2026 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Aviation
Browse manually calculated and verified tuition rates to find the cheapest online aviation master's degree programs.
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The most affordable online aviation master’s degree offers an accessible way for aviation professionals to advance their careers without putting work on hold. These flexible programs cover aviation management, safety systems, and aeronautical science, preparing students for leadership roles at airlines, airports, and regulatory agencies.
Key Takeaways:
- At first glance, Utah State University appears to be the cheapest aviation graduate program, but Delta State actually costs less overall because students can finish in just one year. Southern Illinois also offers advertises a one-year aviation master's program.
- Aviation is one of the few technical fields where smaller regional universities dominate affordability. This likely reflects aviation’s ties to regional workforces, airport systems, military communities, and local flight training partnerships.
How We Rank "Most Affordable" Schools
The OnlineU research team manually collects and verifies tuition data for every school on our lists, ensuring you see accurate, up-to-date costs whether you're pursuing an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral program. To qualify, schools must offer fully online degrees, hold institutional accreditation, and have verifiable enrollment data through the National Center for Education Statistics. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
We prioritize schools that offer a consistent tuition rate across programs at the same degree level, so you're not caught off guard by unexpected price differences between majors, and for graduate programs we go a step further by individually calculating program costs since credit requirements and fees vary widely.
2026 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Aviation
| Rank | School | Annual In-State Tuition | Annual Out-of-State Tuition | Recommendation | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Utah State University | $7,168 | $9,324 | 99% | N/A | |
| University of Central Missouri | $7,342 | $7,342 | 98% | N/A | |
| Delta State University | $8,435 | $8,435 | 76% | N/A | |
| Capitol Technology University | $9,750 | $9,750 | 33% | N/A | |
| Florida Tech - Online | $10,050 | $10,050 | 71% | N/A | |
| Middle Tennessee State University | $10,746 | $13,428 | 86% | N/A | |
| Henderson State University | $11,003 | $11,003 | 100% | N/A | |
| University of North Dakota | $11,435 | $11,435 | 94% | $81,030 | |
| Liberty University | $11,600 | $11,600 | 75% | N/A | |
| Thomas Edison State University | $12,510 | $12,510 | 66% | N/A | |
| Saint Louis University - Main Campus | $14,000 | $14,000 | 92% | N/A | |
| Southern Illinois University - Carbondale | $14,085 | $14,085 | 88% | N/A | |
| Lewis University | $15,480 | $15,480 | 81% | N/A | |
| Oklahoma State University - Main Campus | $16,137 | $17,490 | 96% | N/A | |
| Purdue University - Main Campus | $24,000 | $24,750 | 94% | N/A |
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- At $7,168 annually, the online MAS is the #1 cheapest aviation master's degree. It also boasts a strong 99% recommendation rate and a 4.18/5 review rating based on over a hundred reviews we've collected just for this school. That gives the affordability claim more weight because students collectively view USU positively beyond the price.
- USU welcomes applicants from any undergraduate field if they have aviation experience.
- The online MAS prepares students for roles in airport management, maintenance supervision, flight and ground safety, aviation safety consulting, accident investigation, safety inspection, aviation faculty work, and professional piloting.
AI Student Review Summary: Reviews of Utah State University are overwhelmingly favorable, with most students praising supportive professors and approachable advisors. Many say small class sizes, close faculty relationships, and strong mentoring helped them feel known by name, get timely answers, and receive practical guidance on coursework, careers, and graduate preparation. Distance, online, and broadcast-based classes are a recurring strength, especially for working adults, commuters, and those outside Logan. Students frequently describe these formats as flexible, well organized, and surprisingly community-oriented. The strongest criticisms center on inconsistent teaching quality, underwhelming administrative support, limited funding in some graduate areas, and uneven career services.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 1,274 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 59%
- Retention Rate: 71%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- UCM explains that aviation safety is the core of the program and says it is one of only five aviation safety programs in the U.S. It prepares students for the AAAE ACE-SMS certification (a recognizable industry credential that can help signal applied safety expertise to employers).
- Even though the degree is fully online, it is housed in UCM’s Department of Aviation and connected to Skyhaven Airport, which UCM describes as Missouri’s only university-owned airport.
AI Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of Central Missouri are broadly favorable, with students most often praising the school’s smaller-scale environment, accessible faculty, and strong career preparation. Many describe classes as small enough for professors to offer individualized guidance. Students also highlight practical outcomes, noting internship support, research opportunities, and preparation for the workforce. Affordability is a recurring advantage, especially among online and graduate reviewers. The less favorable feedback mentions inconsistent instructor quality, weak advising in some cases, unnecessary required courses, limited field selection, and a need for more online learning resources.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 826 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 54%
- Retention Rate: 74%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- This aviation master's degree online is a management-focused program built for people already working in the industry. The curriculum points toward airline management, aviation safety, air cargo and logistics, the regulatory environment, human resource management, airport planning, and advanced transportation systems.
- DSU’s online aviation gradate program is only 30 credits and takes one year to finish. It offers year-round applications, part-time scheduling, online advisement, and self-paced completion. That flexibility is relevant for those working in aviation, as schedules can be irregular and relocation may not be realistic.
- In-state and out-of-state students pay the same annual tuition, with no added out-of-state fees.
AI Student Review Summary: At Delta State University, students mention small classes, accessible professors, and a close-knit atmosphere that positively shapes the experience. Many reviewers say instructors know them by name, offer individualized help, and create a supportive environment. Several also praise practical instruction, career preparation, tutoring access, and advising, noting that coursework can be challenging and that professors push you to earn your grades. At the same time, a few reviewers describe certain areas as outdated, academically uneven, or not well aligned with workplace expectations, especially for those seeking high-prestige career paths. Others mention a lack of diversity and racial integration.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Graduate Online: 676 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 48%
- Retention Rate: 67%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- Very few programs in this affordability range mention ties to global aerospace organizations, and CapTech boasts an international networking angle through the Royal Aeronautical Society partnership.
- CapTech blends aviation administration with emerging technology, cybersecurity, and executive risk management. Courses like Impact of Emerging Technology on Aviation and Aerospace Cybersecurity Management stand out because they push the curriculum into areas tied to modernization, digital infrastructure, and aviation systems security.
- CapTech’s 9:1 student-faculty ratio places it among the strongest schools in this dataset for instructor access. So, if that's a key priority for you, this program is a good option.
- Graduate Online: 742 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: 43%
- Retention Rate: 77%
Online Degree:
What Sets This Program Apart:
- The PEGASAS affiliation — the FAA Center of Excellence for General Aviation — is probably the single most unique institutional credential on this list because it ties the program to active aviation safety research and national industry collaboration.
- Most of the other affordable aviation programs emphasize aviation leadership, but FIT instead leans heavily into aviation safety as a research-intensive discipline. In delves into safety systems, human factors, accident investigation, applied research, and connections to federal aviation research infrastructure.
- FIT is one of the few schools here presenting a long-term aviation research ladder through an online Doctor of Aviation, as one option.
- Graduate Online: 340 enrolled
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Grad. Rate: N/A
- Retention Rate: 64%
Stories Behind the Cheapest Online Aviation Master's Programs: An Editorial Analysis
Best Low-Cost Aviation Master's Degree That Students Actually Love
Utah State University 🏆
USU avoids the most common tradeoff in affordability rankings. At just $7,168 annually, it is the cheapest aviation program on the list, yet it also posts a remarkable 99% recommendation rate and a 4.18/5 review score (based on 136 reviews at the time of writing). Students are overwhelmingly endorsing the school, especially working professionals who need flexibility.
Best Aviation Safety Graduate Degree for Industry Credential Seekers
University of Central Missouri 🏆
UCM feels more specialized than many schools on this list. The school says it is one of only five aviation safety programs in the country and connects the curriculum to AAAE ACE-SMS preparation, which gives the degree a more direct professional-certification angle than many competitors. Student reviews reinforce that career-oriented identity, with repeated praise for practical preparation, internships, and workforce relevance.
Best Fast-Track Aviation Management Master's Degree
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale 🏆
SIU’s master's in aviation management program is fully asynchronous, can be completed in as little as 12 months, does not require a prior aviation degree, and eliminates GRE barriers. Collectively, that makes it one of the easiest entry points into graduate aviation management on the list.
Student Reviews of Online Aviation Programs
I am an MGA alumni who started a graduate program recently. Please believe me when I say that you should not go to this university! Avoid at all costs! Even though my time as an undergrad was excellent, the 2 semesters that I have been a graduate student have been an awful nightmare. As others have mentioned, the financial aid office is absolutely atrocious and their extreme incompetence is why I will stop going here and start another masters program somewhere else. Every month, there is major issue... Read More
Review Date: 9/17/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Everglades University imparts comprehensive information and expertise in a certain field, establishing my skill level. They provided opportunities to engage with professionals, academics, and colleagues in my profession. The demanding academic setting promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and intellectual growth.
Review Date: 9/3/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Everglades University has been unbelievable for the last two years. I have had a lot happen in my personal life, and the staff and faculty at EU Sarasota have been like a second family. I was shocked at just how many people from EU reached out when I experienced difficulty in my personal life, and how they worked with me so I could succeed academically. The experience has been exceptional. My family and I are very thankful, and I would recommend Everglades to anyone who is looking to get their degree... Read More
Review Date: 6/14/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I went to several Universities since 1994, and Everglades University has been unbelievable the last 2 years. I had a lot of things going on personally in my life, and the staff and the faculty has been like a second family for me. I was really shocked at how many people reached out during certain situations, and how they worked with me in order to complete my degree. I would recommend EU to anyone looking for a degree even outside of Aviation.
Review Date: 4/19/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Before selecting a University, I had unique requirements. As most adults, working full-time has it's scheduling challenges without adding the extracurricular activities. Therefore, the selection process required the ability to continue to work and also attend classes. In addition, the field of study was also a major criteria along with scheduling classroom time and travel from the office. After my due diligence, Everglades University met and exceeded all my concerns. Attending EU has been the best... Read More
Review Date: 6/11/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Perhaps you work in the aviation or aerospace industry and are looking to advance your knowledge, skills, abilities, and opportunitiesPilot, air traffic controller, meteorologist, aviation educator, safety officer whatever position you currently hold, a graduate degree in aeronautics could help take your career to new heights
Review Date: 3/12/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
ERAU is a great program for working students. Being on active duty it is hard to continue schooling while maintaining balance both professionally and personally. ERAU offers online classes that creates an environment to check-in and complete assignments in a manageable timeframe. The teachers and fellow students are accepting of additional stressors or time constraints and foster a positive learning environment.
Review Date: 9/1/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
EVERGLADES UNIVERSITY TAKES PRIDE IN THE EDUCATION & SUPPORT THEY PROVIDE FOR THEIR STUDENTS AND ALUMNI The staff at Everglades University are a cut above the rest. They will take the time to address any questions you may have about your classes, the university, or even the weather. EU is an accredited university that provides its students with a flexible schedule and harbors an environment that encourages its' students to learn and share their career experiences. Online school may seem impersonal... Read More
Review Date: 5/25/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This university is a good place to be they are very helpful in making sure you are on track and they make sure that it is one of the best online schools around. The aviation program is fantastic with very knowledgeable instructors in the industry. They have a very diverse group
Review Date: 9/29/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
There seem to be some individuals that would give this university a bad grade. The truth is that they have done right by me. I called to ask about the school in Orlando Florida. I visited, I was then guided to call the on line POC in Boca Raton. I was signed up within a day using my GI Bill. I will be graduating two years later on June 2015. I had the option of two classes or one, I choose one because of my schedule, work, home, family and other stuff. None the less, I was challenged in my studies,... Read More
Review Date: 5/28/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I attended Everglades for the Master's in Aviation. I had previously attended ERAU for my Bachelor's but decided to attend Everglades based on the cost difference. The staff were just as experiences with several professors coming from a military or professional aviation background. The coursework and outcome met my expectations and I am happy to be an alumni.
Review Date: 5/6/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University provided me with the foundation of knowledge and skills I needed to be successful in my career and further education. I am thankful for the quality of my fellow students, faculty, and staff that supported me each step of the program!
Review Date: 6/30/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Great University! Highly recommended! I have been a student at Everglades University since 2018. I did my bachelor's degree in Aviation/Aerospace Management - Flight operations at Everglades University, and I am currently enrolled in the Master's Aviation/Aerospace program. I am a full-time working mom, and EU is an excellent choice for me to attend college. The "on-campus classes" in the evening or online classes fit perfectly in my schedule.
Review Date: 7/28/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Everglades University has a great academic environment with excellent professors that are experts in their respective fields. The school provides a very supportive environment with easy access to help and guidance. It is designed to be supportive of working adults. The class structure and schedules allow for rapid degree completion. A student committed to their studies will be pleased with their grade performance. Your experience at Everglades University will give you a network of supportive staff... Read More
Review Date: 8/9/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I started at Everglades about seven years ago with my Bachelors and I never been more proud. They always went above and beyond my expectations, classes are small which make instructor focus on you. The education, training, and faculty staff are always there for you, before during and even after graduation. Thanks to my degrees and the support from Everglades I am getting lots of really good job opportunities that I know I would have received without Everglades.
Review Date: 5/26/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I attended ERAU for my Master's degree in Aeronautical Science (MAS). They have since upgraded the actual name to MSA for Masters of Science in Aeronautics which I agree needed to be done to coincide with all the other Master's programs on the market. ERAU is the number one school when it comes to aviation. If you go anywhere in the aviation community and let them know you received your degree from ERAU they will know you received an outstanding education. I took advantage of taking classes in several... Read More
Review Date: 3/24/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Attending Everglades University was a great experience for me. I had attended at least 2 universities before coming to EU and I found that this university was a great fit for me. I enjoyed my interactions with the faculty and staff and the conversations with other students in classes. The registrar was amazing and always very helpful. I would definitely recommend EU to anyone pursuing a higher level degree.
Review Date: 6/17/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
When I joined Everglades University, I was freshly separated from the military. This school did an excellent job working with my GI bill with minimal stress. The schedule of classes was perfect between work and school. I feel that this was the perfect school for me. The aviation management program helped me gain more knowledge in a field that I was already highly interested in.
Review Date: 12/15/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
After years of working in aviation and education, I decided that I wanted career growth. I knew that if I advanced in my education, I would be taken more seriously and be able to seek different opportunities. The best thing about the Everglades University environment from Vice President Dina Siganos to the front desk receptionist is the sincere sense of the student’s success. The people that run the school are vested in the success of the students. My favorite instructor was Mr. Terry Henry. I liked... Read More
Review Date: 6/11/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Throughout the years of being part of the Aviation program at ASU, I have learned that regardless of your focus in the aviation industry, everyone in it will always have a way to help another peer. It is a small program but a surprisingly small industry as well. Having professors who have high field experience not only makes a good class, it also helps develop relationships that provide students with valuable insight. Small classrooms also benefit students with 1-on-1 interaction. Overall, excellent... Read More
Review Date: 5/10/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes