5 Easiest Degrees To Become a Pilot 2026

Earning a degree is one of the best ways to prepare for a career as a pilot while gaining a deeper understanding of the aviation industry. These programs combine flight experience with coursework in technology, management, and navigation.

While becoming a pilot requires dedication, certain degrees make the journey more straightforward. The easiest pilot degrees often offer built-in flight training, flexible formats, and clear pathways toward professional certification.

What Makes a Pilot Degree “Easy”?

An easier path to becoming a pilot usually means finding a program that integrates flight training with academic coursework. These factors can help simplify your education and reduce extra time spent meeting certification requirements:

• choosing programs that include FAA-approved flight training within the curriculum
• finding universities that accept transfer credits or prior flight experience
• selecting schools with online or hybrid options for ground coursework
• enrolling in degrees that focus on aviation operations and management rather than engineering-heavy courses
• taking advantage of academic advising and simulator training for additional support

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.

FAQs About the Easiest Degrees To Become a Pilot

Pilot education involves a mix of classroom learning and practical flight hours. Below are answers to some frequently asked questions from students looking for the easiest academic route into aviation.

Can You Become a Pilot Without an Aviation Degree?

Yes, it’s possible to become a pilot without earning an aviation degree. You can attend flight school directly and earn your pilot’s licenses through structured training programs.

However, many commercial airlines prefer applicants with a bachelor’s degree. Choosing a related major like aviation or aeronautics may improve your career options and make certification training more efficient.

What Degree Offers the Most Direct Path to Becoming a Pilot?

A Bachelor of Science in aviation is typically the most direct route. These programs combine flight lessons, safety training, and airspace management with the academic study of aviation systems.

Students graduate with both a degree and the flight experience required for FAA certifications. This integrated structure saves time compared to earning a degree and flight credentials separately.

How Long Does It Take To Complete a Pilot Degree?

Most aviation-related bachelor’s degrees take about four years to complete, though some schools offer accelerated options. Students with transfer credits or prior flight experience may finish sooner.

The overall timeline depends on flight hour requirements, class scheduling, and licensing goals. Many students complete their degree while accumulating flight hours toward a commercial pilot license.

Explore Pilot Schools

Compare aviation programs that help you take the first step toward flight certification. Learn.org connects you with accredited degrees that make preparing for a pilot career more flexible and achievable.