Types of Jobs in Aviation

As an international student who wants to study aviation in the US, you might be curious to know what jobs
are available in aviation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, "44 percent of all employees in air
transportation work in office and administrative support occupations and installation, maintenance, and
repair occupations."

Gate Agents and Ticket Sales Representatives

Many of the administrative support positions are gate agents and ticket sales representatives. Often,
these jobs only require a high school diploma. However, a college degree makes a job seeker more
competitive. For senior administrative jobs, a college degree might be required. Degrees in hospitality,
advertising and sales or business can be useful in these positions.

Mechanical Technicians

Many of the administrative support positions are gate agents and ticket sales representatives. Often,
these jobs only require a high school diploma. However, a college degree makes a job seeker more
competitive. For senior administrative jobs, a college degree might be required. Degrees in hospitality,
advertising and sales or business can be useful in these positions.

Pilot

The most obvious career option in aviation is that of a pilot. Becoming a pilot requires a a great deal of
training. Many airlines are looking for pilots with either an Associate's degree or Bachelor's degree. Pilots
must also have a commercial pilot's license with an instrument rating, a medical certificate that includes
confirmation the pilot has 20/20 vision with or without glasses or contacts, and certification to fly the types
of aircraft that their employer operates.

Flight Attendants

Increasingly, more and more flight attendants are required to have a college degree. Helpful degrees
could be degrees in communications or hospitality. Many also undergo flight attendant training programs
specific to the airline they are hired with.
Where to Study Aviation
There are many flight schools in the US that offer aviation programs that teach everything from piloting to
repairing a plane. In fact, there are over 100 schools, colleges and universities that offer programs in the
aviation field.
In the US, there are 114 two-year Associate programs in aviation, 151 four-year Baccalaureate programs,
15 Master's programs and two Doctoral programs, according to an article written by the University Aviation
Association's executive director. Associate degree programs usually require 60 semester hours, with 1520
hours devoted to general studies. The Baccalaureate aviation programs are typically 120130 semester
hour programs with between 4560 hours of general studies.
If you're an international student looking for a larger state college, there are many aviation programs
available. One such program is Arizona State University. Located in the southwestern half of the US,
Arizona State University has more than 50,000 students and is located in the 5th largest metropolitan area.
Arizona State University offers programs in air transportation management, professional flight and air traffic
management. Auburn University is another big state college that offers programs in aviation. Located in the
southeast, Auburn University offers four year programs in aviation management and aviation managementflight education. Kansas State University is located in the Midwest. Kansas State University offers an
aviation program in aeronautical technology- professional pilot.

There are many different and diverse areas in the US. It might be hard to decide where to study aviation.
But with the Kennedy Space Center as the launch of every American human space flight, it's no wonder
that Florida is a popular choice to study aviation. There are many different types of institutions that offer
flight schools in Florida. Everglades University has four year degree programs in aviation technology and
aviation management. Everglades University also offers a Master's degree program in aviation science.
Everglades University has campuses located throughout Florida in Boca Raton, Sarasota and Orlando.
Rather than offering a degree, Sunrise Aviation in Ormond Beach, Florida offers a professional pilot
package which includes the medical exam, written tests, and flight exams. Because of the strong military
influence in Jacksonville, Florida, there are many aviation programs offered there. Jacksonville is located in
North Florida on the Atlantic Coast. One such option is Jacksonville University. Jacksonville University
offers two four year degree programs, one in aviation management and one in aviation management and
flight operations. Also located in Jacksonville is Airline Transport Professionals. Like Sunrise Aviation, this
isn't a degree program, instead, it's a school that gives you flight training and certificates, rather than a
degree. The Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne Florida offers four year degree programs in
aviation management and aviation management: flight option, aviation computer science and aeronautical
science and aeronautical science: flight option.
One school that offers a multitude of programs to international students in aviation is Embry-Riddle
Aeronautical University. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is located in Prescott, Arizona and Daytona
Beach, Florida. At the Florida Campus, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers degrees in aviation
maintenance science, air traffic management, applied meteorology, aeronautical science, and aviation
science. At the Arizona location, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers degrees in flight operations,
airport management, ABA management, and aeronautical science.
With 50 different states and over 100 schools, colleges and universities that offer international students
flight schools and pilot schools, it might be hard to decide where to study aviation. Some offer certificates
rather than degrees. Recently, more airlines and employers want pilots with a degree, as well as the
required certificates and medical exams needed to be a pilot. Other schools offer just the certificates, rather
than a degree.
Best Schools to Study Aviation
So you're an international student who wants to study aviation in the US but you have no idea
where to start. How do you know what schools are the best schools to study aviation or how to choose your
aviation school?
Aviation is a very specific area of study and it is only available at certain colleges and universities.
Since aviation is highly technical, there are entire trade schools that offer certificate programs in aviation.
However, in the US, degrees are generally more highly regarded than certificates. Additionally, in order to
be a pilot, you must pass a medical exam. If you ever become medically unfit, a degree in the aviation field
is beneficial to fall back on for another career path in aviation. Degrees can be earned at a college or
university and are offered to international students at many different schools. So how do you choose your
aviation school and know what the best schools to study aviation are?

Choosing a Field of Study

The first step in choosing your aviation school is to decide what area of aviation you would like to study.
There are many different fields and concentrations in aviation to choose from. If you want to be a pilot, a
degree in flight management or professional pilot would be helpful. Degrees in other areas of aviation can
also allow you to be a pilot, as long as you earn the proper pilot certificate afterwards. Other degrees in the
aviation field include meteorology, aviation computer science, and aeronautic engineering. Another
common career path in aviation is becoming a mechanic. Degrees that assist an international student in
becoming a mechanic are power plant and airframe technology, aviation electronics technician and aviation
maintenance.

Choosing a School

After you decide what degree in aviation you want to pursue, you can begin to research the best schools to
study aviation. If you decide on a school, it is important to ensure they have the degree program in aviation
you want to study. There are over 100 colleges and universities that offer degree programs in aviation.

Large Aviation Schools

International students seeking a large school will most likely want to attend a state university or college.
State universities and colleges often offer many majors and schools within the university or college. Some
state universities and colleges have very good reputations and are accredited, which means the degree
programs are recognized by most corporations and businesses. Some state universities and colleges with
degree programs in aviation include
1. Arizona State University
2. Bowling Green State University-Main Campus
3. Bridgewater State College
4. Delaware State University
5. Florida State College at Jacksonville
6. San Jose State University
7. Ohio State University-Main Campus
8. Utah State University
9. University of Nebraska at Omaha
10. Henderson State University
These colleges and universities are located throughout the US.

Small Aviation Schools

International students seeking smaller schools to study aviation will find a variety of other types of colleges
and universities. Throughout the US there are multiple community colleges which are usually smaller
schools with local students from the surrounding community. After earning a two year Associate's Degree at
a community college, international students can transfer to other schools to continue earning their
bachelor's degree, which is a four year degree. Community colleges that offer degree programs in aviation
include
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

Colorado Northwestern Community College

The Community College of Baltimore County
Community College of Beaver County
Dutchess Community College
Iowa Lakes Community College
Mercer County Community College
Salt Lake Community College
Sinclair Community College

There are other smaller schools that offer degrees in aviation that are not community colleges. Some of
these schools are
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Embry Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach

Everglades University
Florida Institute of Technology
Fox Valley Technical College
Church Divinity School of the Pacific
Lynn University

These schools are located around the United States.

Other criteria international students will want to consider when choosing their school include the location of
the school, the price of the school, and the culture of the school.

Careers in Aviation
Students who study aviation do not always become pilots. In fact, there are many careers in aviation that
an international student might pursue through with a degree in aviation. Colleges, universities and schools
all over the US offer many different degree programs that help international students prepare for careers in
aviation as a mechanic, air traffic controller, flight attendant, and more. So what are the basics of these
careers in aviation?

Pilots

When people think of aviation, they generally think of pilots. A pilot usually specializes in the type of aircraft
they fly, for example: airplanes, gyroplanes, helicopters, gliders, balloons, or airships. In order to become a
pilot, you can attend a flight school and get the necessary certificate and license. A degree program at a
college or university in flight management or other similar degree programs also allow international
students to become a pilot. However, a pilot must be able to pass a strict medical exam. Pilots do a variety
of work from flying large commercial airbuses to crop dusting or banner pulling, as well as private tours and
air taxis.

Mechanics

Becoming a mechanic is another popular choice for careers in aviation. According to the US Bureau of
Labor Statistics, aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and service technicians "inspect aircraft
engines, landing gear, instruments, pressurized sections, accessoriesbrakes, valves, pumps, and airconditioning systems, for exampleand other parts of the aircraft, and do the necessary maintenance and
replacement of parts. They also keep records related to the maintenance performed on the aircraft." There
are about 170 Federal Aviation Administration certified schools that teach international students how to be
aircraft mechanics. Mechanics are exposed to weather elements, sometimes working outside on the
airfield. They are also exposed to loud noises and greasy conditions in air hangers and repair stations.
Mechanics must be able to lift around 70 pounds, as aircraft parts can be heavy.

Air Traffic Controllers

Planes could not fly safely without the help of air traffic controllers. Air traffic controllers must be a good
multi-tasker, detail oriented and alert at all times. They help aircraft land and take off by clearing the
airspace around them and making sure planes are not too close to one another. There are several different
types of controllers, including the tower local controllers, the terminal radar controller, the tower flight data
controller, the ground controller, the clearance delivery controller, the en route controller, and the radar
associate controller. "The vast majority of air traffic controllers are employed by the Federal Aviation
Administration," according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Flight Attendants

Flight attendants, along with pilots, are the face of airlines. They are the celebrities of the aviation world.
Flight attendants represent the airline and are primarily responsible for the passengers' safety in the case of
an emergency. They inform passengers of the safety procedures before take off as well as assisting
passengers with exiting the plane in the case of an emergency. Secondary responsibilities include making
sure the passengers are comfortable and are having a pleasant flying experience. They serve drinks and
snacks, distribute pillows and blankets, and inform passengers on in-flight entertainment. In some cases,
you may only need a high school diploma to be a flight attendant, but recently, more airlines are requiring
flight attendants to have a college degree. Helpful degrees include any type of degree in aviation as well as
degrees in hospitality.
There are many other types of careers in aviation including engineers, sales representatives and ticket
agents and ground and ramp workers. These are just four popular careers in aviation international students
might want to pursue.

10 Things You Didn't Know About Being a Crop Dusting Pilot

One of the most overlooked jobs in the aviation field is that of a crop dusting pilot. When most people think
of crop dusting, they picture a grizzled old man in an ancient biplane, flying low over a field in Illinois. He
appears suddenly on the horizon and disappears almost before you have the chance to register him.
Todays crop dusting business is completely different, with million-dollar turbine-engine planes, intricate
GPS systems for planning the row flights and triggering the sprayers, and well-trained, experienced pilots.
In fact, there is probably a lot about crop dusting that you dont know. Read on to decide if a career as a
crop dusting pilot is right for you.
1. Its not called crop dusting anymore.
Because the term crop dusting automatically brings to mind the previously mentioned image, todays
pilots generally prefer the term aerial application or ag application. The pilots themselves are referred to
as ag pilots or aerial applicators.
2. The first aerial application wasnt from a plane.
The first aerial application of agricultural materials (that we know of) was done by a hot air balloon with
mobile tethers in 1906 in Wairoa, New Zealand. It was flown by a man named John Chaytor, who spread
seed over a swamped valley floor.
3. Organizations like the National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA) are working to change the
stereotype of the cavalier ag pilot.
The NAAAs mission is to promote and foster the development of aerial application and the significance that
it plays on a global scale. Its top priorities are education, training, and safety. The NAAA has changed what
it means to be an ag pilot by promoting research, new technologies, and new application techniques.
4. Ag pilots undergo a great deal of training.
From the ground up, pilots who enter the aerial application industry are trained in all aspects of aerial
application, safe pesticide use, and entomology. The idea behind this is to minimize the risk to the
environment.
5. Planes are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment.
Weve come a long way from the days of the rickety old biplane. Recent technology developments such as
GPS swath guidance, aerial imagine, and prescription mapping and dispersal systems have revolutionized
the aerial application industry. Planes are equipped with GPS systems that provide guidance accuracy
within three feed and guide the pilot using a light bar and electronic mapping system.
6. The aircrafts arent just used for pesticides.
In areas prone to wildfires, aerial application aircraft also serve double duty as water bombers.
7. Flying is difficult.
The flying involved in aerial application is technically challenging and occasionally hazardous, so it is
imperative that pilots know that theyre doing.
8. You probably wont start out as a pilot right away.
Many ag pilots begin their careers mixing chemicals and serving as loaders or mechanics for the plane. You
may find that you need to gradually work your way up to a pilot position.
9. Ag pilots are in high demand.

Thanks to the recent farming boom, aerial application is a hot field. According to the Federal Aviation
Administration, hours flown by crop-dusters rose 29% from 2003 to 2007. This is in sharp contrast to the
majority of other aviation fields; most aircraft makers are in a slump, while leading aerial application
manufacturer Air Tractor Inc. in Olney, Texas, is making more planes every year.
10. You will need a great deal of aviation training.
In order to work as an ag pilot, you will need to earn your private pilot license, a commercial rating, and a
tail-wheel (conventional gear) airplane endorsement, as well as specific agricultural aviation training.
How to Get Experience in Aviation
Aviation is a fast growing degree field for international students, with a lot of great career prospects.
Students who study aviation should consider getting an aviation internship or some type of work experience
while studying. This will expose students to the daily rigors of a career in aviation and prepare them for
future careers in aviation.

Finding an Internship

Having experience in aviation is very important in starting a career after graduation. There are plenty of
aviation internships in the industry, but finding them may require a little research initiative on the part of
international students. Students should search for aviation internships openings online or on company web
pages. An even better idea is to reach out directly to aviation organizations for internships.
Finding the right internship is very important. There are many types of aviation internships, both short term
and long term. Depending on your actual degree path and what you want to do, there is likely a specific
internship program for you. Some of the more widely available internships are in the field of aviation
management or aviation business. These forms of aviation internships are offered by many of the large
airliners and even mid-level airline companies. These programs goals are to teach students the ins and
outs of different jobs in aviation while also giving them different responsibilities that will benefit them in a
future aviation career. Aviation internships in these fields have a great chance of leading to potential jobs
after graduation.
Most airlines will offer internships in the summer, but may also offer academic semester internships in the
fall or spring. The aviation field offers several different internships in departments such as Flight
Operations, Aircraft Maintenance, Aircraft Servicing, and Client Services. In addition to the major airliners
like Southwest, American Airline and Jet Blue, many international and regional airports sponsor interns.
Many of these internships are paid, or offer academic credit or housing while employed.

An Apprenticeship in Aviation

Students who want to do something more hands on in the aviation industry often take up an apprenticeship
in aviation rather than an internship. An apprenticeship is a paid position that provides intense on the job
training. Most apprenticeships in aviation are collaborated by educational courses in addition to job training.
Apprenticeships are generally more focused on trades and trade workers such as mechanics and pilots.
The skills learned in these positions will prepare students for real jobs after graduation. Unlike most
internship opportunities, an apprenticeship is an employed position. Apprentices are treated like
employees; they are expected to do good work while constantly improving as they learn more about the
field.

Getting Flight Experience

Many international students go into aviation because they want the opportunity to fly as a career.
Commercial and private flight is a large business. In order to start a career as a pilot, a student first needs
to know how to fly a plane, and must have the skills necessary to operate the plane. In the classroom,
students learn about wind measurements, nautical mapping, and flying. While you may have the

opportunity to fly with a trainer and use simulations, usually just a degree is not enough to qualify you for a
job immediately following graduation. Instead, you will need to have a documented journal of flight hours,
preferably solo flight hours. In order to get up in the air, you should try to get a private pilots license. The
private pilots license allows a person to fly an aircraft solo and operate many types of aircraft. Once you
get this license and are able to document several hours, you may be qualified for a flight position. A lot of
current commercial and private pilots got their start as pilots for their respective militaries. Students will find
that these experience building opportunities will set them apart from other applicants in their search for a
career in aviation.
How to Become a Commercial Airline Pilot
If you are an international student who wants to study aviation in the United States, you might have several
possible careers in mind. One of these career paths might be that of a commercial airline pilot. Working as
a commercial airline pilot is a fascinating and rewarding career, and many people who study aviation intend
eventually to become one. There are several steps that you will need to go through before becoming a
commercial airline pilot, however.
Certificates and Ratings
In order to become a commercial airline pilot, there are several certificates and ratings that you will need.
The first thing you will need is a private pilot license, which will allow you to fly on your own, but does not
allow you to receive payment for flying.

Commercial pilot certificate

Next, you will need a commercial pilot certificate, which allows you to receive payment for your flight
services. You earn this certificate by passing commercial pilot ground school and logging at least 250 flight
hours, with allotted time dedicated to certain conditions and maneuvers. After you have passed your written
ground school test and logged your hours, you will need to pass a check-ride. This is a lot like the driving
test required in order to receive a drivers license; in the check-ride, a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
examiner will ask you to plan a flight, quiz you on aviation matters, and then accompany you on a flight.
Like with a driving test, you will be asked to execute certain maneuvers and your examiner will direct your
flying throughout the flight. After the test, if everything goes well, you will be issued a commercial pilots
certificate.

Medical certificate

Additionally, in order to become a commercial airline pilot, you will need an up-to-date first- or second-class
medical certificate. To receive this, an Aviation Medical Examiner will need to verify that you meet the health
and fitness requirements to be a pilot. As a commercial airline pilot, you will be subject to these
examinations throughout your career; captains need to pass a physical exam once every six months, and
other commercial airline pilots need to pass an exam every year. If a health problem is discovered, you
could be out of a job.

Instrument Rating

You will also need to get an instrument rating in order to fly with low visibility (in adverse weather and in
clouds). You receive this rating by passing instrument ground school, logging a specified number of
instrument flight hours (flying without visibility), and passing an instrument rating check-ride.

Multi-Engine Rating

Next, you will need a multi-engine rating. This will allow you to fly planes with multiple engines, which is
most likely what you will fly as a commercial airline pilot. To receive this rating, you will need to take some
lessons and mass a multi-engine check-ride.

Airline Transport Pilot Certificate

At one point or another, most commercial airline pilots also get an airline transport pilot certificate. This is
the highest pilot certificate and allows you to be the pilot in commend (captain) of a large commercial
aircraft. For this certificate, you will need to pass a written test, have a first-class medical certificate, be a
high school graduate, and have logged 1,500 flight hours, including 250 hours as the pilot in command.
Career Paths
There are two major career paths to being hired as an airline pilot: civilian or military. Each path has its own
advantages and disadvantages:

Civilian

The civilian path offers two options: college or flight school. While there is no college requirement to be a
pilot, college shows that you are trainable and can succeed in a challenging curriculumboth of which are
necessary traits in a commercial airline pilot. You might choose to attend a college that offers a two- or fouryear degree along with flight training towards the various flight certificates you will need. This way, you will
graduate with mostif not allof the ratings and certificates you will need, as well as some flight
experience.
Civilian flight training is very expensive. Basic flying lessons start at about $80 an hour, and you will need at
least 250 hours before you receive your commercial rating. It also costs a great deal to rent airplanes for
instruction.

Military

Another option for becoming a commercial airline pilot is to receive your training through the military. You
will need to commit to a set number of years in the military after one year of pilot training (in the Air Force,
this is a ten-year commitment). You will need to meet other requirements, such as college course work,
good health, and adequate physical abilities. There is no guaranteeing that you will pass the military flight
training on the services rigid time schedule, or that you will be able to fly a specific airplane. You will,
however, receive the best training in the equipment that an airline pilot would fly.
You must be prepared for the military life, however; it is not a commitment to take on lightly. You will be
required to follow orders, risk bodily harm, and use lethal weapons. If you are not prepared for this, the
military is probably not the best path for you.

Flight Experience

After you are certified, you will need more experience and flight hours
before an airline will hire you.
Your level of experience is based on the number and complexity of the aircraft youve flown, the quantity
and complexity of the flying you did (jet or propeller, day or night, local or cross-country, flying with or
without visibility, etc.), and which crew positions youve had. If you chose the military path, you will likely
have quite a lot of flight experience before leaving the military. A civilian pilot might work as a flight
instructor, then move on to a charter company in order to gain the experience he or she needs in order to
become a commercial airline pilot.
If you're interested in a career in aviation, but aren't sure that commercial airline pilot is right for you, check
out our Careers in Aviation page for more possibilities.
Aviation Degree Programs
There are hundreds of colleges, universities and flight schools in the US that offer international students
degrees, certificates, ratings or diplomas in aviation. International students can have their pick of which to
attend.

Some future college students pick a school based off location, cost and size. But the number one criteria
that future college students should base the school of their choice off of is whether or not it has the aviation
degree program of their choice. Before even applying to a college or university, make sure that the college
or university has the aviation degree programs you want to study. There are many different types of aviation
degree programs out there depending on what kind of career in aviation you want to have.
Types of Aviation Programs

Professional Flight Management

One of many aviation degree programs is professional flight management. Professional flight management
prepares international students for a career as a professional pilot. Classes that an international student will
take in this aviation degree program teach reading flight instruments, dealing with hazardous weather
conditions and learning how to fly. Business classes are also added to this aviation degree program to allow
students a chance to work on the administrative side and learn leadership skills.

Airframe and Power Plant technology

Another type of aviation degree program in the US is airframe and power plant technology. This aviation
degree program prepares students for a career as a mechanic. Types of classes international students will
take in this degree program are welding for aircraft, aircraft electrical systems and turbine engines.

Air Traffic Management

A degree in air traffic management prepares international students for a career in air traffic control. An air
traffic controller tracks airplane movements and makes sure that they stay a safe distance away from each
other. This can be especially tricky at a busy airport. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
calls this
career "the ultimate video game."
There are dozens more aviation degree programs in the US including aviations management, flight
operations management, meteorology, aeronautical technology, avionics engineering, flight dispatch and
scheduling, aerospace administration, and aviation computer science, just to name a few.
Choosing a Degree Program
When deciding on an aviation degree program, it is also smart to decide how long you will need to go to
college or a university to complete the degree program. There are many different types of degrees in the
US.
One type of degree is an Associates degree. Associate degrees are earned after two years of study.
International students can get an Associates degree in applied science, arts, engineering science and fine
arts just to name a few.
After you have earned an Associate's degree you can start earning your Bachelor's degree. A Bachelor's
degree is a four year degree. International students can get a Bachelor's degree in the arts, science and
business administration just to name a few.
Both the Associates degree and the Bachelor's degree are considered undergraduate degrees. Graduate
degrees are degrees beyond four years of study.
A Master's degree is a graduate degree, and takes between one to two years to complete. The types of
classes you will take in a Master's degree program are largely based on research. Students must also write
a thesis, which is an extensive paper on research and findings in your area of study to show that you are
worthy of the Master's degree.
The highest degree a student can earn is the doctorate. Many doctors, educators and scientists have a
doctorate. It can take anywhere from two to five years to earn a doctorate. Again, there is a large amount of

research that is done for this degree as well as hands on experience which takes up much of the student's
time.
How to Apply for a Degree in Aviation
Applying to colleges and universities is no easy task, especially for international students, who may have to
gather different documents in order to apply for a degree in aviation. Deciding when and how to apply for a
degree in aviation is very important and should not be put off. So what exactly are the steps how to apply
for a degree in aviation?

Choose a College

First off, decide on the college or university at which you would like to study. Important factors to consider
include location, aviation degree program, and extracurricular activities on campus. Many of the aviation
programs are offeredand sometimes even featuredby certain schools from the college and university.
For example, Arizona State University has several aviation degree programs in its College of Technology
and Innovation, Ohio State University has The Ohio State University Department of Aviation and Center for
Aviation Studies and Delaware State University
has an aviation degree program in its College of
Business.

Research the Application Process

All of these colleges and universities have different procedures for how to apply for a degree in aviation. For
example, Arizona State University requires international students to have one of two types of visas, F-1 and
J-1. They also require international students to have a certain GPA, 3.0 for freshman and 2.5 for transfer
students. Submitting an English language proficiency test is also required, but if you don't have high
enough test scores, the university does offer a conditional acceptance where you must take and pass an
English course at the university in their American English and Culture Program. If you pass, you are
allowed to enroll into other classes. A financial statement must also be submitted that proves you or
someone else who is supporting you is financially able to put you through school.
Like Arizona State University, Delaware State University also requires test scores from an English language
test and financial proof that you can pay tuition and housing. They also require that your transcripts be
"evaluated by the World Education Service." Ohio State University requires competitive grades during your
four years of high school, and high scores on the SAT and ACT. Students who have taken honors courses,
have been involved in their community, sports and clubs and show leadership skills, will be given special
considerations.

Completing Your Application

International students can now apply to colleges and universities in a variety of ways. Many colleges and
universities offer applications online. The paperless, online application is a good and quick way to apply. It's
instant, and you don't have to pay for postage, although there may be a standard application fee which you
will likely pay with a credit card or by sending in a check.
Another way you can apply is by printing out the application and sending it in the mail. Keep in mind that it
may take days to weeks to reach the admissions office and it could be a heavy packet with many pages
you will have to submit. If you choose this route, you may want to pay for special tracking ability with a
required signature so that it doesn't get lost in the mail.

Apply Early!

International students will want to apply to aviation degree programs early. Colleges and universities all
have different deadlines for applications. Some range from a year before the semester starts to a few
months before the semester starts. Delaware State University advises international students to have their
applications submitted 60 days before the start of the semester. If you apply to the early admissions

deadline, you have a better chance at being accepted, because many people wait till the last minute and
the competition is less intense. You may also get a financial discount to your tuition if you apply by the early
deadline. Just ask your admissions councilor.
If you're deciding when and how to apply for a degree in aviation, start browsing through colleges and
universities on the internet. Check out their admissions requirements and their degree programs. Their
webpages should be full of information and contacts.
10 Reasons to Pursue a Career as a Flight Instructor
There are several ways to make a career out of flying. Though the most commonly thought-of career option
is that of a commercial airline pilot, many students who have received their instrument rating and
Commercial Pilot certificate might choose instead to pursue a Flight Instructor certificate and start their
career as a flight instructor. There are many reasons pilots might choose to become flight instructors. These
reasons include:

Option to move on to work as a commercial airline pilot.

The most common reason people become flight instructors is to gain experience. Working as a
commercial airline pilot is one of the most coveted positions in the aviation field, and airlines require pilots
to have a great deal of experience before the airline will even consider hiring the pilot. Working as a flight
instructor is a great way for international students to gain flying experience in order to achieve their ultimate
goal of becoming a commercial airline pilot.

Ability to work for yourself.

As a flight instructor, international students have a choice: they can either work for an educational
institution or open a flight program of their own. This is an extremely attractive option for flight instructors
who are more independent and want to work for themselves. With luck and talent, the business will flourish
and become highly successful.

Rewards of being a teacher.

When asked what they love most about their jobs, the first answer most flight instructors give is the thrill
of imparting knowledge to their students. Any teacher or instructor knows the exhilaration of seeing a
student finally get something that youve been teaching them. This is no different for flight instructors.
Knowing that you are responsible for another persons education is extremely satisfying.

Challenging.

Working as a flight instructor is extremely challenging. It is said that the flight instructor certificate is one
of the most difficult check-rides in all of aviation. While for some international students, this might not be
much of a draw, many people who are drawn to the aviation field are looking for a challenge. As a flight
instructor, you must be constantly on your toes, and you will certainly never be bored.

High demand for flight instructors.

Flight instructors are in high demand at the moment, and are expected to remain so for many years to
come. Profound change, prompted by new legislation in the US and by the rapid growth of airline and
business aviation, is expected to come to the flight-training industry. One of these changes is expected to
be a shortage of pilots. Flight instructors are being hired by airlines faster than they can be replaced, which
means that there is currently a need for qualified flight instructors.

Gain experience.

It is common knowledge that the best way to learn a subject is to teach it to someone else. This is no
less true of aviation. By working as a flight instructor, your knowledge and flight proficiency will increase
every day. Teaching other people how to fly is a great way to improve your skills as a pilot.

Highly respected position.

Telling people that you are a flight instructor will prompt a great deal of fascination and a number of
questions. People will always want to know more about what you do, and will treat you with respect. While
this alone is not a good reason to become a flight instructor, it is certainly an added perk.

Meeting people.

As a flight instructor, you will meet many people from all walks of life, and they all share one important
similarity with you: a love of flying. You will have the privilege of helping both international students and
domestic students achieve their dreams of flight, and you will be the one who influences their future in
aviation the most.

Salary.

In the past, earnings for full-time flight instructors have been fairly limited. However, with the current
shortage of flight instructors, pay and benefits for flight instructors are rapidly going up. If you charge
appropriately and are good at your job, you can make a very decent living as a full-time flight instructor.

Get paid to fly.

The most important and rewarding reason to work as a flight instructor is the opportunity to make a living
as a pilot. No one would pursue a pilots license if they didn't love flying, and the opportunity to actually
make a living doing something you love is an opportunity not many people are lucky enough to have.
Is an Aviation Degree Right for You?
One of the more popular fields of study nowadays is aviation. Many international students have been
flocking to this degree path in hopes of a career in the air. While the prospects are exciting, international
students should ask themselves if a degree in aviation right for them.
Is a Career in Aviation Right for You?
Many students decide to study aviation in the US. While some hope to start careers as pilots, others want
to work in a vibrant industry. There are several different degrees available in aviation, and international
students should make sure they know which degree is best for them. Are you looking to fly? Do you want to
be in aviation maintenance or aviation management? Are you interested in air traffic control? These are all
questions that students should explore. While they all are amazing opportunities, all veterans in the aviation
field will tell prospective students one thing: you need to have a passion in order to be successful.

Degree Programs

There are a number of different and exciting degree programs available when studying aviation in the US.
Students should try to find a university that has a strong aviation program that has a proven history of
putting students directly into aviation careers. One of the more popular degree paths in aviation is aviation
management. These programs prepare students for leadership roles in the administrative departments of
major airlines and aviation companies. They prepare students for staff and executive roles. Students also
have the opportunity to concentrate in a specific subject with the management program. These subjects
include:
1. Airport Management
2. Airline Management
3. International Air Transport Management

4. Flight Operations
5. General Management
Another popular degree is Aviation Maintenance. Aircraft mechanics are very specialized in their
discipline, and their expertise is hard to find. Student with Aviation Maintenance degrees have great
prospects. Students who earn this degree also are usually awarded the Aircraft and Powerplant
Maintenance Certificate, a necessary designation that shows expertise in aviation mechanics. The degree
program teaches students the necessary information and complex issues of aircraft maintenance. Students
have the opportunity to concentrate in Flight, Electronics and other specialized fields.
One of the most popular aviation degrees is in the field of Air Traffic Control or Air Traffic Management.
Air traffic controllers are very highly paid employees, and the need for them is increasing over time.
Students will be instructed in the nuances and regulations involved with air traffic control and also work on
management and leadership skills within the field.

Curriculum

The curriculum of an aviation concentrated degree can be tough for some international students. This
degree is very technical in nature. Like other degree paths, aviation based degree programs require sixty
credits of general education requirements. These courses cover courses in communications, humanities,
some social sciences, mathematics, and physical sciences. The actual course credits will start with some
introductory aeronautics courses. Student will need to take courses in aeronautic science and others in
computer based classes. In addition, the aviation program requires deep knowledge of mathematics and
physics. Students will re required to take classes in Statistics and Calculus.
Depending on the actual degree, courses may differ. Aviation administration degrees will have a lot of
courses in business, such as Management, Accounting, Corporate Finance and International Business.
Aviation Maintenance students will instead have a lot of classes in technical areas. Students should expect
to take classes in aviation mathematics and physics, fundamentals of electricity, and aircraft regulations. In
their concentrations, students will face many others courses such as Private Flights, Commercial Flights,
Aviation Technical Operations, and Aerodynamics. Air Traffic Control majors will have many courses in
mathematics, as it is one of the most important aspects of the degree. Students will begin to dive into the
core courses in air traffic control, that teach the fundamentals of air traffic control. Some courses include
Aviation Traffic I and II, Aviation Safety and Aviation Weather.
It is not easy to study Aviation in the US, but the degree will open many doors. So is a career in aviation
right for you? Students should do some research to find out.