Aviation Sciences Technology AAS, Professional Pilot Option

Program Description

At the TCC Riverside Community Campus and Aviation Center, the Aviation Sciences Technology AAS, Professional Pilot Option degree program integrates flight training with academic study to provide a comprehensive foundation in commercial aviation. The program prepares students for FAA certification, offering flexibility in training pace and scheduling while maintaining high professional standards. Graduates are prepared for certification as single- or multi-engine commercial pilots, flight instructors, or for careers in business and commercial aviation. Training is conducted in a modern fleet that includes Cessna 172S and Piper Seminole PA44-180 aircraft, each equipped with advanced Garmin G1000 avionics.

Students build critical-thinking and problem-solving skills through scenario-based training, Advanced Aviation Training Device (AATD) simulations, and in-depth study of navigation, aerodynamics, and aircraft systems. Emphasis is placed on safety, human factors, effective resource management, and professional decision-making.

The Professional Pilot program provides students with flexibility to tailor their training schedules while ensuring they meet or exceed FAA standards for pilot certification. This structure allows students to progress at their own pace while developing the knowledge, skills, and professional mindset necessary for success in the aviation industry. As an applicton-based program, it ensures that students gain practical experience alongside acdemic isntructrion, preparing graduates who are both proficient and insustry-ready.

Degree Requirements

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Aviation Science may be attained in four semesters. To earn the degree, successful completion of a minimum of 60 credit hours is required. The purpose of the Professional Pilot option degree program is to prepare the graduate for a productive career as an independent flight instructor, commercial business operator, or professional airline pilot.

Transfer students with previously completed aviation related coursework/certifications may request a review of their ground and flight training records prior to enrollment to determine eligibility for prior learning assessment credit toward the Professional Pilot degree. Prior learning assessment can be initiated by submitting relevant transcripts, FAA documentation, and/or FAA knowledge test exam scores to academic advising.

Professional Flight Training at Tulsa Community College

Flight training is a continuous process that normally begins sometime during the student’s first year of attendance and will progress until degree requirements are fulfilled. The curriculum is designed to allow students to meet core objectives in a reasonable amount of time.

Students’ progress can vary based on several factors, such as academic preparation, determination and dedication, skill, financial resources, weather conditions, as well as student, aircraft, and instructor availability. Because of these influences, some students may complete their training more quickly than others.

Program Flight Training Fees

Aircraft Rental Rates                                                      

Solo Cessna 172S                $189.00/Hour  

Dual Cessna 172S                $214.00/Hour        

Dual Piper PA-44-180           $350.00/Hour     

Training Devices

RedBird FMX AATD           $55.00/Hour                

Additional pre/post flight and Oral Briefings rates apply $45.00/hour                    

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Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, you will be able to:

• Integrate aeronautical decision-making principles within professional flying.
• Use crew resource management principles within a crew environment.
• Communicate as required by the FAA Airman Certification Standards.

Careers

Schedule an appointment with TCC Career Services to learn more about our free career planning and job preparation services.

Degree Requirements

View a semester-by-semester course plan of study and information on how this degree transfers to another university on the Aviation Sciences Technology AAS Professional Pilot Option, Program Map