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Texas Southern University’s Aviation Program Hits New Heights

Texas Southern University (TSU) in Houston, Texas, is celebrating a remarkable achievement as its Professional Pilot program has been recognized as one of the top 50 aviation bachelor’s degree programs in the nation, according to pilot-colleges.com. This milestone is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the TSU community, including its students, faculty, and staff, who have contributed significantly to the program’s success.

A Rapid Rise in Recognition

Just three years ago, TSU's Professional Pilot program was still in its nascent stages, lacking any formal ranking. Under the leadership of Dr. Terence Fontaine, Executive Director of Aviation, the program has not only grown in enrollment but also received national acclaim. "Since I arrived in 2018, my ambition has been to make TSU the first historically black college and university (HBCU) with a top-25 aviation program,’’ he stated. This recent ranking indicates that the university is well on its way to achieving this goal.

Currently, TSU's aviation program boasts 180 enrolled students, marking back-to-back academic years of record enrollment. This surge demonstrates the growing interest and confidence in TSU’s ability to equip students with the necessary skills for promising careers in the aviation sector.

Strong Industry Partnerships

The aviation program has enhanced its reputation through strategic partnerships with leading industry players, including Southwest Airlines and United Airlines’ Aviate program. These collaborations offer students invaluable mentorship, internships, and post-graduation career placement opportunities. Provost and Senior Vice President Dr. Carl B. Goodman emphasized the program's uniqueness, stating, "It is one of the most distinctive aviation programs in Texas… Our students gain access to a pipeline of opportunities that will prepare them for a successful career in aviation."

TSU offers concentrations in both Aviation Management and Professional Pilot, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience that addresses the diverse demands of the aviation industry. The program is committed to providing state-of-the-art facilities and a curriculum aligned with industry standards, setting a high bar for quality in aviation education.

Collaboration with the Air Force and Accreditation

In addition to partnerships with commercial airlines, TSU's aviation program has a fruitful ongoing collaboration with the United States Air Force. This summer, the program will host the Air Force JROTC Cadet program for the fifth successive year. Furthermore, TSU stands out as one of only 45 aviation programs to be accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI), which is widely regarded as the gold standard in aviation program accreditation.

Exciting developments are on the horizon, including the construction of new hangar and office spaces at Ellington Airport, marking a new chapter for TSU Aviation as it secures a permanent home in partnership with the City of Houston.

About Texas Southern University

Founded in 1927, Texas Southern University (TSU) has become a pillar of higher education access for underserved communities, focusing on academic programs that address vital urban issues. It has evolved into one of the most respected and diverse institutions in Texas, committed to empowering its diverse student body to become impactful global citizens. The recent recognition of its aviation program is just one reflection of TSU's broader mission to provide educational excellence and a platform for student growth.

As TSU continues to expand its aviation program amidst increasing recognition, the future looks promising for students aspiring to make their mark in the aviation industry, guided by a university dedicated to their success.