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Old 12-01-2008, 03:06 PM
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Default Why no aviation degree??

hi all,

I have seen that many people reccomend not to get an aviation degree?? why is that exactly? Because i plan on going to Kent State and getting a Double major in Flight Technology and Air Traffic Control( in case of furlough). This program has an internship with continental express where they train you on their reigoinal jets. Also, You get a garunteed interview as soon as pilot positions become available. So, why is this degree often looked down upon?? thanks for all your help!
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Old 12-01-2008, 03:12 PM
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I highly recommend you minor in English while in school.
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Old 12-01-2008, 03:13 PM
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They don't have a "guaranteed" internship with XJT, just so you know, nobody has any guaranteed internships. It's not looked down on, per say, it's just that many feel that having a non aviation degree is a better back up plan in case of furlough. I have an aviation degree, and I've been happy with both my aviation and non aviation options with said degree. I will say that it's definitely a better idea to go to an instate aviation school to keep cost down, because it's definitely a waste of money to go to a private school (i.e. Riddle) because they end up just charging you an arm and a leg. Costs the same as or is comparable to the costs of a non aviation degree with an FBO on the side if you find the right place.

That all being said, download Firefox. Automatic spell checkers are a wonderful thing.
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Old 12-01-2008, 03:14 PM
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I have seen that many people reccomend not to get an aviation degree?? why is that exactly?
For the same reason you don't invest 100% of your retirement in your company's stock. i.e., don't put all of your eggs in one basket.
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Old 12-01-2008, 03:15 PM
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Long story short, its worthless. I have an 'Aviation Management' degree. During furlough, the entire industry is down. Your not going to get laid off and go get a job in the same field in a different capacity (i.e. your ATC example) Get a business degree, or something you could easily add a masters to that will make you some $$$.
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Old 12-01-2008, 03:19 PM
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Originally Posted by Diver Driver View Post
I highly recommend you minor in English while in school.
That's funny (but it might be a good idea )...
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Old 12-01-2008, 03:20 PM
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So if you dont get an aviation degree, how in the world do you get a job as a pilot?? other than military?
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Old 12-01-2008, 03:32 PM
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Originally Posted by FlyHigh423 View Post
So if you dont get an aviation degree, how in the world do you get a job as a pilot?? other than military?
You don't have to have a college degree to get an ATP, nor get hired at an airline. Most airlines, fractional carriers and corporate operators WANT a college degree though, although they could care less what the degree is in.

My degree is in Aviation Flight Technology. I do not think it was a "waste", and I'm confident (arrogant?) enough to think I could apply my skills and talents outside of aviation to find gainful employment this side of fast food with such a degree. The key is continued education and personal development via certificates, degrees, professional certifications, or proficiency in technologies.

You don't need a M.S., MBA or CPA to have a backup/second career with aviation as your primary. Want a cheap and easy backup plan? Learn CAD.
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Old 12-01-2008, 03:32 PM
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Originally Posted by FlyHigh423 View Post
So if you dont get an aviation degree, how in the world do you get a job as a pilot?? other than military?
Nobody requires an Aviation Degree. You don't need to be in a University Aviation program to get any of your licenses/ratings. Go to your local airport and find an instructor.

That said, I have an Aviation Degree and enjoyed talking Aviation every day during college...I also had a Business minor and am working on my MBA - THAT is a backup. A SECOND Aviation degree is not a backup. Study what you want in college...which can also mean Aviation if you wish.
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Old 12-01-2008, 03:34 PM
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Originally Posted by FlyHigh423 View Post
So if you dont get an aviation degree, how in the world do you get a job as a pilot?? other than military?
Airlines don't care what you have a degree in, they just want you to have one. I could get one in upside down underwater basket weaving and they wouldn't care.
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