Top 20 Best Colleges for Aviation Major in the US (2025)
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| Best Aviation Colleges in the US |
Overview of Aviation Jobs
Aviation is a challenging career field. You get paid well, but face a lot of pressure that requires special skills.
To become a commercial or airline pilot, your first step is to earn an aviation college degree. Because pilots need to master the mechanics and physics of flight, you will take rigorous classes in aeronautics, meteorology, safety, aviation law, and leadership in addition to required flight training hours.
In addition to in-state tuition, know that you may have to pay additional fees and charges related to certification and training.
After graduation, you can have a high-paying job in a steadily growing field. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median salary for commercial and airline pilots is $171,210 per year. Pilot jobs are expected to grow 4% from 2022 to 2032.
Note: The criteria considered for this list include reputation, unique programs/opportunities, and career connections/outcomes. However, the rankings are for reference only, and you should not place too much emphasis on whether a school is ranked #1 or #20. A better way to go through this list is to research each college and its aviation program.
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Top 20 Best Universities/Colleges for Aviation Technology in the USA 2025
Ready to find the best colleges for aviation for you? The good news is that there are as many types of colleges with aviation programs as there are planes in the sky.
Embarking on a career in aviation demands careful planning, and selecting the right educational institution is an important first step. To aid aspiring aviators in this, we present a detailed chart showcasing the top 15 aviation schools across the United States. This chart includes essential information such as college location, acceptance rates, and tuition fees.
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
The aviation programs at MIT are known all over the world for teaching cutting edge aeronautics and astronautics. Students learn a lot and get real-world experience from well-respected teachers and cutting-edge tools.
Strong industry connections at MIT make it easy for graduates to get highly sought-after jobs in aerospace engineering, research, and design. This prestigious school is consistently ranked as one of the best engineering schools, adding to its already strong reputation as a leader in aviation education.
Website: https://catalog.mit.edu/
Acceptance rate: 4%
Average entry score: 1570 SAT or 36 ACT
Student-to-faculty ratio: 3 to 1
Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $77,570
Average earning potential for graduates: $80,100 (College Simply)
2. United States Air Force Academy
The United States Air Force Academy has a wide range of programs that teach cadets leadership and aviation skills. Basic and Advanced Soaring, Powered Flight, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems are some of the core programs.
Aside from learning how to fly, cadets also learn about aerodynamics, meteorology, and air navigation in a classroom setting. These programs train pilots and leaders who are disciplined and aware of safety. They prepare them for future jobs in military aviation or related fields.
Website: https://www.usafa.edu/military/airmanship/
Acceptance rate: 12%
Average entry score: 1320-1470 SAT or 28-33 ACT
Student-to-faculty ratio: 7 to 1
Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $0
Average earning potential for graduates: $80,572 (Salary.com)
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3. Purdue University
West Lafayette, Indiana-based Purdue University is a public university that is frequently named among the top aviation schools.
Purdue offers a wide range of study options for those who are interested in aviation, with seven distinct undergraduate aviation majors. Through their professional flight major, you can even pursue a career in aviation. If you'd rather not concentrate on flying, consider studying airport and airline management or aeronautical engineering. You can rely on strong industry ties and internships with airline partners like Envoy, Frontier, and Atlas Air as a Purdue student.
Graduates of Purdue’s aviation programs are well-prepared to pursue careers in the aviation industry. They are equipped with the skills and knowledge to advance their careers while also providing a solid foundation for lifelong learning.
Website: https://polytechnic.purdue.edu/schools/aviation-and-transportation-technology
Location: West Lafayette, Indiana
Annual In-State Tuition: $9,992
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $28,794
Average entry score: 1267 SAT
Average earning potential for graduates: $63,900 (College Simply)
4. Auburn University
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| Auburn University |
Auburn has one of the oldest aviation programs in the country, having taught pilots for more than 80 years.
As an undergrad, you can major in either professional flight or aviation management. People who are interested in more than one subject can choose to major in one subject and minor in either subject.
The fact that Auburn has partnerships with Delta, Jet Blue, Southwest, and United is another big reason why it is one of the best aviation schools.
The challenging curriculum, extracurricular activities, and networking events help to create an environment that encourages success, growth, and new ideas. So, Auburn graduates are ready to do well in the competitive world of aviation and make a difference that will last.
Website: https://cla.auburn.edu/aviation/
Annual In-State Tuition: $12,890
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $34,922
Acceptance rate: 71%
Average entry score: 1170-1350 SAT or 24-30 ACT
Location: Auburn, Alabama
5. Liberty University
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| Liberty University |
Successful pilots and air traffic controllers come out of Liberty University's aviation programs. Graduates are well-equipped technically, have extensive knowledge of their field, and have the ability to take the lead.
The faith-based approach, world-class facilities, and knowledgeable professors at this university create an ideal setting for all-around education. Liberty University's aviation programs prepare students for a wide range of aviation jobs, including piloting, air traffic management, and more, with an emphasis on safety, ethics, and innovation.
Website: https://www.liberty.edu/aeronautics/
Acceptance rate: 50%
Average entry score: 1020-1220 SAT or 20-27 ACT
Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $44,594
Average earning potential for graduates: $41,400 (College Simply)
6. Baylor University
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| Baylor University |
Baylor University, a private Christian institution in Waco, Texas, offers degrees in aviation science and aviation administration to students who identify as Baptist.
Baylor University's aviation science program is thrilling because it combines modern research with a long history of excellence in education. Students are embraced by a nurturing environment that encourages personal development, exploration, and aspiration.
They can take advantage of cutting-edge flight simulators and the guidance of experienced instructors who can teach them the ropes. Passionate and relentless in their pursuit of greatness, aspiring aviators are getting ready to take flight in the skies.
Members of the teaching staff have extensive backgrounds in military, corporate, and commercial aviation. Baylor University offers an Aviation Internship in Industry course that students can take for major credit in an effort to put themselves on the road to becoming successful pilots.
Website: https://admissions.web.baylor.edu/degrees/aviation-sciences
Location: Waco, Texas
Annual Tuition: $54,844
Acceptance rate: 57%
Average entry score: 1170-1360 SAT or 26-32 ACT
Average earning potential for graduates: $61,200 (College Simply)
7. Western Michigan University
The largest flight school in the Midwest is at Western Michigan University. It has a fleet of 28 Cirrus SR20s for training pilots.
Students can major in aviation flight science, aviation technical operation, or aviation management at this public university. WMU also helps students prepare for careers if they want to join the military after they graduate.
Through the ROTC program, college students can get ready for leadership roles in the Air Force or Space Force after they graduate.
Website: https://wmich.edu/aviation
Annual In-State Tuition: $15,074
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $18,842
Location: Kalamazoo, Michigan
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8. Hallmark University
Hallmark University's aviation programs offer exceptional training to prospective aviation professionals and are situated in San Antonio, Texas. Students are able to select from programs in Aviation Electronics and Aircraft Maintenance, which provide them with industry-specific skills and hands-on experience.
Graduates are afforded exceptional employment opportunities in the flourishing aviation sector, as the curriculum prioritizes practical applications. Hallmark University provides students with the technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and knowledge necessary to achieve success in their chosen field.
Website: https://hallmark.edu/aeronautics-school/
Acceptance rate: 56%
Average entry score: 2.0 GPA
Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $61,890
Average earning potential for graduates: $65,550 (Hallmark University)
9. Ohio State University
The aviation programs at Ohio State University provide a vibrant and all-encompassing learning environment that equips students for a prosperous career in the aviation sector. With state-of-the-art resources like a modern fleet of aircraft and a flight simulator lab, students can obtain real-world flying experience.
A group of seasoned commercial pilots and aviation experts make up the faculty, who give each student individualized attention and direction. In order to obtain priceless industry experience, students can also take part in research projects and internships.
The course stresses the value of professionalism and moral conduct in the aviation sector while concentrating on safety.
Website: https://aviation.osu.edu/
Acceptance rate: 57%
Average entry score: 1250-1440 SAT or 26-32 ACT
Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $29,368-$52,451
Average earning potential for graduates: $62,700 (College Simply)
10. Kansas State University
Kansas State University's aviation program, housed at their Salina campus, provides a broad range of majors and certificates that equip students for a variety of careers.
Through a fully online program, students who already hold a pilot's license can earn a bachelor's degree in professional aviation. Alternatively, you can choose to pursue a professional pilot degree if you want to train as a pilot while you're still enrolled.
With a 98% acceptance rate, KSU seeks to provide financial aid and scholarships tailored to the aviation industry to enable everyone to afford tuition and flight hours.
Website: https://www.salina.k-state.edu/academics/degree-options/professional-pilot/
Annual In-State Tuition: $11,876
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $28,348
Location: Salina, Kansas
11. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is one of a kind because it has separate majors for students who want to fly fixed-wing or rotary-wing planes.
Grad Reports named Embry-Riddle one of the best aviation schools, and the Golden Eagles Flight Team has won 36 straight regional championships and 15 national SAFECON championships. They have every right to be proud. United, JetBlue, and Delta are just a few of the big airline companies that have ties to school students.
The best aviation and space programs at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University are well known. It has campuses in Florida and Arizona and offers the most up-to-date training in engineering, aviation management, and pilot training. Its strong ties to the aviation industry and hands-on approach make sure that graduates are ready for successful careers in the field.
Website: https://erau.edu/
Annual Tuition: $42,408
Location: Prescott, Arizona
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12. Ohio University
The aviation programs at Ohio State University provide a lively and interactive learning setting that prepares students for a successful career in the aviation industry. Students can learn how to fly with the help of state-of-the-art tools like a flight simulator lab and a modern fleet of planes.
The faculty is made up of experienced commercial pilots and other aviation professionals who give each student individualized attention and help. The students can also take part in research projects and internships, which give them valuable experience in the field.
The program is mostly about safety and stresses how important it is to be professional and honest in the aviation industry.
Website: https://www.ohio.edu/engineering/aviation/academics
Location: Athens, Ohio
Annual In-State Tuition: $13,746
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $24,114
Acceptance rate: 57%
Average entry score: 1250-1440 SAT or 26-32 ACT
Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $29,368-$52,451
Average earning potential for graduates: $62,700 (College Simply)
13. Delaware State University
The well-known aviation program at Delaware State University gives graduates a lot of information and real-world experience.
Students benefit from a wide range of courses, state-of-the-art simulation labs, and knowledgeable teachers. Industry partnerships offer valuable chances to network and do internships, which can help your career.
DSU builds a strong foundation for its graduates by focusing on safety, professionalism, and new ideas. This sets them up to do well as pilots, air traffic controllers, and aviation leaders in an industry that is changing quickly.
Website: https://business.desu.edu/departments/aviation
Acceptance rate: 59%
Average entry score: 800-1050 SAT or 22 ACT
Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $28,906-$38,828
14. Louisiana Tech University
Students enrolled in Louisiana Tech University's aviation program have access to state-of-the-art facilities, knowledgeable instructors, and a curriculum that is in line with industry standards.
Students have access to state-of-the-art aircraft and simulators as they participate in both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
Internships and job placements are made possible through the university's extensive network of contacts in various industries. When it comes to aviation, students who attend Louisiana Tech University get the groundwork and training they need to be successful.
Website: https://liberalarts.latech.edu/professional-aviation/
Acceptance rate: 65%
Average entry score: 1240 SAT or 26 ACT
Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $24,615-$33,528
Average earning potential for graduates: $42,100 (College Simply)
15. Florida Institute of Technology
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| Florida Institute of Technology |
One of the most prestigious aviation schools in the nation is located at Florida Tech. Aeronautical science, aviation meteorology, and aviation management are among the many majors offered by this university, which offers seven associate's degrees and nine bachelor's degrees.
The field of aeronautical science offers a concentration in flight for students interested in a career as pilots. Students have the option to join the ROTC program or a career pathway program that prepares them for jobs with ExpressJet or Delta while they are in school. Additionally, an accelerated MBA program and a master's degree in aviation are available to students at Florida Tech.
Website: https://www.fit.edu/aeronautics/
Annual Tuition: $44,620
Location: Melbourne, Florida
16. Saint Louis University
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| Saint Louis University Flight School |
For people who want to become pilots, Saint Louis Flight School is a great place to learn. Students get full training in aircraft operations, safety, and navigation by using cutting-edge technology and expert instruction.
The experienced teachers at the school lead students through a structured curriculum that includes both ground classes and hands-on flight training. This prepares them for a number of different pilot certifications.
With a focus on one-on-one attention, Saint Louis Flight School creates a safe space where students can pursue their aviation dreams with confidence.
Website: https://www.slu.edu/science-and-engineering/academics/parks-aviation-science/flight-school/index.php
Acceptance rate: 70%
Average entry score: 1160-1370 SAT or 25-31 ACT
Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $66,980
Average earning potential for graduates: $65,600 (College Simply)
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17. University of Oklahoma
The University of Oklahoma is one of the best aviation schools in the country, according to Flying Magazine. To apply to UO, you can pick either the aviation management track or the professional pilot track.
At Southwest Airlines, American Airlines, Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, and UPS, you can get paid work or do volunteer work that will help you get your career off the ground. This university is affordable because its tuition is lower than that of other colleges with aviation programs.
Website: https://www.ou.edu/ags/aviation
Annual In-State Tuition (for aviation majors): $20,070
Annual Out-of-State Tuition (for aviation majors): $37,140
Location: Norman, Oklahoma
18. Bowling Green State University
Few colleges can say they have a regional airport right on campus, just a short walk from the residence halls. This is because most of the best colleges with aviation programs are close to an airport.
It is possible to major in both flight technology and operations and aviation management and operations at BGSU. They also have an Army ROTC course that students who want to join can choose to take. There were five million dollars spent by BGSU in 2021 on updating its fleet, adding more flights, and getting cutting-edge simulators for training.
Website: https://www.bgsu.edu/technology-architecture-and-applied-engineering/schools-and-departments/aviation.html
Location: Bowling Green, Ohio
Annual In-State Tuition: $13,519
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $21,507
19. Farmingdale State College
For students who want to work in aviation, Farmingdale State College is a great option. There are many aviation programs at the college that teach students the skills and information they need to be successful in the field.
After finishing these programs, students can work as pilots, air traffic controllers, airport managers, and people who work in aviation safety, among other jobs.
With strong ties to business partners, Farmingdale State College gives students great chances to network, which often leads to job offers right after graduation.
Website: https://www.farmingdale.edu/engineering
Acceptance rate: 72%
Average entry score: 990-1150 SAT or 19-24 ACT
Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $11,286-$27,394
Average earning potential for graduates: $38,300 (College Simply)
20. University of North Dakota
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| University of North Dakota |
Lauded as one of the most comprehensive aviation programs, the University of North Dakota has majors in commercial aviation, aviation studies, and aviation safety and operations in addition to majors in aviation management.
Not all colleges with aviation programs offer training in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), but UND was the first in the nation to do so. UND’s strong UAS program gives students opportunities to interact with companies like Northrop Grumman, General Atomics, and SkySkopes.
Website: https://aero.und.edu/aviation/index.html
Annual In-State Tuition: $12,680
Annual Out-of-State Tuition: $31,870
Location: Grand Forks, North Dakota
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FAQs
Are there specific things that you need to do before you can get into college aviation programs?
Due to the technical nature of the field, many aviation programs require applicants to have a strong background in math, physics, and science. Certain requirements may be different for getting into aviation programs at different colleges, depending on the school and the program.
What kinds of jobs are open to people who graduate from aviation schools?
A lot of graduates go on to work as pilots for commercial airlines, where they fly people and goods on domestic and international routes. Some may work as corporate or private pilots, flying planes for businesses or wealthy people.
Aviation college graduates can also work as flight instructors, teaching people who want to become pilots how to fly. Graduates may also be interested in jobs in aviation management, airport operations, aircraft maintenance, air traffic control, aviation safety, and aerospace engineering.
How long does it take to finish a college program in aviation?
For full-time students, getting a bachelor's degree in aviation or a related field can usually be done in four years. However, some colleges offer faster programs or let students work at their own pace to finish their degree requirements, which could change the total time needed.
In Conclusion
The best aviation schools in the US provide a wide variety of programs, showcasing the many opportunities available to students interested in a career in aviation. Whether it's world-class facilities or well-known programs, every school in this guide has something special to offer.
As you explore the distinct qualities of each school, keep in mind how they relate to your personal aspirations. The runway to a successful career is now open; soar to new heights!
Prospective pilots should select the best school for their needs by comparing these schools' locations, acceptance rates, and tuition costs. Future aviation professionals can achieve success and fulfillment in this vital and ever-changing field with dedication and perseverance.
