BS in Aviation Management

At Indiana State University, the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Aviation Management is designed to immerse you in real-world aviation operations from the outset. You’ll develop practical skills that employers want by working directly with the same advanced technology and facilities used by industry professionals. Whether you’re interested in airport management, airline operations, or the fast-growing field of unmanned systems, you’ll find hands-on opportunities that set you apart.

Here’s how you’ll get practical, career-focused experience:

• Aviation Laboratory: Learn in a specialised aviation lab equipped for coursework and research in airport operations, aviation safety, and management technology.

• Flight Simulators: Train on advanced flight simulators, giving you insight into aircraft systems, air traffic operations, and crisis management, even though flight training isn’t required for this major.

• Unmanned Systems Mobile Laboratory: Explore the future of aviation with a mobile lab dedicated to unmanned aerial systems—perfect for gaining skills in a rapidly expanding sector.

• Flight Academy at Terre Haute Regional Airport: While not required, you’re encouraged to take flight classes at the Flight Academy, which features a modern, renovated facility and a multi-million-dollar fleet of Diamond DA-20s, DA-40s, DA-42s, and Piper Arrows. This gives you a deeper understanding of aviation operations and technology.

• Industry-Connected Internships: Complete internships with major partners like the Indianapolis Airport Authority and benefit from pipeline agreements with airlines such as Republic Airways, ExpressJet, and Trans States Airlines, which can lead to job offers after graduation.

• Aviation Student Organisations: Join Alpha Eta Rho, the American Association of Airport Executives, and Women in Aviation International to build your leadership skills, network, and connect with aviation professionals.

• FAA Certification Opportunities: You’re encouraged to pursue the FAA Private Pilot Certificate and Remote Pilot Certificate to broaden your skill set and industry knowledge.

• Group Projects and Industry Events: Collaborate with peers on real-world aviation projects and participate in industry events, preparing you for leadership roles in the aviation field.

Graduates of Indiana State University’s B.S. in Aviation Management are ready for high-demand roles such as airport manager, airline operations manager, airport consultant, and air traffic control specialist. You’ll find Sycamore alumni working with the Federal Aviation Administration, U.S. military, major airlines, airport authorities, and consulting firms.

Here’s how Indiana State helps you take off:

• Career Services and Support: Indiana State’s Career Centre provides personalised career advising, resume workshops, and on-campus job fairs. The Department of Aviation Technology offers faculty mentorship and connects students with internships, including placements with the Indianapolis Airport Authority, which have led to full-time positions for recent graduates. All students choose a business-related minor (such as accounting, business analytics, or public administration) to further boost employability.

• Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Indiana State boasts a 94% placement rate for graduates into jobs, graduate school, or the military, with an average starting salary of $56,845 for Sycamore alumni.

• University–Industry Partnerships: The Department of Aviation Technology maintains strong ties with the Indianapolis Airport Authority and other regional airports and collaborates with industry partners for internships and job placement. Students benefit from hands-on experience and networking through these partnerships.

• Long-term Accreditation Value: Indiana State University is regionally accredited and recognised for its excellence in aviation education. The Department of Aviation Technology is known for its modern facilities and successful graduates.

• Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are well-prepared for leadership and management roles in airports, airlines, and aviation consulting. Many move quickly into supervisory or specialist positions, and some pursue advanced study in aviation management or related fields.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your B.S. in Aviation Management at Indiana State, you’ll be fully prepared to pursue a master’s degree in aviation management or related fields, setting you up for advanced leadership, consulting, or academic roles in the aviation industry.