Expert: David A. NewMyer - 4/21/2007

Question
Dear Sir,

I am a student from India who has completed his 12th grade examinations. I am now looking forward to study for an undergraduate degree in Aviation Management, but don't know exactly how to go about it.

Actually, I am interested in working on the business side of aviation at the managerial and/or the operational level, either with an airline or at the airport. However, I am unable to find institutions in India who offer a degree course in Aviation Management, I am aware of a few institutions abroad including some in the US and Canada. But before I enroll myself to a program I want to clear my doubts and get rid of this confusion.

Following are a few questions I would like you to answer:

1) Can I study for an undergraduate degree program in Tourism Management or Business Administration and land a job in the Aviation sector or should I enroll myself specifically for a course in Aviation Management? Which program stands a better chance for employment in the aviation sector?

2) There are diploma courses offered by IATA, there’s one called IATA travel and tourism training programme (foundation, consultant and so on). Students usually wanting to get a job as an airline reservation and ticketing agent register for this course. Do you think this course will help me in my pursuit?

3) There are various other diploma programs offered by IATA, but only at their own training centers. Do you think its better to pursue those programs as well along with a degree?

4) Why are some degree programs longer than others? Some Universities are offering a 4 year degree and others have a 3 year program. Is this because of the practical exposure or internship opportunities provided?

5) Degree programs are termed with BSc and BA respectively. What is the difference when it comes to Aviation Management?

6) Are degree programs offered elsewhere different than one’s in the US?

7) What would you recommend - doing a Bachelor in Aviation Management and a Masters straight away or gaining work experience and then studying for Masters?

8) What kinds of jobs do aviation management graduates are able to get when coming straight from university?

I know these are a lot of questions already and I hope you will answer them. I would like to thank you in advance for your time in reading this letter and for your help at this very important stage of my career.  will be waiting for your reply…..

Kind regards,
Anjsha

Answer
Hi, Anjsha:

Nice to hear from you.  I will try to assist.

1.  If you wish to enter into the aviation industry, an aviation management degree will be more helpful to you than a degree in tourism or business.  There are at least 62 USA based universities that offer some form of a degree in aviation management.  For more information on those programs, order the COLLEGIATE AVIATION GUIDE from the University Aviation Association at www.uaa.aero

2.  As far as the IATA travel and tourism programme, that course will only be helpful to you for entry-level jobs.  It is not a degree, but, only a training program.  As far as a step toward the larger goal of a degree, it might be helpful.  But, if I had to choose, I would choose a degree program over a training program.

3.  I do not know which IATA training programs you are referring to, but, I am sure that they are airline-specific.
You need to decide if you want to work at an airline or an airport....if it is an airline, then, certainly, certain of the IATA training courses would be helpful to you.  But, in terms of long-range career goals, again, a degree will be more helpful to you.

4.  Three year vs. four year programs are a reflection of that nation's degree structure overall.  Canada, for example, offers a number of three year diploma programs that they are currently in the process of converting to four year degree programs after several years of experience at the three year level.  I know of no three year programs in the USA in aviation management...they are all four year programs.  Internship experiences are normally offered as part of a four year degree program.  It is a one semester program requirement in Aviation Management at the institution where I work.

5.  The BSc and BA are normally differentiated at some universities by the types of degree requirements.  The BSc might have more math and science than the BA, for example.  It normally does not affect that actual Aviation Management content.

6.  I am not too familiar with Aviation Management degree programs offered outside the USA, so, I can not really answer this part of your question.

7.  I think that this answer depends on the job market and whether or not the employer who might hire you after you have earned your BSc or BA will pay for a master's degree.  In general, I think it is good practice to have as much education completed as is possible so that you can have as that education available as a qualification with which to search for employment.

8.  AVM jobs that are available are:

A.  Internships at many airports and airlines
B.  Airport operations jobs at airports
C.  Customer service management positions at airlines
D.  Sales and marketing jobs at airlines
E.  Airport marketing jobs
F.  Working for an aviation consultancy firm

I know that airlines are in a growth mode in India and that there should be some major employment opprotunities in aviation in your country in the next five to ten years.

Best wishes,

David A. NewMyer, Ph.D., Professor and Chair
Aviation Management and Flight
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
http://www.aviation.siu.edu