What Are the Easiest Degrees To Become a Pilot?

Becoming a pilot isn't easy, and you might be a bit overwhelmed by all the requirements. To simplify things, perhaps you're looking for the easiest degrees that will help you become a pilot.

If so, keep reading. In this article, we'll discuss some of the best majors for aspiring pilots and answer questions you may have about what it takes to become a pilot.

Easiest Degrees for Becoming a Pilot

First and foremost, it should be noted that most degrees relative to becoming a pilot are not usually considered easy. They require a lot of knowledge of math and science, so they are usually seen as more challenging.

That said, if you are good at math and science and are willing to do what it takes to make your flying dreams come true, the following five options are some of the top degrees to help you on your journey.

1. Aviation

The most common type of flying-related degree is aviation. Some schools offer Bachelor of Arts in aviation programs, while others offer Bachelor of Science programs.

Aviation degrees offer a broad foundational knowledge in technology, management, and flying. They teach the laws and regulations of flying, how to operate a plane, and provide plenty of practice flight hours.

Though this degree involves a lot of math, science, and engineering topics, it is usually the most straightforward degree path to becoming a pilot. It is the preferred degree among airlines and other employers, and it often leads to pilot certification upon graduation.

2. Air Traffic Management

Air traffic management degrees are specifically geared toward people hoping to become air traffic controllers. They can also be beneficial for aspiring pilots.

These types of degree programs, typically offered as a Bachelor of Science, teach students the ins and outs of communication and collaboration between pilots and air traffic controllers.

Students in these programs also learn about interactions between various types of aircraft and how to operate these vehicles.

3. Aeronautics

A degree in aeronautics or aeronautical science provides a broad education in aircraft design, production, and technology, as well as airport operations and other fundamentals.

This type of degree program is great for students who want to work in the aerospace industry but would like to have a variety of career options available to them.

Though you can become a pilot after completing this degree program, it will not provide you with a license. Therefore, completing a degree in aviation may provide a more straightforward path to becoming a pilot.

4. Business Administration

A degree in business administration with a concentration in aviation technology may allow for a relatively easy degree path as you work toward becoming a pilot.

Business administration degrees are a great option for students hoping to become airline managers later on in their careers, as well as for students looking to expand their soft skills.

Though this type of degree will involve some math and science courses, it may not include some of the more advanced courses other programs require. You will gain flight hours as part of this type of degree program, but you will need to obtain your pilot's license on your own following graduation.

5. Aerospace Engineering

Aerospace engineering is another top degree choice for aspiring pilots, but it is one of the more challenging options on this list.

This type of degree teaches students how to design and build planes and other types of aircraft, as well as the technologies that make them work.

Aerospace engineering degrees involve a lot of courses in engineering, math, and advanced scientific principles; however, if you enjoy these subjects, you may find this type of program provides a thrilling challenge for you.

Do You Need a Degree to Become a Pilot?

The simple answer to this question is no, you do not need a degree to become a pilot. It is possible for anyone to become a pilot as long as they are physically fit and obtain the necessary licenses and certifications.

That said, you will have to complete flight school and log a number of solo flight hours to obtain these certifications. This flight training is often wrapped into aviation degree programs, allowing you to get both your degree and certifications at the same time.

What's more, many commercial airlines prefer or require candidates who hold bachelor's degrees. So while it isn't always a requirement, and you can become a pilot without a degree, you may have an easier time getting a job if you do have a degree.

How Much Does it Cost to Become a Pilot?

Whether you obtain your degree or enter flight school, you can expect the training to be expensive.

The average cost of an aviation-related degree program is about $37,000 a year in total costs. If it takes you four years to complete your degree at this rate, you're looking at a total cost of nearly $150,000.

Attending flight school directly may cost significantly less, but the price is still steep if it's coming out of your own pocket. Average costs for flight school range from $40,000 to $70,000.

What Are the Other Requirements to Become a Pilot?

After getting the education and training needed to become a pilot, you may still be wondering about the other requirements.

To become a pilot, you will have to obtain and maintain an FAA medical certificate, which proves your physical fitness for flying. You will also have to obtain various levels of pilot licenses as you log more flight hours and pass the required examinations.

If you hope to become a commercial pilot, you will need to log at least 1,500 hours of flight time, pass a written exam, and complete two months of ground training first.

Find the Right Degree to Become a Pilot Today

It is possible to become a pilot without a degree. However, if you choose to obtain a degree, some of the easiest pilot degrees and best options include aviation, air traffic management, and business administration with a concentration in aviation technology.