Expert: David A. NewMyer - 4/25/2006

Question
Dear sir
Earlier we talked abt my career goals in aviation sector.you explained wonderfully to me.
Now i have few doubts,
As i am pursuing MBA in finance and operations from INDIA and along with this i want to do  global aviation mba from john molson/concordia university or from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach.
Now doing distance learning  programme from these above mentioned colleges will as good as their own campus based full time course.How far will it be beneficial for me?
Is giving GMAT necessary for distance learning progamme ?
Do they provide 100% aid to study as i will not be able to spend too much money?
Please consider this as a serious one as , this is my dream career and i want to touch the sky , leading any good company in aviation sector.

Answer
Hi, Rahul:

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

The distance learning program is a good program for someone who is very self-motivated and can learn on his or her own...it is not for someone who needs a lot of direction.  Also, on-line programs have a fair amount of completion problems in that many who start the programs can not, for some reason or another, finish them.  With regard to the John Molson School/Concordia program and the Embry Riddle program, I have no specific statistics on completion.  I would suggest that you ask each program what their completion rates would be.  

I am not sure if GMAT is required for either program.  You will need to check their individual websites to find out.

I do not think that either program provides 100% financial aid to study in their respective programs....you can check with each school about their ability to provide financial aid.

There might be some financial aid available through the United Nations Development Program or via the International Civil Aeronautics Organization.  Check their websites for further information.

There might also be some applicable information on the following website:  www.avscholars.com

I wish you the best in your career endeavors,

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