Expert: David A. NewMyer - 3/31/2011

Question
Dear Sir,

The question I have been trying to answer is how to combine graduate school studies with pilot training into one program.  This opportunity is offered on the undergraduate level yet I haven't found the any programs on a graduate level.  My program interest is aviation management/organizational development - leadership while having an opportunity to pursue my passion for flying.  Does this opportunity exist or can it be created?

Best Regards,
Dave

Answer
HI, Dave:

In most cases, the graduate program in aviation that you want would be offered by a university or college with a flight school.  Therefore, what I think you would want to do is find the best graduate program for your needs and then begin talking to that school (or to alternative schools) about the best way to work flight school into the process of earning your graduate degree.  

To be honest with you, to be totally devoted to both at the same time will be tough.  Perhaps, you can work on flying over summers when you might not be as busy in the graduate program.  Again, you will have to work that out with each school.

Some of the graduate programs related to aviation management (extended to include an MBA or MPA in Aviation) that are out there are at the following universities:

Dowling College, New York  (MBA)
Embry Riddle, Daytona Beach (MBA)
Purdue University (degree is in technology with an emphasis in aviation management)
Arizona State
University of Nebraska at Omaha (MPA* in aviation administration)
Southern Illinois University Carbondale (MPA in aviation administration)
Florida Institute of Technology (emphasis on airport management and planning)

*Master of Public Administration

I hope that this helps.  Let me know if you have any follow up questions.

Thanks,

David A. NewMyer