Air Transportation at Utah State University

Utah State's Air Transportation program produces first-year earnings of just $33,142—nearly $10,000 below the state median and placing it dead last among Utah's four aviation programs. When a pilot training program delivers earnings this far below both Utah Valley's $56,400 and Westminster's $43,000, parents should ask pointed questions about employment outcomes and industry connections.

The $25,500 debt load is roughly average for aviation programs, but paired with these below-market earnings, it creates a concerning debt-to-earnings ratio. Aviation careers typically offer strong mid-career growth, but starting $10,000 behind your in-state peers means playing catch-up from day one. The 30-100 graduate sample size suggests this isn't a statistical fluke—there's enough data to show a pattern.

For Utah families, this is straightforward: if your child is committed to aviation, Utah Valley's program produces graduates earning 70% more right out of the gate for similar debt. Unless USU offers compelling advantages like specific fleet training or unique flight certifications, paying similar tuition for substantially worse outcomes makes little financial sense. Consider this program only if location in Logan is essential or if specific program features clearly justify the earnings gap.