Helicopter Operations Degree

Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics (B.S. Aero)

Be prepared for a high-demand career in the rotorcraft industry.

Designed for students who want a clear, focused pathway into helicopter operations, this program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on flight training in state-of-the-art facilities.

Program type:: Major
Format:: On Campus
Est. time to complete:: 4 years
Credit hours:: 120

Why earn a Helicopter Operations degree?

Application Deadlines

Fall:: Aug. 15
Spring:: Dec. 15
Summer:: May 1

Once accepted to the Helicopter Operations program, you will not be able to switch to Commercial Aviation - Airplane.

Applicants must apply via the UND application.

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

Earn a B.S. in Aeronautics with a major in Helicopter Operations from the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences. We are known around the world for aviation education excellence. Safety is at the core of our operation, with an FAA-approved Safety Management System (SMS) and Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP).

The curriculum is designed to fully prepare you for a variety of flight-related careers. You'll earn your commercial pilots certificate, along with a liberal arts core. It's exactly what you need to launch your exciting aviation career.

UND Aerospace is the leader in collegiate helicopter flight training, with more than 40 years of experience. While this degree is specific to helicopters, you may satisfy all flight course requirements for the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) degree by using helicopters. You'll earn your private pilot rotorcraft, commercial, instrument and certified flight instructor certificates (optional). You'll train in a modern fleet of Robinson R44 helicopters, the same type used in many commercial operations, giving you practical experience from day one. You'll also use advanced simulation technology, including a full motion helicopter spatial disorientation flight training device, to safely build skills like instrument flying and decision-making in real-life scenarios.

In addition to flying, you'll take courses in aviation safety, human factors and helicopter operations, helping you understand not just how to fly, but how to think like a professional pilot. You will also gain insight into the business side of aviation, preparing you for long-term career growth.

Our instructors come from a variety of backgrounds and provide you with the most advanced training offered. Whether it is flying in four unique seasons or performing touchdown auto rotations, you will gain the experience and the confidence you need to begin your professional career. In the classroom, you will learn from subject matter experts in virtually every field of aviation set in an intimate, diverse university environment.

Student Achievement Data

Helicopter Operations at UND

Integrated academic and flight curriculum combining classroom learning with real-world application.
Comprehensive flight training leading to private, instrument, commercial and certified flight instructor (CFI) rotorcraft certificates (optional).
Experienced instructors with diverse professional aviation backgrounds.
Four-season flight operations that build confidence, adaptability and decision-making skills.
Complete your coursework and airport-based flight training in Grand Forks, ND.
Train in Robinson R44 Cadet helicopters equipped with Garmin touchscreen avionics.

What can I do with a Helicopter Operations degree?

120K

Median salary for an air ambulance pilot

Just Helicopters Annual Survey Report

140K

Median salary for an offshore oil support pilot

Just Helicopters Annual Survey Report

UND’s Helicopter Operations program prepares you for exciting careers in helicopter aviation through a combination of hands-on flight training and real-world academic learning. Designed with input from industry professionals, the program emphasizes safety, professionalism and the skills today’s employers are looking for.

With a Helicopter Operations degree, you'll:

Successfully operate rotorcraft within the national airspace system.
Understand the diverse operating environments of commercial helicopter operations.
Develop the systems, procedural and regulatory knowledge necessary to operate helicopters in a global aviation environment.
Understand human physiology and crew performance in hostile and challenging environments and apply those principles to operational problem-solving scenarios.
Develop the skills, techniques and procedures needed to:
- Manage aviation entities
- Safely operate rotorcraft in commercial operations
- Safely operate piston aircraft in commercial operations
Develop knowledge and skills in VFR and IFR flight.
Build the leadership and decision-making skills needed to be an ethical aviation professional.

Helicopter Pilot Careers

Commercial helicopter pilots are in high demand. UND’s helicopter program prepares you for opportunities in a variety of industries, including:

Agriculture
Construction and utility operations
Emergency medical services (EMS)
Firefighting
Flight instruction
Government operations
Law enforcement
Offshore transport
Search and rescue
Tourism

Helicopter Operations Courses You Can Take

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Military Friendly^® School

UND has held the Military Friendly® School designation for more than 15 consecutive years and earned the Gold distinction for 2025–2026. With more than 2,000 military-affiliated students currently enrolled, the highest number on record, approximately 1 in 7 UND students is a veteran, active-duty service member, military spouse, or dependent. As a military-affiliated student at UND, you'll have access to:

Dedicated Support Services: You’ll have access to the Veteran & Military Services office, where you can get personalized help with VA benefits, advising, scholarships and counseling resources.
Military Affiliated Peer Support (MAPS): At UND, you’ll find peer student support staff ready to guide you, offer encouragement and connect you with the resources you need to achieve your academic and personal goals.
ROTC Programs: If you’re looking to grow as a leader, UND’s Army and Air Force ROTC programs provide you with hands-on leadership training and the opportunity to build lasting camaraderie.
Priority Registration: Individuals using VA funding benefit from priority course registration, ensuring you can build a schedule that fits your other commitments.
Spouse Support: UND is ranked as a Military Spouse Friendly School, reflecting our strong support for spouses through flexible degree programs, advising and a welcoming campus culture.

Train for a Career in Helicopter Aviation

Discover more about why a degree in Helicopter Operations at UND is right for you.

Passion and Commitment Drive Success

Meet Ali Moses, a University of North Dakota Helicopter Operations student whose journey reaches far beyond the classroom.