Expert: David A. NewMyer - 9/10/2007

Question
Dear  Dr Newmyer,
I liked your answer to Simran. This is my question. Is it worthwhile pursuing a Ph.D. degree in aviation management? I am thinking about cargo management. What are the job prospects? I am a civil engineer. I am middle aged.

Thank you,
Mahendra

Answer
HI,

I am not aware of any university that offers a PH.D. in Aviation Administration, much less a specialization in cargo management.  The only school that I know of that has any sort of PH.D. in Aviation is SE Oklahoma state university....

As far as job prospects in cargo management, I would suspect that they are good and will gradually get better as the worldwide air cargo market expands, particularly in India and China.  The problem is that most airlines place great value on promoting from within, so, getting a position with a cargo airline in management right from the outset will be very difficult given that tendency.

Best wishes,

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