Central Washington University's Professional Pilot programs prepare graduates for entry-level careers and leadership roles in the aviation industry. Our department has earned a reputation for training excellent commercial pilots in the industry. Students select one of two specializations leading to a bachelor of science degree.

Specializations

Flight Officer
Student must attend Ellensburg to complete this degree.

This program prepares the student for a professional pilot position by focusing on aircraft systems and aircraft operations. Students receive instruction in CWU’s advanced multi-engine flight training devices, including a CRJ-200. Students may be eligible for internships and, after graduation, the Direct-Hire program with many regional airlines.

The Flight Officer curriculum is designed to provide a solid foundation in aviation courses along with a liberal arts core to give the student the education necessary for entry-level positions in the aviation industry.

Upon completion, students earn the following certificates and ratings:

• Private Pilot Certificate
• Instrument Rating
• Commercial Pilot Certificate
• Multi-engine Rating
• Certified Flight Instructor Certificate

Possible internship opportunities:

• National Transportation Safety Board
• Alaska Airlines
• Horizon Airlines

Commercial Pilot

The CWU Aviation program prepares the student for a commercial pilot position by focusing on aircraft systems and aircraft operations. The Commercial Pilot Specialization combines a solid background in aviation courses along with a liberal arts core to give the student the education necessary for entry-level position in the aviation industry. It also includes aviation management and law-based classes.

Upon completion, students will have earned the following certificates and ratings:

• Private Pilot Certificate
• Instrument Rating
• Commercial Pilot Certificate

Application Process

1. Transfer as an Aviation Management major to Central Washington University (CWU) by taking the preadmission requirements toward your bachelor's degree while meeting the requirements of Big Bend Community College's (BBCC) Direct Transfer Agreement (DTA) (Associates in Arts and Science - AA&S) and Aviation (Commercial Pilot) program.
2. Work with a Big Bend Community College Aviation faculty advisor to ensure proper course sequencing for the Aviation, DTA and Aviation Management major.
3. Apply for admission to CWU at www.cwu.edu/admissions. Visit the CWU-Moses Lake Center early in your academic career to find out if you are eligible for dual admission. Find application and guidelines at www.cwu.edu/admissions/dual-admission.
4. Submit official transcripts to CWU-Ellensburg. If you have not completed your degree or preadmission requirements continue to submit official transcripts quarterly.

BS Professional Pilot (PDF)