Aviation Program FAQ
What is the total cost for the Aviation program at Gallatin College?
Gallatin College Aviation Program tuition and fees include general Gallatin College tuition and fees as well as program-specific flight training costs. The cost of each flight course may vary based on student ability, finances, illness, and self-motivation. The flight training costs listed are based on the average time required to complete each certificate.
What courses are included in the program?
Aviation specific course descriptions are available here. You may view additional course descriptions in the current MSU catalog.
How long does it take to complete the flight training?
The flight training curriculum is designed to take 2 years to complete. Students who follow the recommended flight training schedule should complete their Private Pilot’s certificate by the end of the first semester and the Instrument Rating by the end of the second semester. Flight training for the Commercial Certificate is covered in the second year of the program.
What is a medical certificate and why do I need one?
A medical certificate verifies that a student pilot has met all health standards required to operate an aircraft. A list of FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) in your area may be found at the FAA website or you may contact Gallatin College for more information. A second class medical is the minimum requirement to start flight training, however a first class medical is strongly recommended.
If I have taken some flight training, do those hours count?
Yes. Hours logged with a certified flight instructor do count toward the total hours required through Gallatin College. These hours will be evaluated on a case by case basis.
How are flight lessons structured?
Regular flight lessons are scheduled in 2 hour block increments. 20 minute pre- and post- briefings will bookend each session.
Do I stay with one instructor for the entire time?
Generally, yes. The flight school works to pair students with the same instructor for the duration of each rating.
How often do I need to fly?
It is recommended that students fly 2 to 3 times per week. The flight school provides training 6 days a week, so you should be able to work out a flight schedule that works around your academic and work schedules.
Where do classes and flight training take place?
Most classes take place on the MSU campus. Flight training occurs at the Bozeman airport.
How do I get started?
In order to register for classes, an FAA medical certificate as well as funding sources must be secured. At this point, students should contact the GC Aviation Department or GC Aviation Program Advisor, Nicole Berg, to be added to the interest list or register for courses.