Professional Flight Technology (FLT)

Meet Amanda Keck.

Nowhere is the College of Technology's hands-on approach more apparent than in the professional flight program. In flight simulators and planes, you'll log many flight and training hours that will prepare you to be a commercial airline, corporate or charter pilot.

To be admitted into Purdue's program, you must possess valid Federal Aviation medical and student pilot certification. All incoming students are encouraged to obtain the First Class level of the medical certificate, which is required to pursue a career in commercial aviation.

Because of limited space, selection for this program is academically competitive. Completed applications must be received at the Office of Admissions by November 15 for the following fall semester.

Full admission requirements

Students can transfer from accredited universities as beginning flight students, or as students in the third year of the flight curriculum.  To transfer as a 3rd-year flight student, you must have:

  • unrestricted FAA commercial pilot certificate
  • unrestricted FAA instrument rating airplane
  • FAA medical certificate valid for at least second-class privileges
  • at least a 2.5 cumulative grade point average

Criteria for juniors

International Students

  • are eligible to apply for admission
  • must demonstrate proficiency in English written and verbal skills
  • may face additional requirements imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration, Transportation Security Administration, and other United States government agencies

International admission requirements

Special features

 

Courses

You will develop strong technical skills supported by critical thinking, decision-making and communication abilities to prepare for a successful aviation career.

Course Topics

  • factors for flight
  • Aircraft powerplants for flight crews
  • Cross-country flight
  • Aviation meteorology
  • Crew resource management

Potential Job Titles

  • Flight instructor
  • Executive pilot
  • Airline captain

International opportunities

All professional flight students complete a globalization requirement, either by studying abroad, completing an internship outside the United States, or taking one of several identified classes. You may also participate in an approved international research project that includes at least seven days of international travel. The requirement also can be met by proving foreign language competence or at least 15 days of international travel or residence since your 12th birthday.

See the complete list of qualifying classes or activities at http://www.purdue.edu/tech/at.

Student organizations

Click here to learn more about Student Organizations.

Accreditation

The BS program in professional flight technology at West Lafayette is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International.

Degrees, Certificates, and Ratings

The degree of associate in applied science is awarded once the student completes the first two years of the flight plan of study. Additionally, students earn private and commercial pilot certificates and an instrument rating.

The bachelor of science degree in aviation technology is awarded to students successfully completing requirements of the second two years.