The University of Dubuque Expands Aviation Program with New Helicopter Pilot Pathway

DUBUQUE, Iowa - The University of Dubuque will begin offering a new associate of applied science in flight operations (rotary wing) in fall 2026 to help address a shortage of helicopter pilots across several sectors including EMS, law enforcement, and aerial firefighting.

Recently approved by the Higher Learning Commission, the two-year program was designed to provide helicopter students with a streamlined collegiate flight training experience focused on gaining the skills and experience needed to begin their careers.

"Many students voiced interest in an efficient pathway through their flight training. This program allows prospective students to emphasize aviation and associated helicopter coursework with their program of study," said Tony Foster, PhD, associate professor of aviation and head of academics for the Department of Aviation at UD.

The associate of applied science in flight operations (rotary wing) builds upon the UD aviation program's longstanding tradition of fostering academic and professional skills for graduates in all segments of the aviation industry.

From its humble beginnings in 1974 with two fixed-wing aircraft and 35 students, the aviation program has soared to new heights with 35 Cessna 172 Skyhawks, one Piper Seminole, three Diamond DA-42s, two Guimbal Cabri G2 helicopters, and over 400 students. Future aviation leaders may choose from a bachelor of science in applied aviation technology, a bachelor of science in aviation management, a bachelor of science in flight operations with tracks in fixed-wing and rotary wing, and soon an associate of applied science in flight operations (rotary wing).

Evan Lawler (C'20), chief flight instructor - helicopter at UD, said it is refreshing to take a non-traditional approach by offering a two-year degree option alongside a four-year pathway to help address barriers to entry into the helicopter industry.

"By creating a more affordable and direct route into professional helicopter training, the University is lowering the cost of entry while at the same time raising the standard for University flight programs," Lawler said. "This approach opens the door for more students to pursue careers in aviation while helping to meet the growing demand for professional helicopter pilots across the industry."

UD began offering helicopter training in spring 2017. Its fleet of two Guimbal Cabri G2 helicopters are among the most modern and safest training helicopters on the market today. Training resources will be further expanded for the 2026-2027 academic year with the addition of a helicopter simulator.

Since 2018, nearly 100 helicopter pilots have graduated from UD with alumni in flight careers around the world in EMS, utility, law enforcement, military, helicopter tours, and more.

The additional helicopter pilot pathway is launching in the midst of a significant expansion of the Edward Babka Aviation Learning Center. To support enrollment growth, the expansion includes an addition on the learning center and to its parking lot, an expansion of the flight ramp, and two new hangars located between the learning center and a leased hangar built by the Dubuque Regional Airport. The expansion project is anticipated to be completed December 2026.

To learn more about the UD aviation program, please contact Chris Peterson (C'04), senior director of admission, at CPeterso@dbq.edu or 563.589.3203.