School of Aviation

Beginning in 1967, Louisiana Tech University’s School of Aviation has established itself as a high-quality degree program with a national reputation for outstanding graduates. The Department is a member of the University Aviation Association and is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI).

In 2017, the School of Aviation integrated a new fleet of 12 Cessna Skyhawk and Piper Arrow aircraft. The School conducts both ground, simulator, and flight training year-round. Flight operations are headquartered at the Ruston Regional Airport in the Louisiana Tech Flight Operations building. We have aviation management cooperative agreements with the Louisiana Airport Managers Association and many Fixed-Based Operators in the region. Our links with industry are accomplished by internship programs with numerous major air carriers, regional airlines, corporate aviation, and government organizations as well as maintaining close contacts with our graduates.

Mission Statement

As a selective-admissions, collegiate aviation program, the School of Aviation is committed to providing two AABI-accredited baccalaureate degrees in Professional Aviation and Aviation Management. Both academic programs focus on setting a standard of excellence and providing graduates with the knowledge, skills, experience, and attitudes necessary to shape and lead the aviation industry in the 21st century. Louisiana Tech University and the School of Aviation maintain as their highest priority the education and development of their students in a challenging, yet safe and supportive, diverse community of learners.

Requirements for Admission

Applicants to the School of Aviation must meet all University admission requirements.  University admission does not guarantee placement within Professional Aviation or Aviation Management.  Due to the unique nature of both degree programs, selection as a student within the School of Aviation is competitive.  All applicants will be evaluated based on initial application date, cumulative GPA, and standardized test scores.  In addition, applicants to the flying program (Professional Aviation major) must obtain an FAA Class-1 Medical.  A copy of the Certificate must be included as part of their application.  The FAA website Find an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) | Federal Aviation Administration has a list of doctors by area who can conduct this medical exam.  A submitted University application declaring Professional Aviation or Aviation Management will automatically place the applicant in candidate status with the School of Aviation.  The application deadline is January 15 of the year prior to intended entry.  Students will be notified of their selection status no later than February of their intended year of entry.

All students must complete a campus visit to qualify for admission.  The School of Aviation recommends University application at least one academic year prior to intended entry.  Applicants are encouraged to confirm acceptance into the program before making a commitment to attend.  Graduating high school seniors and transfer students are required to have a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA and a 23 ACT composite score or 1130 SAT score. Higher scores are more competitive.

A campus visit can be scheduled through Louisiana Tech Admissions at 318.257.3036. Physical visits to the School of Aviation located in Davison Hall may also be scheduled through Louisiana Tech Admissions. Physical visits to Louisiana Tech Flight Operations are not possible until further notice, in order to minimize disruption of flight operations.

All students not initially selected for Professional Aviation or Aviation Management are encouraged to attend Louisiana Tech in another degree program and compete for an academic major change, if desired.  As a current Louisiana Tech student, enrollment as an aviation major is evaluated each academic quarter and based on cumulative GPA and our available flight training resources.  A major change request can be made in our main office located in Davison Hall 320.

For more information, please visit our university catalog page.