Today, we will take a look at some of the Top Online Aviation Degree Programs in 2023/2024 and also some standard industry salaries in these degrees.
If you are considering working at the airport and interested in helping others achieving an enjoyable and smooth ride then you should get a degree in Aviation. Getting a degree online in a Aviation would improve your knowledge on airplane and airport.
Aviation comes from the Latin avis meaning “bird”. It is simply define as the operation and production of aircraft. Furthermore, Aviation provides the only rapid worldwide transportation network, generating economic growth, creating jobs, and facilitating international trade and tourism.
Online Aviation Degree Programs
There are programs that allow you to train online for a career in aviation and aeronautics. Whether you want to work in airport management, airplane maintenance, or flight services, you can take online courses to develop your expertise in your chosen field.
Studying aviation online at the best aviation colleges can involve exploring concepts related to science, business, mechanics, security, and law.
Aviation curriculum often includes courses on:
1. Flight safety
2. Weather and aviation
3. Navigation systems
4. Aviation leadership principles.
Many students focus on a particular concentration area.
Concentration options typically include:
1. Aviation management
2 Aircraft maintenance
3. Flight
To prepare you for a certain career path, your coursework may focus primarily on your area of interest. For some specialties, you may be required to earn a pilot’s license. While many aviation principles can be studied online, becoming licensed requires spending time in the cockpit of a real plane.
You may need to qualify for your license before enrollment or go through training at a local site that’s approved by your college program. Studies in aviation maintenance may require hands-on training at a local facility as well. Some schools require applicants to have an airframe and powerplant mechanic certificate.
Getting an aviation degree can help prepare you for other certifications that are required for various roles. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) oversees many of the certificate programs in this field.
Common aviation careers include airline pilot, air traffic controller, and airplane mechanic. Professionals in the field who are interested in business tend to pursue roles in aviation management. Managers coordinate the personnel, operations, and finances of flight-related organizations, such as airports, airlines, and airplane manufacturers.
Aviation Careers & Salaries
Aviation Careers & Salaries
Aviation studies can lead to a variety of jobs related to airports, aircraft, and flight. Some students with an aviation major want to become pilots. The two main types of pilots are airline pilots and commercial pilots.
Airline pilots and copilots are employed by airlines, and they run flights according to set schedules. Pilots may transport people or cargo. Many work for major airlines, but there are also government jobs for airline pilots.
Commercial pilots provide flight services as needed. They may be corporate, charter, tour, or medical pilots. They can also offer agricultural services, such as spraying fields.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in transportation and material moving pay a median annual salary of $34,080, but jobs related to flight and aircraft often pay higher.
Careers Annual Median Salaries
Chief Executives $185,950
Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers $160,970
Air Traffic Controllers $130,420
General and Operations Managers $103,650
Commercial Pilots $93,300
Avionics Technicians $67,840
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians $66,440
Flight Attendants $59,050
Airfield Operations Specialists $51,330
Transportation Security Screeners $44,300
Some of the above jobs may require additional training or certification beyond a bachelor’s degree in aviation. Graduates who want to take to the skies in a different capacity may consider careers as flight attendants. This job involves working closely with pilots and helping keep passengers safe and secure.
Another branch of aviation to consider is aircraft repair and maintenance. Aircraft technicians usually focus on planes’ mechanical and electrical systems. Avionics technicians deal with electronic instruments.
There are also a number of aviation jobs associated with airports. For example, transportation security screeners make sure that people and materials passing through the airport comply with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) standards.
Air traffic controllers provide instructions to pilots during takeoff and landing, and they also pay attention to airplanes’ in-flight progress. Airfield operations specialists work closely with air traffic controllers and maintenance staff.
Airports also depend on a variety of managers. Professionals in airport management may head up various departments or individual airlines’ operations. Airports often have chief executives as well. Aircraft manufacturers also hire managers.
Aviation Curriculum & Courses
Aviation Curriculum
During your time in college, you may study aviation business, flight principles, airplane maintenance, and airport operations. Here are examples of courses you may come across in your studies:
Aerodynamics
Aircraft must be aerodynamic, so this class will focus on the scientific principles that allow aircraft to take flight and remain stable.
Airport Security
Strict rules govern aviation safety and security practices, so this class covers the regulations and how to comply with them.
Aviation Administration
This course provides an overview of marketing, facility operations, and other business principles related to aviation management.
Aviation Regulations
During your time in this class, you’ll explore the laws and rules related to flight and talk about what it’s like to work in complicated, high-stress environments.
Corporate Flight
This course addresses business and operations principles for students who want to provide on-demand flight services for corporate clients.
International Aviation Business
Many flights cross national borders, so this course covers essential principles for coordinating operations in other countries.
Leadership for Aviation
In this class, you’ll learn to promote teamwork, safety, and efficiency in aviation settings, and you’ll discuss case studies related to these principles.
Navigation
Modern aviation involves various navigation tools in the aircraft and the control tower, and this course will teach you how to use some of them.
Safety Principles
Everyone involved in aviation plays a role in making sure flights are safe, so this course will discuss methods for reducing accidents.
Turbine Engines
You’ll study turbine engine theory in this class and become more familiar with the operations and maintenance of these engines.
There’s usually overlap among specialties, but your curriculum list will likely depend on what branch of aviation you choose to study.
How to Choose an Online Aviation Program
Online Aviation Program
Not all online bachelor’s degrees in aviation are the same, so it’s strategic to compare and contrast program characteristics to help you find the best program for your needs.
The most respected college degrees come from schools that have the approval of one of the country’s regional accrediting agencies.
Certification opportunities: Completing select aviation programs may qualify you to take a certification exam for becoming a flight attendant, an airline pilot, or an air traffic controller.
Format: Online college programs use a variety of formats, such as at-your-own-pace classes, hybrid campus-online programs, accelerated course schedule, and synchronous live classes. It’s helpful to determine your ideal online format.
Prerequisites: Some programs require students to already hold a pilot’s license or a mechanic certificate. Others provide a pathway to earn the necessary certificates during your studies. Many students count tuition costs as one of the top factors in where they go to school. While it’s important to consider your budget, financial aid may help bring a pricier school within reach.
Specializations: If there’s a particular branch of aviation that interests you, you can choose a school that offers a program for that particular concentration. For example, if you want a career in aircraft service, a degree in aviation maintenance might make more sense than a general aviation management program.
An admissions counselor can help you learn more about the characteristics of the aviation program that you’re considering.
Admissions Requirements
Online Aviation Degrees admissions
Getting into an aviation program is similar to applying for other bachelor’s degree programs, but there may be additional requirements, too.
High school transcripts: These official forms show your previous coursework and grades.
Mechanic certificate: Some studies require students to possess a mechanic certificate that covers airframe and powerplant skills.
Pilot’s license: You may have to be FAA approved as a pilot either before beginning college or by a certain point in your program.
Standardized test scores (if required): This isn’t a universal requirement, but some colleges request SAT or ACT scores.
The admissions requirements can depend on which aviation specialty you plan to study.
Accreditation
Online Aviation Degrees accreditation
Your academic plans may change partway through your studies. If you decide to go to another school or switch programs, it’s helpful to be able to transfer as many of your previous credits as you can. To increase the possibility of a smooth transfer, it’s beneficial to attend a regionally accredited college.
Accredited colleges have been evaluated and approved by an accrediting agency. This shows that they meet industry standards for a good education. Regional accreditation is the most highly respected form of accreditation in the US. Employers appreciate and recognize accredited degrees, too.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Online Aviation Degrees financial aid
If you qualify, financial aid opportunities might allow you to attend a school that would otherwise be out of your price range. Financial aid for aviation programs can include loans, grants, scholarships, and workplace-based assistance.
Government student aid programs include grants and loans. In addition to federal assistance, your state may provide opportunities as well. You can get started by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Scholarships are financial awards that can cover a portion of your schooling costs. Some scholarships are given directly by schools. Others come from outside organizations, such as industry groups and philanthropic associations.
Employers sometimes encourage their employees to get more education, and they may provide tuition grants to help make it happen.
Can You Get an Aviation Degree Online?
online study for an aviation degree
Yes, online study for an aviation degree is possible! Getting an online degree, such as an online aviation management degree, can be a flexible approach to preparing or advancing your aviation career. You’ll typically study business concepts, aviation regulations, safety concerns, airplane mechanics, and the scientific principles that govern flight.
Some aviation-related training—such as earning a mechanic certificate or qualifying for a pilot’s license—may need to be completed through in-person instruction. Your college may ask you to get that training before you begin your program or to take additional lessons at an approved site.
Do You Need a College Degree to Be a Pilot?
You can get a pilot’s license without going to college. Also, a degree is not required for earning your FAA Airline Transport Pilot certificate. Having a degree can reduce the number of flight hours that you’ll need for qualification, though.
Even though college isn’t a must for obtaining the proper credentials, major airlines often prefer candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in the field. Plus, earning a degree can expand the opportunities available to you. With a degree, it may be easier to transition from being a pilot to working in aviation management.
What Can You Do with an Aviation Degree?
Aviation Degree careers
Some aviation majors pursue careers as pilots. The median annual salary for pilots who work in scheduled air transportation is $173,780 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Pilots may also provide charter or on-demand services in the manufacturing, medical, tourism, or agricultural fields. Some graduates look for jobs in maintenance. There are roles for aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians. These jobs pay a median annual salary of $66,680.
This degree can also help you train for aviation management. Managers can oversee airport facilities, airline operations, or airplane development and manufacturing.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation Online?
Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation Online
In general, a bachelor’s degree is considered a 4 year college program with full-time study.
Some online schools offer accelerated course schedules that allow you to finish a full degree in less time. Accelerated programs in aviation can take about 3.5 years of full-time, year-round study.
Having professional experience as a pilot may count as transfer credit. Depending on how much experience you bring into the program, you might be able to finish your college studies in less time.
How Much Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation?
Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation
Tuition varies from school to school, but you can expect to pay between $300 and $600 per credit hour for an online degree in aviation. Some schools offer lower rates for in-state residents, and others have the same tuition rates for all enrollees.
Your total tuition will be based on the cost per credit hour and the number of credit hours you need to earn. There may be additional fees to factor in as well.
If you qualify, financial aid can help reduce your overall costs. Your package might include federal grants, institutional aid, or private scholarships. Some students get employer tuition support, too.
What’s the Difference Between Aeronautics vs. Aviation?
The terms “aeronautics” and “aviation” are often used interchangeably, but there are differences between the two. Here’s a general overview of the two fields:
Aeronautics Aviation
Focuses on the science of flight
Addresses principles like propulsion and aerodynamics
Useful for aircraft design and manufacturing
Encompasses a variety of topics within the field of flight
Includes studies in safety, business management, and transportation law
Useful for airport operations
Some schools offer degrees that cover principles from both aeronautics and aviation.
What’s the Difference Between Aerospace vs. Aviation?
Aerospace and aviation are similar fields, but they’re not quite the same. Here are some things to know about how they compare:
Aerospace Aviation
Addresses flight within the atmosphere and in outer space
Studies usually focus on engineering principles, including math and science
Includes jobs in aeronautical and astronautical engineering
Addresses flight within the Earth’s atmosphere
Studies may cover business, flight, safety, and government regulations
Includes jobs related to airport operations, aircraft maintenance, and piloting
Your interests and career goals can help determine which field is best for you.
Is an Aviation Degree Worth It?
Aviation Degree
Yes, an aviation degree is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts growth for many aviation jobs. For instance, it’s projected that pilot positions will grow 5% over the next ten years.
The predicted growth rate for equipment mechanics and technicians is 5% as well. While you don’t need a college degree to become a pilot, a bachelor’s can help qualify you to fly for a competitive airline or enter aviation management.
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