BS Aviation - Aerospace Management

Eastern Kentucky University’s BS Aviation with a concentration in Aerospace Management offers you a dynamic, hands-on learning experience supported by state-of-the-art facilities and industry connections designed to prepare you for leadership roles in the aerospace industry.

At EKU, you’ll gain practical skills through a curriculum that blends aviation management, safety, decision-making, and technical knowledge, all taught within Kentucky’s only FAA-approved university flight program. The program emphasizes real-world readiness with access to a robust fleet of training aircraft and advanced flight simulators, as well as opportunities for internships and career pathways with major airlines.

• Central Kentucky Regional Airport: Just 15 minutes from campus, this airport is the hub for EKU’s flight training operations and offers a 5,000 ft. runway, lighting systems, fuel services, ample parking, and onsite aircraft maintenance.

• Fleet of training aircraft: Access to 27 Cessna single-engine aircraft (various models including 172-P, 172-N, 172-M, 172-R, 172-S, and 172-S G1000) and 3 Piper Seminole multi-engine aircraft for hands-on flight experience.

• Flight simulators: Use of advanced simulators such as the Alsim MC200 and Professional Flight Controls DCX MAX with glass cockpit capabilities, which replicate real cockpit environments and allow you to practice flying and instrument procedures safely on the ground.

• FAA-approved flight program (Part 141): Ensures your training meets rigorous federal standards, preparing you for professional pilot certifications and management roles.

• New Flight Training Centre: A $25 million facility (opening early 2027) featuring simulator labs, maintenance space, classrooms, and briefing rooms to expand training capacity and enhance learning environments.

• Strong industry partnerships: Collaborations with Republic Airways, Allegiant Airlines, and other carriers provide pilot career pathways, internships, and conditional job offers, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

• Comprehensive curriculum: Courses cover aviation management, safety, aircraft systems, air traffic control, aviation law, and decision-making, equipping you with broad knowledge and skills.

• Supportive faculty and community: Experienced instructors and a collaborative student environment ensure personalised guidance and peer support throughout your studies.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Aviation – Aerospace Management program at Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) are in high demand, transitioning directly into roles such as airport manager, airline operations supervisor, aviation safety officer, and aerospace project manager. EKU’s program boasts a 100% job placement rate, preparing students for leadership in all facets of the aerospace industry.

• University services: EKU’s Office of Academic and Career Services is your one-stop shop for career development, offering personalised advising, internship placement, and professional networking opportunities. Students benefit from hands-on learning at the Central Kentucky Regional Airport, where EKU serves as the Fixed Base Operator, providing real-world work experience and employment opportunities.

• Employment stats & salary figures: EKU’s aviation program reports a 100% job placement rate for graduates. Nationally, the median salary for airline and commercial pilots is $171,210, and management roles in aviation also offer strong earning potential.

• University–industry partnerships: EKU has established direct hiring pathways with major airlines, including Allegiant Air and Republic Airways, providing mentorship, streamlined credentialing, and conditional job offers before graduation. These partnerships give students a significant advantage in launching their careers.

• Long-term accreditation value: EKU is Kentucky’s only FAA-approved university flight program and was among the first in the nation to offer the 1,000-hour Restricted ATP certificate, a credential highly valued by employers. The program’s curriculum is regularly updated to meet industry standards.

• Graduation outcomes: EKU aviation graduates are employed across the industry, including airlines, airports, government agencies, and private aviation companies. The blend of management, safety, and technical coursework ensures graduates are ready for supervisory and leadership roles.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your BS in Aviation – Aerospace Management, you can pursue advanced degrees such as a Master of Science in Aeronautics, Aviation Management, or related fields. Graduate study can further expand your expertise in airport planning, aviation safety, or aerospace operations, opening doors to executive and policy-making positions in the industry.