Expert: David A. NewMyer - 2/17/2004

Question
Hi, I'm a 32 yr old pilot considering a degree in av. man. in an attempt to getting into the policy/decision making part of the industry.
I have applied to the Uni. of Auburn and would like to know the best way to go about tackling the degree and how one would go about working whilst studying. I currently fly for Air Seychelles and would be resigning to take on this dream. What do you think about Auburn's programme. I hold an Faa ATPL and instruction ex. from South Africa

Answer
Hi, Don:

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

First of all, the general idea of pursuing a degree in Aviation Management is a good one and one that fits our philosophy here at Southern Illinois University Carbondale (where I work every day).  Our pilots receive a two year Associate of Applied Science degree in Aviation Flight and then move on to receive a four year Bachelor of Science degree in Aviation Management.  The thinking behind our program has always been to not only to deliver the technical, hands-on training needed to be a professional pilot but also to deliver the aviation business information and knowledge needed to survive in the aviation industry.

As far as tackling the degree while working, it is always a struggle to do so.  For the convenience of working locally in the Auburn area, I would ask the Auburn Department of Aviation Management and Logistics in advance what sort of flight instructor jobs that they have available for undergraduate students who are qualified to instruct.  You would, of course, have to convert your certifications to Federal Aviation Administration certifications.  But, that should not take too much time and effort.

Another thing to ask is how much transfer credit that Auburn will be able to offer to you for your prior certificates and work experience.  Some programs are able to offer some elective credit for your degree program-related certificates and work experience.  I was thinking that the work at Air Seychelles would apply, as would the certificatios once you convert them to FAA certifications.  This transfer credit issue is also a time and money issue in that any credit that you receive for prior work will save you from having to pay for that credit toward your Auburn degree.

A final piece of advice would be to check or ordering the publication entitled COLLEGIATE AVIATION SCHOLARSHIP LISTING from the University Aviation Association (UAA).  The UAA is located right at Auburn University and can be contacted via email at uaa@auburn.edu or by calling them at 334-844-2434.

I wish you all the best.  Please follow up with another question via Allexperts.com if you need anything else.

Sincerely,

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