BS Aviation Management and Flight Operations in Military Navy

At Jacksonville University, the Military Navy track is designed for students pursuing a commission as a United States Navy aviator, combining rigorous flight training with NROTC participation and a strong foundation in aviation management.

You’ll gain practical, real-world experience through these specific opportunities and resources:

• NROTC Integration: Participation in the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) is required, providing direct military leadership training, physical preparation, and mentorship alongside your aviation studies. The curriculum and scheduling are tailored to accommodate NROTC commitments, ensuring you can meet both military and academic requirements.

• Early and Continuous Flight Training: Flight training begins within the first four weeks of your freshman year. You’ll train at Jacksonville Executive at Craig Airport (KCRG), just minutes from campus, flying Cirrus SR-20, Piper Seminole, Piper Arrow, and Cessna 172 aircraft, all maintained by a full-time professional staff.

• L3Harris Airline Academy Partnership: Receive airline-standardised flight training developed in partnership with L3Harris, ensuring your skills meet both military and commercial aviation standards. The training model mirrors those used by JU’s partner airlines, providing a seamless transition to professional aviation environments.

• Advanced Simulation Labs: Access state-of-the-art flight simulators, including the Level 5 Bombardier CRJ-700 Flight Training Device and Aerosim-Mechtronix AATD, for jet transition and multi-crew coordination scenarios.

• FAA Certification Path: The program is structured for you to earn your FAA Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, and Multi-engine Rating credentials, essential for both military and civilian aviation careers.

• Military-Focused Curriculum: Courses include Aviation Weather, Advanced Aircraft Systems, Air Transport Operations, Jet Transition Training Lab, and Crew Resource Management, all designed to develop the technical, decision-making, and leadership skills needed for Navy aviators.

• Small Class Sizes & Mentorship: Benefit from a low student-to-instructor ratio, allowing for individualised attention and mentorship from faculty with military and airline experience.

• AABI Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International, confirming its quality and alignment with industry and military standards.

Graduates of Jacksonville University’s BS in Aviation Management and Flight Operations—Military Navy track are prepared for elite careers as United States Navy aviators, military flight instructors, and aviation operations officers. This track is specifically designed for students planning to commission as Navy pilots through the NROTC program, combining rigorous flight training with leadership development and business education.

Here’s how Jacksonville University supports your future:

• University Services for Career Success: You’ll start flight training within the first four weeks of your freshman year, with three scheduled training activities per week—on the ground, in the air, or in advanced flight simulators like the Bombardier CRJ-700 FTD and Cirrus SR-20. The program is tailored to accommodate NROTC students’ demanding schedules, ensuring you can complete both your military and flight training requirements. Personalised advising, small class sizes, and mentorship from industry-recognised faculty support your academic and professional growth.

• Employment Stats & Salary Figures: JU boasts a near 100% employment rate for aviation graduates. Upon completion, NROTC students are commissioned as Ensigns in the U.S. Navy, with starting salaries around $44,000–$55,000 plus full military benefits and rapid advancement opportunities.

• University–Industry Partnerships: JU partners with L3 Harris Airline Academy to deliver airline-standardised flight training, ensuring your skills meet the highest industry and military standards. The university’s strong relationships with the Navy and other military branches provide direct commissioning and career opportunities.

• Long-Term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI), ensuring your degree is recognised by both military and civilian aviation sectors worldwide. Jacksonville University is also regionally accredited by SACSCOC.

• Graduation Outcomes: You’ll earn your FAA Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, and Multi-Engine Rating—aligned with the requirements for Navy pilot training. Core courses include Aviation Weather, Advanced Aircraft Systems, Air Transport Operations, Jet Transition Training Lab, and Crew Resource Management. The curriculum emphasises leadership, regulatory compliance, and critical thinking, preparing you for immediate impact as a Navy aviator.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your BS in Aviation Management and Flight Operations—Military Navy at Jacksonville University, you’ll be ready to pursue advanced flight training in the U.S. Navy, graduate study in aviation leadership or military science, or transition into leadership roles within military or civilian aviation organizations, leveraging JU’s strong military and industry connections.