Air Transportation at University of Dubuque

University of Dubuque's aviation program starts slowly but shows dramatic income growth—graduates earn $37,362 in year one but jump to $68,260 by year four, an 83% increase that outpaces typical career trajectories. The $26,250 in debt is slightly above the national median but translates to a manageable 0.70 debt-to-earnings ratio in that crucial first year when loan payments begin. As the only aviation bachelor's program in Iowa, state comparisons aren't meaningful, but the year-four earnings solidly exceed the national median.

That first-year salary ranking in just the 22nd percentile nationally reflects a reality of aviation careers: building flight hours and credentials takes time. Many graduates likely work as flight instructors or in entry-level aviation roles before moving into commercial piloting or aviation management positions that command significantly higher pay. The four-year earnings suggest this pathway works, though you'll need financial runway (pun intended) to weather that initial period.

The major caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes may vary considerably. But for Iowa families looking at aviation careers, the debt load is reasonable and the trajectory points upward. Just ensure your student understands they're signing up for delayed gratification rather than immediate high earnings.