Frequently Asked Questions
Who is my faculty academic advisor?
Each student who is an aviation major at the time of their new student orientation is assigned a faculty advisor. A student can look up their advisor by accessing their Degree Audit Report (DARS) or by logging into eServices, selecting "Courses and Registration," and then "View/Modify Schedule." The student’s advisor (or advising team) will be listed at the top of the schedule page. Furthermore, the Aviation Program and Student Coordinators and/or the Aviation Program Director can also assist with advising any Aviation student.
How do I schedule an appointment with an advisor?
Most staff and faculty advisors reserve time each week for walk-ins, but students are strongly encouraged to schedule an appointment in advance. Staff and Faculty at MNSU differ in how they schedule advising. Some faculty arrange appointments via email or phone, while others use resources such as MavConnect for appointment requests and/or self-scheduling.
Do VA Benefits qualify for the Aviation Program?
Effective August 1, 2016, the Aviation programs and courses do not qualify for GI Bill® or VA education benefits. Please consult with the Registrar’s Office for guidance.
How do I make a graduation plan of study?
Students must utilize the Minnesota State University Grad Planner found under eServices. You will use the Graduation Planner and Schedule Builder as a resource to build, view, and update graduation plans. They often turn to their advisors for assistance.
How do I register for a flight lab?
Flight lab registration is a three-step process referred to as Permission to Register, or PTR. PTR is to be completed in the following order:
- Students first need to obtain Academic Approval by submitting a lab application at link.mnsu.edu/flightlab. Lab applications are reviewed weekly by the Aviation Department and North Star Aviation. When academic approval is granted, the student receives an automated email, allowing them to proceed to secure Financial Approval
- Financial Approval can be granted in one of four ways:
- Students taking out a private loan for flight training must provide proof of that loan to Student Financial Services.
- Students paying out of pocket can obtain approval by making a 15% down payment on eServices.
- SACM (Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission) students must provide a valid financial guarantee to Student Financial Services.
- Students utilizing a specific eligibility program (like the North Star Promise) MUST meet with Student Financial Services prior to financial approval.
- Once Academic and Financial Approvals are granted, the department reviews the student’s application one final time. If everything is in order, they will lift the lab’s registration hold and grant final approval. At this time, the student will be notified via email and will be responsible for registering themselves for the flight lab by the term’s add/drop deadline.
What is mid-semester flight lab registration and how does it work?
Mid-semester registration, a new incentive as of Fall 2023, allows students to add additional flight training at the mid-semester point, provided they have completed 100% of their previous flight lab training. This registration has a significantly shorter time frame for completion.
How do I register for upper-division credits?
Upper division refers to classes taken at the 300/400 (Junior/Senior) level. While any student can take 100 and 200 level aviation courses (provided they meet the prerequisites), students need upper-division status to take 300/400 level classes. Upper-division status is granted to students who have completed at least 30 credits, have a cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher, and have earned at least a C+ in their first ground school course taken at Minnesota State University. This is typically AVIA 150 or AVIA 240.
How do I change my major?
Any student can update their major, minor, advisor, and/or catalog year via the Minnesota State University Major Button.
How do I register for AVIA 497 or 499: Independent Study or Internship Credit?
To register for AVIA 497/499, students should view available professors via the course search on eServices. After selecting a professor they wish to study under, they will need to contact that professor and develop a plan for the independent study. In addition, Internships must be approved and meet all University requirements for Internships. Once the student and professor agree on a plan, the professor can then assist with registration for AVIA 497/499. Students should develop a plan and register for AVIA 497/499 before they engage in their independent study or internship.
Does Aviation require a minor?
No, but it is highly encouraged. Adding a minor can be a fantastic addition to a resume, increase course selection/flexibility, and provide a solid plan “B” post-graduation. A minor in Business can help with an MBA at a later date.
Which minor should I choose?
Minor choice is specific to the student, as students tend to perform better in a subject area they are interested in. That being said, the most common minors for Aviation students are Business and Geography. Aviation students cannot minor in Aviation Pro Flight, Aviation Management, or UAS.
Does Aviation have an Aeronautics Degree?
Aviation does not have an Aeronautics degree. We are in the process of changing the name to Aviation Open Studies. This degree path is for department approved students on a case-by-case basis. You will need a plan of study designed and approved by your advisor as well as the Department Chair. For an Aeronautics request, please speak with your faculty advisor. Do not add via the Major button until you have faculty approval. We will not honor any major button request for Aeronautics until you complete a plan of study with your advisor, and it is submitted to the Aviation Department for approval. You will be notified by email if approved.
