If you are interested in aviation but don’t necessarily want to be a pilot, you might consider getting an aviation management degree online.
There are aviation managers in nearly every sector of an airport. A Bachelor of Aviation Management can open the door to a wide variety of high-paying, dynamic positions within the aviation industry. If you have a mind for business and enjoy working in a stimulating, fast-paced environment, you might enjoy working in airport management.
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With an aviation degree, the sky is the limit!
Aviation Management Degrees Online
An online aviation management degree is an all-encompassing program that covers the ins and outs of everything that goes on at an airport, particularly behind the scenes.
There are many moving parts that enable an airport to function, so you can expect to take a wide variety of classes across many different fields. Business, science, finance, engineering, and even design classes can help prepare you for work in the field.
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An aviation management program can help you develop expertise in the field as well as leadership, management, and critical thinking skills. These are important skills to have since aviation managers are responsible for keeping an airport or airline safe and productive.
Some professionals in aviation management oversee the day-to-day operations, such as:
- Business and finances
- Flight coordination
- Air traffic control
- Customer service
- Managing staff
- Safety regulations
- The transfer of goods
Aviation managers can take on many different roles within the aviation industry, from top executive positions within an airport to management roles within an airline.
Job titles within the sector of aviation management can include:
- Airport president or CEO
- Air traffic controller
- Director of maintenance
- Flight line manager
- Quality control manager
- Safety manager
- Sales manager
Some aviation management graduates even go on to specialize or to earn their wings.
Aviation Management Careers and Salaries
An aviation manager typically works in the airline industry, most often for airports or individual airlines. The federal government, manufacturing companies, colleges and universities, ambulatory services, and the cargo and freight industry also hire both pilots and managers.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, air transportation is the largest employer of pilots and flight engineers, while the federal government employs the majority of air traffic controllers.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Chief Executives | $185,950 |
| Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers | $160,970 |
| Air Traffic Controllers | $130,420 |
| Human Resources Managers | $121,220 |
| General and Operations Managers | $103,650 |
| Administrative Services and Facilities Managers | $98,890 |
| Commercial Pilots | $93,300 |
| Aviation Inspectors | $78,400 |
| Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians | $66,680 |
| Airfield Operations Specialists | $51,330 |
Nearly all the positions within aviation management pay higher than average salaries. Airline pilots are one of the highest paid positions in the aviation industry, and management positions have the potential for high salaries as well, depending on the sector of employment.
B.S. in Aviation Management Curriculum & Courses
At the bachelor level, most students focus on one specific track, such as airline management. The curriculum for all the tracks, though, is founded on the core courses in aerospace and aviation management.
The following are examples of courses you may take during your online aviation administration program:
- Aerospace Vehicle Propulsion and Tracking Systems: This course is an introduction to propulsion systems.
- Aerospace Vehicle Systems Designs, Analysis, and Operations: This course is an introduction to design and engineering analysis of systems on modern aircraft.
- Aviation Business: You’ll study the financial structure and operation of the industry.
- Aviation Finance: This course covers the financial knowledge needed to operate an aviation business.
- Aviation Operations: You’ll study the principles of managing an aviation operation.
- Aviation Operation Management: This course is a forum for investigation of contemporary issues facing the aviation industry.
- Aviation Projects: This course introduces you to group projects within the aviation industry by working with industrial partners.
- Basic Aircraft Science: This course is an introduction to federal regulatory systems and associated publications.
- Introduction to Aviation Technology: This course is an overview of the industry, careers, safety practices, and regulations.
- Private Pilot Lectures: This course covers information needed to operate as a private pilot.
Some aviation management programs require you to have a background in flight, but not all do. If you are interested in earning your wings, you should know that with many airlines, you will need a degree to become a pilot.
Some degree programs also include a flight training component. If you’re studying for an aviation degree online, you may get the required in-person training at a local flight school.
How to Choose an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation Management Program
Choosing an online program can be tricky. Here are some factors you may want to consider when researching programs:
- Transfer credit policies. Some programs require you to complete your general education classes first and then transfer into the program. Most universities only accept transfer credits from accredited schools. FAA certifications may earn you transfer credits as well, so you may want to check into your prospective school’s transfer policies.
- Program flexibility. If you need a flexible program, most online programs can be completed 100% online. If you’re also pursuing a pilot license, you may be able to complete in-person flight training at an approved facility near you.
- Specializations. Many programs have an area of concentration, such as aviation maintenance, airport operations management, aviation security, aviation management, aviation business administration, or aeronautics. You can verify that a program matches your career aspirations and offers the concentrations you need.
- Flight hours. Some programs involve flight training component. You can usually complete your flight requirements within your local community.
- Affordability. Programs can differ in their tuition costs and additional program fees. For instance, some online programs require out-of-state students to pay higher tuition rates.
- Experience. Some programs are specifically designed for professionals who have already earned their FAA certifications.
It’s beneficial to look for a program that meets your personal needs, trains you for your specific career goals, and stays within or around your budget.
Admissions Requirements
Every college has a different set of admissions requirements, so it is strategic to check with a school’s admissions office before applying.
It’s common for schools to request the following:
- Admissions application
- High school diploma or GED
- Letters of recommendation
You can check your school’s website before applying to view their specific requirements as well as any admissions deadlines.
Accreditation
Regional accreditation is an important factor to consider when choosing a program. For starters, attending an accredited school can be a qualifier for receiving state or federal financial aid.
Regional accreditation demonstrates that a school meets highest standards in regards to student performance, academic instruction, and student resources. An institution with regional accreditation has been found to offer high-quality education. Accreditation can also impact your eligibility for professional certifications.
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To check your school’s accreditation status, you can visit the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Financial Aid and Scholarships
There are many financial aid options available to bachelor’s students who qualify. These options can include:
- Federal and state aid. You can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify for financial aid.
- Student loans. You may qualify for subsidized and unsubsidized student loans, which are often low-interest and do not need to be repaid until six months after graduation.
- Work study. Work-study is awarded based on need and usually only applies to on-campus attendees.
- Scholarships. Scholarship opportunities may be offered by schools, community organizations, clubs, and nonprofits.
To start your research, it may help to speak with your high school guidance counselor.
What Is Aviation Management?
Aviation management is a sector that covers the business-side of the aviation industry. It requires extensive knowledge of the airline industry and an uncanny eye for business and management.
Aviation management can consist of nearly anything that happens at an airport, from traffic control to baggage claim. It covers security, air traffic, airport design, and so much more.
Professionals in aviation management keep every aspect of an airport or airline running smoothly. They can help an existing airline run more successfully, or they may manage a team of specialists within an airport or airline.
What Can I Do with a Degree in Aviation Management?
Professionals with an aviation management degree may oversee the daily operations of an airport. Chief executives can manage an entire airport, while other business professionals may manage a certain section or department.
You could also pursue work in the cargo and freight industry, managing the transport of goods. Some aviation managers work for the federal government or the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), managing air traffic within the United States.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelors in Aviation Management Degree Online?
How long it takes to complete a bachelors degree in aviation management can depend on many factors, such as whether you attend full-time or part-time and whether you take summer classes.
If you follow a traditional, 16 week semester and attend full-time, it generally takes 4 years to earn a bachelor’s degree. Some programs offer 8 week semesters. With this format, you can stay continuously enrolled year-round, which may allow you to finish your degree in less time.
If you already have an associate degree, some college credits, or FAA certifications, you may be able to shave more time off of your timeline.
Is an Aviation Management Degree Worth It?
Yes, an aviation management degree is worth it for many professionals. The airline industry is growing about as fast as the national average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Employment for aircraft pilots, mechanics, and technicians is expected to grow 5% over the next ten years, which is faster than average. Management occupations are expected to experience 5% job growth as well (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Careers in aviation are highly respected, and these competitive positions often pay well above average.
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Since a background in business can be applicable to nearly any industry, a degree in aviation management can be beneficial even if you decide not to stay in the aviation field.
Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Aviation Management
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Central Washington University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management.
CWU’s aviation department has direct-hire agreements with nearly a dozen airlines. This degree can help students pursue administrative and management positions in the aviation industry, such as airport manager, general operations manager, or air carrier manager.
Central Washington University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
The Florida Institute of Technology’s BA in Aviation Management program is available 100% online. There are no set class times, so students can study whenever it is most convenient. The program covers how to create airline business plans, factors affecting airspace and airfield capacity, and the selection process for facilities and equipment.
Florida Institute of Technology is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Hampton University is an HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) institution with an acclaimed Department of Aviation.
Their Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management (Airport Administration) program is designed to prepare students for airport managerial positions. The program is 122 credit hours long and is available online to provide convenience for adult learners.
Hampton University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Indiana Wesleyan University offers a BS in Aviation Management. The program partners with flight schools so that students can train locally while earning their degrees online. Students who already have flight certifications and ratings can count them as credit toward the degree.
Indiana Wesleyan University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
Students in the B.S. in Aviation Management program at LeTourneau University can choose from one of four concentrations.
Options are Aircraft Dispatch, Homeland Security, Maintenance, and Professional Pilot. Courses include Aviation Human Factors, Aviation Safety, Airport Operations and Management, and Air Transportation Systems. The program features accelerated courses and a flexible year-round format.
LeTourneau University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Liberty University’s online program for a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management is 120 credit hours long and takes on average 3.5 years to complete. Courses are just 8 weeks long and 100% online. The program includes a capstone project to help students demonstrate their knowledge and skills to potential employers.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Lynn University offers an online Bachelor’s in Aviation Management. It is 100% online, with optional on-site flight training available in Florida. There are three start dates each year. Academic courses cover economics, business analytics, aviation law, and the history of aviation.
Lynn University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
A degree in Aviation Management from National American University can help prepare you for a management position at an airline, aerospace company, or government agency.
Students in this program can learn fundamental business principles as they apply to the aviation industry. Academic courses are available 100% online, and the program consists of 180 total credit hours.
National American University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Southeastern University’s Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management includes a Professional Pilot track. Students can begin flight courses in their first few semesters, and academic courses are available both online and on campus. Students also have the opportunity to train in an FAA approved FSTD jet simulator.
Southeastern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Southern Illinois University offers an online Aviation Maintenance Management degree program.
It is intended for working professionals and can be completed entirely through distance education. Courses include Avionics Communication and Navigation Systems Transition, Aerospace Lean Manufacturing and Maintenance Practices, and Aerospace Supply Chain Logistics.
Southern Illinois University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Getting Your Bachelor Degree in Aviation Management Online
A degree in aviation management could open the door to a number of job opportunities within the airline industry.
Professionals with a background in aviation management may earn their wings and become pilots, work behind the scenes, or manage day-to-day operations. The sky really is the limit with a bachelor’s in aviation management! You can even earn your degree online so you can better balance your studies with your lifestyle.
If you are ready to launch your career in this lucrative field, you can start your educational journey today by researching online aviation programs from accredited universities.
