Woman pilot in the airplane cockpit getting ready to fly.

Aviation

Highly respected by the aviation industry, our program combines a strong curriculum with specialized professional aviation education. Join an industry leader for your aviation education. 

Careers in Aviation

With a bachelor of science or master of science degree, numerous opportunities await you in the growing aviation industry. Join our highly credentialed faculty and utilize state-of-the-art simulation technology to prepare for a wide variety of aviation careers.
  • Professional Pilot
  • Flight Instructor
  • Airport or Airline Administrator
  • Airline Dispatcher or Air Traffic Controller
  • Safety Data Analyst
  • Accident Investigator*
  • Aviation Safety Inspector*

Potential Salary

Median Salary $171,210

The median annual wage for Airline and Commercial Pilots in May 2023 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Aviation Degrees at MSU

Aviation, Bachelor of Science-Aeronautics

This program combines all elements of a substantive university education with aviation, flight, and management components to support well-prepared aviation professionals. 

Aviation, Bachelor of Science-Aviation Management

The Aviation Management program prepares you for management positions in the aerospace industry.  

Aviation, Bachelor of Science–Professional Flight

Prepare for a career in flight operations in both the general aviation and the air carrier segments of the aviation industry. The Aviation B.S. Professional Flight program is accredited by AABInternational--representing the highest standard of achievement for aviation programs. 

Accreditation

Aviation, Bachelor of Science–Unmanned Aircraft Systems

Receive comprehensive training in unmanned aircraft systems, flight operations, and air traffic control. Earn your Remote Pilot Certificate while developing expertise in DC circuits, programming, information security, and advanced UAS courses.  

Aeronautics, Minor

This minor is designed for any student interested in learning the fundamentals of the Aeronautical and Aviation Sciences. 

Private Flight, Minor 

This minor is designed specifically for those students interested in specializing in the private flight industry.  

Professional Flight, Minor 

This minor is designed for any student interested in pursuing flight as a profession.  

Aviation Safety, Master of Science

The fully online Master of Science in Aviation Safety program is tailored to meet the aviation industry's needs, offering advanced graduate-level study preferred by employers in the field. 

image of student preparing for flight in MSU airplane

Aviation Partnerships

We partner with global industry leaders to provide high-level educational experiences for students and produce sought-after graduates in the workforce. 

Aerial view of aviation fleet

Meet the Aircraft Fleet!

We partner with North Star Aviation to prepare aviation professionals.

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Ed-Fest Get Connected. Get Involved

Join us for EdFest! Our annual fall engagement fair is the perfect opportunity to connect with classmates, make new friends, and meet your current and future faculty. Enjoy prizes, music, free food, and informative booths!

Learn More

Aviation Learning Community

Do you have a passion for flying? The Aviation Learning Community is for students who share an interest in Aviation and want to take courses together during their first year on campus. Learn more about how an Aviation Learning Community may be a great fit for you.

Book an Airport Tour

Take a 30-minute tour of our airport facilities and get an inside look at the Aviation program. You'll step inside a New Piper aircraft, explore our lounge, hangar, simulators, and more, and talk with an MSU Ambassador about program details and career opportunities.

Related Programs

professor discussing geography with student at computer

Geography

Geography studies the interactions between people and our environment, and it uses cutting-edge geospatial technologies to solve real-world problems. Geospatial technologies provide students with skills in high demand in the workforce.

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Military Science, Minor (COE)

Unlock elite transferable leadership skills with our Military Science and Leadership minor. Compete for a commission as an officer in the U.S. Army, Army Reserve, or Army National Guard.

Women giving presentation at a meeting with coworkers.

Business Administration

The fully online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree completion program offers a flexible, accredited, and accelerated path for working adults to advance their careers while fitting their education into a busy schedule.

female student with a mechanical device in front of her scrolling to find something on the computer

Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering is a discipline that combines physics principles and material science to design, analyze, manufacture, and maintain mechanical systems. Mechanical engineers work on tools, robotics, and most importantly work to improve technology and operations.

Department of Aviation

College of

Education

Empowering learners, fostering collaboration, promoting reflective practice, and respecting diversity are values that the College of Education carries in serving our students.

Learn More About the College of Education