Department Contact Information:
Name of Dean: Dr. Julie Warnick
Name of Director: Dr. Sherri Link
Estimated Completion Time:
Bachelor degree programs take anywhere between 3-5 years for completion.
Program Description:
The Bachelor of Science in Aviation Leadership prepares students for leadership and management roles across the aviation industry. The program combines foundational aviation coursework with studies in safety management, human factors, aviation law, airport management, and professional leadership. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of aviation operations and regulatory environments while developing the leadership, communication, and decision-making skills required in complex organizations.
The curriculum includes twelve aviation-specific courses covering aviation systems, aerodynamics, weather, safety management, crew resource management, airspace, airport management, and aviation law. These courses are complemented by existing business and general education requirements, providing graduates with both industry-specific expertise and transferable leadership skills. Graduates are prepared for careers in airline operations, airport administration, aviation safety and compliance, regulatory agencies, and aviation-related management positions.
Learning Goals:
Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Aviation Leadership will be able to:
- Apply foundational aviation knowledge across operational, safety, regulatory, and organizational contexts.
- Apply leadership, management, and decision-making principles within aviation organizations.
- Analyze aviation systems, safety data, and regulatory requirements to support effective and ethical leadership.
Objectives:
Upon completion of the program, students will demonstrate the following competencies:
- Students will be able to explain the structure, functions, and interactions of major aviation systems and industry sectors.
- Students will be able to apply leadership and management theories to aviation operational and organizational scenarios.
- Students will be able to analyze aviation safety data, human factors, and risk management issues to support informed decision-making.
- Students will be able to interpret and apply aviation regulations, policies, and legal frameworks in professional contexts.
- Students will be able to evaluate current trends, emerging technologies, and sustainability initiatives affecting the aviation industry.
- Students will be able to communicate professionally and effectively in written and oral formats appropriate to aviation leadership roles.
- Students will be able to synthesize aviation knowledge and leadership skills in a capstone project demonstrating readiness for professional practice.
Admission Requirements:
All programs through Division of Professional Studies operate on a rolling admission basis. Students with prior college credit must have at least a 2.0 GPA (C average) to be considered for admission to the University. Those with no prior college coursework must have a high school diploma or GED with average grades of a C or higher and may need to enroll in college readiness courses to determine their level of knowledge.
Individuals interested in applying for admission to any undergraduate program offered through the Division of Professional Studies must submit the following materials:
Completed Application Form online
Graduation Requirements:
A candidate for graduation must satisfy the following requirements:
- Complete all requirements for an approved program of study;
- Complete the minimum number of credits (120 for a bachelor’s degree; 64 for an associate’s degree);
- Repeat for an acceptable passing grade any course required for the major in which the grade of “F” has been received;
- Complete the last 30 credits for the degree at SFU;
- Achieve a cumulative grade point average of 2.00 or better in all courses taken at SFU;
- Achieve a cumulative grade point average of 2.00 or better in all major or collateral requirements;
- Satisfy the requirements of the General Education core curriculum;
- Satisfy the capstone requirement as specified by the major department(s);
- Submit a completed Application for Degree form at least one semester prior to graduation date; and
- Satisfy financial obligations to the University.
Total Number of Credits Required:
120 credits
Return to: