Aviation Programs
Take flight with career-focused Aviation training
Fly, manage, or support flight operations with hands-on instruction and industry-aligned education from Academy College.
Which aviation program fits your flight plan?
Aviation Degree Programs
Become a pilot, manage aviation operations, or advance your current aviation career.
Fly toward an FAA commercial pilot certification with hands-on, structured flight training.
Fast-Track Aviation Programs (Non-Degree)
Gain credentials while exploring aviation careers and the aviation industry.
Prepare for FAA certification as an aircraft dispatcher in 5 or 10 weeks.
Learn the aviation industry from the inside while gaining real-world exposure.
Earn your FAA private pilot certification with hands-on flight training.
Tuition-free college-level aviation coursework for high school seniors interested in aviation.
Why Academy College for Aviation?
Fly sooner
Start flying your first week! Flights available 7 days/week.
FAA-approved training
Our R-ATP program allows you to enter the airlines sooner.
Professional aviation instruction
All flight instructors are certified.
Flexible formats
Evening and hybrid options that align with your schedule.
Our aviation students speak up
FAQs
Good questions
What aviation careers could I pursue with these programs?
Academy College aviation programs prepare students for careers such as pilot, dispatcher, airport operations manager, and more.
How do I know which aviation program is right for me?
Choosing the right program depends on setting your career goals. If you want to fly professionally, consider Commercial Aviation. For a fast credential, look at the Dispatcher or Private Pilot programs. If you’re more interested in leadership, explore Aviation Management.
Where does the flight training take place?
Academy College flight training for Commercial Aviation and Private Pilot programs is conducted through our partnership with Thunderbird Aviation, operating at Flying Cloud (FCM) and Crystal (KMIC) airports.
They are our long-standing FAA-approved flight training partner and are located in the Twin Cities area.
Students log hours using Thunderbird’s aircraft and certified instructors while progressing through their degree at Academy College.
Are the aviation programs approved by the FAA?
Yes. All Academy College flight training and dispatcher programs are aligned with FAA standards. All flight instruction is delivered through a trusted FAA-approved partner.
Can I complete my programs while working?
Yes. Several Academy College programs—including Aircraft Dispatcher and Aviation Management—offer evening or hybrid options.
Do I need flight experience before enrolling?
No. Previous flight experience is not required for Academy College. Our programs serve both beginners and students with prior aviation knowledge.
Do your aviation programs include hands-on training?
Yes. All of Academy College’s degree and certification programs include practical, hands-on training components through lab work, simulator time, or in-air flight instruction.
Get involved
2026-04-23T17:00:00
Career Fair
2026-04-28T18:00:00
Meet the Fleet
2026-05-04T14:00:00
Veteran’s Resource Fair
Start your future at Academy College