Eastern Mennonite University at Lancaster

Eastern Mennonite University at Lancaster offers a Bachelor of Science in Aviation and Leadership. The degree program prepares students to become professional pilots. The university is a non profit institution. It works to keep tuition and fees reasonable so more students can earn their degree.

The aviation program is a Part 141 collegiate aviation program. This status means graduates can qualify for the Airline Transport Pilot certificate at 1,000 flight hours instead of 1,500. The curriculum requires 120 credits. Most aviation and leadership courses are taught in person. Students study in a cohort model. They start and finish the program together as a group.

Academic classes meet one day each week. Flight training is scheduled three days each week. The university partners with Aero Tech Services, an FAA approved Part 141 pilot school. All ground school and flight training take place at the Aero Tech facility at Lancaster Airport in Lititz. The airport is a towered field located less than one mile from the EMU Lancaster campus.

Students can earn Private, Instrument, Commercial with multi engine rating, and Flight Instructor certificates. Students who already hold a private pilot rating may be able to transfer that rating into the program. The program guarantees weekly flight training slots, aircraft, and flight instructor availability for students.

The program includes a 15 week internship that provides hands on experience in real flight operations. Additional student experiences include Flight Deck Forums with industry professionals and an aviation cohort experience. Career support includes campus visits, mentorship opportunities, and recruiter events with airline professionals.

The program is eligible for Title IV federal financial aid. Career outcomes for graduates include positions as regional airline pilots, charter pilots, certified flight instructors, and air traffic controllers. Alumni have earned First Officer positions with Piedmont Airlines, Republic Airways, Envoy Air, and SkyWest Airlines. Some graduates have entered airline cadet programs.

EMU Aviation helps students build industry connections beyond the flight line. Through conversations with airline pilots and recruiters, students learn about career pathways and hiring practices. These experiences help students develop professional relationships that support their career goals in aviation.

Services

• Aviation degree program
• Private pilot training
• Instrument rating
• Commercial pilot training
• Multi-engine rating
• Flight instructor training
• Ground school
• Professional internship
• Career mentoring