Best Online Bachelor’s in Aeronautics and Aviation
Updated October 18, 2023
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Depending on the role, aeronautics and aviation professionals may fly planes and unmanned aircraft, repair spacecraft, or manage airlines.
A bachelor's degree in aviation or aeronautics prepares graduates for careers like airplane pilot, air traffic controller, and aviation manager. These fields offer lucrative salaries and strong job growth. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% job growth through 2028 for airline and commercial pilots, who make an average salary of over $115,000 per year.
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During a bachelor's in aviation and aeronautics, students build the knowledge and skills required for in-demand aeronautics and aviation jobs. Earning an aviation bachelor's degree online gives students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Online learners can often complete courses on their own schedule without required login times.
Best Online Bachelor's Programs in Aeronautics and Aviation
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Aeronautics and Aviation
Eastern New Mexico University
Portales, NM - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A leader in online education, Eastern New Mexico University facilitates distance learning across 29 online degree programs. Undergraduate students seeking flexible, remote study can choose from one of 18 online bachelor's programs. For students looking to advance in an aeronautics-adjacent career, the online bachelor's in aviation science is a wise choice. Students in the aviation program can complete classes at their own pace, with the option for part-time enrollment.
Enrollees complete foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the aviation field. Classes incorporate general and advanced knowledge applicable to the aviation field. In consultation with their academic advisor, degree-seekers can modify their course load, choose electives, and declare minors and concentrations.
Graduates easily grow their earning potential with a bachelor's degree. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $29,200, according to the college. The school reports that the average undergraduate pays $10,338 in tuition and fees yearly, after aid. Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements.
Eastern New Mexico University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,946
Total Online Programs: 29
Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Admission Rate: 58%
#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Aeronautics and Aviation
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Daytona Beach, FL - 4 years
- Online
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, located in Daytona Beach, Florida, enables distance learning across 42 online degree programs. Of these online offerings, 16 provide an undergraduate-level education. For students looking to advance in the aeronautics field, the school's online bachelor of science in aeronautics is a wise choice. The aeronautics program is a flexible option for working professionals and busy students.
Students complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the aeronautics field. These classes equip students with knowledge and skills applicable to a post-graduate career. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations.
With a bachelor's degree, graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. At the college, students can expect to earn a median salary of $51,400 six years after graduation. Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 12,828
Total Online Programs: 42
Online Bachelor's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 62%
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Aeronautics and Aviation
Everglades University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online
Located in Boca Raton, Florida, Everglades University enables online learning across 15 online degree programs. Undergraduates choose from 11 online bachelor's programs at the private, nonprofit, four-year institution. Students looking for an individualized education relevant to the aeronautics and aviation field can enroll in the online bachelor's in aviation/aerospace program. This program offers customization to help students earn a degree that meets their needs.
Students complete industry-relevant classes, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the aeronautics and aviation field. Students also fulfill general education requirements. Majors choose electives, minors, and concentrations to customize their course of study.
The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, including increased job opportunities and higher earning potential. According to the college, graduates earn a median salary of $42,700 six years after completing their degree. Students can meet with leaders in the aviation department to discuss application materials, admission requirements, and other relevant information.
Everglades University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,377
Total Online Programs: 15
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 75%
#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Aeronautics and Aviation
Lynn University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Lynn University is a private, nonprofit, four-year institution providing competitive study across 35 bachelor's degree programs. The private school offers 16 online bachelor's programs from its main campus in Boca Raton, Florida. The bachelor's in aviation management is a wise choice for students hoping to advance in the aviation field.
The degree supports flexible study, meeting the needs of every learner. Students complete general and advanced aviation coursework, with the opportunity to modify the curriculum. Enrollees can choose electives and minors to supplement their learning.
Undergraduate tuition at the school averages $36,680. While at the college, enrollees can explore funding opportunities to apply toward their studies.
Lynn University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,505
Total Online Programs: 30
Online Bachelor's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 74%
#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Aeronautics and Aviation
University of Nebraska at Omaha
Omaha, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Nebraska at Omaha supports 7,996 distance learners across 24 fully online programs. Of these online offerings, eight provide an undergraduate-level education. Students looking for an aviation-adjacent career can pursue the bachelor's in aviation studies at their own pace. The flexible program helps learners complete a college degree.
During the aviation program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the field. Enrollees also attend general education classes, to gain a well-rounded education. Students can explore electives, minors, and concentrations with their academic advisor to individualize their degree.
A bachelor's degree enables graduates to access higher-paying jobs and more employment opportunities. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $38,600, according to the college. Typically, undergraduate students pay $12,899 in tuition and fees each year. Prospective enrollees can meet with the department directly to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other relevant information.
University of Nebraska at Omaha at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 7,996
Total Online Programs: 24
Online Bachelor's Programs: 8
Admission Rate: 83%
Online Bachelor's Programs in Aeronautics and Aviation Ranking Guidelines
We selected the following degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Choosing an Online Bachelor's in Aeronautics and Aviation Degree Program
Prospective aeronautics and aviation students should consider several factors when choosing an online program, such as admission requirements, school reputation, and specializations. Admission requirements vary by school. Some programs only admit students with a pilot license, while others let students complete license requirements during their degree. Applicants who do not meet the admission requirements may need to spend extra time and money completing coursework or earning licensure before enrolling.
The best online aviation programs often cultivate relationships with top employers, giving students internship opportunities with airlines, airplane manufacturers, and other aeronautics employers.
School reputation and program specializations can also help prospective students narrow their choices. The best online aviation programs often cultivate relationships with top employers, giving students internship opportunities with airlines, airplane manufacturers, and other aeronautics employers.
Additionally, prospective students should research whether a program leads to certification in their desired field. For example, many aeronautics and aviation programs meet the requirements for Federal Aviation Administration certifications, such as air traffic controller and pilot certification. After carefully researching aeronautics and aviation programs, prospective students can find the best fit for their professional goals.
What Is Aviation Management?
Professionals who specialize in aviation management operate the business side of airlines, airports, and aircraft manufacturers. Aviation managers may oversee the daily operations of an aircraft manufacturer or manage a department within an airline. They may also supervise aviation professionals at an airport or oversee airport security.
Aviation management professionals can specialize in areas like airline management, airport management, or air commerce management. A background in air transportation prepares aviation managers for roles like freight and cargo manager.
Aviation management professionals can specialize in areas like airline management, airport management, or air commerce management.
A career in aviation management requires training in management, business administration, and aeronautical science. Aviation managers need leadership and organizational skills in addition to strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
Most aviation managers hold at least a bachelor's degree. Both a degree in business administration with a concentration in aviation management and a bachelor's in aviation management prepare graduates for aviation management careers. Most programs incorporate an internship to give students hands-on experience in the field.
What Is Aeronautics?
Aeronautics denotes the science and practice of flying vehicles, including the design, manufacturing, and operation of airplanes, aircraft, and spacecraft. Aeronautics professionals can specialize in areas like engineering, aviation, and navigation.
Aeronautical engineers design commercial jets, satellites, and helicopters, ensuring their designs meet safety standards and operate as intended. Mechanics and technicians repair aeronautical equipment and maintain aircraft to improve safety. Pilots operate aircraft, including commercial jets, military fighter planes, and helicopters. Aeronautics professionals can also specialize in unmanned aircraft systems and air traffic control.
Aeronautics professionals can specialize in areas like engineering, aviation, and navigation.
A bachelor of science in aeronautics prepares graduates for most aeronautics careers. During an aeronautics degree, students build aviation skills and knowledge and receive hands-on training with aircraft. Many aeronautics programs offer concentrations in areas like aviation maintenance, air traffic management, and commercial space operations.
Aeronautics encompasses a variety of specializations that offer lucrative earning potential. For example, airplane pilots and air traffic controllers earn average salaries of over $100,000, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What is a Bachelor's Degree in Aviation?
Many aviation and aeronautics careers require a bachelor's degree. Prospective aviation professionals can pursue an aviation bachelor's degree online to meet the education requirements for aviation jobs, like airline pilot, in a flexible, accessible format.
During a bachelor's in aviation, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary for aviation careers. They complete courses on topics like airplane aerodynamics, commercial flight, and aviation safety. They may also take courses on aviation weather, turbine engines, and GPS navigation.
During a bachelor's in aviation, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary for aviation careers.
Depending on the program, online learners may complete classes in an asynchronous or synchronous format. In an asynchronous format, students do not log in at set times for their classes, while a synchronous format includes set meeting times. Some programs offer an accelerated format that allows students to graduate in less than four years.
Many online aviation bachelor's programs incorporate internships or external requirements to prepare students for aviation jobs. For example, online students may enter the program with a pilot's license or complete the requirements for a pilot's license through a local program while earning their degree.
Aeronautics and Aviation Jobs
A bachelor's degree in aviation prepares graduates for several lucrative career paths, such as aircraft mechanic, commercial pilot, and air traffic controller.
Air Traffic Controllers
Air traffic controllers monitor and direct aircraft on the ground and in the air. They provide landing and takeoff instructions for pilots, inform pilots about critical flight information, and manage aircraft entering and leaving their airspace.
Most air traffic controllers manage multiple aircraft simultaneously, working as tower controllers, approach and departure controllers, or en route controllers. Air traffic controllers maintain a safe environment for crews, passengers, and equipment. They also minimize delays and increase efficiency by overseeing the flow of aircraft.
Median Annual Salary
$124,540
Projected Growth Rate
1%
Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians
Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians repair and perform maintenance on aircraft. Aircraft mechanics diagnose mechanical and electrical problems to repair aircraft components like electrical systems and brakes. They also replace defective parts and perform regular maintenance scans using diagnostic equipment. Aircraft mechanics must ensure their work meets performance standards and maintain records of their repairs and maintenance.
Avionics technicians specialize in electronic instruments. They diagnose performance problems and equipment malfunctions by analyzing flight test data and testing electronic instruments. Avionics technicians also install instrument panels, repair malfunctioning components, and keep records on their maintenance and repair work.
Median Annual Salary
$63,060
Projected Growth Rate
3%
Airline and Commercial Pilots
Airline and commercial pilots fly airplanes, helicopters, and other aircraft. They must check the condition of their aircraft before and after a flight, ensure the aircraft meets performance and safety standards, and verify weather conditions before a flight. Pilots submit flight plans to air traffic control and communicate with air traffic controllers to navigate on the ground and in the air.
During a flight, pilots operate aircraft along planned routes while monitoring engines, fuel consumption, and other aircraft systems. They must also respond to changing conditions, including emergencies, such as a mechanical malfunction. During takeoff and landing, pilots closely coordinate with flight engineers, air traffic controllers, and ground personnel.
Median Annual Salary
$115,670
Projected Growth Rate
6%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Frequently Asked Questions
What is aviation management?
Aviation management blends business with aviation technology. Aviation management specialists run the business side of airlines, airports, and aircraft manufacturers.
What is aeronautics?
Aeronautics denotes the design, manufacturing, and operation of aircraft. The field includes aeronautical engineering, aircraft manufacturing, and piloting.
What is a bachelor's degree in aviation?
A bachelor's degree in aviation prepares graduates for roles such as airline pilot, air traffic controller, and aircraft mechanic. Students complete courses on topics like flight safety, air transportation, and aviation management.
What are aviation jobs?
Aviation professionals may work as pilots, safety inspectors, air traffic controllers, flight instructors, or aviation managers. These aviation jobs offer above-average salaries.
How long is an aviation degree program?
A bachelor's in aviation degree generally takes four years of full-time study to complete, though some programs offer accelerated timelines.
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