Students at Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University’s Worldwide Campus can now count themselves among the elite few to have degree programs recognized by the Royal Aeronautical Society.
Known as one of the premier professional bodies dedicated to aerospace and aviation, the Royal Aeronautical Society has approved 15 Embry‑Riddle degree programs, including bachelor’s and master’s degree options from all three Worldwide Campus colleges. Founded in 1886, the Royal Aeronautical Society is based in London and is the world’s oldest aeronautical society, as well as the only professional body dedicated to the aerospace, aviation and space communities.
“Embry‑Riddle is the only U.S. university with program recognition from the Royal Aeronautical Society,” said Dr. Robert Walton, associate professor in the Worldwide College of Business. “This program recognition helps to raise the university’s international reputation.”
According to Barbara Horkan, accreditation officer for the Royal Aeronautical Society, “the society approval process considers non-engineering programs for endorsement which are of significant value and appropriate learning for those seeking to pursue a career in the aerospace or aviation industry.”
Approved programs must equip students with the knowledge, understanding and skills to gain employment after graduation. According to the Royal Aeronautical Society website, recognition requires the completion of a rigorous review process, and approved programs are those where graduates “regularly find” employment in the aviation and aerospace fields.
“The capabilities for distance online and virtual learning at Embry‑Riddle Worldwide are particularly impressive,” Horkan said. “Such remote study continues to increase in importance, particularly for the delivery of continuing professional development.”
Six degree programs were re-approved following an initial recognition in 2019, while an additional nine programs were approved for the first time. The programs include options from the Colleges of Arts and Sciences, Aviation and Business.
“We are thrilled that the Royal Aeronautical Society has approved our degree programs! This is a game-changer for aspiring aerospace professionals across Asia, providing them with unparalleled access to resources, networking opportunities and career support,” Matthew Flaherty, vice chancellor and head of Asia at Embry‑Riddle, said.
Flaherty noted that Royal Aeronautical Society recognition can be enticing for prospective students and expects it to have a positive impact on Asia Campus enrollment.
“This recognition perfectly aligns with our commitment to fostering the next generation of aviation talent in this dynamic and rapidly growing region.”
The Worldwide degree programs recognized by the Royal Aeronautical Society are the following:
- Master of Space Operations
- Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics
- Bachelor of Science in Aviation Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance
- Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies
- Bachelor of Science in Pilot Operations
- Bachelor of Science in Uncrewed and Autonomous Systems
- Master of Aviation Cybersecurity
- Master of Aviation Maintenance
- Master of Business Administration in Aviation
- Master of Science in Aeronautics
- Master of Science in Aviation and Aerospace Sustainability
- Master of Science in Aviation Safely
- Master of Science in Human Factors
- Master of Science in Uncrewed and Autonomous Systems
To learn more about Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s business programs, visit erau.edu/aerotime.
