Eastern Michigan University aviation program recognized among top 10 most valuable programs in the United States

New research analyzed by Flying Magazine determined EMU’s program to be one of only 13 in the U.S. to offer a lifetime earnings increase greater than 100% for less than $100,000 in four-year education-related spending

A small airplane at the EMU Aviation facility.

YPSILANTI – In research recently gathered by Preston Cooper, a higher education research fellow at The Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity, and analyzed by Flying Magazine, Eastern Michigan University’s Aviation Program was recognized among the top 10 most valuable programs in the country – and the only aviation program in Michigan – offering the greatest return on investment (ROI) for students upon graduation.

“This recognition is an incredible testament to the aviation program at EMU,” said Jerard Delaney, program coordinator of EMU Aviation. “We take pride in offering accessible and competitive programs that lead to rewarding careers upon graduation, and this is a strong reflection of that commitment.”

As part of the research, Cooper and his colleagues gathered data on graduates from more than 30,000 different bachelor degree programs in the U.S., noting the cost for each degree, and compared that to real-world earnings data for graduates to calculate an ROI for each program. ROI is defined in the study as “the increase in lifetime earnings a student can expect from that degree, minus the direct and indirect costs of college.”

Jason Depew, a reporter at Flying Magazine, then used that data to compare aviation programs across the country to determine which ones offer the most value and greatest ROI to students after graduation by comparing annual and four-year net tuition costs, absolute increase in lifetime earnings and percentage and lifetime ROI.

Depew used those findings to determine the “Biggest Winners” list of aviation programs that offer a lifetime earnings increase greater than 100% for less than $100,000 in four-year education-related spending, with EMU proudly earning a spot.

"The Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity ranks the return on investment for EMU's aviation technology program among the top 10 in the U.S.,” said Depew. “Coupled with their willingness to give credit for some previously obtained pilot ratings, and available scholarships, EMU definitely deserves consideration from any aspiring professional aviator."

“The GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology offers two aviation programs that are highly regarded and growing rapidly: aviation flight technology and aviation management,” said Dean Mohamad Qatu. “Thanks to the flexibility offered by our partner, Crosswind Aviation, we offer students the option of four regional airports to participate in our program -- making it easy and accessible for them to fly.

“Our program is among the most affordable in the nation with an excellent job outlook to start and propel the careers of our aviation students,” continued Qatu. “Successful Eastern graduates can be found enjoying careers at the major airlines as well as regional carriers."

The EMU Aviation Program is dedicated to preparing students to meet the dynamic needs of the aviation industry, including careers that range from piloting an aircraft, to the management of an entire airline. It provides students with a comprehensive education, and the opportunities for professional, intellectual, and personal growth. The goal of the program is to ensure that EMU aviation graduates have a competitive advantage to fill the exciting careers in the aviation industry.

For more information about the EMU Aviation Program, visit the program homepage.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 16,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and, its graduate school. EMU is regularly recognized by national publications for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website.

March 04, 2022

Written by:
Morgan Mark

Media Contact:
Melissa Thrasher
mthrashe@emich.edu
734-487-4401