MRU launches four-year Bachelor of Aviation Management giving students an edge from runway to boardroom

A new four-year Bachelor of Aviation Management degree has landed at Mount Royal University. The program blends technical and managerial competencies, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in the aviation sector ranging from the runway to the boardroom. The Bissett School of Business, which houses MRU’s Aviation program, will admit 40 students annually, with applications now open for the first cohort starting Fall 2024.

The Bachelor of Aviation Management is the first degree of its kind in Alberta, providing a comprehensive education that prepares graduates for roles in operations and management within airlines, airports and other aviation-related businesses. With two unique concentration pathways, Flight Crew Operations and Aviation Operations, students are able to narrow in on the area that interests them most. While flight training may be part of the degree depending on which concentration a student selects, a private pilots license is not required prior to applying.

“There is a pilot shortage worldwide, so there is an enormous demand for education in this sector. We have also received feedback from industry that says there is a need for people with a business background along with an understanding of aviation to work in many other leadership roles in the sector,” said Kelly Williams-Whitt, dean of the Faculty of Business and Communication Studies.

Through the Flight Crew Operations pathway, students have the option to pursue a Commercial Pilot License and Multi-Engine Instrument Rating. This comprehensive training prepares them for a professional pilot career while also positioning them strategically for management roles as their aviation journey progresses.

The Aviation Operations pathway focuses on honing management skills and provides specialized knowledge in aviation business content. From addressing global operational challenges to delving into economic and environmental sustainability, financial operations, logistics, and best practices for managing people and processes in the aviation industry, this pathway ensures graduates are well-prepared for leadership roles.

Built on a strong base of experiential learning, the Bachelor of Aviation Management is designed to facilitate a seamless transition from degree to employment. The University's airline partnership program provides students with direct access to mentorship and interview opportunities while the Co-operative Education option allows students to complete up to three 450-hour paid work terms.

With a commitment to excellence, Mount Royal University continues to shape the future of aviation education in Alberta and beyond. Learn more about the Bachelor of Aviation Management at MRU.

For further information, please contact:

Peter Glenn, Manager, External Relations and Issues Management
403.463.6930
mediarelations@mtroyal.ca