Professional Pilot, BS

What you will study

The University of Central Missouri’s undergraduate Professional Pilot degree program will train you on the safe operation of single- and multiengine aircraft and ensure you build the skills necessary to solve complex problems in flight using new aviation technology. You’ll be trained to bring competence and safety to any professional environment.

With our Professional Pilot bachelor’s degree program, you can obtain the required professional certificate to operate commercial single- and multiengine aircraft (CPL SEL/MEL Certificate) and a Certified Flight Instructor license. You'll also be eligible for a restricted airline transport pilot certificate (R-ATP), which reduces the number of hours required to be hired at an airline and other aviation operators.

As an undergraduate student in UCM’s Professional Pilot degree program, you’ll benefit from significant procedural and simulator training to prepare you for the real experience on board a transport-type aircraft. Enjoy substantial access to and training on:

• Transport Aircraft Systems
• Flight Management Systems
• Advanced Flight Crew Management

Professional Pilot accelerated dual degree option

UCM also offers a new accelerated dual degree for students in our Professional Pilot program. In this accelerated program, you can earn more than a third of the hours required for a master’s degree in Aviation Safety. By jump-starting your master’s degree coursework, you can finish both your undergraduate and graduate degrees in five years and increase your job opportunities and earning potential after college.

 

 

Unique learning opportunities in professional piloting

Get hands-on, real-world experience with modern aviation technology and equipment in the University of Central Missouri’s Professional Pilot program:

• University-owned airport: Few pilot schools own their own airport. Take advantage of the University of Central Missouri’s Skyhaven Airport to spend invaluable time in the air learning how to operate aircraft and create a safe aviation environment.
• Generous flight time: Earn your flight instructor certification while you work toward your Professional Pilot bachelor’s degree. With your CFI, you can work for our flight school and earn flight hours to become eligible for hire by commercial airlines.
• Dynamic student life: Build lifelong friendships and industry connections through involvement in student-led clubs like Flight Team, Alpha Eta Rho Aviation fraternity, Women in Aviation International, National Business Aviation Association, American Association of Airport Executives and Missouri Airport Managers Association.

 

What can you do with a Professional Pilot bachelor’s degree from UCM?

Pilot schools prepare you for many well-paid, in-demand jobs within the aviation field and set you on the path to becoming a commercial airline pilot. Graduates of professional pilot programs typically begin their careers as flight instructors. When you’ve acquired a minimum number of flight hours through that work, you’ll be eligible to fly for commercial airlines.

Other jobs you can pursue with a Professional Pilot bachelor’s degree from UCM include flying corporate, agricultural or cargo planes. Since jobs for flight instructors are also in high demand and often present a more stable work schedule than those of commercial pilots, some graduates of pilot schools get advanced training to teach flying.

Learn more about jobs with your UCM Professional Pilot degree

Explore recent and projected trends for graduates of pilot schools using our interactive tool below. The job market for graduates of UCM’s Professional Pilot program is extremely strong: 100% of UCM Pilot degree students are employed within six months of graduation.

 

 

Financial assistance options for your Professional Pilot degree

Your Professional Pilot bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Missouri will launch you into a rewarding, well-paid job in aviation. Our already low tuition can be further reduced through our many options for financial aid. 

Flight fees are an essential additional expense for students of all professional pilot programs. We encourage you to have a financial plan in place before committing to a professional pilot degree. UCM’s affordable tuition and the high average salary for graduates make your UCM Professional Pilot degree a smart investment in your future.

Our pilot school’s financing options include a wide variety of scholarships, including: 

• KCBAA Aviation Scholarship
• Kenneth Wayne Thomason Aviation Opportunity Scholarship

You can learn more about program-specific scholarships with the UCM Scholarship Finder.