2023 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Aviation Degrees
An online bachelor’s degree in aviation is designed to provide an excellent foundation for students with a strong interest in the aviation industry. For students who are not aiming to become pilots, many institutions offer programs that cover aviation management and maintenance, which keeps students within the aviation field without having to go to flight school. Some topics covered in an online Bachelor’s in Aviation include aviation history, aviation management, and risk factors. Graduates of an online bachelor's in aviation may pursue careers like Air Traffic Controller, Pilot, or Human Resources Manager or continue their education by getting an affordable master's degree in aviation or aerospace engineering.
Explore the most affordable online bachelor’s degrees in aviation below. View our methodology for details about rankings or learn more about us. You can also check out our overall list of the most affordable online degrees for some inspiration.
| Rank | School | Locations | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Middle Georgia State University | Macon (GA) | $3,410 | |
| Eastern New Mexico University - Main Campus | Portales (NM) | $6,624 | |
| Hampton University | Hampton (VA) | $9,000 | |
| Southern Illinois University - Carbondale | Carbondale (IL) | $9,645 | |
| Utah Valley University | Orem (UT) | $9,900 | |
| Lynn University | Boca Raton (FL) | $9,950 | |
| University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh | Oshkosh (WI) | $10,800 | |
| Kansas State University | Manhattan (KS) | $11,250 | |
| LeTourneau University | Longview (TX) | $11,400 | |
| University of North Dakota | Grand Forks (ND) | $13,049 |
Middle Georgia State University Macon (GA) Middle Georgia State University (MGA) is a medium-sized, public institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Science and Management - Management that requires 120 credit hours. The management track in this program exposes students to aviation and airport management topics. Graduates may pursue careers like an airfield operations specialist, airline manager, or human resources manager in the field of aviation. At MGA, online students complete their coursework virtually in an asynchronous format on Brightspace, a learning management platform. The university's remote student support includes a writing center, counseling, and academic advising. The program’s admission requirements are a high school diploma or GED and a minimum high school GPA of 2.0.
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Eastern New Mexico University - Main Campus Portales (NM) At Eastern New Mexico University - Main Campus (ENMU), a public institution with a medium-sized student population, prospective students can pursue two online aviation bachelor's degrees: (1) a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Science in Aviation Science and (2) a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Science. Each of these require students to finish 120 credit hours. Both degree programs cover the basics of aviation science, which is necessary for specific career opportunities in the aviation industry. Sample coursework includes History of Aviation, Airport Operations, and Theory of Flight. ENMU facilitates asynchronous and synchronous online learning through the popular platform, Canvas. Online students can also access the school's online library, academic advising, and tutoring services. An application, FAFSA application, official transcripts, and ACT/SAT scores are required for admission.
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Hampton University Hampton (VA) Hampton University (Hampton Online) is a medium-sized, private, and nonprofit institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management - Airport Administration. Requiring 120 credit hours, this program prepares students to assume managerial positions in airports. Some of the program’s coursework includes Weather & Climate, Introduction to Airport Systems, and Aviation Management. Students at Hampton Online complete coursework on Blackboard. Online student support includes tutoring, counseling, and IT help. The program’s admission requirements are an application, official high school transcripts, a letter of recommendation, and an essay.
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Southern Illinois University - Carbondale Carbondale (IL) Southern Illinois University - Carbondale (SIU - Carbondale) is a medium-sized, public institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Technologies, which totals 120 credit hours. Prospective students can expect to take core and specialization courses, technical or career electives, and participate in an internship or cooperative experience. The program’s specializations include Aircraft Maintenance, Aviation Electronics (Avionics), Helicopter Maintenance, and Aviation Maintenance Management. At SIU - Carbondale, online students complete coursework — which is delivered asynchronously and synchronously — on Brightspace. Remote students can also access tutoring, a writing center, and SIU's online library. Interested students must submit an application and official transcripts.
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Lynn University Boca Raton (FL) Lynn University (Lynn) is a medium-sized, private, nonprofit institution that offers several online degrees in aviation: a Bachelor's of Science in (1) Aviation Management, (2) Aviation Security, Aviation Operations, Professional Pilot, and Air Traffic Control. All programs are 120 credit hours except for the professional pilot bachelor's degree, which is 122 credit hours total. These online degrees help prepare students for various career opportunities in aviation. All programs are offered throughout the year. At Lynn, online students complete coursework asynchronously via Canvas, allowing them to work at their own pace. Additionally, remote student support includes IT assistance and an online library. Admission requirements are an application, a personal statement, and official transcripts.
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University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh Oshkosh (WI) The University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh (UW Oshkosh) is a medium-sized, public institution offering an online Bachelor of Applied Studies in Aviation Management that requires 120 credit hours. This remote program helps students develop leadership and communication skills to help them become industry leaders in the field of aviation. Sample coursework includes Transformative Leadership, Aviation Law, and Airline Management. At UW Oshkosh, online coursework is delivered on Canvas in asynchronous and synchronous formats. Online students can also access tutoring services, a writing center, and academic advising. The program’s admission requirements are an application and official high school transcripts.
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Kansas State University Manhattan (KS) At Kansas State University (K-State) — a large, public institution — students interested in aviation can pursue a Professional Aviation Bachelor’s Degree through K-State Online. Requiring 120 credit hours, this online degree's curriculum combines business and leadership courses with an emphasis in aviation. The program’s curriculum includes courses that range from Air Carrier Operations and Aviation Law to Supervisory Management. K-State Online facilitates asynchronous and synchronous online learning through the platform, Canvas. Distance learners can also access tutoring, academic advising, and K-State's online library. The program’s admission requirements are a cumulative high school GPA of 3.25 or higher, official transcripts or GED equivalent, and ACT/SAT scores.
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LeTourneau University Longview (TX) LeTourneau University (LeTU) is a small, private, nonprofit institution offering two online bachelor’s in aviation degrees: (1) a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management and (2) a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Studies. Each requires 122 credit hours. The first program offers four concentration options: (1) Aircraft Dispatch, (2) Homeland Security, (3) Maintenance, and (4) Professional Pilot. The second program includes core courses like Aviation Safety Factors, Financial Analysis for Managers, and Business Ethics. At LeTU, remote students complete their coursework in an asynchronous format on Blackboard. Additionally, support for online learners includes academic advising, a virtual library, and career services. Each bachelor's program has the same admission requirements: an application, high school diploma or GED, and ACT/SAT scores.
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University of North Dakota Grand Forks (ND) The University of North Dakota (UND) is a public institution with a medium-sized student population. UND offers an online Bachelor of Science in Aviation Safety and Operations requiring 120 credit hours. The program delivers a comprehensive curriculum designed to help students succeed in aviation careers. Sample coursework includes Aviation Safety Analysis, Risk Management, and Human Factors. UND facilitates asynchronous and synchronous online learning on Blackboard. Remote students can access tutoring, writing help, and tech support. To apply, students must first complete 14 units of high school core courses and provide their official transcripts.
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Overview of Online Aviation Bachelor’s Degrees
Online bachelor's degrees in aviation provide aircraft maintenance, management, and operation training. Coursework not only covers aviation safety, meteorology, and flight physics, but students also explore the airline industry, including standard policy, law, and labor issues related to commercial airline companies.
An aviation bachelor's degree takes approximately four years to complete on a full-time schedule. Students must have a minimum high school diploma to be accepted for enrollment, although some schools ask that applicants possess a mechanic's or pilot's license.
Concentrations allow students to narrow their coursework to fit their career goals, such as air traffic management, aviation design, flight operations, and aeronautical maintenance. Upon graduation with an online aviation degree, students can pursue their pilot's license, apply for entry-level roles in airplane maintenance and project management, or continue their education.
Although airline pilots don't legally need a bachelor's degree to fly commercially, most employers prefer candidates who have one. Students wishing to gain leadership roles that oversee pilots — such as directors, operations managers, and chief executive officers — should pursue an online aviation master's degree. These programs offer lower tuition costs and feature advanced aviation law, aeronautics, airport operations, and leadership training.
Common Courses
Aviation degrees are comprehensive and feature practical and theoretical training in everything from aircraft maintenance to the psychology of piloting. For students to better understand the classes they'll encounter, here are three common courses found in aviation degrees:
Human Factors
This course explores aviation safety through human-machine interactions, such as flight deck designs, and the psychology of humans in aviation environments, such as a flight crew's communication and cognitive abilities.
Aircraft Systems
This technical course focuses on modern-day aircraft's mechanical, electric, and electronic systems, including ice protection, takeoff and landing, fuel, and flight control.
Aviation Meteorology
Aviation meteorology looks at flight-related weather such as icing, turbulence, and low level windshear. Students train in weather theory and data collection to prepare pre-flight weather briefings and reports.
Funding an Online Aviation Degree
Getting an education is expensive, and finding an affordable online aviation degree can be challenging for low-income students. According to the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of a college education in the United States is $36,400 per year, rising 2% annually over the past decade.
Unfortunately, aviation degrees are no exception, which is why many aspiring aviation professionals opt for online schools with low tuition. Online degrees are less expensive than in-person programs by $36,600. They're also more convenient, allowing students to learn on their schedules and from the comfort of their homes. Aspiring pilots are required to log practical flight hours, but much of the theoretical studying can be completed remotely.
There are other ways to make college cheaper, such as attending a less expensive in-state school. The most affordable aviation degrees offer in-state tuition rates for all online students, no matter where they reside, making it easier to choose a school based on curriculum rather than location. Another option is to earn two years' worth of aviation credits through an associate degree at an affordable online community college before transferring to a four-year university.
Many students work part-time during their bachelor's degree programs to help fund their studies. Entry-level jobs such as ticketing agents, cargo handlers, and flight attendants offer steady part-time work and airline industry experience.
Financial Aid
Many students pay for tuition through financial aid provided by the federal government. In fact, 84% of college students receive federal money to fund their academic ambitions. These typically come in the form of student loans, work-study programs, and Pell Grants.
Most students apply for loans through the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines eligibility based on income, family contributions, and the cost of the degree. Students must repay these loans with interest, although payment plans are available.
Other forms of financial aid, such as grants and scholarships, don't have to be paid back. Pell Grants, for example, are federal grants given to students with exceptional financial needs. Scholarships can be needs-based but are also awarded to students who showcase substantial academic achievements or skills. The Federal Aviation Administration offers resources for aviation scholarships from various flight organizations and airline companies.
What Can You Do With an Online Aviation Degree?
Many aviation students have dreams of becoming pilots, but that's not the only career worth pursuing. Aviation graduates can earn a living in several ways, both in the sky and on the ground. There are administrative roles in airport management, technical positions in airplane maintenance, and teaching roles in flight instruction.
Bachelor's graduates may also continue their online education at the graduate level by pursuing affordable master's degrees in aviation. These degrees are more advanced and feature specializations in safety, finance, avionics, and engineering. They often culminate in leadership careers such as aviation project managers and airport operations directors.
Below are a few common careers earned by aviation bachelor's graduates with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
Avionics Technicians
Avionics technicians specialize in the repair and maintenance of electrical systems on aircrafts. These systems operate critical components, such as navigation and communication instruments. Tasks include analyzing flight data to diagnose issues, installing entertainment systems, and repairing radars. Digital technology is vital in aviation, making avionics technicians critical to maintaining in-flight computer systems.
Commercial Pilots
The role of commercial pilots is to transport cargo and passengers safely. They're responsible for preparing aircraft for flight, including balancing weight, managing fuel, navigating routes, and monitoring the weather. Commercial pilots may work as instructors teaching students to fly, airline passenger pilots, and helicopter pilots.
Air Traffic Controllers
Air traffic controllers organize and supervise the movement of aircraft. Their primary responsibility is to maintain a safe environment for busy aircraft environments. They often work in airport towers to coordinate runway and taxiway operations, terminal control centers to manage approach and departure safety, and traffic control centers to monitor national airspace.
FAQs About Online Aviation Degrees
How Do I Choose a Bachelor’s in Aviation?
Students can choose the best bachelor's degree in aviation for them by considering their career goals. Aviation degrees often feature concentrations that allow for tailored coursework, such as maintenance, homeland security, and flight operations. It's also important to consider experience. Students can gain an advantage in their program by building on their work and study experiences in aviation.
Another vital consideration is affordability. Students should explore tuition costs at different schools to find the one that best fits their financial circumstances. Most schools offer financial aid and scholarships but may have different eligibility requirements related to income, experience, and essays.
Is Aviation a Difficult Major?
Aviation majors are not considered more difficult than similar programs that combine technical and administrative training. Undergraduate-level courses in aviation are entry-level and designed to lay a foundation for more advanced learning down the line. Some students may excel at memorizing expansive lists of flight regulations, while others find their skills better applied to turbine engine mechanics. In general, students should be on the path toward achieving their degrees as long as they are motivated to study the materials.
How Much Can You Make With an Aviation Degree?
Earnings from an aviation degree vary based on students' previous experiences. For example, military students may have worked in carrier maintenance, while civilian students may have already earned pilot licenses. According to the BLS, pilots in the lowest 10 percent of earners make a median salary of $100,100, while the highest 10 percent made more than $208,000.
Are Aviation Degrees Worth It?
An aviation degree can lead to many exciting career opportunities in the military, aircraft maintenance, aviation science, and the airline industry. Although bachelor's degrees can be expensive, affordable aviation degrees, scholarship opportunities, and financial aid allow students to pursue their academic dreams on a budget.
Coursework is comprehensive but easily customized to fit career goals through concentrations. Ultimately, the passion for working with aircraft drives aviation students to succeed. Although graduates may start by earning a modest salary, their income rises significantly with experience. This is especially true for commercial pilots, where salaries can rise above six figures. However, money doesn't have to be earned in the sky, as aviation degrees equip students with knowledge in airport operations, meteorology, and airplane maintenance.
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