New pilot without a degree

Hi there! I’m currently looking into applying for a pilot program in the next 3-6 months. I was previously in the navy for a little over a decade but only as an enlisted aviation maintenance tech. I do not have a degree but I do have education and experience provided from my time in service. How difficult would it be to achieve a career with a major airline? I wouldn’t be against getting a degree after I gave my foot in the door, but I’m not sure how much free time I would have to achieve it as a new pilot in the field. Im to understand that the airline industry is going to be in need of a lot of pilots in the coming years, do would that play into a better chance at a career with a legacy airline? I appreciate any feedback!

Chris,

This is one of our most FAQs. While none of the Legacies require a degree, ALL list one as a “preferred” or “competitive” item in their min reqs.

Long short its definitely possible but there’s also no question having a 4yr degree will give your a leg up. Further lif hiring slows, there’s a good chance it’ll me more important in the future.

That all said there are a number of online programs that will give your credit for your licenses and ratings once their earned. That would allow you to get a degree online in relatively short time (and cost) while you’re building time and experience at a Regional.

Adam

Chris,

Having a degree will give you a point up. However, you must first successfully acquire your certificates.

Do you have any flight experience such as Introductory Flights or any hours working towards a PPL? The first step you need to do is complete an Introductory Flight and few lessons if you haven’t. I recommend checking out your local flight school and just getting into a small plane a few times, learn some of the real basics and then begin to the process of a program like ATP.

The nice thing about ATP is they have a few university partnerships that you can use your certificates towards a degree, here is a link for that:

Brady

Chris,

I would definitely plan on getting a degree if you are going to apply to the majors. While military service is great, it is not the same as having a four year degree.

Check out this link: College Credit for Airline Career Pilot Students / ATP Flight School