2025 Most Affordable Online Aviation Degrees
An affordable online aviation degree helps you stay within budget while preparing for a career in the field, such as in aviation management, piloting, or air traffic control. Our list of the cheapest aviation degree programs cover aerodynamics, aviation regulations, and flight operations, allowing you to gain industry insights and technical skills to advance in the field.
Key Takeaways:
- Middle Georgia State University has the most affordable bachelor's in aviation with a yearly tuition of $5,220.
- Eastern New Mexico University stands out with the highest median earnings for aviation graduates at $118,920, and it's the second cheapest option.
Our research uncovers the most affordable online degrees, confirmed via manual tuition review. Every listed school is institutionally accredited and provides fully online programs with clear pricing. Explore our methodology for more.
2025 Most Affordable Online Aviation Degrees
| Rank | School | Locations | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Middle Georgia State University | Macon (GA) | $5,220 | |
| Eastern New Mexico University - Main Campus | Portales (NM) | $6,174 | |
| Utah Valley University | Orem (UT) | $8,100 | |
| Hampton University | Hampton (VA) | $9,000 | |
| Southern Illinois University - Carbondale | Carbondale (IL) | $9,645 | |
| Purdue Global | Indianapolis (IN) | $11,130 | |
| Lynn University | Boca Raton (FL) | $11,250 | |
| National American University Online | Rapid City (SD) (and 1 other) | $11,400 | |
| Polk State College | Winter Haven (FL) | $11,433 | |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg (VA) | $11,700 | |
| LeTourneau University | Longview (TX) | $12,300 | |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Worldwide | Daytona Beach (FL) | $15,090 | |
| Florida Tech - Online | Melbourne (FL) | $15,600 | |
| Texas A&M University - Central Texas | Killeen (TX) | $18,284 | |
| Central Washington University | Ellensburg (WA) | $25,340 | |
| Everglades University | Sarasota (FL) (and 4 others) | $26,100 | |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | Denver (CO) | $28,695 |
Overview of Online Aviation Bachelor’s Degrees
Online bachelor's degrees in aviation provide aircraft maintenance, management, and operation training. Coursework not only covers aviation safety, meteorology, and flight physics, but students also explore the airline industry, including standard policy, law, and labor issues related to commercial airline companies.
An aviation bachelor's degree takes approximately four years to complete on a full-time schedule. Students must have a minimum high school diploma to be accepted for enrollment, although some schools ask that applicants possess a mechanic's or pilot's license.
Concentrations allow students to narrow their coursework to fit their career goals, such as air traffic management, aviation design, flight operations, and aeronautical maintenance. Upon graduation with an online aviation degree, students can pursue their pilot's license, apply for entry-level roles in airplane maintenance and project management, or continue their education.
Although airline pilots don't legally need a bachelor's degree to fly commercially, most employers prefer candidates who have one. Students wishing to gain leadership roles that oversee pilots — such as directors, operations managers, and chief executive officers — should pursue an online aviation master's degree. These programs offer lower tuition costs and feature advanced aviation law, aeronautics, airport operations, and leadership training.
Common Courses
Aviation degrees are comprehensive and feature practical and theoretical training in everything from aircraft maintenance to the psychology of piloting. For students to better understand the classes they'll encounter, here are three common courses found in aviation degrees:
Human Factors
This course explores aviation safety through human-machine interactions, such as flight deck designs, and the psychology of humans in aviation environments, such as a flight crew's communication and cognitive abilities.
Aircraft Systems
This technical course focuses on modern-day aircraft's mechanical, electric, and electronic systems, including ice protection, takeoff and landing, fuel, and flight control.
Aviation Meteorology
Aviation meteorology looks at flight-related weather such as icing, turbulence, and low level windshear. Students train in weather theory and data collection to prepare pre-flight weather briefings and reports.
Funding an Online Aviation Degree
Getting an education is expensive, and finding an affordable online aviation degree can be challenging for low-income students. According to the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of a college education in the United States is $36,436 per year, rising 2% annually over the past decade.
Unfortunately, aviation degrees are no exception, which is why many aspiring aviation professionals opt for online schools with low tuition. Online degrees are $31,165 less expensive than in-person programs. They're also more convenient, allowing students to learn on their schedules and from the comfort of their homes. Aspiring pilots are required to log practical flight hours, but much of the theoretical studying can be completed remotely.
There are other ways to make college cheaper, such as attending a less expensive in-state school. The most affordable aviation degrees offer in-state tuition rates for all online students, no matter where they reside, making it easier to choose a school based on curriculum rather than location. Another option is to earn two years' worth of aviation credits through an associate degree at an affordable online community college before transferring to a four-year university.
Many students work part-time during their bachelor's degree programs to help fund their studies. Entry-level jobs such as ticketing agents, cargo handlers, and flight attendants offer steady part-time work and airline industry experience.
Financial Aid
Many students pay for tuition through financial aid provided by the federal government. In fact, 83.8% of college students receive federal money to fund their academic ambitions. These typically come in the form of student loans, work-study programs, and Pell Grants.
Most students apply for loans through the Federal Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines eligibility based on income, family contributions, and the cost of the degree. Students must repay these loans with interest, although payment plans are available.
Other forms of financial aid, such as grants and scholarships, don't have to be paid back. Pell Grants, for example, are federal grants given to students with exceptional financial needs. Scholarships can be needs-based but are also awarded to students who showcase substantial academic achievements or skills. The Federal Aviation Administration offers resources for aviation scholarships from various flight organizations and airline companies.
What Can You Do With an Online Aviation Degree?
Many aviation students have dreams of becoming pilots, but that's not the only career worth pursuing. Aviation graduates can earn a living in several ways, both in the sky and on the ground. There are administrative roles in airport management, technical positions in airplane maintenance, and teaching roles in flight instruction.
Bachelor's graduates may also continue their online education at the graduate level by pursuing affordable master's degrees in aviation. These degrees are more advanced and feature specializations in safety, finance, avionics, and engineering. They often culminate in leadership careers such as aviation project managers and airport operations directors.
Below are a few common careers earned by aviation bachelor's graduates with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
Avionics Technicians
Avionics technicians specialize in the repair and maintenance of electrical systems on aircrafts. These systems operate critical components, such as navigation and communication instruments. Tasks include analyzing flight data to diagnose issues, installing entertainment systems, and repairing radars. Digital technology is vital in aviation, making avionics technicians critical to maintaining in-flight computer systems.
Commercial Pilots
The role of commercial pilots is to transport cargo and passengers safely. They're responsible for preparing aircraft for flight, including balancing weight, managing fuel, navigating routes, and monitoring the weather. Commercial pilots may work as instructors teaching students to fly, airline passenger pilots, and helicopter pilots.
Air Traffic Controllers
Air traffic controllers organize and supervise the movement of aircraft. Their primary responsibility is to maintain a safe environment for busy aircraft environments. They often work in airport towers to coordinate runway and taxiway operations, terminal control centers to manage approach and departure safety, and traffic control centers to monitor national airspace.
FAQs About Online Aviation Degrees
How Do I Choose a Bachelor’s in Aviation?
Students can choose the best bachelor's degree in aviation for them by considering their career goals. Aviation degrees often feature concentrations that allow for tailored coursework, such as maintenance, homeland security, and flight operations. It's also important to consider experience. Students can gain an advantage in their program by building on their work and study experiences in aviation.
Another vital consideration is affordability. Students should explore tuition costs at different schools to find the one that best fits their financial circumstances. Most schools offer financial aid and scholarships but may have different eligibility requirements related to income, experience, and essays.
Is Aviation a Difficult Major?
Aviation majors are not considered more difficult than similar programs that combine technical and administrative training. Undergraduate-level courses in aviation are entry-level and designed to lay a foundation for more advanced learning down the line. Some students may excel at memorizing expansive lists of flight regulations, while others find their skills better applied to turbine engine mechanics. In general, students should be on the path toward achieving their degrees as long as they are motivated to study the materials.
How Much Can You Make With an Aviation Degree?
Earnings from an aviation degree vary based on students' previous experiences. For example, military students may have worked in carrier maintenance, while civilian students may have already earned pilot licenses. According to the BLS, pilots in the lowest 10 percent of earners make a median salary of $100,100, while the highest 10 percent made more than $208,000.
Are Aviation Degrees Worth It?
An aviation degree can lead to many exciting career opportunities in the military, aircraft maintenance, aviation science, and the airline industry. Although bachelor's degrees can be expensive, affordable aviation degrees, scholarship opportunities, and financial aid allow students to pursue their academic dreams on a budget.
Coursework is comprehensive but easily customized to fit career goals through concentrations. Ultimately, the passion for working with aircraft drives aviation students to succeed. Although graduates may start by earning a modest salary, their income rises significantly with experience. This is especially true for commercial pilots, where salaries can rise above six figures. However, money doesn't have to be earned in the sky, as aviation degrees equip students with knowledge in airport operations, meteorology, and airplane maintenance.
Student Reviews of Online Aviation Programs
I chose Everglades University for its specialized class schedule where I can take one class at a time instead of four at once. It helps me out because I work full-time, so it’s more manageable for me. My career goals are to work in the Aerospace industry, hopefully within Mission Planning. I plan to use my degree to get into the Aerospace industry and create the foundation on which my career will be built.
Review Date: 1/26/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
I came to Everglades University Tampa to get my aviation degree to get my dream job as an air traffic controller. I like the fact that this campus is close to my home and work. When I first came here, the people were very respectful and nice. They explained everything clearly. My faculty members teach very well, and I am getting straight A’s. I want to keep my grades up and stay on Dean’s List. Coming to Everglades University was the right decision for me.
Review Date: 10/27/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
So far everyone has been genuinely friendly and helpful, starting school today and I’m not overwhelmed but feel confident. Excited for the rest of this years classes. Tamika and Antoinnette have been VERY helpful with every stage of this process, looks like all teachers are very willing to help us all succeed.
Review Date: 6/6/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Everglades University has a very well-put-together online degree program for a very reasonable price. The program was very well structured and the staff worked together to ensure the success of the students. I was very happy with the level of communication between each department and with me throughout my program and found that that helped to get me through the program as smoothly as possible.
Review Date: 2/21/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
I started Everglades without a significant knowledge in Aviation, the teaching platform is easy and sooner, I was able to understand and and apply those teachings at my work. Thanks everyone for your dedication to your students and the institution. Ines Espinoza
Review Date: 8/5/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
I first joined Everglades University in January of 2022. I remember talking to an admissions counselor, who had me all fired up to join this university and pursue my dreams in aviation. She made sure I would get to where I needed to be now. If it was not for Everglades, my dreams of joining the aviation industry would not be a reality today. As I was approaching my final classes in my program, I interviewed for a position at St. Petersburg/Clearwater International Airport and was hired as Airport... Read More
Review Date: 12/30/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
This was the best university I attended in my studies in Aviation. The instructor was very, very knowledgeable and always communicated and assisted with any questions or concerns I had. The Dean and the staff at the Maitland campus I attended were awesome. They were always very helpful and even called often to check on me to make sure I had everything I needed to get through my courses. They even checked me when I was sick and worked with my instructors to make sure I had a little more time to complete... Read More
Review Date: 6/16/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
This has been a journey, one that has empowered me to feel more confident and to know that anything I set my mind to do, I can do it. I must admit that this confidence did not come alone. Everglades University, from the day I enrolled, throughout my academic journey and right to graduation, I had support from excellent instructors, advisors, and an entire team of staff that dedicated themselves to help me accomplish my goal. I am a happy grad, with opportunities to grow within my organization and... Read More
Review Date: 6/16/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Everglades University is a great school to obtain a degree. The school offers a variety of online degrees that can be all completed from home. I wanted an Aviation Management degree but did not want to have to move locations to attend school. Everglades University makes it super easy to complete a degree online. In addition, the staff at Everglades is very helpful and is always there along the way to see you to the finish line. Thank you Everglades University for helping me complete my goals!
Review Date: 3/17/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
I recently completed online courses to attain my BS degree in Aviation / Aerospace (Safety), in 30 months. I never envisioned going to full time onliine classes and making it work while working part-time and then subsequently full-time. If there were any areas I needed help in, the instructor for that area would give me extra guidance. All the instructors had the students best interest at heart and would ensure that they received all the tools required to pass the course of instruction. If I were... Read More
Review Date: 11/18/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Classes had a great structure, instructors were easily available and thorough throughout all my courses at Everglades. I feel like the training I have received has prepared me for the next level in my career. I am well equipped for a challenging career and also prepared to start on my Master's Degree this winter. I would highly recommend this college.
Review Date: 11/9/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Very attentive and readily available staff. They go out of their way to assist you with whatever it is you need at almost any time. I was hesitant about the online schools but this has changed my impression so far. Professors respond in a very timely manner via email or phone and seem to be genuinely concerned with the needs of the student. My experience has been a pleasant one to date!
Review Date: 5/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Embry-Riddle offered challenging and enriching course curriculum that stimulated my mind, and kept me very busy during each class. However, the flexibility that online classes afforded me was the ability to spend more time with my family while I was able to self-pace many of my classes. As an air traffic controller in the military, I was able to apply my knowledge of aeronautics to my job, and also learn an incredible amount about the legal, social, and environmental influences on the aviation industry.... Read More
Review Date: 2/2/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Hands down a great school for Veterans! Easy application process that includes an review of military history and certification that gose towards your degree. Many version on on line classes you can take in your free time. OL class were my favorites it gave me the flexibility I needed to obtain my degree over time
Review Date: 9/8/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
I loved my experience at Le Tourneau University. I always wanted to go there, but hadn't gone there earlier because there resident tuition was so expensive. when I had about 118 credits and was a Junior I heard that Le Tourneau had a new online program in my major and all I would have to complete to gradate was another 55 credits and I would be done. That sounded awesome to me so I talk more to one of the Aviation program directors and then decided to apply. After admission. I started my first class... Read More
Review Date: 4/12/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
I recently completed my UVU's Global B.S. in Aviation Science with an emphasis in Aviation Administration. I was able to do 100% of my work online while working full time. The course work was manageable working because every class was very structured and standardized. All assignments were due Sunday night so this gave me the flexibility to determine when I would balance family, work, and school. I knew what to expect from each class, the tests were fairly easy, the assignments required a lot of work... Read More
Review Date: 9/25/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Everglades University is full of staff that offer help all along the way and it's professors actually have real world work experience. If you have any issue with scheduling they have two class times plus online. Plus they offer great benefits to veterans.
Review Date: 12/12/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
I have recently graduated and with the knowledge and education I received from this program I have moved into a career using my degree. The instructors here have helped me gain the knowledge to immediately move to a director of safety position and have the capability to not only lead but excel in my career.
Review Date: 12/10/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
I choose Polk State College because they offered Part 141 Aviation Training and both an Associate of Science Commercial Pilot and a Bachelor of Science Commercial Aviation. The professors have been great to work with. The advisors and Financial aide and cashier departments have been a nightmare. Neither advisors, cashiers nor financial aide email or phone calls receive any response. Numerous email and phone calls and messages are left unanswered. The only responses I got were actually going to the... Read More
Review Date: 1/29/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
The school advanced my career. I enjoyed the being at the school and learning more than just needed to get my degree. All instructors were very helpful every time I needed help. All the staff were very helpful also. I would love to get my masters but the cost stops me. Other than that I have enjoyed being there.
Review Date: 6/18/2021
Would Recommend: Yes