Hampton University

Hampton University offers undergraduate aviation degrees through its Department of Aviation. The department sits within the School of Engineering, Architecture, and Aviation. It prepares students for careers as professional pilots, aviation managers, and drone operators. The programs blend technical training with a strong liberal arts background.

The Bachelor of Science in Flight Education covers professional flight. Students earn private pilot, instrument, commercial, and certified flight instructor certificates. Flight training begins on the first day through a partnership with Rick Aviation. This partner operates an FAA approved Part 141 program. Graduates have found careers with United Airlines, Delta Airlines, FedEx Express, Republic Airways, ExpressJet Airlines, and the Federal Aviation Administration.

The university also offers a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management with a concentration in Uncrewed Aircraft Systems. This program prepares students for the growing drone industry. Students earn the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot certificate. They also receive education related to Part 108 Beyond Visual Line of Sight operations and Part 146 Automated Data Service Providers. The uncrewed aircraft industry is expected to create 100,000 jobs and contribute over $82 billion to the United States economy.

Flight education graduates can pursue many roles. These include airline pilot, cargo pilot, charter pilot, corporate pilot, flight instructor, and military pilot. Drone program graduates can work as delivery drone operators, drone data analysts, public safety drone pilots, and surveying drone pilots. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for airline and commercial pilots was $226,600 in 2024. Drone pilots can earn around $100,000 as of 2025.

The aviation program holds accreditation from the Aviation Accreditation Board International. The university is a member of the FAA UAS Collegiate Training Initiative. It is also part of the United States Air Force University Affiliated Research Center for Tactical Autonomy. Through this center, students contribute to federally funded projects in artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and autonomous flight.

The department aims to prepare competent and ethical aviation professionals. Students learn aircraft design, performance, and operating characteristics. They study aviation regulations, safety, human factors, and crew resource management. The program also teaches students about airspace and air traffic control. Faculty members work to advance the aviation community through research and service. Graduates are prepared for meaningful careers in government and the aerospace industry.

Services

• Flight Education
• Professional Pilot Training
• Aviation Management
• Uncrewed Aircraft Systems
• Remote Pilot Certification
• UAS Operations