Northwestern Michigan College

Northwestern Michigan College is a college in Traverse City, Michigan. Its aviation division offers degrees and certificates in aviation and uncrewed aerial systems. The college says aviation students can complete all of their flight training in their first two years.

The aviation programs include an Associate in Applied Science degree in Aviation and an Associate in Applied Science in Uncrewed Aerial Systems Technology. A Level I certificate in uncrewed aerial systems is also offered. Ratings listed on the site include Private, Instrument and Commercial under Part 141, multi-engine, flight instructor, instrument flight instructor and seaplane.

The college says its small size allows for personal attention. It also says students can move faster to a professional pilot job, and that the program costs less than many other collegiate programs. The college is listed as VA approved.

The site lists careers that graduates may enter. These include airline pilot, air traffic controller, airfield operations specialist, flight attendant and aviation inspector.

Tuition for general academic programs in 2026 to 2027 is $136 per contact hour for Grand Traverse County residents. It is $291 per contact hour for other Michigan residents. The site lists articulation agreements with partners such as Davenport University and the University of the West of England. The aviation office can be reached at (231) 995-2009 for program details and campus visits.