Learn about laws that affect air and space travel, as well as business policies that affect aviation. Find out more about your educational options for studying aviation law.
Can I Earn a Degree in Aviation Law?
While specific degree programs in aviation law don't exist, you may have a few different educational options depending on your goals. A few schools offer Master of Law (LL.M.) degree programs in air and space law. LL.M. programs are meant for those who've already completed law school and earned their Juris Doctor (J.D.) degrees. Aviation law courses may also be found in some J.D. programs. Other schools offer certificate programs in aviation law that can be completed in conjunction with a law degree. A few bachelor's degree programs in aviation also offer courses in aviation law and policy.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Degree Levels</b></td><td>Juris Doctor, Master of Law</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Prerequisites</b></td><td>Undergraduate degree for J.D., J.D. for LL.M. program, high school diploma or equivalent for undergraduate program</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Course Topics</b></td><td>Aviation legislation, ethics, crash litigation, international trade</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Program Format</b></td><td>Campus-based; some courses available online</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td>$126,930 <i>(Lawyers)</i></td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td>4% growth <i>(Lawyers)</i></td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)</i>
</p><h3 id="section---AreThereAnyPrerequisitesForTheseOptions">Are There Any Prerequisites for These Options?</h3><p>J.D. programs typically require an undergraduate degree for admission. Prerequisites for an LL.M. typically require a J.D degree. Similarly, some certificate programs in aviation law may require you to be accepted into the school's LL.M. program before being allowed to participate in this specialization. Undergraduate degree programs generally require a high school diploma or equivalent for admission.
</p><h3 id="section---WhatWillILearn">What Will I Learn?</h3><p>Aviation law focuses on flight regulations, air travel and the business policies and practices that apply to the field of aviation. Your studies may depend on the educational avenue you've chosen. Bachelor's degree programs covering aviation law examine topics including law processes, business law and aviation legislation.
</p><p>Graduate law degree and certificate programs more closely examine the aviation industry and cover such topics as intellectual property, crash litigation, international trade and international space and aviation laws. Graduate programs may also involve independent research, a thesis or an internship. Some of the courses covering aviation law you can expect to take include:
</p><ul><li>Dispute resolution
</li><li>Ethics in aviation
</li><li>International trade law
</li></ul><h3 id="section---AreProgramsAvailableOnline">Are Programs Available Online?</h3><p>Degree programs addressing aviation law aren't available online. However, you may find individual aviation law courses online from a few schools that examine aviation laws, regulations and legislation. Some online courses can be completed at your convenience, while others would require you to participate in courses at specific times. As a distance student, you may need to meet specific technical requirements based on your school's online delivery methods.</p>
