Commercial Aviation
The College of Professional & Liberal Studies is proud to produce quality aviators through rich learning experiences guided by professionally engaged faculty. These programs will prepare students for employment as airline pilots, or in a variety of aviation-related careers, such as corporate aviation, general aviation, aviation-related business, airport operations, and governmental regulation of aviation.
The concentration in Aviation Management prepares students for careers as professional managers in the aviation industry. Students will gain an understanding of the nature of organizations and the fundamentals of administrative leadership as well as promote skills in formal and interpersonal communication, effective resolution process and operations management. Aviation managers are needed in airlines, business flight operations, maintenance facilities, manufacturers and suppliers. The Aviation Management program encompasses studies in aviation, management, information systems, supply chain, communications, business operations, analytics, organizational leadership and more.
Students must seek academic advising prior to the start of each semester. Advisors will provide guidance in developing a meaningful educational plan that is compatible with the student's abilities, values, interests and career goals. Academic advising is available in-person, by phone and web conference. Students pursuing the aviation management concentration will select from a set of courses to form a coordinated plan of study. Requirements for this program include general education, core requirements, internship, thematic studies, senior project and general electives.
The program in Commercial Aviation prepares students for careers as professional pilots for airlines, corporate aviation, government agencies, air charter companies and flight schools. In addition to flight training that leads to licensure, students will complete studies in management, business operations, human resources, transportation, logistics and aviation administration. These studies in combination with flight labs, experiential learning, and internships in an aviation setting will provide students with the necessary skills for future employment.
Students enrolled as a Commercial Aviation major will complete a 120 hour degree with a curriculum focused on management and business operations courses, and professional aviation instruction provided by Air Venture Flight Center at Olive Branch airport in MS.
Students enrolled in the program must obtain a valid First Class A FAA Aviation Medical Certificate conducted by an FAA medical examiner, no later than completion of their first flight. This certificate is valid for up to 5 years and requires an exam fee. Students will also be required to complete a TSA background check.
Requirements for this program include general education, a coordinated study, thematic studies, and general electives. Students should seek guidance from their advisor every semester and follow the assigned degree plan. A minor may be pursued with this degree through the submission of a completed minor application. Approval must be granted from the graduation analyst of the minor they are seeking as well as the College of Professional and Liberal Studies graduation analyst.
Students are encouraged to regularly review fee charts, deadlines and other important details as they are subject to change. All fees associated with the aviation program are considered non-refundable.
Students pursuing aviation have access to a wide variety of scholarships through specific organizations as well as the UofM. We recommend students apply for many to gain the greatest benefit of these educational funding opportunities.
WMC Action News 5 - New Memphis degree program to help fill airline pilot shortage
File for Graduation
Undergraduate students who are within two semesters of graduation should review the required process to file for graduation. All parts must be completed by the posted deadline.
Career Development
Students interested in learning more about career options in aviation should review information and set an appointment to meet with a Career Specialist in our Career Services Office.
Local and National Organizations
University Aviation Association
Sisters of the Skies
Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals
Women in Aviation International
The Ninety-Nines, Inc.
National Business Aviation Association
