Air Transportation at Metropolitan State University of Denver

Metropolitan State University of Denver's aviation program offers middle-of-the-pack starting salaries but shows impressive earnings momentum. Graduates earn $43,922 in their first year—slightly above the national median—but see their income jump 38% to more than $60,000 by year four. That's a faster trajectory than many aviation programs deliver. At $24,356 in median debt, students face manageable loans that represent just over half their first-year salary, giving them breathing room as their careers take off.

The numbers look particularly solid for Colorado families. This is the only aviation bachelor's program in the state reporting data, and its outcomes match or exceed national benchmarks across the board. The nearly-open admissions (99% acceptance rate) means accessibility isn't a barrier, yet graduates still achieve competitive earnings. For students interested in aviation careers who want to stay in Colorado, this program removes the need to look out of state.

The debt picture is reasonable but not exceptional—right at the national median. However, the strong earnings growth pattern suggests graduates are advancing into better-paying aviation roles relatively quickly, whether in piloting, operations, or management. If your child is genuinely committed to an aviation career and values staying close to home, this program delivers solid outcomes without requiring perfection in high school or taking on crushing debt.