Aviation (BS) Professional Flight

Summary

Our goal is to educate students to become professionals responsible for the safe and efficient design, management, and operation of aviation systems. The program combines a substantive university education with professional flight, UAS, and management components to graduate well prepared aviation professionals. Acquisition of airmanship knowledge, skills, and abilities develops professionalism, responsibility, self-reliance, and marketable skills for early career progressions, and provides important experiences which ensure a level of understanding and competency essential to becoming an effective aviation leader.

Flight Hours: The Aviation Professional Flight BS is certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to receive the maximum time reduction allowed toward the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. Graduates of these programs are eligible for a Restricted ATP certificate at 1,000 flight hours. Additional information regarding the Institutional Authority program is contained in Advisory Circular 61-136 and in FAA Order 8900.225.

Effective August 1, 2016, the Aviation programs and courses do not qualify for GI Bill® or VA education benefits.

Catalog Year

2024-2025

Degree

Bachelor of Science

Major Credits

66

Total Credits

120

Locations

Mankato

Career Cluster

Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics

Accreditation

AABI

Aviation Accreditation Board International

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Program Requirements

Required General Education

MATH 112 or higher is required

Concepts of algebra (real numbers, exponents, polynomials, rational expressions), equations and inequalities, functions and graphs, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, systems of equations and inequalities, matrices and determinants, conic sections, sequences and series, probability, and binomial theorem.

Prerequisites: Satisfy Placement Table in this section, or MATH 098 with grade of P.

Goal Areas: GE-04

A one semester course which covers the basic principles of physics on a conceptual level and with a minimal amount of math. The course provides an understanding of natural processes and their applications. Topics generally include mechanics, simple machines, atomic structure, heat, light and sound. Lecture and laboratory components.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-03

Major Common Core

Required for new students entering the Aviation Program. Course covers academic planning, degree audits, flight lab registration and completion requirements, and tips that students can apply to achieve success in the program.

Prerequisites: none

A study of how aviation fits into our modern world, relation to business, and contribution to the economy. Study of aviation as a visible alternative in transportation.

Prerequisites: none

A study of basic aeronautical knowledge including principals of flight, aerodynamics, aviation regulations, weather, visual and instrument navigation, and emergencies. The course meets, but is not limited to 14 CFR 61.105. Satisfactory completion of this course may result in an endorsement for the FAA Private Pilot written exam.

Prerequisites: none

A study of physics and aerodynamic principals of flight and propulsion systems. The nature of aerodynamic forces are explained. Flight principals of lighter-than-Air, airplane, glider, rotorcraft and powered lift are covered in detail.

Prerequisites: PHYS 101, MATH 112. Select 1 course: AVIA 150 or AVIA 240

Provides an understanding of management and financial techniques related to aviation businesses. Generally accepted and proven business techniques and proven business techniques are applied to the aviation setting.

Prerequisites: none

To instruct the student relative to legal implications of aircraft ownership, leases, rentals, and overall aircraft operation. Emphasis is placed on the understanding of liability and negligence from the operator and pilot standpoints.

Prerequisites: none

The understanding and implementation of safe operating procedures. Assists the student in arriving at proper decisions related to periods of stress when operating as pilot in command. Various FAA regulations and standard and safe operating procedures are also discussed.

Prerequisites: AVIA 150

A study of various techniques designed to enhance management and leadership methods. Emphasizes decision-making and judgment skills as well as methods to improve effective communication and skills to develop a productive work environment for flight crew and other airline personnel.

Prerequisites: Select 1 course: AVIA 150 or AVIA 240

An examination of the processes involved in weather formation. Students will be introduced to weather map analysis, simple forecasting and observational techniques, and weather instruments.

Prerequisites: none

Emphasis Common Core

Provides beginning flight student with the in-flight requirements needed to obtain the FAA Private Pilot's Certificate.

Prerequisites: none

AVIA 153, Private Pilot Flight Lab II, continues the flight lab progression in the MSU aviation program to the second stage of the Private Pilot flight lab. The course reviews and expands the classroom knowledge received in the Private Pilot Ground Course as well as the skills developed in AVIA 151. The training flights continue the building block approach to training with student pilots gradually obtaining the skills to fly safely and pass an FAA administered practical examination.

Prerequisites: none

A study of the aeronautical knowledge including aviation regulations, weather, instrument navigation, and instrument emergencies. The course meets, but is not limited to, FAR part 61.65 (b, 1-4). Satisfactory completion of this course may result in an endorsement for the FAA Instrument Pilot written exam.

Prerequisites: AVIA 150, or equivalent

Prepares advanced flight students with the in-flight requirements needed to obtain the FAA Instrument Pilot rating.

Prerequisites: none

AVIA 243, Instrument Pilot Flight Lab II, continues the flight lab progression in the MSU aviation program to the second stage of the Instrument Pilot flight lab. The FAA requires each pilot to obtain their Instrument Pilot flight certificate to fly in instrument weather conditions. The course reviews and expands the classroom knowledge received in the Instrument Pilot Ground Course as well as the skills developed in AVIA 241. The training flights continue the building block approach to training with student pilots gradually obtaining the skills to fly in all instrument conditions and to pass an FAA administered practical examination.

Prerequisites: none

A study of advanced aeronautical knowledge, including aerodynamics, aviation regulations, weather, visual and instrument navigation, and emergencies. The course meets, but is not limited to 14 CFR 61.125(b). Satisfactory completion of this course may result in an endorsement for the FAA Commercial Pilot written exam.

Prerequisites: AVIA 153, AVIA 240

Prepares advanced flight students with the in-flight requirements needed to obtain the FAA Commercial Pilot's Certificate.

Prerequisites: none

AVIA 253, Commercial Pilot Flight Lab II, continues the flight lab progression in the MSU aviation program. The FAA requires each pilot to obtain their Commercial Pilot flight certificate to be compensated for work as a pilot. This stage two course of the Commercial Pilot flight lab reviews and expands where required the classroom knowledge received in the Commercial Pilot Ground Course. The training flights use a building block approach to training with student pilots gradually obtaining the skills to fly the more difficult manuvers and to pass an FAA administered practical examination.

Prerequisites: none

Hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, pressurization, environmental, and other systems for large-transport category aircraft are covered. Also turbine engines, primary and secondary flight controls, and miscellaneous important systems are examined. Examples of systems in large transport-category jets will be discussed from the pilot operational perspective.

Prerequisites: AVIA 201

Introduces students to airline training, regulations, and flight management systems (FMS). Students will develop an understanding of airline operations as they experience an FAA Part 121 style basic indoctrination. Students will be trained on procedures, requirements, and limitations for airline operations through all phases of flight and ground in a simulated Advanced Qualifications Program (AQP) style course. Students will also develop technical and procedural knowledge of FMS.

Prerequisites: AVIA 240

A study of the fundamentals of instruction including the learning process, effective teaching evaluation, course development, lesson planning, and instructing techniques. The course meets, but is not limited to 14 CFR 61.185(a). Satisfactory completion of this course may result in an endorsement for the FOI and CFI-A written exam.

Prerequisites: AVIA 243, AVIA 250

Prepares advanced flight students with the in-flight requirements needed to obtain the FAA Certified Flight Instructor certificate, FAA Instrument Flight Instructor certificate, and FAA Multiengine Flight Instructor certificate.

Prerequisites: none

Introduces advanced professional flight students to FAR Part 121 style standardized flight training in a regional jet. Course will include aircraft systems, procedures training, and techniques used in high performance turbine aircraft. Emphasis on standard operating procedures (SOP), crew resource management (CRM), and line oriented flight training (LOFT).

Prerequisites: AVIA 340

This course is designed to develop students technical understanding of information and knowledge required for Air Transport Pilots. Students will participate in a capstone research project and present their findings in a research paper and oral presentation. Course completion requirements will include preparation for the FAA ATP written exam. Must be taken concurrently with AVIA 436.

Prerequisites: AVIA 253, AVIA 340

Prepares students who desire careers as professional pilots. Emphasizes complete ground tutoring and flight instruction relating to instrument maneuvers, SOP's, regulation interpretation, pilot discipline, and professional procedures. Crew resource management, LOFT, and turbine-transition flights in an advanced jet flight simulator are used. This course is taken in conjunction in the same semester as AVIA 450.

Prerequisites: AVIA 253

The fundamental principles and calculation of the performance in various phases of flight: takeoff and land, climb and descent performance, maximum-range and maximum-endurance cruise, single-engine performance in multi-engine aircraft, standard atmosphere and basic subsonic and supersonic aerodynamics is covered.

Prerequisites: AVIA 338

4-Year Plan

The 4-Year Plan is a model for completing your degree in a timely manner. Your individual 4-Year plan may change based on a number of variables including transfer courses and the semester/year you start your major. Carefully work with your academic advisors to devise your own unique plan.
* Please meet with your advisor on appropriate course selection to meet your educational and degree goals.

First Year

Fall - 16 Credits

Required for new students entering the Aviation Program. Course covers academic planning, degree audits, flight lab registration and completion requirements, and tips that students can apply to achieve success in the program.

Prerequisites: none

A study of how aviation fits into our modern world, relation to business, and contribution to the economy. Study of aviation as a visible alternative in transportation.

Prerequisites: none

Concepts of algebra (real numbers, exponents, polynomials, rational expressions), equations and inequalities, functions and graphs, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, systems of equations and inequalities, matrices and determinants, conic sections, sequences and series, probability, and binomial theorem.

Prerequisites: Satisfy Placement Table in this section, or MATH 098 with grade of P.

Goal Areas: GE-04

A study of basic aeronautical knowledge including principals of flight, aerodynamics, aviation regulations, weather, visual and instrument navigation, and emergencies. The course meets, but is not limited to 14 CFR 61.105. Satisfactory completion of this course may result in an endorsement for the FAA Private Pilot written exam.

Prerequisites: none

Provides beginning flight student with the in-flight requirements needed to obtain the FAA Private Pilot's Certificate.

Prerequisites: none

Spring - 14 Credits

Students in this course approach writing as a subject of study by investigating how writing works across a variety of contexts.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-1A

A one semester course which covers the basic principles of physics on a conceptual level and with a minimal amount of math. The course provides an understanding of natural processes and their applications. Topics generally include mechanics, simple machines, atomic structure, heat, light and sound. Lecture and laboratory components.

Prerequisites: none

Goal Areas: GE-03

AVIA 153, Private Pilot Flight Lab II, continues the flight lab progression in the MSU aviation program to the second stage of the Private Pilot flight lab. The course reviews and expands the classroom knowledge received in the Private Pilot Ground Course as well as the skills developed in AVIA 151. The training flights continue the building block approach to training with student pilots gradually obtaining the skills to fly safely and pass an FAA administered practical examination.

Prerequisites: none

Second Year

Fall - 15 Credits

A study of physics and aerodynamic principals of flight and propulsion systems. The nature of aerodynamic forces are explained. Flight principals of lighter-than-Air, airplane, glider, rotorcraft and powered lift are covered in detail.

Prerequisites: PHYS 101, MATH 112. Select 1 course: AVIA 150 or AVIA 240

An examination of the processes involved in weather formation. Students will be introduced to weather map analysis, simple forecasting and observational techniques, and weather instruments.

Prerequisites: none

A study of the aeronautical knowledge including aviation regulations, weather, instrument navigation, and instrument emergencies. The course meets, but is not limited to, FAR part 61.65 (b, 1-4). Satisfactory completion of this course may result in an endorsement for the FAA Instrument Pilot written exam.

Prerequisites: AVIA 150, or equivalent

Prepares advanced flight students with the in-flight requirements needed to obtain the FAA Instrument Pilot rating.

Prerequisites: none

Spring - 16 Credits

AVIA 243, Instrument Pilot Flight Lab II, continues the flight lab progression in the MSU aviation program to the second stage of the Instrument Pilot flight lab. The FAA requires each pilot to obtain their Instrument Pilot flight certificate to fly in instrument weather conditions. The course reviews and expands the classroom knowledge received in the Instrument Pilot Ground Course as well as the skills developed in AVIA 241. The training flights continue the building block approach to training with student pilots gradually obtaining the skills to fly in all instrument conditions and to pass an FAA administered practical examination.

Prerequisites: none

A study of advanced aeronautical knowledge, including aerodynamics, aviation regulations, weather, visual and instrument navigation, and emergencies. The course meets, but is not limited to 14 CFR 61.125(b). Satisfactory completion of this course may result in an endorsement for the FAA Commercial Pilot written exam.

Prerequisites: AVIA 153, AVIA 240

Third Year

Fall - 14 Credits

Prepares advanced flight students with the in-flight requirements needed to obtain the FAA Commercial Pilot's Certificate.

Prerequisites: none

Provides an understanding of management and financial techniques related to aviation businesses. Generally accepted and proven business techniques and proven business techniques are applied to the aviation setting.

Prerequisites: none

Spring - 15 Credits

AVIA 253, Commercial Pilot Flight Lab II, continues the flight lab progression in the MSU aviation program. The FAA requires each pilot to obtain their Commercial Pilot flight certificate to be compensated for work as a pilot. This stage two course of the Commercial Pilot flight lab reviews and expands where required the classroom knowledge received in the Commercial Pilot Ground Course. The training flights use a building block approach to training with student pilots gradually obtaining the skills to fly the more difficult manuvers and to pass an FAA administered practical examination.

Prerequisites: none

A study of the fundamentals of instruction including the learning process, effective teaching evaluation, course development, lesson planning, and instructing techniques. The course meets, but is not limited to 14 CFR 61.185(a). Satisfactory completion of this course may result in an endorsement for the FOI and CFI-A written exam.

Prerequisites: AVIA 243, AVIA 250

To instruct the student relative to legal implications of aircraft ownership, leases, rentals, and overall aircraft operation. Emphasis is placed on the understanding of liability and negligence from the operator and pilot standpoints.

Prerequisites: none

The understanding and implementation of safe operating procedures. Assists the student in arriving at proper decisions related to periods of stress when operating as pilot in command. Various FAA regulations and standard and safe operating procedures are also discussed.

Prerequisites: AVIA 150

Fourth Year

Fall - 15 Credits

Hydraulic, pneumatic, electrical, pressurization, environmental, and other systems for large-transport category aircraft are covered. Also turbine engines, primary and secondary flight controls, and miscellaneous important systems are examined. Examples of systems in large transport-category jets will be discussed from the pilot operational perspective.

Prerequisites: AVIA 201

Introduces students to airline training, regulations, and flight management systems (FMS). Students will develop an understanding of airline operations as they experience an FAA Part 121 style basic indoctrination. Students will be trained on procedures, requirements, and limitations for airline operations through all phases of flight and ground in a simulated Advanced Qualifications Program (AQP) style course. Students will also develop technical and procedural knowledge of FMS.

Prerequisites: AVIA 240

Prepares advanced flight students with the in-flight requirements needed to obtain the FAA Certified Flight Instructor certificate, FAA Instrument Flight Instructor certificate, and FAA Multiengine Flight Instructor certificate.

Prerequisites: none

A study of various techniques designed to enhance management and leadership methods. Emphasizes decision-making and judgment skills as well as methods to improve effective communication and skills to develop a productive work environment for flight crew and other airline personnel.

Prerequisites: Select 1 course: AVIA 150 or AVIA 240

The fundamental principles and calculation of the performance in various phases of flight: takeoff and land, climb and descent performance, maximum-range and maximum-endurance cruise, single-engine performance in multi-engine aircraft, standard atmosphere and basic subsonic and supersonic aerodynamics is covered.

Prerequisites: AVIA 338

Spring - 15 Credits

Introduces advanced professional flight students to FAR Part 121 style standardized flight training in a regional jet. Course will include aircraft systems, procedures training, and techniques used in high performance turbine aircraft. Emphasis on standard operating procedures (SOP), crew resource management (CRM), and line oriented flight training (LOFT).

Prerequisites: AVIA 340

This course is designed to develop students technical understanding of information and knowledge required for Air Transport Pilots. Students will participate in a capstone research project and present their findings in a research paper and oral presentation. Course completion requirements will include preparation for the FAA ATP written exam. Must be taken concurrently with AVIA 436.

Prerequisites: AVIA 253, AVIA 340

Prepares students who desire careers as professional pilots. Emphasizes complete ground tutoring and flight instruction relating to instrument maneuvers, SOP's, regulation interpretation, pilot discipline, and professional procedures. Crew resource management, LOFT, and turbine-transition flights in an advanced jet flight simulator are used. This course is taken in conjunction in the same semester as AVIA 450.

Prerequisites: AVIA 253

Policies

Admission to Major

Students must meet the following requirements:

  • a minimum of 30 earned semester credit hours.
  • a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75
  • a minimum of C+ in the first ground school course (AVIA 150, 240, or 250)

For students whose home language is not English, an English language proficiency level as described below:

  • TOEFL iBT composite score of 80 or better with at least a score of 22 in both the listening and speaking sections; OR
  • TOEFL PBT/iBT composite score of 550 or better with at least a score of 60 on the listening section; OR
  • IELTS composite score of 6.0 or better with at least a score of 6.0 in both the listening and speaking sections; OR
  • Successful completion of the advanced level of the Intensive English Program (IEP) at Minnesota State University, Mankato, with a B+ average or better and at least a B in each course.

--OR--

Successful completion of the highest level of the Intensive English Program (IEP) at Minnesota State University, Mankato, with a B+ average or better and at least a B in each course.

Flight Training. Flight costs are determined on an hourly basis for aircraft and flight instruction. FAA exams may require an additional fee. Students seeking admission to flight training must be examined by an FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner and have an FAA medical certificate and student pilot certificate before the start of flight training. Applicants intending to seek a Commercial Pilot Certificate must have 20/20 vision in each eye, or be correctable to 20/20. Medical examinations should be done far enough in advance of flight training to allow any potential problems or questions to be resolved. We recommend obtaining the 1st class FAA medical certificate.

The FAA requires any pilot's license applicant to speak, read, write and understand the English language. Flight students whose home language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency. The English language proficiency required to begin any flight lab is the same as the proficiency required for acceptance to the major (see above).

Additionally, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires U.S. citizen flight students to present a government-issued photo identification document such as a driver's license and an original passport or original (raised seal) birth certificate for U.S. citizenship verification. International flight students must comply with TSA requirements for a security threat assessment as specified in the Alien Flight Student Program. Generally, this process requires approximately 30 days to complete. Refer to www.flightschoolcandidates.gov for details.