Do You Need a Degree to Be a Pilot? | The No BS Guide
The path to becoming a pilot is a pretty awesome journey that can take different paths.
One of the most frequently asked questions by aspiring pilots is, “Do you need a degree to be a pilot?“
In recent years, this answer has changed and certain companies are considering different qualifications.
The short answer, yes and no.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the do you need a degree to be a pilot question in shaping a pilot’s career.
1. Understanding The Path to a Pilot
Before delving into the role of education, it’s crucial to understand the basic steps to becoming a professional pilot. The journey typically follows these stages:
- Student Pilot Certificate
- Private Pilot License (PPL)
- Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
- Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)
- Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification
Each stage involves rigorous training, examinations, and flight experience requirements. The ultimate goal for many is to earn the ATP certificate, which opens the door to opportunities with major airlines and private carriers.
2. The Importance of a College Degree: A Historical Perspective
Traditionally, major airlines have placed a significant emphasis on a four-year college degree as a hiring prerequisite.
They have generally viewed college education as an indicator of a candidate’s discipline, commitment, and professional growth potential.
However, the landscape is changing rapidly, and many airlines now consider a degree as a “preferred qualification” rather than a strict requirement.
3. The Current Scenario: Degree or No Degree?
In today’s fast-paced and competitive aviation industry, having a degree can still provide an edge. If two candidates are otherwise identical, recruiters at major airlines often favor the one with a degree.
However, a degree is not a prerequisite to begin flight training, and many pilots start their training straight out of high school.
The distinction between commercial pilot and airline pilot is critical here. While becoming a commercial pilot does not necessitate a degree, certain airlines may prefer or require it.
It’s important to remember that the aviation industry kind of runs an ebb and flow type scenario. There are years where the industry is really hot and hurting for pilots. Companies will be more lax with hiring requirements or preferences than years when their is an influx of candidates.
Consider if you are a hiring manager or HR recruiter. If you have a pick of people and one person has a degree and the other doesn’t. Who are you hiring? The obvious answer is the person with more experience, right? It’s not always that simple.
Sometimes with bigger corporation, it’s about checking boxes. And that’s something to keep in mind when applying. Sometimes the hiring process or rejection has nothing to do with you and everything to do with checking boxes.
So, while a degree is not required, it can be recommended. If you have the time, finances, and ability to get one. You won’t be hurting your chances by successfully accomplishing this.
4. The Grey Area: Regional vs. Major Airlines
Regional airlines have been grappling with a pilot shortage, largely due to high demand. As a result, these airlines typically do not require a college degree.
The requirements focus more on meeting ATP minimums, having a clean record with the FAA, and demonstrating teamwork, dependability, and professionalism.
However, major carriers often prefer pilots with a degree. In a competitive hiring environment, a degree can help differentiate candidates. If your goal is to work for a major airline, having a degree could be beneficial.
If you are able to get hired at a regional airline first, you could use your travel time as a way to start working on your degree. There are many 3-4-5 stints that you may run and with your down time in the hotel, you could use that to focus on getting a degree.
In today’s environment, you may even have an option of receiving a streamlined degree in a fast-paced environment.
5. The Cost Factor: Balancing Education and Finances
While a college degree can be advantageous, it’s also important to consider the financial implications. The cost of a degree, particularly in aviation, can be substantial.
Coupled with flight training expenses, the total cost can be a significant burden for many aspiring pilots.
In contrast, accelerated flight training programs can be a more affordable alternative, offering a quicker path to becoming a qualified pilot.
Don’t be afraid to spend time at a community college getting lower classes out of the way before moving on to a university. You will find that classes are significantly cheaper.
Typically, university classes will be around $450-500 per credit hour. You will find that many community college classes are around $150 per credit hour. This can result in a huge financial savings.
6. The Time Factor: Degree vs. Flight Hours
Another critical consideration is the time commitment involved in earning a degree.
Four years of college can delay your entry into the professional aviation field, thus potentially impacting your seniority at your ultimate airline. However, consider what was mentioned above in using your time appropriately if you are currently a regional pilot going on 3-4-5 day stints. Use your time away to your advantage and get ahead while in your hotel room.
If you’re not yet a pilot, accelerated flight training can help you start building turbine time and seniority sooner.
Best practice would be to find some sort of middle ground of a career and school to focus on both after flight training.
7. The Degree Dilemma: To Skip or Not to Skip
While the current hiring environment may seem to favor skipping college, it’s essential to consider the long-term implications. In the event of an economic slowdown or hiring freeze, having a degree could become a crucial advantage.
If you aspire to fly for major passenger or cargo airlines, keeping yourself in a position to earn a degree, if needed, could be a wise strategy.
With the rise of online degree’s becoming more available than ever. You could consider getting your degree while flying as a pilot. Schools like Embry Riddle Aeronautical University make it easy to take online classes while getting a degree based entirely around aviation.
8. The Degree Flexibility: Any Degree Will Do
Interestingly, major airlines have never required an aviation-specific degree. Any four-year degree, whether in philosophy or physics, can meet the education requirement.
This flexibility allows pilots to separate flight training and college, making it possible to pursue a degree while working full-time.
9. The Future: Alternative Pilot Pipeline Programs
Many major airlines are developing alternative pilot pipeline programs. These programs, designed to provide a seamless transition from university to the airlines, could further change the role of a college degree in a pilot’s career.
10. In Conclusion: A Balanced Approach
In response to the question, “Do you need a degree to be a pilot?” the answer remains nuanced. While a degree can enhance your career prospects, it’s not an absolute necessity. It’s really up to your personal preference and whether you can focus long-term on getting a degree.
Balancing the benefits of a degree with the time and cost involved, and aligning this with your career goals, can help you navigate the exciting journey to becoming a pilot.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, maintaining flexibility and adaptability will be key to a successful career.
Read here about our recommended 10 best books for aviation!
