Reviewed by: Caleb Turrentine
Jacksonville State’s new aviation program takes off in fall 2026
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Jacksonville State University is introducing a new Bachelor of Science in Aviation starting later this year.
This program comes at a time when the aviation industry is seeing major growth in Alabama and all across the country.
“This program comes at a moment when there is growing regional and national demand for aviation professionals, paired with strong student interest in hands‑on, career‑focused pathways… University leadership has emphasized that the new Bachelor of Science in Aviation aligns with the Jax State’s broader mission to respond to emerging workforce needs while offering students clear, career‑focused academic pathways.”
Dr. Staci Stone, Vice Provost of Academic affairs
What students can expect
This aviation program isn’t one where students are stuck in a classroom all day. It’s built around hands-on experience and real-world training.
“Students will split their time between academic coursework and hands-on learning experiences designed to mirror real-world aviation environments. The program includes structured flight training aligned with FAA standards, allowing students to work toward pilot certifications alongside their degree.”
Dr. Maureen Newton, Dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Along with flight training, students can explore areas like airport and airline operations, aviation leadership, and even the use of drones in emergency and public safety situations.
No matter which concentration they choose, all students will gain hands-on experience through flight practicums or internships, giving them skills for the real world before they graduate.
What makes this program different from others
One of the biggest things that sets this program apart is its multi-pathway structure.
Instead of focusing on just flying, Jax State offers three different paths:
- Aviation management
- Commercial aviation
- Public safety aviation
“Unlike programs that focus solely on pilot training, Jax State offers three distinct concentrations, allowing students to pursue careers in aviation management, commercial aviation, or public safety aviation within a single degree program. The public safety aviation concentration, in particular, draws on Jax State’s established expertise in emergency management and criminal justice, preparing students to use aviation tools—including unmanned aircraft systems—in real‑world response scenarios.”
Dr. Staci Stone, Vice Provost of Academic affairs
For students who want to become pilots, the commercial aviation track includes FAA-aligned training, with the chance to graduate with around 300 flight hours and the certifications needed to move into a professional career.
What students can expect after graduation
At the end of the day, the goal of the program is to open doors for students who want to step into this industry that is growing.
Jacksonville State is also located near major airlines like Birmingham, Huntsville, Atlanta, and Chattanooga giving students easier access to internships, networking opportunities, and potential career connections within the aviation industry.
Graduates of Jacksonville State’s Aviation program will be prepared for a wide range of aviation‑related careers across both the private and public sectors. Depending on their concentration, alumni may pursue roles in such high-demand fields as commercial aviation, airport and airline operations, aviation leadership and management, or public safety and emergency response aviation.
Dr. Maureen Newton, Dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Students interested in the Commercial Aviation concentration must first be admitted to Jax State before completing a separate application, which is due May 15.
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