Prepare for a rewarding and well-paying career in the field of aviation. With an Associate in Aeronautical Science degree from PennWest Edinboro, you'll complete your commercial pilot training in just 16 months.
PennWest Edinboro has partnered with part 141 FAA-approved flight schools on an accelerated 60-credit program that allows you to complete all of your academic coursework and flight training in just 16 months. Upon completion, you'll be prepared for a job as a commercial industry pilot (non-passenger), a private charter pilot or a flight instructor.
Our Associate of Applied Science in Aeronautical Science program gives you broad knowledge through applicable general education and major courses. The additional ground and flight training needed to prepare for a career in this high-demand field is provided by our flight school partners, including North Coast Flight School in Erie, PA, OnCore Aviation in Rochester, NY, and High Flight Academy in Butler, PA (ground and flight training have additional associated costs). The training requirements may be satisfied if you have a current license or appropriate certification.
If you'd like to go a step further and pursue a career as a commercial airline pilot, you'll have an opportunity to complete additional flight training and earn a bachelor's degree with a commitment of just two additional years.
According to Boeingmediaroom.com, Boeing projects a need for 635,000 commercial pilots and 96,000 business pilots worldwide by the year 2037. And here's even better news: The median annual pay for a U.S. pilot is $113,709 (Glassdoor.com, February 2019).
If you need financial assistance, you can apply for the Erie Airport Porreco Flight Scholarship. Funded by the Erie Regional Airport Authority, this $1,000 annual award is available to one student each year who needs additional financial aid. To qualify, you must:
As a graduate of Edinboro's Associate of Applied Science in Aeronautical Science program you will earn the following:*
- Private pilot license
- Certified flight instructor's license
- Instrument pilot rating
- Commercial pilot license
* Technical flight training may take place on or off campus and has associated costs.
Dr. Korey Kilburn
Department Chair
167 Ross Hall
Email: kkilburn@pennwest.edu
Phone: 814-732-1183
Curriculum Sheet Course Sequence
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