Expert: David A. NewMyer - 2/23/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hello,

I am currently a student attending Ohio State, with hopes on day becoming a commercial pilot.  I know that a degree in Aviation is not necessary in order to become a pilot.
I am thinking about getting a degree in Aviation, but I keep wondering if it would be better for me get a degree in Aerospace Engineering, while also getting my certificates during college. I dont want to be an engineer, I only want to be a commercial pilot.  I also have no interest in any other degree (business, physical science, etc.) only Aviaiton and Aero seem to be interesting to me.


ANSWER: Hi,

Thank you for your questions, I will try to assist.

First of all, if you do not want to be an engineer, I would not recommend that you take Aerospace Engineering.  

Second, if you are fairly sure that you want to be a commercial pilot, I would stick with aviation as a major.  It is best to major in something that you enjoy or like as you should do better in the classroom in both learning the subject matter and earning good grades.

As far as broadening your background (if that is the concern you have with the aviation major), what I recommend is that you obtain a "minor" in something other than aviation IN ADDITION TO THE AVIATION MAJOR....something like business, or information technology, or environmental studies.  Some subject area/discipline that is both interesting to you AND expands your marketability.  A minor field of study will require you to take an additional 15 to 21 semester hours of coursework in a separate field of study other than aviation (which would count as your MAJOR field of study).  The successful completion of a minor is usually noted on the student's transcript and, sometimes, right on the diploma that you receive from the institution.  To check on what minors are offered at The Ohio State University, check the university catalog.  They are normally listed at the front of the catalog in a table of majors and minors offered (or check the index).

I hope that this information is of assistance to you.

Sincerely,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D.,  Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: But what if the Aviation industry goes through a rough time, like it is currently, how will my degree in Aviation and a minor in something else would get me another job when I am furloughed, I dont want to see my self working at a wal-mart or a hardware store if I have a good education.  This is why I am wondering if I should pursue an aerospace engineering degree, because then at least I may be able to get a good job just because I hold an engineering degree, where as an aviation degree is not as valuable.

Answer
Hi,

The key for you is to think about the next UPTURN in the economy, which will occur in the next three to four years.  When it does occur, there will be some fairly high levels of pilot hiring.  The key then will be to make some good employment choices (in terms of where to work...places with advancement opportunities, etc).  As far as worrying about the next downturn, most Aviation degrees offer you the chance to get both flight-related and aviation management-related courswork.  Aviation Management related coursework should help during a downturn in that it helps you to be qualified in areas of aviation that go beyond just the flight area.  The aviation industry is made up of about 2.0 million jobs, of which only about 15% are professional pilots....the rest do something else.

Also, aerospace engineering is limited in terms of where you can use it.....it is primarily useful in aviation manufacturing companies and in a few government agencies.  An aviation degree is more broadly useful.....

I hope  that this helps you in your choice of a degree program.

Best wishes,

David A. NewMyer