This program allows students to complete a bachelor’s degree in aviation in at least two years. Unlike other online undergraduate programs in aviation, students with no prior experience, certification, or license can still apply for the program.
Did You Know?
UWO’s degree programs offer a very supportive community. Aviation students having trouble with academics and careers can freely use the school’s student support services and academic advising.
Additionally, online students get free access to on-campus facilities like the Polk Library and the Writing Center.
Overview of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation
Online bachelor’s degrees in aviation equip students for various jobs in the sector. These programs give students a well-rounded education that frequently mixes technical expertise with more general subjects in business and liberal arts.
While there are different curricula, all aviation undergraduate degrees will prepare students for professions in the aviation industry, including those as an air traffic controller, airport manager, airline manager, or Federal Aviation Administration employee (FAA).
In addition to aviation-related disciplines, students also study statistics, accounting and finance, marketing, and economics, including:
- Human resources and crew management
- Aviation law
- FAA regulations
- Operations management
- Corporate finance
- Business management
- Science of aviation
Type of Aviation Degrees
Associate Degree in Aviation
An associate degree is a popular way to reduce the credit hours required and the cost of an undergraduate degree. Associate degrees in aviation typically take two years to complete and 60 credit hours. However, some associate degrees offer a fast-paced learning format, allowing students to graduate in less than a year!
To be considered, applicants only need a high school diploma or GED. Unfortunately, this degree will only prepare you for entry-level positions like airway transportation and safety inspection.
Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation
Students who want higher-level positions should consider a bachelor’s degree in aviation. This degree typically lasts four years and 120 to 180 credits. Graduates can pursue several lucrative jobs in aviation, from engineering to management.
If you plan to enroll in a bachelor’s degree, getting your pilot’s license or FAA-approved certificates is best before submitting any applications.
Graduate Degrees in Aviation
Upon earning an undergraduate degree, you can pursue a graduate degree. You can either pursue a master’s or a doctor’s degree.
While this degree level may seem enticing and fancy, many professionals in the industry believe that they are not worthwhile. For one, graduate degrees are expensive and take up to five years to complete.
A bachelor’s degree program and flying training would be a better use of your time and money unless you intend to pursue a career in strategic management or as a professor.
Popular Aviation Careers
Those with an aviation degree can access a wide range of career options. Other employment options include science and engineering, teaching, corporate management, and more, depending on the degree.
Pilot
Those interested in flying may decide to major in aviation to work as a pilot. Pilots come in various forms: corporate, commercial and airline, and military. Pilots might receive training in several aircraft types, such as helicopters or airplanes.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the median annual pay for Airline and Commercial Pilots is $148,900. The BLS also reported that the job outlook for these professionals from 2022 to 2032 is 4%.
Air Traffic Controller
As their name suggests, air traffic controllers control air traffic to maintain the safety of passengers and aircraft. Air traffic controllers must talk to pilots and keep track of the whereabouts of various aircraft.
The BLS stated that air traffic controllers made a median annual salary of $132,250.
Flight Instructor
Some pilots or aviation majors can work as flight instructors. These experts instruct aspiring pilots in the theoretical and practical aspects of flying an aircraft.
Salary.com reported that flight instructors had a median annual salary of $111,418.
Why Many People Want a Career in the Aviation Industry
The following are the advantages or benefits of working in the aviation industry:
Career Growth
As one of the fastest-evolving industries globally, Aviation is an attractive career prospect. To become part of the industry, hopefuls must receive management training upon starting their first job in aviation. These training sessions will help you build abilities you can use for your career.
But hold up! Your opportunity for career training and advancements won’t stop there.
You’ll probably be among the first managers to pick up new technology skills, and you might even be able to get industry certifications. Also, you’ll get the chance to go to conferences, workshops, and other similar events.
International Career
With an aviation career, you’ll be Ms/Mr. Worldwide. The nature of the aviation sector implies that the skills and expertise are transferable to other locations and the possibility of travel within the role itself.
As a result, those in administrative positions frequently garner interest from other companies, which might contribute to the prevalence of opportunities to work abroad.
Meeting New People
Working in the airline industry is never tedious; every day will always give you a new experience. You come into contact with travelers, customers, clients, workers, and business partners when working in the industry.
Also, you may work with different cultures, so fresh and fascinating circumstances will constantly arise in your professional life.
Travel Opportunities
Most executive roles in the aviation sector will come with excellent benefits such as travel and vacation time. For instance, most airlines offer managers significant flight savings, and some even provide a set number of complimentary flights.
Nevertheless, the benefits frequently go beyond this, allowing you to travel while saving money on hotel stays, rail tickets, and rental cars.
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is an Aviation major?
Aviation is a very technical and specialized field of study. Most online bachelor’s degrees in aviation require students to complete 120 credit hours, while some may require up to 180.
Bachelor’s degrees in aviation go over aviation courses and include courses in the arts, social sciences, some social sciences, arithmetic, and physical sciences.
What are the differences between Airline Pilots and Commercial Pilots?
Most airline pilots begin as commercial pilots. Airline pilots usually operate for a particular regional airline, whereas commercial pilots carry out reconnaissance, transport passengers and goods, and fulfill other flight criteria related to their job titles.
A pilot who has a commercial pilot’s license would have to undergo more training and log more flight hours to earn an airline transport pilot certification.
What are the benefits of Aviation?
Aviation fosters job creation and economic expansion and eases travel and trade abroad.
Do I need a degree to get a Pilot’s license?
Most entry-level pilot positions don’t require a degree, just FAA-approved flight credentials. Although students must be 18 on the day of their commercial check ride, some flight training programs accept 16-year-old students. Many people continue their training immediately after getting their high school diploma.
Summary Points
- An online Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation typically lasts four years and 120 to 180 credits to prepare you for a high-paying position with various perks in any aviation field.
- While a bachelor’s degree is not required to work as a pilot, obtaining one will help you open more job opportunities with higher pay and better benefits.
- Aviation is a vast field of study. Depending on your chosen specialization, the typical curriculum includes engineering to business management courses.
Additional Information:
