SEMO Pilot Program

Southeast Missouri State University offers students a comprehensive flight training program, establishing itself as a top-tier option for aspiring pilots. With its state-of-the-art facilities and experienced instructors, this pilot program in Missouri has firmly established its reputation as a respected hub for acquiring a pilot’s license in the region. Join one of the leading flight schools in Missouri and embark on an exciting journey towards becoming a licensed pilot.

Explore One of the Top Flight Schools in Missouri for Exceptional Pilot Training

Southeast Missouri State University College Flight School is a professional pilot program and flight school in Missouri that prepares you to gain the FAA certifications to become a professional pilot and begin a career in commercial aviation. SEMO is located in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, less than 2 hours away from St. Louis. It’s one of the two main cities of the Cape Girardeau-Jackson, MO-IL Metropolitan area, which is comprised of Alexander County, Illinois, Bollinger County, Missouri and Cape Girardeau County, Missouri. It is situated about 100 miles southeast of St. Louis and 150 miles north of Memphis. The SEMO pilot program provides the training necessary to attain the FAA certifications and become a professional pilot in commercial aviation. Successful students will obtain their private pilots, commercial pilots, and flight instructor certifications. SEMO aviation graduates have ample job opportunities. Many SEMO pilot program graduates become:
  • Commercial Pilots
  • Flight Instructors
  • Freight Airline Pilots
  • Military Pilots
  • Regional Airline Pilots
  • Corporate Aviation
  • Charter Operations
In addition, they are pilots for Federal and State Government (i.e., border protection, FBI, law enforcement, transportation).

Flight School Admission Process

We are excited that you are interested in joining the Southeast Missouri State University College Flight School. To begin the application process, please start your enrollment assessment process here. You can choose to complete the assessment online, over the phone, or in person with an admissions specialist. The SEMO pilot program is a 4-year commitment to earn a Bachelor of Science degree.

Aviation Courses/Certificates Offered

You’ll complete a minimum of 120 credit hours to complete this degree, including the general education requirements and at least 39 senior division hours. The Bachelor of Science in Professional Pilot provides the training needed to attain the FAA certifications necessary to become a professional pilot. The academic courses are paired with lab courses at the Cape Girardeau Regional Airport where students will work with the aircraft both on the ground and in the air. Students will take the controls to gain flight hours. In addition, students take other classes to help them learn how to successfully manage an aircraft and its crew. The aviation courses you complete will all help you get that first interview to become a pilot.

Flight School Cost

Successful students will obtain their private pilot, commercial pilot, and flight instructor certifications. Although students in this program will begin flight training in their first semester, the core of the program is fundamental coursework to prepare for FAA certifications and a career in commercial aviation. Professional pilot program costs listed are an average cost because the actual amount will vary due to individual circumstances. This amount is in addition to room, board, tuition, and other costs associated with earning a Bachelor of Science degree.
Degree or Certificate Program Title Hours Total Tuition & Fees*
AAS Professional Pilot 60 $3,840
CRTI Commercial Pilot 39 $2,496
ESC Flight Instructor 6 $384
*Rates are only for academics and do not include flight fees. For more information and accurate pricing, please visit https://semo.edu/colleges-departments/stem/engineering-tech/professional-pilot-cost.html
Notes:
  • Tuition is based on in-state, in-country rates.
  • Totals do not include textbooks and other materials.

Scholarship Opportunities and Financial Aid

Although the investment is significant, the projected employment growth for airline and commercial pilots is higher than any other industry and the 2021 median annual pay for airline and commercial pilots was $130k+. In addition, Southeast has a generous scholarship program. Southeast Missouri State University awards more than $20 million in scholarships each year based on a variety of factors, including academic achievement, talent, athletic ability, leadership, participation in a specific campus activity, geography, or financial need. When you apply for the SEMO pilot program, Southeast Missouri State University will automatically review your application for most of their scholarships and award academic scholarships at the time of admission. In addition to a scholarship, you can also apply for financial aid.

Why US Aviation Academy?

Our top-notch aviation courses are the reason the US Aviation Academy is rated as one of the best flight schools in the United States. You can hear how great our flight school is straight from our student pilots! We prioritize working with your unique schedule and budget to turn your goal of flying into reality. In a short period of time, you can go from zero flying experience to a first officer with one of our many airline partners. Classes start each month and, through our vocational and collegiate programs like Southeast Missouri State University, you can obtain your Commercial and Flight Instructor certificates quickly.

Apply to the SEMO Pilot Program

Take the next step in becoming a pilot by applying here. For any questions on the SEMO Pilot Program and the U.S. Aviation Program, contact us today.

What You’ll Do

  • Work closely with experienced faculty and gain practical experience in a program that will prepare you for commercial aviation
  • Begin flight training in your first semester of college
  • Take pilot training courses at the Cape Girardeau Regional Airport
  • Graduate with the qualifications to become an FAA Certified Flight Instructor

What You’ll Study

  • AV110 Private Pilots
  • AV390 Aircraft Design
  • ET381 Fundamental of Flight

More About Southeast Missouri State University

https://semo.edu/academics/programs/stem/engineering-tech/professional-pilot.html

Contact Information

FAQs

How much does the SEMO flight program cost?

The average amount will vary due to individual circumstance, but in average costs for training and coursework is around $68,000 in flight fees plus standard tuition.

Does SEMO have an aviation program?

Yes, the aviation program is a 4-year program that concludes with a Bachelor of Science degree.

Is Southeast Missouri State University a good aviation school?

It’s one of the best flight schools in the country. The Cape Girardeau Regional Airport is owned by the City of Cape Girardeau and will host Southeast’s pilot program fleet and training facilities.

Is Southeast Missouri State University FAA approved?

Yes, the program is FAA Part 141 approved.

How long is Southeast Missouri State University College pilot program?

It’s a 4-year program.