Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University has partnered with Breaking Down Barriers to meet the global demand for professional pilots.
A global shortage of professional pilots is creating promising career opportunities for aspiring aviators. With increased demand from the rise in air travel and freight activity, now is the perfect time to pursue a career in aviation.
About the Partnership
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and nonprofit Breaking Down Barriers (BDB) have partnered to offer students a pathway to select Embry-Riddle degrees through the Worldwide Campus. You’ll receive academic advising, administrative support and world-class instruction from the university while BDB provides program guidance, recruitment and ground-school training.
Becoming a pilot is challenging and requires diverse skills, but financial and systemic barriers often prevent people from underrepresented communities from pursuing a career in aviation. Based in Dallas, Texas, BDB works to remove these obstacles, focusing on reducing the high cost of flight training for talented young adults in underserved areas.
Program Pathways for Students
Students enrolled in BDB’s pilot training program choose from three Embry-Riddle Worldwide degrees designed to establish a foundational knowledge base in aviation and aerospace, equip you with essential knowledge of the industry and prepare you for careers in the aviation and aerospace industry.
You can earnadditional credits toward your degree by completing FAA certificates through your BDB flight training.
Meeting Global Demand for Pilots
The 2025 Boeing Pilot and Technician Outlook anticipates a need for 660,000 pilots by 2044. By leveraging BDB's empowerment and Embry-Riddle’s academic strengths, this partnership offers a direct education-to-career pipeline.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for airline and commercial pilots was $198,100 per year in 2024.
How do I apply for the partnership program?
- Visit Embry-Riddle admissions and choose one of the above programs
- Submit your application to Embry-Riddle and indicate your interest in the BDB partnership.
- Begin yourjourney to a professional pilot career with guidance from two leading organizations in the industry.
Please note that students enrolled through BDB are billed directly by Embry-Riddle at standard tuition rates.
Whether you're looking to start your career in aviation or advance your current position and increase your earnings, an Associate in Science in Aeronautics (ASA)offers access to new opportunities in the dynamic aviation and aerospace industry. The Aeronautics curriculum aligns with the needs of the aviation and aerospace sector as well as general education standards.
In the ASA, you'll explore a multidisciplinary program that includes courses in:
- Air Traffic Control
- Aeronautical Science
- Aircraft Maintenance
- Aviation Safety
- Human Factors
- Occupational Safety and Health
- Security
- Uncrewed Systems
Additionally, electives and minors let you customize your studies to suit your interests and career goals.
Whether you are pursuing a career in aviation, seeking to advance in your current role or looking to increase your earning potential, the Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics (BSA) provides access to opportunities within the dynamic aviation and aerospace sector.
The curriculum is strategically aligned with both industry requirements and established general education standards. The BSA is multidisciplinary, offering comprehensive coursework in:
- Air Traffic Control
- Aeronautical Science
- Aircraft Maintenance
- Aviation Safety
- Human Factors
- Occupational Safety and Health
- Security
- Uncrewed Systems
Within this extensive framework, you may select electives and minors to customize your academic path according to your unique interests and career objectives.
The Bachelor of Science in Pilot Operations (BSPO) equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to pursue successful careers as pilots in the aviation field.
This degree is for licensed pilots and tailored to address the industry’s growing demand. The BSPO enables pilot professionals to use their experience and credentials to gain a competitive edge in this rapidly changing sector.
Please note that you must have a private pilot license to enroll in the BSPO program. Coursework for this degree can begin after obtaining the license. It is possible for students to complete their flight training while attending Embry‑Riddle as full-time students.
Contact Us
Please contact us for more information on how this partnership can benefit your future in aviation.