Texas Christian University announced on Thursday that it is launching a Bachelor of Science in Professional Aviation, along with an Aviation Studies minor, to meet demand in one of the nation’s fastest-growing industries.
The new major includes two concentrations. Aviation Administration, anticipated to launch in fall 2026, prepares students for leadership roles in airlines, airports, and aviation organizations. Professional Pilot, planned for fall 2027, follows a structured FAA-aligned Part 141 pathway. Both the concentrations and the minor are pending approval by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Big news for TCU and DFW! ✈️
We’re excited to introduce a new Bachelor of Science in Professional Aviation, along with an Aviation Studies minor. Designed to meet the rising demand for aviation professionals in the DFW area, one of the nation’s largest airline travel hubs, this… pic.twitter.com/vqnwt8t1Cz
— TCU (@TCU) April 23, 2026
The program will be housed in TCU’s College of Education. It leverages the university’s location in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, home to major airlines such as American Airlines and Southwest Airlines, aerospace firms including Lockheed Martin and Bell Textron, and DFW International Airport, one of the world’s busiest.
“The Dallas–Fort Worth region sits at the center of one of the most important aviation networks in the world,” TCU Chancellor Daniel W. Pullin said in the April 23 press release. “Expanding aviation education at TCU aligns with the momentum across the booming North Texas region and the growing demand for well-trained talent in this key industry. With this new field of study, TCU is preparing Horned Frogs for leadership and service in a critical field with deep roots within our home community.”
Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker welcomed the announcement. “For nearly a century, Fort Worth has been at the center of aeronautic and aerospace innovation,” Parker said. “This new degree pathway at TCU helps ensure the next generation of leaders and innovators will be developed right here in the Aviation and Defense Capital of Texas, strengthening our workforce of well-prepared leaders and playing a key role in the future of this vital industry.”
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed a resolution in June of 2025 designating Fort Worth as the “Aviation and Defense Capital of Texas.”
Industry input shaped the curriculum. Kyle Mabry ’93 MBA, former vice president of global sales and international operations for American Airlines and advisor to the program, highlighted its practical focus.
“The aviation industry demands strong leadership and sound decision-making in a highly complex, fast-moving environment. What makes TCU’s program especially compelling is its intentional connection to industry, not just in concept, but in how the curriculum is being shaped with input from industry professionals and leaders,” Mabry said.
Sample courses include Unmanned Aerial Systems, Human Factors in Aviation, Aviation Safety, Aviation Leadership, Air Cargo Operations, and Airport Operations & Administration. The Professional Pilot concentration culminates with the Certified Flight Instructor rating. The minor offers the opportunity to earn a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
Several other Texas institutions already offer aviation-related degrees, including the following:
LeTourneau University in Longview operates the state’s only comprehensive university-level aviation program, offering bachelor’s degrees in Professional Flight, Aviation Maintenance, and Mission Aviation, dating back to 1956.
Baylor University’s Institute for Aviation Sciences in Waco provides a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Sciences with Professional Pilot concentrations (airplane and helicopter) and an Aviation Administration major.
Texas A&M University-Central Texas offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Professional Pilot, described as the only state-supported four-year professional pilot program in Texas, as well as an Aviation Management option.
Stephen F. Austin State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Sciences with concentrations in Professional Pilot and Aviation Management.
The University of North Texas offers a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Logistics, the first four-year program of its kind in Texas.
Texas Woman’s University is launching its Doswell School of Aeronautical Sciences with a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Science.
TCU’s entry adds another option in North Texas as the industry addresses pilot shortages and demand for skilled administrators.
