BS Aviation Management and Operations

At Western Michigan University, the BS in Aviation Management and Operations immerses you in industry-level experiential learning at the heart of one of the nation’s most advanced collegiate aviation complexes. You’ll develop practical skills in real-world environments, using the same tools and technology as today’s aviation professionals. The program is based at the College of Aviation at W.K. Kellogg Airport in Battle Creek, where you’ll benefit from direct access to operational airport facilities and a comprehensive suite of aviation resources.

Facilities & Experiential Learning:

• Aviation Education Centre (AEC): A $20 million, 69,645-square-foot facility featuring 11 classrooms, a student lounge overlooking the flight line, the BTL Bistro café, and 25 private flight planning briefing rooms—all equipped with the latest technology for aviation management and operations.

• Flight Simulator Lab: Houses a 737-Max flight training device, three Cirrus SR-20 Advanced Flight Training Devices, and a Redbird full-motion multi-engine simulator, supporting simulation-based management and operations scenarios.

• Paint Lab: One of the only collegiate-level paint labs in the country, giving you exposure to the full aircraft finishing process—a unique asset for understanding aviation technical operations and management.

• Aircraft Maintenance Building: Includes four classrooms, laboratories, and six engine test cells for technical demonstrations and management exercises.

• Four Main Storage Hangars: Used for operational logistics, facility management, and hands-on learning in airport and airline operations.

• Industry-Integrated Environment: The AEC’s design mimics airport concourses and gate areas, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering direct views of aircraft operations, and large gathering spaces for career fairs and networking events with industry partners.

• Operational Airport Access: The program is embedded at Battle Creek Executive Airport, featuring three runways (including Michigan’s fourth-longest at 10,004 feet) and a state-of-the-art air traffic control tower—ideal for understanding airport management and operations in a live setting.

Graduates of Western Michigan University’s BS in Aviation Management and Operations program are landing roles as airport managers, airline operations managers, aviation safety managers, and airline marketing professionals with employers like the Federal Aviation Administration, AvFuel, Universal Weather and Aviation, and Pentastar Aviation. You’ll build the business and aviation skills to lead in a fast-paced, global industry.

Career Preparation & Outcomes:

• University Services for Career Success: You’ll have access to aviation-specific career fairs, resume workshops, and personalised academic advising through the College of Aviation. Student organisations like Alpha Eta Rho and the Aviation Student Council provide leadership and networking opportunities with industry professionals.

• Employment Stats & Salary Figures: 91% of WMU aviation graduates are employed or continuing their education soon after graduation, with recent full-time graduates reporting a median salary range of $60,000–$70,000.

• University–Industry Partnerships: WMU partners with the Kalamazoo-Battle Creek International Airport, Southwest Airlines, Pinnacle Airlines, Aerospace Risk Management Group, and others to provide internships and real-world experience for students.

• Long-Term Accreditation Value: The BS in Aviation Management and Operations is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI) through July 2027, ensuring your degree is recognised and respected by employers and graduate schools worldwide.

• Graduation Outcomes: You’ll graduate with a foundation in aviation management, business theory, aircraft systems, aviation law, and safety, and complete a senior capstone project where you develop and simulate an airline business plan using industry-standard software.

Further Academic Progression: After earning your BS in Aviation Management and Operations at WMU, you’ll be fully prepared to pursue an MBA or other graduate degrees in business or aviation management, or to seek advanced certifications and leadership roles in the aviation industry.