Air Transportation at Utah Valley University

Peer programs in aviation suggest first-year earnings around $42,000, but this program's trajectory tells a more compelling story. By year four, graduates earn a median of $73,559—a 73% jump that reflects how aviation careers accelerate as pilots build hours and advance ratings. Based on comparable associate programs nationally, graduates typically carry about $13,000 in debt, putting the estimated debt-to-earnings ratio at a manageable 0.31.

The limited data available makes it harder to assess how Utah Valley's specific program compares to its state competitors, but the four-year earnings figure is actual reported data and provides the clearest signal of value. That $73,559 at year four substantially exceeds what similar aviation programs produce nationally at the same point, suggesting graduates are successfully transitioning into commercial aviation roles. The aviation industry's structured career ladder—from flight instructor to regional airline to major carrier—means early earnings matter less than momentum.

For parents, the key question is whether your child will persist through the flight hours and ratings needed to reach those year-four earnings. The estimated debt load is light enough that it shouldn't derail that progression, but aviation careers require significant additional investment in flight time beyond the degree itself. If your child is committed to flying professionally, the earnings trajectory here justifies the initial investment.