Aviation is one of the most rewarding and adventurous careers available, offering opportunities to travel the world and work in an industry fueled by cutting-edge technology. But when it comes to becoming a pilot, the path isn’t always straightforward. Do you need college to be a pilot? Let’s explore what it really takes to launch your career in the clouds. Below we will discuss:

• How do you become an airline pilot?
• Do you need a degree to be a pilot?
• Can you become a commercial pilot without a degree?
• What aviation school programs are available?
• And so much more!

Do You Need a Degree to Become a Pilot?

When researching the education needed to become a pilot, begin by thinking about your goals for flight school. Do you want to become a pilot as a hobby or a full-time career? Your answer to that question may dictate whether or not you need a degree. Keep reading to learn more!

Private Pilot License (PPL)

With a Private Pilot License, you can operate an airplane during the day or night in good weather conditions. With your PPL, you can operate an airplane with friends, family, or co-workers on board, but you may not receive compensation.

A college degree is not required for a private pilot license, but the FAA does have minimum requirements. American Winds is one of the top flight schools in Ohio that can help you meet those requirements and soar as a private pilot!

Regional Airline Pilot

Regional airline pilots are paid to fly smaller aircraft on shorter routes. A college degree is not required to fly regionally, but most regional airline pilots complete their training at flight schools to gain experience and log flight hours. 

Commercial Pilot License

A Commercial Pilot License allows you to earn compensation for flying. While a college degree is not a requirement to earn a commercial pilot license, employers such as major airlines may favor candidates with a bachelor’s degree. Pilots looking to reach the highest earning potential in their industry should consider a degree in Aviation, Aerospace Engineering, or the Professional Pilot Program at American Winds College of Aeronautics and Flight School.

Benefits of Earning a College Degree As a Pilot

While a college degree isn’t required for the education needed to be a pilot, it is still a worthy investment. From networking opportunities to staying competitive in the aviation job market, pilots find their degrees to be beneficial to their careers!

Networking Opportunities

Earning your college degree as a pilot grants you access to a broader network of peers, professors, and industry professionals. Schools often host aviation-focused events, career fairs, and alumni meetups that connect students with mentors, employers, and experienced pilots. Additionally, group projects and student organizations create opportunities to collaborate and build relationships that can lead to job referrals or career advancement in the future. 

For example, American Winds’ partnership with Liberty University and Walsh University provides students access to aviation professionals across the country. Expand your circle by pursuing higher education for your aviation career.

Staying Competitive in the Job Market

As noted above, a college education is not required to become any type of pilot, but it can give you a leg up in a competitive job market. If a job application for a major airline says “degree preferred,” you will have peace of mind applying with your degree listed in your resume. 

Not only does a degree help get your foot in the door, but it paves the way for promotions and higher earning potential. Don’t risk being overlooked for a good job – get your degree today! 

Flight School Programs with American Winds

As one of the most trusted aviation schools in Ohio, American Winds offers a variety of programs to help you earn money as a pilot. Whether you are interested in pursuing a degree or are looking for a faster route to a good job, you will enjoy learning from trusted instructors in our state-of-the-art facility.  

Professional Pilot Program

In our Professional Pilot Program, students work towards their degree. Thanks to our Liberty University and Walsh University partnerships, you can take this program at your own pace. Focused and dedicated students who enroll full-time online at Liberty can complete their bachelor’s degree in about two and a half years – much faster than traditional universities! If you’re looking for a more traditional route, Walsh offers online study options, accepts most traditional financial aid, and is just a 30-minute drive from the American Winds flight academy. 

Our Professional Pilot Program is the most direct route to the captain’s seat at any airline. Pick this option to reach some of the highest earning potential in the aviation industry!

Commercial Pilot Program

Our Commercial Pilot Program requires no degree and takes about 10-12 months on average to complete. After graduation, you can get paid to fly for private or corporate charters, delivery and freight companies, flight schools and more. If you’re interested in a career as a pilot outside of the major airlines, this program is for you!

Rotary Transition Program

You can complete our Rotary Transition Program with or without an associate degree and it can take between 12-20 months to complete. With this program, you can go from flying helicopters to piloting single or multi-engine planes for major airlines, freight delivery companies, private charter services and more. Our Rotary Transition Program if your ticket to transitioning from helos to a variety of fixed-wing aircraft!

Instructor Pilot Program

The American Winds Instructor Pilot Program does not require a degree and takes 12-18 months to complete. As an Instructor Pilot, you will get paid to fly while sharing the thrill of defying gravity with students. Complete this program if you’d like to accrue flight hours toward your R-ATP while still getting compensated!

Start Your Pilot Career with American Winds

Ready to set a course for how to be a pilot? Whether you seek to earn a degree or not, American Winds College of Aeronautics is one of very few flight schools in Ohio that can get you behind the stick faster! Enroll today to get started.