PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - Cathay or Qantas; Aviation Degree or Diploma?
Old 31st May 2004 | 12:15
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Genghis the Engineer
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A passing thought from somebody who uses his degree every day.

Gaining a degree is a satisfying experience, you learn a great deal and also develop analytical skills that will serve you well in many fields totally unrelated to your chosen subject. In my case, I did a degree in aeronautical engineering, and it's served as an excellent foundation for my career so far.

But, notice that I used the word "foundation". That is what most degrees are, and it is unrealistic to think that most will qualify you to do anything. If you are looking for a "backup" in case for whatever reason pilot training doesn't work out for you, a degree on it's own isn't going to do that.

There are many things that will - whether it's hanging onto qualifications as an outdoor sports instructor, or a certificate in bookeeping, those are what you want if you are primarily looking for a backup. If you've got a non-flying hobby, qualifying to teach it might cost a lot less, and be far more satisfying as a second string to your bow.

On the other hand, if there's a subject that fascinates you, and you'd like to take to degree level - or (say) you are hoping eventually to go into aviation management and some form of business management degree would help that, then go for it.

G
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