BS Professional Flight

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

John Brown University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Professional Flight at John Brown University (JBU) is a new 4-year on-campus program launching in Fall 2025, designed to prepare students for careers as professional pilots by combining a business-focused liberal arts education with comprehensive flight training. The program is offered in partnership with Airo Flight School at Springdale Municipal Airport, providing students with hands-on flight instruction alongside academic coursework.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Students begin with foundational courses covering the fundamentals of flight, including aerodynamics, aircraft systems, weight and balance, charts, navigation, flight planning, regulations, and weather. Ground school courses such as PF 101 – Fundamentals of Flight introduce these concepts, preparing students for initial flight training.
Year 2: The curriculum advances with PF 201 – Commercial Flight Operations, which covers advanced flight concepts including aircraft performance, advanced systems, weather, and regulations related to commercial flight. This course includes approximately 50 hours of flight training. Students also take business core courses from the Soderquist College of Business, such as ACC 201 – Financial Accounting and MKT 301 – Principles of Marketing, to build essential management and communication skills.
Year 3: Students focus on multi-engine flight training with PF 301 – Multi-Engine Flight Operations, preparing them for the multi-engine rating on their Commercial Pilot Certificate. Leadership and decision-making are developed through courses like PF 310 – Crew Resource Management. Business courses such as MGT 320 – Principles of Management complement the aviation training.
Year 4: The final year includes advanced flight instruction and certification preparation, including PF 401 – Certified Flight Instructor Ground and Flight courses to qualify students as Certified Flight Instructors (CFI). Additional courses in aviation law, safety, and advanced systems ensure students are well-rounded professionals ready for the aviation industry.

Focus areas: Professional pilot training, commercial and multi-engine flight operations, flight instruction, aviation safety, crew resource management, business and leadership skills.

Learning outcomes: Graduates will earn FAA certifications, including Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, Commercial Pilot, Multi-Engine Rating, and Certified Flight Instructor credentials. They will be prepared for careers in commercial airlines, corporate aviation, missionary aviation, and flight instruction.

Professional alignment (Accreditation): The program is FAA Part 141 approved through its partnership with Airo flight school and integrates JBU’s academic standards, providing a unique combination of practical flight training and business education.

Reputation (Employability rankings): JBU’s Professional Flight program is the only Christian aviation degree program in Arkansas and one of two in the state, offering a competitive advantage by combining a bachelor’s degree with professional pilot certifications. The partnership with Airo flight school ensures students receive expert flight instruction and access to modern aircraft and facilities.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At John Brown University, the BS in Professional Flight program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience that is essential for a successful career in aviation. Students gain practical skills through a combination of flight training, simulator sessions, and classroom instruction. The program utilizes state-of-the-art facilities and tools, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the demands of the aviation industry.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the Professional Flight program:

- Flight Training: Students receive flight instruction in modern aircraft, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
- Advanced Flight Simulators: The program features high-fidelity flight simulators that replicate various flying conditions, enabling students to practice and refine their skills safely.
- Internships: Students have the opportunity to participate in internships with local airlines and aviation companies, gaining valuable industry experience and networking opportunities.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a key component of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills that are vital in the aviation field.
- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to aviation-related events and facilities, providing students with insights into the industry and exposure to potential career paths.
- Access to Aviation Libraries: Students can utilize specialized aviation libraries that offer a wealth of resources, including books, journals, and online databases focused on aviation topics.
- Dedicated Flight Operations Center: The university has a dedicated facility for flight operations, where students can manage flight planning and operations in a professional environment.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BS Professional Flight program at John Brown University are well-prepared for a variety of exciting careers in aviation. With a strong emphasis on both technical skills and leadership development, alumni often find themselves in roles such as commercial pilots, flight instructors, and aviation managers. The program not only equips students with the necessary flight training but also provides a solid foundation for future advancement in the aviation industry:

- University Services: JBU offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events specifically tailored for aviation students.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, over 90% of JBU aviation graduates secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $60,000 annually.
- University–Industry Partnerships: JBU has established partnerships with leading airlines and aviation companies, providing students with internship opportunities and direct pathways to employment.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI), ensuring that your degree meets the highest industry standards and is recognized by employers nationwide.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates not only leave with flight experience but also with a comprehensive understanding of aviation management, making them versatile candidates in the job market.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the BS Professional Flight program, students have the opportunity to further their education by pursuing a Master’s degree in Aviation Management or related fields. Additionally, many graduates choose to obtain advanced certifications, such as an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate, which can enhance their qualifications and open doors to higher-level positions within the aviation industry. This continued education can lead to roles in aviation safety, operations management, or even teaching at the collegiate level.