If you currently work in aviation or have a bachelor’s degree in aviation, physics, or a related field, the cheapest aviation master’s degree online can help propel you into a rewarding future.
Aviation is a thrilling, dynamic, challenging industry. But experts in this industry need advanced degrees from leading academic institutions. They need to understand the science of flight, as well as the business of aviation. They need to have both hard technical knowledge and soft management skills. With an online aviation master’s degree, you’ll gain the skills needed to succeed in this vibrant industry.
With these degrees, you’ll have the chance to study a wide variety of topics related to the aviation industry. You can study aviation safety, aeronautics, aviation maintenance, space operations, or aviation management, among many other choices. This gives you the chance to advance your aviation and science career to even greater heights!
ARTICLE NAVIGATION: Rankings Table | Career Guide
Average Cost (In-state): ~$23,000
Least Expensive (Nationwide): Southeastern Oklahoma State University ~$11,286
With data-driven research, we have created an honest, reliable platform to help you make the right choice. Keep reading to find out how you can advance your career with an accredited online aviation master’s degree.
13 Cheapest Aviation Master’s Degree Online Programs
| Rank | School / Degree | State | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Southeastern Oklahoma State University | (OK) | $11,286.00 | All Students |
2 | Utah State University | (UT) | $13,497.00 $16,269.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
3 | Delta State University | (MS) | $14,354.00 | All Students |
4 | University of Central Missouri | (MO) | $15,197.00 | All Students |
5 | Oklahoma State University | (OK) | $16,137.00 $17,490.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
6 | Kent State University | (OH) | $17,607.00 $17,907.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
7 |  Liberty University | (VA) | $18,246.00 $9,546.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
8 | Southern Illinois University-Carbondale | (IL) | $18,600.00 | All Students |
9 | Florida Institute of Technology | (FL) | $19,400.00 $17,540.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
10 | Capitol Technology University | (MD) | $20,220.00 $11,820.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
11 | Capitol Technology University | (MD) | $22,227.00 $12,987.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military |
12 | Middle Tennessee State University | (TN) | $22,248.00 $56,340.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
13 | Purdue University | (IN) | $22,500.00 $23,250.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
| School / Degree | State | Price | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
University of North Dakota | (ND) | $23,505.00 | All Students | |
Capitol Technology University | (MD) | $24,234.00 $14,154.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University | (FL) | $24,330.00 $20,400.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University | (FL) | $24,330.00 | All Students | |
University of North Dakota | (ND) | $25,856.00 | All Students | |
Florida Institute of Technology | (FL) | $26,521.00 $23,957.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Webster University | (MO) | $28,470.00 $15,210.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Florida Institute of Technology | (FL) | $28,932.00 $26,135.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Lewis University | (IL) | $31,000.00 | All Students | |
Everglades University | (FL) | $36,645.00 | All Students | |
Saint Louis University | (MO) | $40,640.00 | All Students |
Methodology for These Rankings
These rankings of online aviation master’s programs are based on our fall 2023 review of degrees. To calculate the total cost, we use a variety of factors including minimum required credit hours, tuition rates, and general fees. At the time of collection, the information was valid and specific to the individual program. Profiles for the same degrees found in the directory on our site may, on occasion, reflect a different cost based on editorial update schedules.
The published cost is an estimated total price for the entire degree, but actual costs will vary by student. For example, if you have transfer credits, your cost may be lower. Prerequisite courses, textbook fees, licensing requirements, financial aid, and numerous other factors can impact the price of an affordable online aviation degree.
We strive to create the most honest, accurate ranking system possible. Therefore, we do not accept payments from schools to be included or removed from our rankings. The rankings are open to any regionally-accredited public or nonprofit college or university that offers an online aviation degree. We do not include degrees from non-accredited, nationally-accredited, or for-profit schools in our rankings. We also exclude from our rankings degrees that are available less than 80% online and those that are only available to students in five states or fewer.
Program Note: To qualify for a ranking, the aviation master’s degree online must be regionally accredited. Additional programmatic accreditation is noted in the rank table. Degrees labeled with superscript 14 indicate that options for this program have changed since publication.
Why Enroll in One of the Cheapest Aviation Master’s Degrees Online?
There are many reasons to join the aviation industry. From the exciting work to excellent salaries, here are the top motivations for people to enroll in an affordable aviation master’s degree online:
- Exciting, fast-paced industry: Aviation is an industry built on constant, rapid innovation. It’s a thrilling industry where not even the sky is the limit.
- High salary potential: Many careers in aviation bring high salaries. For example, the median salary of an air traffic controller is $132,250.
- Future-forward career: Aviation is at the cutting edge of technology. It uses state-of-the-art equipment and advanced techniques to enhance speed, efficiency, and safety.
- Global travel options: If you want to see the world, aviation is a fine choice. Many careers require travel to sites across the globe.
What’s the Program Cost for a Master’s in Aviation Online?
While these are elite degrees that can lead to salaries above $100,000 a year, the total cost can be surprisingly affordable. Among 36 degrees in this database, the average cost is $23,300. Most students will complete these programs in two years, so the typical per-year price is about $11,650.
This database includes 19 programs with in-state tuition below the average of $23,300. This includes 12 programs below $20,000 and five programs below $16,000.
The cheapest aviation master’s degree online comes from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. This program has a total estimated cost of $11,286, a price that is available to students from all across the country, not just Oklahoma residents. Overall, the out-of-state tuition for these programs is relatively affordable; many offer the same rates for both in- and out-of-state students.
The most expensive is the Master of Science in Aviation from Saint Louis University. This program has an estimated cost of $40,640, which means students will pay about $20,320 per year, assuming a two-year track.
Who Offers the Most Affordable Aviation Degrees?
Numerous programs offer a great price for their online degrees. 19 programs are below the average of $23,300, but these three schools offer the best prices for an online aviation degree:
#1. Southeastern Oklahoma State University
Degree: Master of Science in Aerospace Administration & Logistics
Cost: $11,286 (All students)
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
If you have experience in aviation and want to enter a leadership role, this program is a great option. This is the cheapest aviation master’s degree online for all students regardless of state residency. The degree offers broad-based learning opportunities designed around real-world situations that impact the aviation industry. During the program, students are exposed to managerial, scientific, logistic, and administrative challenges that face aerospace professionals on a daily basis.
Southeastern Oklahoma State provides extensive support to its online students. The admission process is simple and there are multiple start dates for courses, which are taught by the same faculty that deliver on-campus learning. The school offers academic support and online orientation to help incoming students start their remote master’s degree.
#2. Utah State University
Degree: Master of Aviation Science
Cost: $13,497 (In-state, Utah)
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
This degree can be utilized to become a professional pilot or an expert in aircraft maintenance. It also helps build your executive skills, allowing you to become an airport manager or leader in the industry. During this program, students learn about aviation technology, automation, flight safety, aircraft accident management, and more.
Online students with Utah State University have access to virtual services provided by various groups and school offices. USU has become a leader in online learning. The school offers numerous online graduate degrees, including master’s in aerospace engineering, aviation science, management information systems, and more.
#3. Delta State University
Degree: Master of Commercial Aviation
Cost: $14,354 (All students)
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
If you are working in the aviation industry and want to enhance your career while building an expert level of knowledge, this is an ideal program. Provided fully online, the coursework allows students to balance a busy aviation career while diving into advanced aviation concepts, operations, and management. The program includes 30 hours of coursework that cover aviation safety, human resource management, and airline management.
Leaders at Delta State University have built this online school around the needs of modern students. They accept applications year-round, have flexible enrollment, and offer part-time scheduling. Students can complete the degrees at their own pace while utilizing online student advising.
Online Aviation Degree Program Types
Choosing a specific degree can be difficult. Even if you have decided that aviation is the right choice, you’ll need to select the type of degree (master of arts vs. master of science, for example) as well as your specialization.
Most of the degrees in this database are master of science (MS) programs. These focus strictly on the technical and scientific aspects of flight and the aviation industry. While coursework varies by school and program, these degrees typically include physics, aerodynamics, materials, chemistry, and other important subjects.
Within this database, you’ll have the chance to choose an aviation specialty that works for your specific career goals and interests. You can find degrees focused on the skills of management and administration within the aviation sector, or you can select a degree that focuses on the sciences and technologies that make flight possible.
Possible specializations within an aviation master’s degree online include:
- Aerospace administration and management
- Aviation science
- Commercial aviation
- Aeronautics
- Autonomous systems
- Aviation safety
- Space operations
- Aviation maintenance
- Commercial enterprises in space
Some schools offer online aviation master’s degrees with multiple specialization options. For example, Middle Tennessee State University has a Master of Science in Aeronautical Science that can focus on Aviation Education, Aviation Management, or Aviation Safety and Security Management.
Accreditation for Aviation Programs
Accreditation is a status achieved by schools that maintain certain academic standards. An accredited school has the approval of an accrediting body, which is a group of experts who thoroughly understand the academic process and review a school for quality and consistency.
The main form of accreditation is institutional, also known as regional because it is granted by regional groups such as the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. This type covers the entire college or university, giving greater weight and authority to degrees granted by that institution. As a master’s student taking online courses, it’s important to research accreditation and understand its impact on learning.
Most importantly, accreditation is often considered during certification and licensing. If your school did not have the proper accreditation, you may be ineligible for licensing, which can be mandatory in many aviation careers.
Researching accreditation is vital. Most schools list this information on their website and have an accreditation page that lists institutional and programmatic accreditation. GetEducated will save you the hassle of doing this step. All the aviation management master’s degree online programs in this database come from accredited institutions.
Typical Admission Requirements
Admission into a master’s degree, especially elite-level aviation master’s degrees, can be complicated and rigorous. It requires more documents, and applicants need to meet higher standards, than the enrollment process for a bachelor’s degree.
To enroll in these graduate programs, you’ll need to submit a variety of documents, starting with transcripts from all previous colleges. Many schools will also have GPA requirements; for example, you may need a 2.5, 2.75, or 3.0 for acceptance into one of these master’s programs.
These high-level degrees require even more documents. You’ll need letters of recommendation, usually from previous teachers and supervisors within the aviation industry. You’ll also need to write a statement of purpose, which describes your overall motivation for seeking a master’s degree in aviation.
While the process can be rigorous, if you have a strong academic background and professional experience in the aviation industry, you will likely find a program that accepts your application.
Licensing, Training, or Experience Requirements
Because of the high-stakes nature of the aviation industry, many flight-based careers have specific licensing and certification requirements beyond just an online aviation master’s degree. These licensing requirements are unique because they are administered by the federal government, not by state governments, like with teaching or nursing licenses.
Three careers in particular have clear, specific requirements for licensing and certification:
- Air traffic controller: American air traffic controllers need to pass a gauntlet of requirements to work in the profession. They must be U.S. citizens and pass a medical screening, pre-employment tests, and a background check. They also need training from the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City. All controllers must hold an Air Traffic Control Tower Operator Certificate or have appropriate experience.
- Pilot: Pilots must also have certification from the FAA. They typically have FAA-issued certificates that come in various levels ranging from student pilot to airline transport pilot. Each level of certification requires the pilot to pass knowledge tests and a practical flying exam.
- Aircraft mechanics and technicians: The FAA mandates that all aircraft maintenance be performed by a certified mechanic. There are various levels of certification as well, such as certifications for bodywork or engine work.
Other careers in aviation may not require licensing. Airport or airline managers, for example, don’t need FAA licensing. However, they usually need at least five years of experience for consideration for these leadership positions.
Salary and Career Information
After completing an aviation management master’s degree online, you’ll be in an excellent position for strong earnings in a high-growth industry.
Occupation | Minimum Education | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Air traffic controller | Associate’s | $132,250 |
| Airline pilot | Bachelor’s | $148,900 |
| Aviation manager | Bachelor’s | $176,500 |
*Information from Salary.com
Many of the programs listed on this database prepare students to work in aviation management, which, by all accounts, is an extremely lucrative field. According to Salary.com, the average annual income for an aviation operations manager is $176,500, with earnings going as high as $201,000.
Many other careers in aviation have high salaries as well. Airline and commercial pilots have a median salary of $148,900, while airline traffic controllers have a median annual income of $132,250. Both of these careers require extensive training and experience, but they bring excellent earnings for skilled professionals.
How Do I Choose a Good Online Aviation Master’s Degree?
There are numerous options available, but choosing the right degree can be fairly simple.
Start by reviewing the degrees for overall coursework and area of focus. Make sure the information provided in your classes will help you reach career goals. For example, if you want to work in airline management, an aviation administration degree is a perfect choice.
Ensure that any degree you consider has institutional accreditation, and research the overall costs for the degree. You can consult the school’s website or use our database for pricing information. Also, you should review the course schedule to verify that the program fits your needs. This is especially important if you need flexible courses or a staggered start time.
Whether you need the cheapest aviation master’s degree online or want a specific degree that fits your career aspirations, use GetEducated.com for reliable information on the top programs!