Submitted by JSU
Jacksonville State University (JSU) announced the launch of its newest academic program — a Bachelor of Science in Aviation, set to begin in Fall. The Alabama Commission on Higher Education approved the aviation program on Friday, March 13, during its meeting in Montgomery.
JSU’s Bachelor of Science in Aviation is designed to prepare students for leadership and operational roles in one of the world’s most dynamic and fast-paced industries. Grounded in a strong foundation of aviation science, safety and industry best practices, the program offers three concentrations to support students’ career goals: Aviation Management, Commercial Aviation and Public Safety Aviation.
“This program represents an exciting step forward for Jacksonville State University and for workforce development across our region,” said Jacksonville State University President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. “The aviation industry continues to grow rapidly across Alabama and the Southeast, creating new opportunities for students and new workforce needs for our state. By combining strong academic preparation with practical, hands-on experiences, our Aviation program will equip graduates with the skills needed to succeed in a wide range of aviation careers.”
This comprehensive degree equips students with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies necessary to thrive in both the private and public aviation sectors, as well as in first responder and public safety roles. Whether managing complex airport operations on the ground, deploying drones during emergency response missions, or piloting commercial aircraft, graduates of Jax State’s Aviation program will be well prepared to contribute meaningfully to the future of aviation.
“The Bachelor of Science in Aviation reflects Jax State’s commitment to developing academic programs that respond to emerging workforce needs while providing students with meaningful career pathways,” said Dr. Christie Shelton, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. “Through concentrations in aviation management, commercial aviation, and public safety aviation, this program blends technical knowledge, safety training, and applied learning experiences that will prepare graduates to make immediate contributions in the aviation industry.”
The Commercial Aviation concentration will provide structured flight training aligned with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification standards, preparing students to pursue credentials such as Private Pilot licensure and Commercial Pilot certification with Instrument and Multi-Engine ratings.
“When students complete their degree in Commercial Aviation, they will have 300 flight hours logged and the FAA ratings completed, so that they are prepared to excel professionally,” stated Dr. Staci Stone, Vice Provost of Academic Affairs. “We are excited to get this first cohort of pilot-students off the ground.”
Students interested in the Commercial Aviation concentration must first be accepted to Jax State before submitting the secondary application. The deadline to submit the Commercial Aviation concentration application is May 15.
With ACHE approval secured, JSU will now move forward with the Federal Aviation Administration application process for Part 141 ground school authorization and will finalize partnerships with FAA-certified Part 141 flight training providers. The university has also launched a national search for its first Aviation Department Head.
