Expert: D. Norkus - 2/1/2009

Question
Hello

I am a first year student at The Ohio State University, and I am interested in becoming a commercial pilot after I graduate.  There is an Aviation Degree offered from OSU, but my problem is that it is offered from three different colleges; Arts and Sciences, Business, and Engineering.  My problem is that I am not sure about what type of degree backround do commercial airlines give preference to, or does the college(arts, business, engineering, etc.) even matter? I would appreciate all comments.

thank you

Answer
Lothario

Most majors prefer if not require a bachelors and the regionals an associates degree. The airlines really do not care what subject your degree is in, they just want you to have one. In a competitive job market, it is often a way for them to weed out resumes.

So, even if you do not have an aviation degree it doesn't matter. With any degree you are OK. In fact, it is often recommended that you get a degree in something OTHER than aviation in case you are ever furloughed. (Something that is happening across the airline industry right now.) That way you have something to fall back on if you cannot find work as a pilot.

Here is an article on the topic- http://www.jetcareers.com/content/view/22/44/

Bottom line, take what interests you and if that is aviation, try to go the most affordable way as possible. Having as little debt as possible when getting into this career will be helpful. You really do not make much money the first few years. http://www.pilotcareer.info

Good Luck!

Dottie