BA Aviation

At Andrews University, the BA in Aviation gives you a truly hands-on education with direct access to advanced facilities and real flight experience—all just one mile from campus at the dedicated Andrews Airpark. The FAA accredits the program, and all aircraft are maintained by Andrews’ own FAA-certified mechanics, ensuring a professional and safe training environment. You’ll develop your skills using the same equipment and procedures as the aviation industry, with a curriculum that blends classroom learning, simulation, and in-air instruction.

Here’s exactly what you’ll experience:

• Andrews Airpark: All flight training takes place at the university’s airpark, featuring a fleet that includes Cessna 150, T-33, Lear 24, and Mitsubishi MU2 aircraft, plus single-engine Piper Archers, a Piper Arrow, and a twin-engine Piper Seminole for advanced courses.

• Flight Simulation Building: Access a dedicated simulation facility equipped with advanced flight training devices, including turboprop and glass cockpit simulators, recognised by aviation industry publications for their quality.

• FAA-Accredited Training: The program is fully accredited by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration, and you can earn certifications like Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot (Single and Multi-Engine), Certified Flight Instructor, and Air Transport Pilot written exam as part of your degree requirements.

• Small Class Sizes: Benefit from personalised instruction and a close-knit aviation community, allowing for more flight hours and individualised mentorship.

• Aircraft Maintenance Experience: Students can work alongside FAA-certified mechanics, gaining practical skills that enhance their employability.

• Dual Emphasis Option: You can choose to combine flight and maintenance tracks, making you more versatile in the job market.

• Required Courses: The curriculum includes Federal Aviation Regulations, Aircraft Systems, Crew Resource Management, Meteorology, Aerodynamics, and more, all designed to prepare you for FAA certification and real-world aviation careers.

• Student Employment: Advanced students can work as Certified Flight Instructors or in licensed maintenance roles while completing their degree, adding valuable professional experience

Graduates of Andrews University’s BA in Aviation program are ready for careers as commercial pilots, certified flight instructors, airline operations specialists, and aviation safety managers. You’ll earn industry-required certifications and gain hands-on experience with a professionally maintained fleet at Andrews Airpark, setting you up for success in the aviation field:

Here’s how Andrews supports your future:

• University Services for Career Success: You’ll train at Andrews Airpark, just one mile from campus, using a fleet that includes Cessna 150, T-33, Lear 24, and Mitsubishi MU2 aircraft. The department offers small class sizes, personalised advising, and a flight simulation building recognised by major aviation magazines. You’ll have access to a detailed Department of Aviation Handbook outlining policies and operational guidelines, and you can consult regularly with faculty advisors for course selection and career planning.

• Employment Stats & Salary Figures: Andrews’ program is FAA-authorised, allowing graduates to qualify for the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate with just 1,000 flight hours instead of the standard 1,500—saving you time and money as you move into airline careers. Nationally, commercial pilots earn median salaries around $130,000, and demand for qualified pilots remains strong.

• University–Industry Partnerships: The program is accredited by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s FAA, and all aircraft are maintained by Andrews’ FAA-certified mechanics, ensuring your training meets industry standards. Partnerships with professional maintenance teams and a robust safety culture further enhance your readiness for the workplace.

• Long-Term Accreditation Value: The BA in Aviation is fully accredited by the FAA, so your degree and certifications are recognised across the aviation industry, giving you a competitive edge for employment and further study.

• Graduation Outcomes: You’ll graduate with a Private Pilot Certificate, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot Certificate (Single and Multi-Engine Ratings), Certified Flight Instructor certificate, and have passed the Air Transport Pilot written exam. Required courses include Basic Aircraft Systems, Private Pilot Ground School, Flight Training, Meteorology, Aerodynamics, and Crew Resource Management. All aviation coursework requires a minimum 2.5 GPA, and students must maintain at least a 2.25 overall GPA to remain in the program.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your BA in Aviation at Andrews University, you can pursue a master’s degree in aviation or related fields, or take advantage of the 4+1 program to earn both your bachelor’s and master’s in just five years. You’ll also be well-prepared for advanced certifications and leadership roles in the aviation industry.