What Colleges Have Aviation Programs?
Aviation is a growing and dynamic industry that offers a wide range of career opportunities, from piloting to air traffic control and beyond. If you’re interested in pursuing a career in aviation, it’s essential to find a college with a reputable aviation program. In this article, we’ll explore the colleges with aviation programs, including those that offer degrees, certificates, and even flight training.
Top Colleges for Aviation Programs
There are many colleges and universities that offer aviation programs, ranging from small community colleges to large state universities. Here are some of the top colleges for aviation programs:
| College | Location | Degree/Certificate Options | Program Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purdue University | West Lafayette, IN | Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Aerospace Engineering | FAA-certified flight program, partnerships with major airlines |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University | Daytona Beach, FL and Prescott, AZ | Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in various fields | Flight training, drone training, and research opportunities |
| University of North Dakota | Grand Forks, ND | Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Aerospace Sciences | Flight training, research opportunities, and partnerships with industry leaders |
| Kent State University | Kent, OH | Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering | Research opportunities, flight training, and industry partnerships |
| Birmingham-Southern College | Birmingham, AL | Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Science | Flight training, air traffic control certification, and industry partnerships |
| Middle Tennessee State University | Murfreesboro, TN | Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Administration | Flight training, research opportunities, and industry partnerships |
| Fresno City College | Fresno, CA | Associate’s degree in Aviation Technology | Flight training, airframe and powerplant certification, and industry partnerships |
| College of Central Florida | Ocala, FL | Associate’s degree in Aviation | Flight training, air traffic control certification, and industry partnerships |
Types of Aviation Programs
Aviation programs come in various forms, including:
- Flight Programs: These programs offer training and certification in piloting aircraft. Some colleges may also offer additional certifications, such as instrument rating or commercial pilot certification.
- Aviation Technology Programs: These programs focus on the maintenance and repair of aircraft, as well as other aviation-related technologies.
- Aerospace Engineering Programs: These programs focus on the design, development, and testing of aircraft and spacecraft.
- Aviation Business Programs: These programs focus on the business side of the aviation industry, including airline management, airport operations, and air traffic control.
- Aviation Education Programs: These programs prepare students to teach aviation-related subjects, such as aeronautical science or flight training.
Certifications and Accreditation
It’s essential to ensure that any aviation program you consider is certified and accredited by reputable organizations. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for certifying flight programs, while the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is responsible for accrediting engineering programs.
Colleges with Flight Training
Flight training is an essential component of many aviation programs. Here are some colleges with flight training:
- Purdue University: Offers flight training through its Purdue Polytechnic Institute
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: Offers flight training through its Prescott and Daytona Beach campuses
- University of North Dakota: Offers flight training through its John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences
- Fresno City College: Offers flight training through its Aviation Technology program
- College of Central Florida: Offers flight training through its Aviation program
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Pursuing an aviation program can be costly, but there are many scholarships and financial aid options available. Here are some examples:
- FAA’s Airport Grants Program: Provides grants to airports and other organizations for aviation-related projects and training programs
- Airline Pilot Professional Scholarship: Provides scholarships to aspiring airline pilots
- Purdue University’s Aerospace Scholarship: Provides scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students in aerospace engineering and other related fields
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Aviation Scholarship: Provides scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students in various aviation-related fields
Conclusion
Pursuing a career in aviation can be a rewarding and exciting experience. With many colleges and universities offering aviation programs, it’s essential to find one that fits your interests and career goals. From flight training to aerospace engineering, there are many opportunities to pursue a career in aviation.
