Texas State University is partnering with US Aviation Academy pilot flight training to expand its Aviation Science degree program to Denton, New Braunfels, Atlanta and Kansas City.
This latest partnership further helps address the growing national demand for airline and commercial pilots. The program, offered by TXST’s Department of Organization, Workforce and Leadership Studies (OWLS), will begin admitting students to the aviation program at multiple U.S. airports starting in Fall 2026.
“Partnerships like this are exactly what the aviation industry needs right now,” said Steve Kugler, Vice President of Business Development at US Aviation Academy. “By working together with institutions like Texas State University, we can create clear pathways for students to earn a college degree while gaining the professional flight training and certifications needed to launch successful aviation careers. As the demand for pilots continues to grow nationwide, collaborations between universities and flight training organizations will play a critical role in developing the next generation of aviation professionals. We are excited to provide flight training through Texas State University at our New Braunfels, Denton, Atlanta, and Kansas City, campuses.”
Designed to meet students where they are, both academically and geographically, the bachelor of applied arts and science in Aviation Science integrates professional flight training directly into the degree plan, so students build credentials and career readiness simultaneously.
The B.A.A.S. with a major in Aviation Science will provide a pathway to certifications and licensure required for professional pilots along with the critical thinking, teamwork and leadership skills valued by the commercial aviation industry.
“This partnership allows Texas State University to reach students where they are, making it easier to obtain an aviation degree and earn a high-paying job as a professional pilot, helping address the nation’s growing pilot shortage,” said TXST President Kelly Damphousse.The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that during the decade spanning 2022-2032, the demand for commercial pilots will grow nationally by more than 5,600 positions, an increase of more than 4%. About 16,800 openings for commercial pilots are projected each year, on average, over this time span, with many of those openings resulting from the need to replace pilots reaching mandatory retirement.
The Aviation Science program is currently accepting applications for Arizona, California, Kansas, Georgia, Texas and Utah. Future locations include Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada and New Mexico pending state authorization approval.
For more information, visit aviation.txst.edu.