Aviation at Central Christian College

So, You're Thinking About a Career in Aviation?

Are you thinking about a career in aviation, but you're a little nervous about the future of the industry?  Well, let's take a moment to get a better handle on what's going on..  If you have watched the news, you are well aware of how the aviation industry has taken some serious hits since 9/11.  But, forecasters are saying that this decline is about to take a major up turn.

In a recent  issue of Plane & Pilot Magazine, Ron Fowler presents some thought-provoking realities concerning the future of aviation..  In the article, he outlines the very real possibility that a career in aviation can be a very rewarding and long-term occupation.  Even though things may seem a little bleak right now, that does not mean they will remain that way for long.  While many of the major airlines have cutback their aviation staff, many companies and regional industries are searching for qualified individuals.  This is not only true for pilots, but also for technicians.  According to Fowler, leading schools that train aviation technicians are placing 90% of their graduates.  You can check out the entire article here. Aviation Industry.

How Can Central Christian College Help?

It doesn't matter if you are just interested in recreational flying, or if you are looking at a career. Either way, you will find Central Christian more than ready and able to meet your needs.  Central Christian College has a strategic partnership with McPherson City-County Airport.  This partnership means Central Christian College can offer you a very high quality aviation program at a very competitive price (see pricing information below).  You will be learning to fly at one of the top small airports in the United States.  The McPherson Airport boasts a recently completed $3.6 million runway equipped with Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI).  The runway is 5,500 feet, and maintains all new approach lighting.

In addition to courses offered at Central Christian, students are given the opportunity to explore the aeronautics industry with yearly excursions to Smoky Hill Bombing Range, Learjet, Boeing, Cessna, Kansas Cosmosphere, and Air Traffic Control in Kansas City.  These opportunities are possible through a very active student aviation club, called the Flying Tigers.  

Does it Work?

Central Christian is proud to have trained over 175 pilots.  Graduates have entered careers in charter services, and as missionary pilots, flight instructors, corporate pilots, and commercial pilots.  Kevin Snowberger, graduate of Central Christian is currently employed as Jeff Gordon’s (NASCAR Champion) private pilot.

How High Can I Go?

Well, that depends some on your flight plan, but as far as your training goes, below you will find the licenses and ratings that are available to you.  They are listed in the order in which they need to be completed.  The private license, instrument rating, and commercial license usually require two semesters each to complete.  Still, if you are ambitious enough, you may be able to achieve a license or rating in one semester.  Your success and level of certification depend mostly on your own demonstrated ability to complete the necessary classroom studies and the required flight hours. Of course, you will still be required to pass the appropriate FAA written exams and the FAA check ride.

Private Pilot's License – AV 101/102 (3 credits each) 
For the student with little or no flight experience.  Cumulative flight time required is 40-50 hours.

Instrument Rating – AV 201/202/203 (3 credits each)
The student with a Private license now learns to fly by reference to instruments alone.  Cumulative flight time required for this rating is 125 hours.

Commercial License – AV 301/302/303 (3 credits each)
This license is required to be able to fly for hire. Cumulative flight time required for this license is 250 hours.

Certified Flight Instructor – AV 404 (4 credits)
This license allows the student to provide basic flight instruction.

Certified Flight Instructor, Instrument – AV 405 (2 credits)
Successful completion allows the student to provide instruction in instrument flying. 

Multi-Engine Rating – AV 406 (2 credits)
This rating must be earned in order to fly an airplane having two engines.

What Will I Be Doing?

Students desiring to focus their studies on an area related to aviation can take advantage of one of the following options:
 
Bachelor of Science in Business Degree, Small Business Management - Aviation
Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies Degree, Aviation
Two-Year Career Entry Programs

What Will It Cost Me? 

The estimated minimum cost for a full-time student to receive his/her Private Pilot's Certificate (AV 101, 102) is $3, 467.  This represents a generous discount from Mac Air and is in addition to regular college tuition and fees.  Mac Air will guarantee pricing, based on the student's flying at least once a week or as requested by the instructor.  With this price guarantee, the student promises that if he/she terminates after twenty (20) hours-AV 101—Introduction to Aviation and AV 102—Private Flying, he/she will be responsible for the full payment. The instrument, commercial, and instructor fee structure is available upon request from the Admissions Office.

Who Is Going to Help Me?

Faculty

Every student, declaring a concentration in aviation, can be assured that they will receive personal and caring help from our talented team of faculty members. Our team includes:

Academic Advising

Upon declaring your major area of study, you will be assigned to a personal academic advisor.  This advisor will take the time to meet with you individually and help you plan out your college career.  He/she will take the time to listen to your specific needs and desires, and then prayerfully design your unique college plan.  One advantage of attending Central Christian College is how easy it is to access your academic advisor.  You will not have to wait long periods of time to see your advisor, nor will you have to wonder if he/she has any clue who you are.  You can be assured that your academic advisor is looking out for you.
 

How Do I get Started?

We would love the opportunity to tell you more about Central Christian College and how we can help you prepare for a fulfilling career and life.  If you are interested in finding out more about Central Christian College, you can call us at 1-800-835-0078 or we would be happy to simply send you more information. Of course, you can always apply online and really get the ball rolling. Some students find it helpful to actually visit the campus, which gives you a chance to meet the instructors, sit in on some classes, and catch a glimpse of Central's unique educational environment.  If you are interested in visiting our campus, be sure to check out our Preview Days or schedule a campus visit.