Professional Aviation
Launch your aviation career in the heart of one of the world’s most powerful aviation hubs.
As an aviation student at TCU, you’ll build a foundation in aviation safety, leadership and industry operations while preparing for a career in one of the world’s most dynamic industries.
The B.S. in Professional Aviation offers two concentrations: Aviation Administration (anticipated to launch in fall 2026), which prepares students for leadership roles in airlines, airports and aviation organizations, and Professional Pilot (anticipated to launch in fall 2027), which follows a structured pathway aligned with FAA certification. The Aviation Studies minor also is anticipated to launch in fall 2026. All three programs are pending SACSCOC approval.
Located in Dallas–Fort Worth—one of the world's busiest aviation hubs—TCU provides a unique environment to connect academic learning with real-world aviation operations.
Contact
- c.l.savage@tcu.edu
817-257-6792
Programs Offered
Sample Courses
- Unmanned Aerial Systems
- Human Factors in Aviation
- Aviation Safety
- Aviation Leadership
- Air Cargo Operations
- Airport Operations & Administration
View Courses & Degree Requirements
Core Curriculum
Your success is at our Core. TCU’s Core Curriculum prepares you to live and work in today’s ever-evolving diverse and global society. It encourages you to be intellectually curious and ask big questions about the world and your place in it.
Special Admission Requirements
Students interested in the Professional Pilot Concentration must apply and be admitted to the pilot training pathway in alignment with program and FAA requirements.
Internships & Industry Connections
Our location positions students close to major airlines, airports and aviation companies. This creates opportunities for internships, industry speakers and experiential learning that connect classroom knowledge with real aviation operations.
Students pursuing aviation administration will explore areas such as airport operations, aviation safety and airline management, while those in the professional pilot pathway (launching fall 2027) follow a structured flight training progression aligned with FAA certification. These experiences help students graduate with industry insight and a clearer path into aviation careers.
What Sets Us Apart
Few universities are able to offer the same advantages we can by being situated in Dallas–Fort Worth. With major airlines, international airports and aviation companies nearby, you’ll study aviation in a region where the industry operates at global scale.
Whether your goal is flying aircraft or leading aviation operations, the program allows you to pursue the pathway that aligns with your career ambitions.
Through courses focused on aviation safety, operations and leadership, you’ll graduate with the knowledge and practical understanding needed to succeed in the aviation field.
Career Prospects
The aviation industry offers a wide range of career opportunities, and demand for aviation professionals continues to grow worldwide. Graduates of TCU’s Professional Aviation program may pursue roles such as:
- Commercial pilot
- Flight instructor
- Airport operations specialist
- Airline operations or management roles
- Aviation safety and compliance roles
- Air cargo and logistics management
With a strong foundation in aviation systems, safety and operations, you’ll be prepared to contribute to an industry that keeps people, goods and economies moving around the world.
Related Academic Programs
Students interested in aviation often pair their interests with other fields that support global transportation and operations.
John V. Roach Honors College
Exceed your own expectations. Incoming and current undergraduate students of every major may apply. Unique classes are offered which connects students with a varied curriculum that is stimulating, supportive and cross-disciplinary.