Bustin

I'm a commercial pilot with a BA in psychology and I'm looking to further my education with an online institution to make myself more employable outside of the cockpit. I've spent some time away from flying for medical reasons and am almost assured not to make it to 65 with a first class medical (I'm only 29). I'm considering the MBA in aviation offered by Embry-Riddle online as it builds on my current experience in the industry but it's impossible to find any credible information about job prospects and I know I shouldn't count on sources inside ERAU to give me a direct honest answer about job opportunities. Does anyone have some advice to offer in this area? I'd love to go back to school full time, in person, but with my current debt load from my bachelors and flight training it's impossible for me to go back to school without working full time. Thanks in advance!

mundo1

Making yourself more marketable is always a great idea. However, an MBA may not be the best option given that you are a pilot. Typically, MBA [degrees] are more valuable to those having heavy business backgrounds; otherwise, an MBA becomes a “vanity” degree. With that said, I would suggest looking into degrees in transportation, logistics, or supply management. These fields have several commonalities with aviation and you can leverage your existing knowledge and experience.

I recently completed a Master’s in Transportation and Logistics Management with American Public University (www.apus.edu) and was very pleased with all aspects of the school, including student services and tuition. Keep in mind that when looking at distance learning institutions you want to make sure they are accredited (regionally and/or nationally).

Good luck

Bustin

Thanks Mundo, I really appreciate the feedback. The "vanity" degree is exactly what I'm worried about! Are you a pilot or are you working in another area with your new degree? I'll look into APU and also see what ERAU offers. I think they have a master's option very similar to what you have. Again, I appreciate it.

mundo1

I am a pilot. The degree will be used as a platform for consulting opportunities in the future.

mmaviator

How hard was that Master’s in Transportation and Logistics Management? Any other information you can pass on would be appreciated. Just looking to get a master's and the company I work for is footing the bill for the most part.

mundo1

I would not say it was overly hard. In my case, my undergraduate is in business administration, therefore, business concepts were not foreign to me. In addition, a great part of the program emphasized security, which is common to all modes of transportation; therefore, with an aviation background security topics are not difficult to grasp. However, as with most Mater’s programs, you must be prepared for tons of research and writing. My program was definitely writing intensive. I spent an average of 15 to 18 hours of study time a week.

Hope this helps.