As a junior at ERAU, I am aware that if I select to pursue a career within the aviation industry, I will be subjected to the same meager pay that every flight instructor endures. I am not defending Riddle, but rather, providing an alternate perspective from the JC norm.
Riddle’s yearly tuition is at $30,995 per year, which includes tuition and fees, room and board, and books and supplies (
source). It’s $4,000 less if you can maintain a GPA >3.0.
Compare that with the average cost of college at a four year private institution in the United States at $33,301 (
source). From this, you can conclude Riddle does not exceed the national average.
Flight costs at ERAU are estimated at $10,000 per year. I paid nearly $11,000 last year and the year before. When I graduate, I will have spent $55,000 for flight training. This figure includes all certificates, including my CFI, MEI, and CFII. This figure is on par with ATP and Flight Safety.
My education at Riddle after four years (four year degree, flight certificates): ~$162,980
Earning your education at another private four year university and attaining your certificates at ATP (accounting for $5,000 increase): ~$188,199 (does not include PPL)
Of course, my figures do not account for all variables. And yes, you would save money if you attend a community college or public university. However, my point is that Riddle is on par with the national average.
Moreover, I have friends who are commissioning as officers in the Air Force and Army. Some are entering duties unrelated to aviation. I also have a friend who has graduated and was hired by a government intelligence agency.
To scubayachts: My advice is that you consider your decision very carefully. And if you decide to attend Riddle, study hard, get adequate sleep, and have fun with everything you do. All else should follow.