Pilots are only one part of the aviation industry—leaders are also needed to manage
airports, airlines and more. CBU’s aviation management program will prepare students
to do just that. They’ll learn business methods in aviation, taking courses in aviation
safety, security, finance, consulting, and airport planning and design. When they
graduate, they will have the skills and knowledge needed to obtain an airport manager
position at a smaller, general aviation airport, or an airport operations position
at a larger, commercial-service airport.
Learn the business side of aviation This program is designed for students who desire a non-flight career with flexible
career options. It’s a business-based aviation degree, and includes courses in airport
management, airline management, aviation consulting, airport planning and design,
aviation finance and more. Students will learn from an accredited airport executive
and certified aviation manager with airport industry experience. They’ll have the
opportunity to tour various airports and attend the American Association of Airport
Executives annual conference.
Study at an airport We currently have a brand-new fleet of Piper aircraft, a 9,000 square-foot Flight
Operations Center with classrooms, flight planning room, flight simulators, full kitchen
and student lounge. Riverside Municipal Airport offers a safe flight training environment,
with two paved runways, and is less than three miles from the CBU campus.
Airport Management II
AMG 332
An in-depth study of airport finance and administration, planning, construction, environmental,
operations, security, maintenance, communications and community relations.
Airport Planning and Design
AMG 423
An in-depth study of planning, including data collection, forecasting, master planning,
and environmental issues.
Business Aviation Management
AMG 424
An in-depth study of business aviation, including transportation needs analysis, aircraft
acquisition methods, aviation department management, operations, maintenance, and
safety.
Apply mathematics, science, and applied sciences to aviation-related disciplines.
Analyze and interpret data.
Work effectively on multidisciplinary and diverse teams.
Make professional and ethical decisions.
Communicate effectively, using both written and oral communication skills.
Engage in and recognize the need for lifelong learning.
Take the next step toward living your purpose
As you make decisions about college, keep in mind the full social, spiritual and educational
experience awaiting you at CBU. Here, you will be supported by professors, staff and
fellow students who will help you discover your strengths and challenge you to do
more than you ever thought you could. Let us equip you with the education, training
and opportunities you'll need to start making a unique difference doing what you love.
Apply today! When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and
knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and
all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.
"The aviation industry has to work together like a well oiled machine, and management
is just a part of that working body. What I like about this program is they really
try to give students opportunities. They're constantly informing you of industry-related
job openings or internships and they use their connections to help the students start
their careers by bringing in possible future employers." Shawnee Vang, 2019
"I am going to be a pilot in the Marine Corps. My major has taught me leadership skills
and valuable aviation knowledge. After my enlistment in the Marines, I can use my
degree to get a job in airport management, run a flight department, offer consulting
services, etc. Any job in aviation is directly involved with life or death situations.
My beliefs guide me to do the best I can, whether it be in the classroom or the cockpit." Blake Donley, 2018
"CBU's aviation management program enabled me to leverage the skills I learned in the
US Air Force and integrate them with a bachelor's program. I plan to enter the airport,
airline or commercial defense industry upon graduation. My degree has given me the
knowledge to adequately prepare me for a career in a wide variety of jobs in the aviation
sector." Michael Lloyd, 2018
Alumni Spotlight
"Since I graduated I obtained a position with the FAA as an air traffic control specialist.
I use things I learned at CBU all the time. My experience there was unforgettable
and helped shape who I am." Braedan Pilcher, 2016
"My classes with Dr. Prather helped me decide that airport operations was the career
path that I wanted to take. Now that I have been working in the industry, I do not
regret that decision one bit." Dillon Chado, 2017
Meet Some of Our Faculty
Daniel Prather
Professor of Aviation Science
I began in the aviation industry in 1996 as an airport operations specialist at Tampa
International Airport. Two years later, I was promoted to assistant director of operations,
a position I held for more than eight years. I have been teaching at CBU now for five
years. I have also authored two aviation textbooks. I find great joy in conveying
real-world knowledge to my students and seeing it click!
I began in the aviation industry in 1996 as an airport operations specialist at Tampa
International Airport. Two years later, I was promoted to assistant director of operations,
a position I held for more than eight years. I have been teaching at CBU now for five
years. I have also authored two aviation textbooks. I find great joy in conveying
real-world knowledge to my students and seeing it click!
