Air Transportation at Minnesota State University-Mankato

Minnesota State University-Mankato's air transportation program stands out for what happens after that modest first-year salary. While $45,193 initially sits just above the national median, graduates see their earnings jump 67% by year four to reach $75,272—an exceptional trajectory in aviation careers. This earnings acceleration reflects the reality of building flight hours and progressing from entry-level positions to commercial or corporate pilot roles.

The debt picture makes this growth story even more compelling. At $20,500, graduates carry roughly $4,000 less debt than the national median for aviation programs, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45. Among Minnesota's limited aviation program options, this represents the median outcome, but the combination of lower debt and strong earnings growth gives MSU-Mankato an edge for in-state students seeking affordable pilot training. The 91% admission rate means the program is accessible to most applicants willing to commit to the rigorous training.

For families worried about aviation's notorious training costs, this program delivers solid value. The four-year earnings jump suggests graduates successfully transition into professional flying careers, while the below-average debt load means they're not financially grounded while building their hours. If your child is serious about a flying career and wants to stay in-state, the numbers support this choice.