10 Fastest & Most Affordable Online Aviation Degrees 2026

If you're looking to attend an affordable, accelerated flight school or earn a degree in aviation, you may be overwhelmed by the options. You'd like to know which schools offer some of the fastest, most affordable online degree programs.

Keep reading as we explore schools offering some of the cheapest online aviation degrees. We'll also talk about what to expect in these degree programs and answer various questions you may have.

How Much Does an Aviation Degree Cost?

Different colleges and universities charge vastly different tuition rates, but it's not uncommon for aviation programs to range from $500 to $1,500 or more per credit hour. The cheapest online bachelor's in aviation degrees charge significantly less, often under $500. We'll explore some of these programs in greater detail below.

How Long Does an Aviation Program Take?

On average, a bachelor's degree in aviation can be completed within four years of full-time study. That said, some schools offer accelerated flight training programs and degrees, accept substantial transfer credits, and/or allow students to take heavy courseloads or study year-round. Students in these programs can shave months or even years off of the typical four-year timeframe.

What Is the Fastest Way To Get an Aviation Degree?

The fastest aviation degrees are typically designed as completion programs, catering to students who already have significant college experience, or as flexible online degrees. By transferring credits from work and educational experiences, taking more than 12 credit hours per semester, and studying during the summer and winter terms as well as the spring and fall, it is possible to complete these programs in as little as one to two years.

Best Fast and Affordable Online Aviation Degrees

If you're ready to find a fast aviation program that fits your budget, keep reading. Below, we'll explore some of the cheapest, fastest bachelor's in aviation degrees available.

1. University of Nebraska Omaha

The University of Nebraska Omaha is a campus of the University of Nebraska System. It provides a highly flexible Bachelor of Multidisciplinary Studies degree with around 30 concentrations, including one in aviation studies.

While not specifically designed as a fast-track degree, this program accepts transfer credits, and prior learning experiences are often counted toward overall degree requirements. Students can complete the program either on campus or online in a faster-than-average timeframe if they have sufficient transfer credits.

• Estimated tuition cost: $291 per credit hour (in-state)
• Delivery format: Online
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Eastern New Mexico University

Eastern New Mexico University is a public school in Portales, NM. It is known for providing some of the lowest tuition rates in the U.S., and it offers an online Bachelor of Science in aviation science.

This program features a blend of live, synchronous, and asynchronous online courses and lectures to provide both flexibility and structure. Highly motivated students with transfer credits may be able to finish the program more quickly than average.

• Estimated tuition cost: $294.75 per credit hour (in-state)
• Delivery format: Online
• Accreditation: HLC

3. Southern Utah University

Southern Utah University is a public school in Cedar City, UT. Learners at this institution can pursue an online or campus-based Bachelor of Aviation Management degree.

The school allows year-round study and provides flexible classes to help students with no transfer credits earn their degree in three years. Those bringing transfer credits to their program may be able to graduate even sooner.

• Estimated tuition cost: $307 per credit hour
• Delivery format: Online
• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

4. Metropolitan State University of Denver

Metropolitan State University of Denver is a public school known for its flexible degree programs and transfer-friendly policies. It offers an online Bachelor of Science in aviation and aerospace management.

Though the program isn't designed as an accelerated degree, it provides a flexible study schedule with courses you can complete on your own time. It also typically accepts a large number of transfer credits, enabling students with previous college experience to save time and money.

• Estimated tuition cost: $315.20 to $431.20 (in-state)
• Delivery format: Online
• Accreditation: HLC

5. University of Wisconsin Oshkosh

The University of Wisconsin Oshkosh is a public school in the University of Wisconsin System. Students can earn an online Bachelor of Applied Studies in aviation management.

Designed as a degree completion program, the program can be completed in as little as two years if students transfer 60 or more credit hours. Courses are offered in convenient, accelerated seven-week sessions, making it easier to speed up degree completion.

• Estimated tuition cost: $374.71 per credit hour (in-state)
• Delivery format: Online
• Accreditation: HLC

6. Lynn University

Lynn University is a private college in Boca Raton, FL. It offers several online programs in aviation, including a professional pilot bachelor's degree.

This program translates any ratings and certificates you have from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) into college credit, making it possible for you to accelerate your studies and save money. All college coursework is completed online through flexible, asynchronous courses, allowing you to go at a pace that works for you.

• Estimated tuition cost: $375 per credit hour
• Delivery format: Online
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

7. Liberty University

Liberty University is a private school located in Lynchburg, VA. It offers a handful of online aviation degrees and has a partnership with the American Winds College of Aeronautics that enables students to earn a bachelor's degree and complete flight training within two and a half years.

Liberty offers flexible, eight-week courses and allows students to transfer up to 75% of their total credits into the program. Though they must complete flight training components in person at the American Winds Akron Fulton Airport campus, they can earn their bachelor's degree entirely online through Liberty.

• Estimated tuition cost: $390 per credit hour
• Delivery format: Online
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

8. Utah Valley University

Utah Valley University is a public school in Orem, UT. It offers aviation degrees, including online professional pilot and aviation management programs.

Students who have gained FAA certifications through ATP Flight School can earn up to 30 credits toward their online bachelor's degree, helping them save at least a year on their degree. Additionally, students with an associate degree in aviation can enroll in an aviation science program that enables them to complete their degree and graduate within two years.

• Estimated tuition cost: $401.78 per credit hour
• Delivery format: Online
• Accreditation: NWCCU

9. Kansas State University

Kansas State University is a public school located in Manhattan, KS. It offers a 100% online professional aviation bachelor's degree that allows students to transfer in up to 60 credit hours.

This program features both eight- and 16-week courses that provide added flexibility, and multiple yearly start dates make it possible to study year-round. Those with FAA certifications, military experience, licenses, and other ratings may be eligible to receive additional credits that can help them graduate even faster.

• Estimated tuition cost: $409.42 per credit hour
• Delivery format: Online
• Accreditation: HLC

10. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is a private school based in Florida and Arizona. It is one of the most well-known aviation-focused institutions in the U.S. and provides a wealth of flexible online degree programs in the field.

The school offers nine-week terms and 10 yearly start dates, enabling students to enroll in flexible courses at their convenience and graduate more quickly. Those with specific FAA certifications and licenses from ATP Flight School can receive up to 34 credits toward a bachelor's degree in aviation from this school, helping them save at least a year on their education.

• Estimated tuition cost: $522 per credit hour
• Delivery format: Online
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

How We Rank Schools

We strive to choose only the best degree programs for our school rank lists. We used the following criteria for selecting the aviation programs featured above:

• Accreditation: All of the schools maintain regional accreditation from nationally recognized accrediting organizations.
• Program reputation: Each program is well known for providing high-quality, affordable online learning experiences.
• Affordability: Each school provides affordable tuition rates and financial aid opportunities to help students study affordably.

Tips To Lower the Cost of an Aviation Degree

Even the most affordable degrees can be pricey for many students. Let's look at a few ways you can reduce your costs:

• Using employer tuition assistance: Many companies offer tuition assistance as a benefit to their employees. Check with your employer to find out if this is available to you.
• Applying for aviation scholarships: Schools and outside organizations often offer scholarships specifically for aviation students. Consider doing a free scholarship search and applying for some of these opportunities.
• Transferring community college credits: If you already have an associate degree or a significant number of college credits, you may be able to transfer these to your current degree program. This can save you thousands of dollars by preventing you from having to repeat certain courses.
• Choosing in-state tuition when available: Public school tuition is often much lower for in-state students than out-of-state students. If possible, choose a school located in your home state for the best tuition rates.

FAQs About Fast and Affordable Aviation Degrees

If you still have questions about choosing a fast, affordable aviation degree, keep reading. Below, we'll provide answers to some frequently asked questions you may be wondering about.

What Is the Fastest Aviation Degree I Can Earn Online?

The fastest aviation degrees available online are usually master's degrees, which are often designed for completion within one year. For undergraduate students looking to earn a bachelor's degree, the fastest programs are available through schools that provide flexible or accelerated study schedules and have generous transfer policies. These programs enable highly motivated students with previous college experience to graduate in as little as one to two years.

What Is the Easiest Aviation Degree?

''Easy'' is a subjective term; what is easy for some students may be challenging for others. That said, associate degrees in aviation are often considered the easiest because they consist primarily of introductory coursework and general education credits.

Can I Work While Completing an Accelerated Program?

Many accelerated degree programs provide intensive, full-time study schedules. While it's not impossible to keep working while enrolled in these programs, students are often discouraged to do so. However, flexible online degrees not specifically designed as accelerated programs often allow students to study on their own schedules and may have more relaxed deadlines; it is sometimes possible to complete these programs on an accelerated basis while maintaining part-time or even full-time employment.

Are Cheaper Aviation Degrees Still Respected?

Yes, aviation degrees that come from more affordable schools are respected as long as the school is accredited and reputable. It's always important to check on a school's accreditation status and reputation before enrolling to the school.

Explore Flight Schools

If you're ready to begin working toward your aviation degree, check out the colleges and universities here on Learn.org. Reach out to any of the schools for more information about their programs and to choose the right option for you.