For those searching for a profession that entails traveling, quick thinking, and constant stimulation then going into careers like professional pilot, aviation maintenance management, aviation business administration, or aeronautical engineering is for you. Not only will you be in the sky but you’ll have the opportunity to work with an endless array of people from all walks of life. A career in this field is constantly growing and requires aviation professionals who are ready to step up and be a leader in the air transportation industry. If you’re ready for endless opportunities to advance in this profession then a firm secondary education is your next step.
Below we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 most affordable universities to attend while earning a bachelor’s in aviation. These schools are more than just affordable, they offer this degree 100% online with a variety of hands-on experiences. Students will work with professionals who’ve mounted thousands of hours in this career and participate in internships. Individuals learn critical skills through aviation studies and most graduate with a job in their desired specialization. You can feel confident knowing that earning an online aviation degree from one of the below schools will take you further and aid in becoming a leader in your field.
Methodology
All schools considered for these rankings
- Are regionally or nationally accredited
- Offer at least one fully online aviation degree (with no more than two weeks of required in-person work)
- Were collected from official accrediting agency websites.
Schools are ranked solely by the average net price as released in the most recent IPEDs database collected in July of 2023.
2024 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Aviation Degrees
| Rank | School | Average Net Price |
| #1 | Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus | $4,994 |
| #2 | The Baptist College of Florida | $7,641 |
| #3 | Polk State College | $7,994 |
| #4 | Texas A & M University-Central Texas | $8,043 |
| #5 | Utah Valley University | $9,464 |
| #6 | Middle Georgia State University | $10,265 |
| #7 | University of Nebraska at Omaha | $13,452 |
| #8 | University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | $14,753 |
| #9 | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide | $14,780 |
| #10 | Wilmington University | $14,796 |
| #11 | Southern Illinois University – Carbondale | $16,316 |
| #12 | Central Washington University | $17,234 |
| #13 | LeTourneau University | $23,991 |
| #14 | Florida Tech-Online | $24,841 |
| #15 | Liberty University | $28,561 |
10 Best Affordable Colleges for Online Aviation Degrees
1. Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
Average Net Price: $4,994
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 33%
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus offers two online aviation degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Aviation Science: This degree is designed for students who want to pursue a career in aviation and want to study advanced levels of aviation science as part of a liberal arts program. The program can be completed entirely online or with a combination of online and in-person classes.
- Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences (BAAS) in Aviation Science: This degree is designed for students who already have an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in aviation or a related field. The program can be completed entirely online.
Both programs offer courses in aerodynamics, navigation, flight operations, and aircraft maintenance. They also include general education courses in English, math, science, and social sciences.
To be admitted to either program, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent and meet the university’s minimum GPA requirements. They must also pass the SAT or ACT college entrance exams.
2. The Baptist College of Florida
Average Net Price: $7,641
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 100%
The Baptist College of Florida (BCF) offers two online aviation degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts in Missions with a Concentration in Aviation
- Associate of Arts in Aviation
The Bachelor of Arts in Missions with a Concentration in Aviation is a 60-credit hour program that combines general education courses with mission training and flight training. Students in this program will learn about the Bible, theology, and missions, as well as how to fly an airplane. The program also includes a practicum experience, where students will have the opportunity to apply their skills in a real-world setting.
The Associate of Arts in Aviation is a 42-credit hour program that focuses on flight training. Students in this program will learn the basics of flying an airplane, including aerodynamics, navigation, and weather. They will also have the opportunity to complete their private pilot, instrument pilot, and commercial pilot licenses.
Both of BCF’s online aviation degrees are accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). This means that they meet the high standards set by the educational community.
To be admitted to either of BCF’s online aviation degrees, students must meet the following requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- ACT or SAT scores
- Medical exam
- FAA knowledge test
BCF offers a variety of financial aid options to help students pay for their education. These options include scholarships, grants, and loans.
3. Polk State College
Average Net Price: $7,994
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: Open Admissions
Polk State College propels aviation careers through two blended online aviation degrees:
The Associate of Science in Professional Pilot Science readies students to earn commercial pilot and instrument flight certifications. Optional certificates can also be gained as certified flight instructors.
With two concentrations, the Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Sciences prepares students for careers either in aviation management through the Aerospace Administration track, or as professional pilots through the Professional Pilot track.
Blending online courses taught by experienced aviation instructors with on-campus flight training at Lakeland Campus, Polk State College removes geography barriers while providing specialized hands-on learning.
Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent, meeting academic standards, passing physical exams and background checks.
While costs vary based on credits taken, financial aid can assist with affordability.
Through flexible yet focused aviation training, Polk State College’s blended online degrees equip graduates with the licenses, knowledge, and skills to launch aviation careers.
4. Texas A&M University-Central Texas
Average Net Price: $8,043
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 96%
Texas A&M University-Central Texas propels aviation careers through two flexible, affordable, online bachelor’s degrees in aviation:
The Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management delivers comprehensive training in aviation studies, management, and leadership, covering airport operations, safety, business, and more. A concentration in Aviation Maintenance also readies students for aircraft repair careers.
Designed to develop professional pilots, the Bachelor of Science in Professional Pilot includes courses in flight planning, navigation, instrument flying, and hands-on flight training through partner flight schools.
Offered 100% online with lower-than-average tuition, TAMU-CT makes respected aviation education accessible from anywhere with internet access.
Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent, driver’s license, meeting academic standards, and passing a physical exam.
With career-focused curriculum and adaptable delivery, TAMU-CT’s online aviation degrees empower students to take flight in aviation professions.
5. Utah Valley University
Average Net Price: $9,464
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: NWCCU
Acceptance Rate: Open Admissions
Utah Valley University powers aviation careers through diverse flexible, online aviation degrees from its renowned School of Aviation Sciences:
The Bachelor of Science in Professional Pilot readies students for airline pilot roles through training for key FAA pilot certifications and ratings, alongside flight instruction.
With courses in aviation law, finance, operations and more, the Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management prepares students for management roles like airport administration.
As a terminal degree for entry-level aviation positions, the Associate of Arts in Aviation Technology Management covers maintenance, avionics, airport operations, and related fields.
Offered fully online with supplementary flight training, UVU’s programs blend convenience with specialized hands-on learning.
Admission requires meeting academic thresholds, passing flight evaluations, and obtaining medical certification.
While costs vary, UVU provides financial aid through scholarships, grants, and loans to assist affordability.
With tailored curriculum and accommodating delivery, Utah Valley University’s online aviation degrees equip graduates to launch careers that soar.
6. Middle Georgia State University
Average Net Price: $10,265
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 99%
Middle Georgia State University (MGA) offers two online aviation degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Aviation Science and Management (B.S.A.S.M.) with a Flight Track or a Management Track.
- Associate of Applied Science in Air Traffic Management (A.A.S.A.T.M.).
The B.S.A.S.M. Flight Track is designed to prepare students for a career as a commercial airline pilot. The program includes ground school courses in flight theory, navigation, meteorology, and regulations, as well as flight training in a variety of aircraft. The Management Track is designed to prepare students for careers in airport management, airline management, or other aviation-related fields. The program includes courses in aviation law, business administration, and airport operations.
The A.A.S.A.T.M. program is designed to prepare students for a career as an air traffic controller. The program includes ground school courses in air traffic control theory, radar, and communications, as well as simulator training.
Both the B.S.A.S.M. and the A.A.S.A.T.M. programs are offered fully online. This means that students can complete their degree from anywhere in the world with internet access.
To be admitted to an online aviation degree program at MGA, students must meet the following requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- ACT or SAT scores
- FAA medical certificate
- Flight hours (varies by program)
7. The University of Nebraska at Omaha
Average Net Price: $13,452
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 87%
The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) offers two online aviation degrees:
Bachelor of Multidisciplinary Studies (BMS) with an area of concentration in Aviation Studies
Bachelor of Science in Aviation (BS) with a concentration in Air Transport Administration
The BMS degree is a 120-credit hour program that can be completed in four years. It offers a flexible curriculum that allows students to customize their education to their interests and career goals. The BS degree is a 128-credit hour program that can be completed in four and a half years. It is designed to prepare students for careers in the airline industry.
Both programs are offered fully online and can be completed anywhere in the world. They are taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in the field of aviation. Students in both programs have the opportunity to participate in internships and other hands-on learning experiences.
The UNO Aviation Institute is a nationally recognized aviation school. It is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI). The institute has partnerships with several airlines, including United Airlines and Southwest Airlines. These partnerships give students the opportunity to earn scholarships and job placement assistance.
Here are some of the specific courses that are offered in the online aviation degrees at UNO:
Introduction to Aviation
Air Law
Aircraft Systems
Flight Operations
Airport Operations
Aviation Management
Aviation Safety
Unmanned Aircraft Systems
To be admitted to the online aviation degrees at UNO, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent and meet the following requirements:
ACT or SAT scores
Official transcripts from all previous colleges or universities
Letters of recommendation
Personal statement
8. University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Average Net Price: $14,753
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: HLC
Acceptance Rate: 90%
The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh (UW Oshkosh) offers an online Bachelor of Applied Studies in Aviation Management degree program. This program is designed for students who have already completed an associate degree in aviation or a related field. The program can be completed in as few as two years.
The curriculum of the online Aviation Management degree program at UW Oshkosh covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Aviation law
- Airline production management
- Aviation labor relations
- Airline management
- Aviation/aerospace systems analysis methods
- Business communication
- Financial management
- Human resources management
- Leadership and organizational behavior
- Marketing
- Operations management
- Strategic planning
In addition to the core courses, students in the online Aviation Management degree program at UW Oshkosh can choose to specialize in one of the following areas:
- Airline management
- Airport management
- Aviation safety
- Business aviation
- General aviation
- Helicopter operations
- Military aviation
To be admitted to the online Aviation Management degree program at UW Oshkosh, students must have an associate degree in aviation or a related field with a minimum GPA of 2.5. They must also have a minimum of 60 transferable credits.
The online Aviation Management degree program at UW Oshkosh is taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in the field of aviation. The program is offered in a 100% online format.
9. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide
Average Net Price: $14,780
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: SACS COC
Acceptance Rate: 70%
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide propels aviation careers through diverse accredited online aviation degrees spanning bachelor’s to doctoral levels:
Offering fixed wing and helicopter training, the Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Science develops key piloting skills alongside aviation business and safety knowledge.
The Bachelor of Science in Aviation Business Administration provides management competencies tailored for aviation industry leadership.
With courses in maintenance, repair, and overhaul systems, the Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance readies graduates for aircraft technician roles.
For emerging aviation realms, the Bachelor of Science in Unmanned Aircraft Systems covers drone technologies, operations, and applications.
Blending online learning with on-campus labs and flight instruction, ERAU’s programs offer a mix of academic rigor and hands-on training.
Boasting SACSCOC and ACBSP accreditation plus FAA-approved flight school status, ERAU Worldwide provides premier aviation education, both in the skies and online.
With flexible degree options backed by gold-standard accreditation, ERAU Worldwide thoroughly equips graduates to excel across aviation sectors.
10. Wilmington University
Average Net Price: $14,796
School Type: Non-Profit
School Accreditation: MSCHE
Acceptance Rate: Open Admissions
Wilmington University offers a variety of online aviation degrees, including:
- Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management This program provides students with the knowledge and skills to manage all aspects of the aviation industry, from flight operations to airport management. It is a 120-credit program that can be completed in as few as 6 years.
- Bachelor of Science in Professional Piloting This program prepares students to become commercial airline pilots. It is a 120-credit program that includes both flight training and academic coursework.
- Associate of Science in Aviation Technology This program provides students with the knowledge and skills to enter the aviation maintenance field. It is a 60-credit program that can be completed in as few as 2 years.
All of Wilmington University’s online aviation degrees are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The university also offers a variety of financial aid options to help students afford their education.
To be admitted to an online aviation degree program at Wilmington University, students must meet the following requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- SAT or ACT scores
- Transcripts from previous college coursework (if applicable)
- Letter of recommendation
- Personal statement
In addition to these requirements, students may also be required to pass a physical exam and drug test.