Aviation
Highly respected by the aviation industry, our program combines a strong curriculum with specialized professional aviation education. Join a leader for your aviation education.
Careers in Aviation
With a bachelor of science or master of science degree, numerous opportunities await you in the growing aviation industry. Join our highly credentialed faculty and utilize state-of-the-art simulation technology to prepare for a wide variety of aviation careers.- Professional Pilot
- Flight Instructor
- Airport Administrator
- Airline Dispatcher
- Air Traffic Controller
- Unmanned Aircraft Pilot/Technician
- Accident Investigator*
- Aviation Safety Inspector*
Potential Salary
Median Salary $198,100
Aviation Degrees at MSU
Aviation, Bachelor of Science-Aeronautics
Gain a strong foundation in aviation, operations, and management—combined with a well-rounded university education. Graduate ready to lead in the aviation industry with the skills and knowledge to succeed in a range of professional roles.
Aviation, Bachelor of Science-Aviation Management
Lead the business side of aviation. This program prepares you for management and operations roles in aviation and aerospace. Courses blend aviation-specific topics with core business theory and practice to build leadership and decision-making skills.
Aviation, Bachelor of Science–Professional Flight
Train to become a professional pilot with a strong focus on safety, leadership, and technical expertise. Build flight skills through ground school, training aircraft, and high-fidelity simulators—from Private Pilot through Instrument, Commercial, and Multi-Engine ratings.
Aviation, Bachelor of Science–Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Prepare to lead in the fast-growing drone industry. Learn to design, operate, and manage drones for real-world missions. Explore UAS platforms, sensors, telemetry, communications, and advanced operations. Apply your skills in fields like mapping, agriculture, public safety, inspection, and search-and-rescue.
Aeronautics, Minor
This minor is designed for any student interested in learning the fundamentals of the Aeronautical and Aviation Sciences.
Private Flight, Minor
Earn your FAA Private Pilot certificate while completing a minor. Ground and flight training cover aerodynamics, navigation, weather, and aeronautical decision-making. Build flight hours and confidence to fly for personal and professional growth.
Professional Flight, Minor
Advance beyond private pilot training. This minor focuses on airline flight operations. Strengthen your credentials for aviation careers or leadership roles that benefit from operational flight experience.
Aviation Safety, Master of Science
The fully online Master of Science in Aviation Safety program is tailored to meet the aviation industry's needs, offering advanced graduate-level study preferred by employers in the field.
Aviation, Bachelor of Science-Aeronautics
Gain a strong foundation in aviation, operations, and management—combined with a well-rounded university education. Graduate ready to lead in the aviation industry with the skills and knowledge to succeed in a range of professional roles.
Aviation, Bachelor of Science-Aviation Management
Lead the business side of aviation. This program prepares you for management and operations roles in aviation and aerospace. Courses blend aviation-specific topics with core business theory and practice to build leadership and decision-making skills.
Aviation, Bachelor of Science–Professional Flight
Train to become a professional pilot with a strong focus on safety, leadership, and technical expertise. Build flight skills through ground school, training aircraft, and high-fidelity simulators—from Private Pilot through Instrument, Commercial, and Multi-Engine ratings.
Aviation, Bachelor of Science–Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Prepare to lead in the fast-growing drone industry. Learn to design, operate, and manage drones for real-world missions. Explore UAS platforms, sensors, telemetry, communications, and advanced operations. Apply your skills in fields like mapping, agriculture, public safety, inspection, and search-and-rescue.
Aeronautics, Minor
This minor is designed for any student interested in learning the fundamentals of the Aeronautical and Aviation Sciences.
Private Flight, Minor
Earn your FAA Private Pilot certificate while completing a minor. Ground and flight training cover aerodynamics, navigation, weather, and aeronautical decision-making. Build flight hours and confidence to fly for personal and professional growth.
Professional Flight, Minor
Advance beyond private pilot training. This minor focuses on airline flight operations. Strengthen your credentials for aviation careers or leadership roles that benefit from operational flight experience.
Aviation Safety, Master of Science
The fully online Master of Science in Aviation Safety program is tailored to meet the aviation industry's needs, offering advanced graduate-level study preferred by employers in the field.
Accreditation
The B.S. in Aviation — Professional Flight program at Minnesota State University, Mankato is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI), representing the highest standards of collegiate aviation education.
Aviation Partnerships and Careers
Our strong industry connections open doors. Through programs like Delta Propel and Sun Country Bridge, you’ll have a direct path into the aviation workforce. With partnerships across the industry, we help you turn your training into a career.
Aircraft Fleet and Facilities
Train where professionals train. Our partnership with North Star Aviation at Mankato Regional Airport gives you access to a diverse fleet of aircraft and high-fidelity simulators—equipping you with the real-world experience needed to succeed in the aviation industry.
Learn More
Aviation Learning Community
Do you have a passion for flying? The Aviation Learning Community is for students who share an interest in Aviation and want to take courses together during their first year on campus. Learn more about how an Aviation Learning Community may be a great fit for you.
Aviation Advising
You’ll have a two-part advising team to guide you from day one. Professional Academic Advisors help you navigate your academic path, including course planning and university requirements. Faculty Advisors bring aviation-specific insight—whether you're focused on flight, management, or unmanned systems—offering mentorship and career guidance. Together, they support your success in the program and help you prepare for a dynamic career in the aviation industry.
Student Organizations and Flight Teams
Build your aviation network through student-led organizations like ALPA ACE Club, Alpha Eta Rho, Aviation Club, Aviation Management Club, the Aviation Student Advisory Board, and Women in Aviation – Northern Lights Chapter.
Take it further by joining a competitive team: Maverick Flight Team, Air Race Classic Team, or Drone Racing Team.
Book an Airport Tour
Take a 30-minute tour of our airport facilities and get an inside look at the Aviation program. You'll step inside a New Piper aircraft, explore our lounge, hangar, simulators, and more, and talk with an MSU Ambassador about program details and career opportunities.
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Business Administration
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Military Science, Minor (COE)
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Management
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Department of Aviation
College of
Education
Empowering learners, fostering collaboration, promoting reflective practice, and respecting diversity are values that the College of Education carries in serving our students.