Flight School or 2 Years Degree and go to Flight School.?

Question

I'm pondering if I should either get a 2 year degree with Embry Riddle and then attend the ATP flight school, or should I just attend the flight school, or just get the training with Embry Riddle in a 4 year degree. Are there any major factors that matter.

Answer 1

My advice is get a four year degree. Any major will do. Then take flying lessons from an experienced instructor at a local FBO in your spare time after you are working. You might want to find work at an airport that handles jets. Get to know the people and network.

Answer 2

Speak with some aviation professionals before opting for Embry-Riddle or ATP.

Answer 3

If you want to eventually get hired by one of the majors you are going to need your four year degree. You don't necessarily have to go to Embry Riddle though there are a lot of great programs at state schools etc.. out there that may be a bit more affordable. Here is a link to a website that lists schools all over the country that offer aviation programs. http://www.bestaviation.net/college/

Hope this helps and good luck with your career, you've chosen a great one!!!

Answer 4

If you want to have a shot at the majors you're going to want a 4 year degree in order to be competitive. Embry Riddle is expensive but not overrated. There are four year aviation programs at state colleges that are just as good though. A two year degree is more than enough for the regionals, you dont even need a degree for the regionals really. Atp isn't bad either, there a quick way to get into the airlines. I had an instructor who went through atp and he had no complaints. Another thing to consider is that you dont need your degree to be aviation oriented. In fact your better of getting your degree in something other than aviation. So if you ever get to where you cant pass your medical you wont be completely screwed.

Answer 5

I agree with Mark. Go to the airport and hang out, ask pilots what they think of those schools.  

My 2 cents, ATP is a pilot mill that is only after your money and Embry-Riddle is over rated and EXPENSIVE.

Learn to fly at the local airport or go to a college like Ohio State or Purde,North Dakota U. There are many many colleges that offer flying programs if that is the way you want to go.