Are you a school administrator? Yes No x to close
Find Schools Approved for VA Education Benefits
Getting a Degree in Aeronautics or Aviation

Getting a Degree in Aeronautics or Aviation

Professionals in aeronautics and aviation are always in high demand.  Embry-Riddle University describes working toward a degree in aeronautics as study meant to help students, "Gain understanding in the areas of airplanes, helicopters, air traffic control or other areas of aviation" and "Develop practical skills focused on safety, training operations, dispatch, flight training and transportation."

Jobs in Aeronautics and Aviation

With all military branches having aviation components, many veterans will already have a great deal of experience and knowledge. For those on the aviation side of the armed services, a transition into a second career in aeronautics is an excellent fit. For those less familiar with these fields, an introduction into aeronautics and the variety of careers available is an excellent choice.

To be clear, aviation is, by definition, the making and flying of aircraft, while aeronautics studies the design, mathematics, construction, and other mechanics of aircraft (including all flight-capable machines capable of operating in the Earth’s atmosphere).

The terms are used interchangeably by some but that's not technically accurate.

Popular Jobs in Aeronautics and Aviation

  • Commercial Pilot
  • Flight Engineer
  • Air Traffic Controller
  • Aircraft Cargo Supervisor
  • Aviation Mechanic
  • Avionics Technician

Associate Degree in Aeronautics and Aviation

There are various great programs from accredited institutions to earn an associate degree in aeronautics.

Campus-based and online programs are available for what is typically a 2 year/60-unit course of study.

Don’t forget to transfer in your military experience and knowledge! Factors such as ACE credits, CLEP, and DSST assessment results will impact your choice of programs. Don’t be shy about shopping around for the program offering the most transfer units. This will lighten your required course load and maximize your GI Bill benefits.

Associate degree recipients are introduced to the multidisciplinary field of aeronautics. In addition, students can tailor their studies to particular interests and career goals.

Jobs with an Associate Degree in Aeronautics and Aviation

Aircraft Mechanic

Technician responsible for aircraft repairs, preventative, and routine maintenance. Average Annual Salary: $50,000



Avionics Technician

Responsible for repairs, preventative and routine maintenance of aircraft electronics. Average Annual Salary: $50,000



Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisor

Supervises the ground crew in the loading, unloading, and staging of aircraft cargo. Average Annual Salary: $58,000

Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautics and Aviation

A bachelor’s degree is a cornerstone for a fantastic career in aeronautics. A degree in the aeronautical sciences provides students with fundamental knowledge and skills needed for career entry and advancement. Bachelor’s degree concentrations are varied, and a student’s studies can be aligned with their desired career path. Some degree concentrations and career paths include:A Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautics and Aviation can be found in online schools or traditional brick-mortar institutions.

It can take 2-4 years to complete, depending on the program (such as accelerated or traditional) and depending on how many credits you are able to transfer in (such as from an associate degree).

Remember to Transfer In Credits

Once again, it is important to transfer in as many credits as possible from your military experience and tests as well as from any previous schooling. Transferring in the maximum number of credits possible will lessen the amount of schooling remaining while maximizing your GI Bill.

Choosing a bachelor’s program with a strong job placement and/or internship component is a helpful attribute to secure employment.  Many times this can even be accomplished before graduation.

Don’t forget, if a pilot’s license is a goal consider institutions that have a well-established flight center and pilot program such as:

Jobs with a Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautics and Aviation

Airfield Operations Specialist

Ensures the safe takeoff and landing of commercial and military aircraft. Average Annual Salary: $58,000



Air Traffic Controller

Control air traffic in and near the airport and between control centers. Average Annual Salary: $ 120,000



Flight Engineer

Navigates the flight of aircraft for transporting passengers and/or cargo. Average Annual Salary: $175,000



Master’s Degree in Aeronautics and Aviation

Ready to advance your career in aeronautics and aviation even further? Consider a master’s degree for the additional expertise and extra pay bump in an already lucrative career field.

Online master’s degrees are popular options for those already working in the field. Consider a Master’s Degree in Aeronautics from accredited and esteemed institutions such as: