SRU x CCBC

Aviation Pathway
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SRU x CCBC Aviation Pathway

About the Aviation Pathway

Earn your wings and a bachelor’s degree. Slippery Rock University’s aviation pathway, offered in partnership with the Community College of Beaver County (CCBC), provides students with a seamless way to earn flight credentials while completing a four-year SRU degree. Through this concurrent, co-enrollment model, students take courses at both institutions at the same time, allowing them to progress through pilot training and an associate degree in applied science from CCBC and a bachelor’s degree from SRU in one streamlined plan.

How the Aviation Pathway Works

  1. Enroll at both SRU and CCBC simultaneously
    Students are admitted to both institutions and have full access to advising, campus resources and support services at each school.
  2. Complete flight training through CCBC
    Aviation coursework and hands-on flying take place at CCBC’s James M. Johnson School of Aviation Sciences.
  3. Take SRU courses toward your bachelor’s degree
    While earning aviation credentials at CCBC, students complete SRU major requirements in related fields like engineering, computing, cybersecurity or security studies.
  4. Graduate with two degrees and flight experience
    Students finish with an associate degree from CCBC, a bachelor’s degree from SRU and professional pilot training that prepares them for aviation careers.

This pathway is designed for students interested in becoming pilots while building the academic foundation needed for long-term career growth in the aviation field. Students benefit from a fully integrated experience across both campuses, including access to advising, student support and campus life at each institution. By pairing professional flight training with a bachelor’s degree, graduates are equipped with technical knowledge, leadership skills and the preparation needed to succeed in today’s evolving aviation industry.

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Eligible SRU Majors for the Aviation Pathway

Students in the aviation pathway may pursue one of the following SRU bachelor’s degree programs:

*Mechanical Engineering and Industrial and Systems Engineering are accredited by ABET. Electrical and Computer Engineering is expected to earn ABET accreditation following graduation of its first cohort.

About CCBC’s Aviation Program

Flight training is completed through CCBC’s James M. Johnson School of Aviation Sciences, a nationally recognized leader in pilot education.

Learn more on CCBC’s aviation sciences website.

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What Can I Do With the Aviation Pathway?

Graduates of the SRU x CCBC Aviation Pathway are prepared for a variety of aviation, aerospace, security and technical careers. With both pilot credentials and a bachelor’s degree, students have the flexibility to pursue flight roles as well as leadership and technical positions across the industry.

Pilot & Flight Operations Careers

  • Airline pilot (regional, major, or cargo)
  • Corporate or charter pilot
  • Air ambulance or public safety pilot
  • Certified Flight Instructor (CFI/CFII)
  • Airport or airfield operations

Aviation + Engineering or Computing Careers

For students in engineering or computing programs:

  • Aircraft systems technician or engineering specialist
  • Flight testing and systems integration
  • Aviation technology and cybersecurity
  • Uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) operations

Security, Safety & Homeland Careers

For students in homeland or corporate security:

  • Aviation safety and compliance
  • Airport and transportation security
  • Emergency and risk management
  • Corporate intelligence and threat assessment

Leadership Opportunities

The combination of flight training and a bachelor’s degree positions graduates for supervisory, management, training and safety roles throughout their aviation careers.

Why Choose the Aviation Pathway?

  • A Fully Integrated, Dual-Institution Experience
    Students are co-enrolled at SRU and CCBC, giving them access to advising, student support and campus life at each institution. This structure removes transfer uncertainty and creates a smooth, efficient path toward degree completion.
  • Nationally Recognized Flight Training
    CCBC’s James M. Johnson School of Aviation Sciences is one of the top aviation training programs in the country. Students gain hands-on flying experience and advanced instruction that prepares them for professional certifications and ratings.
  • A Bachelor’s Degree That Expands Your Future
    Combining pilot licensure with a four-year degree opens doors to careers in aviation, engineering, security, computing and management. Students develop the technical and analytical skills needed for long-term advancement.
  • Built Around Workforce Needs
    The aviation pathway supports the increasing demand for trained pilots and skilled aviation professionals. Coursework and training are aligned with what employers seek in today’s industry.
  • A Strong Foundation for Lifelong Success
    Graduates earn both an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree, along with professional flight experience. This combination provides a competitive advantage and helps students launch successful careers in aviation and related fields.

Resources from SRU

From application tips to academic information and support, we provide the guidance and tools you need to start strong and stay on track. Our resources are here to help you make the most of your SRU experience.

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