Eastern Michigan University Earns AABI Accreditation

The goal of AABI is to encourage collegiate aviation programs to pursue excellence while striving for continual self-improvement and simultaneously establishing uniform educational quality standards and increasing the credibility of such curricula across the country.

AABI is the only professional, specialized accrediting organization approved by the Council on Higher Education for aviation professional programs at universities in the U.S. and throughout the world. Eastern Michigan joins 44 other institutions with AABI accreditation.

EMU, located in Ypsilanti, earned accreditation as part of the university’s GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology that includes two programs offering bachelor’s degrees in flight technology and aviation management technology.

According to school officials, the aviation flight technology program gives students the skills, knowledge, and FAA certifications for a successful career. The aviation management technology program focuses on providing students a balanced curriculum of business and airport expertise.

The AABI accreditation helps to cement Eastern Michigan’s position as a leading center for aviation education through July 2028.

School officials note that EMU has a 100 percent career placement rate, and their students hold careers in airlines, aircraft manufacturers, the FAA, airport operators and air cargo/freight carriers, corporate aviation, airport operations, and airport organizations.

"Receiving accreditation from AABI is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff, and students," said Mohamad Qatu, dean of the GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology. "This recognition affirms our commitment to providing quality aviation education that meets the highest industry standards."

Qatu predicts accreditation will be a major step forward for EMU's programs and could bring additional opportunities for students and graduates. "This is a significant addition to the college's continuous pursuit of excellence," he continued. "It will add to the other major accreditation for our programs in engineering, cybersecurity, construction management, interior design, and others."