College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences
Department of Aviation Technology
About This Degree
The Aviation Technology – Professional Pilot: Accelerated Fixed Wing Emphasis prepares students to become professional pilots in the fixed wing industry. This emphasis allows students to complete their flight training in fewer semesters, providing greater flexibility and efficiency in their education. Upon graduation, students will have acquired the necessary flight hours and FAA licenses, including private, instrument, commercial single-engine with multi-engine add-on, and CFI.
- For more information about Aviation Technology Professional Pilot, see the website.
- Admitted and current students must meet with an advisor.
- Log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.
- The highest math requirement for this degree is MATH 1060 - Trigonometry .
Flight Training
Once students commence flight training at USU, all flight training must be completed in USU approved aircraft. Exceptions include courses not offered by USU such as glider ratings, seaplanes, etc. Students who hold a FAA instrument and/or commercial license(s) are not admissible to this degree and should seek an alternate degree. Students should adhere to expected standards of flight training and complete each flight course in the semester. Students should work closely with their assigned flight instructor and the chief flight instructor to ensure standards are met. Failure to progress because of noncompliance with the expectations could result in a flight hold. Failing three FAA check exams can result in dismissal from the program. Further details and expectations can be found in the program handbook.
Medical Certificates
In accordance with the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 14, Part 61.3, all professional pilot students are required to obtain an FAA Medical Certificate. There are three classes of medical certificates which students may obtain: First Class, Second Class, and Third Class. Although only a Third Class Medical Certificate is required for student pilot operations at Utah State University, it is highly recommended that students obtain a First Class Certificate, in order to ensure that no medical conditions exist which would disqualify them from obtaining one at a later date. Many pilot jobs require a First Class Medical Certificate. Students using VA education benefits must maintain at least a Second Class Medical Certificate. A medical certificate may be obtained from a certified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). Detailed requirements for each medical class and durations are explained in CFR Title 14, part 67, and part 61.23.
Fees
In addition to regular tuition and fees, a special class fee will be assessed to all flight certification classes. When a student enrolls in each flight certification, the fee is due with tuition payment. Course costs are based on average costs of training, and include stage check and FAA check ride fees. All fees are subject to change. Please visit the program website for a list of current flight fees.
Restricted ATP
Students who graduate with this degree can qualify for the Restricted Airline Transport Pilot (RATP) certificate. To be eligible for the RATP certifying document you must meet the following criteria: 1) Received a Bachelors degree in Aviation Technology – Professional Pilot from Utah State University; 2) Earn a minimum of 60 credits of approved aviation courses (see advisor for list); 3) Complete instrument rating and commercial pilot certificate from Utah State University.
