Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University (JSU) is preparing to take flight with a new academic offering. On July 19, 2025, the university’s Board of Trustees approved a proposal to establish a Bachelor of Science in Aviation, with two specialized concentrations: Aviation Management and Commercial Aviation. This approval marks the first step in the process, with the proposal now heading to the Alabama Commission on Higher Education (ACHE) for formal review.
If approved by ACHE, the program would be housed within JSU’s College of Business and Industry. The Aviation Management concentration would focus on topics such as airport and airline operations, safety, logistics, and regulatory compliance. The Commercial Aviation track is designed for students pursuing careers as professional pilots, offering structured flight training and pathways toward FAA certification.
According to university officials, the proposed program is intended to address a growing national and regional demand for skilled aviation professionals. A key feature of the degree includes hands-on training opportunities, industry partnerships, and access to simulation labs. In addition, flight instruction would be delivered through a partnership with a local FAA-certified flight school.
The degree also incorporates a Drone Piloting and Spatial Data Analytics microcredential. This component prepares students to sit for the FAA Part 107 exam, further enhancing their qualifications in the evolving aviation landscape.
The aviation degree aligns with JSU’s broader strategic priorities to “Reach, Engage, and Discover” and supports workforce development efforts across Alabama.
The university stated that more information will be shared as the proposal progresses through the state’s approval process.
