Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University has announced the launch of a new Bachelor of Science in Aviation program, designed to prepare students for leadership and operational roles in the rapidly evolving aviation industry.
The program is built on a foundation of aviation science, safety, and industry best practices. It offers three concentrations tailored to a variety of career paths: Aviation Management, Commercial Aviation, and Public Safety Aviation. University officials say the degree is intended to equip students with the technical knowledge and practical experience necessary to succeed in both private and public aviation sectors.
Students enrolled in the program may pursue careers ranging from airport operations management to piloting commercial aircraft or supporting emergency response missions using aviation technology.
Jacksonville State University President Dr. Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. emphasized the program’s role in addressing workforce needs across the region.
“This program represents an exciting step forward for Jacksonville State University and for workforce development across our region,” said Killingsworth. “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.”
Dr. Christie Shelton, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, noted that the program reflects the university’s commitment to aligning academic offerings with industry demand.
“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,” Shelton said. “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 include structured flight training aligned with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification standards. Students in this track will have the opportunity to pursue credentials such as Private Pilot licensure and Commercial Pilot certification, including 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,” said 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 this concentration must first be admitted to Jacksonville State University before completing a secondary application. The deadline to apply for the Commercial Aviation track is May 15.
The Public Safety Aviation concentration builds on the university’s established programs in emergency management and criminal justice. It is designed to prepare first responders to incorporate aviation tools, including unmanned aircraft systems, into emergency and public safety operations.
University officials also highlighted Jacksonville State’s proximity to major aviation hubs in Atlanta, Birmingham, Huntsville, and Chattanooga as a strategic advantage. The location is expected to support partnerships and help meet growing regional demand for aviation professionals.
With approval secured from the Alabama Commission on Higher Education, Jacksonville State will move forward with the FAA application process for Part 141 ground school authorization. The university is also working to establish partnerships with FAA-certified flight training providers and has initiated a national search for its first Aviation Department Head.
Prospective students are encouraged to request additional information and review admission requirements. Current students interested in switching to the Aviation major are advised to consult with their academic advisors.
