Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott vs United States Air Force Academy

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary differences between Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott and the United States Air Force Academy?

  Embry-Riddle Prescott is a civilian university focused on aviation and aerospace education, offering a wide range of degree programs. The Air Force Academy is a military academy whose primary mission is to commission officers into the United States Air Force and Space Force. While both institutions offer aerospace-related programs, the Air Force Academy emphasizes military training and service commitment, while Embry-Riddle focuses on preparing students for civilian careers in the aviation and aerospace industries.

• What is the commitment required after graduation from each institution?

  At Embry-Riddle Prescott, there is no mandatory service commitment after graduation. Students are free to pursue careers in the civilian sector. Graduates of the Air Force Academy are commissioned as officers in the U.S. Air Force or Space Force and are required to serve a minimum of five years of active duty, with potential additional commitments depending on their career field (e.g., pilots have a longer service commitment).

• How does the cost of attendance compare between Embry-Riddle Prescott and the Air Force Academy?

  Embry-Riddle Prescott is a private university, and students are responsible for tuition, fees, room, and board. Financial aid, scholarships, and loans are available to help offset these costs. The Air Force Academy provides a fully funded education, including tuition, room, board, and medical care. Cadets also receive a monthly stipend. In exchange, graduates commit to military service.

• What types of academic programs are offered at each institution?

  Embry-Riddle Prescott offers a wide variety of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in aviation, aerospace, engineering, security and intelligence, and related fields. The Air Force Academy offers a focused range of bachelor's degrees, primarily in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), as well as social sciences and humanities, all with a strong emphasis on military leadership and air and space power. While both offer aerospace engineering, the Air Force Academy's program is tailored to military applications.

• What is the campus environment like at Embry-Riddle Prescott versus the Air Force Academy?

  Embry-Riddle Prescott has a traditional university campus environment with a diverse student body and a focus on academic and extracurricular activities related to aviation and aerospace. The Air Force Academy has a highly structured military environment with a strict code of conduct and a focus on military training, discipline, and leadership development. Cadets live in dormitories and participate in rigorous physical training and military exercises.

• What are the admission requirements for Embry-Riddle Prescott and the Air Force Academy?

  Embry-Riddle Prescott's admission requirements include a strong academic record, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. The Air Force Academy has highly competitive admission requirements, including exceptional academic performance, strong leadership potential, demonstrated physical fitness, and a nomination from a U.S. Senator, Representative, or the Vice President. Medical qualifications are also strictly assessed.

• What career paths are typically pursued by graduates of each institution?

  Embry-Riddle Prescott graduates pursue a wide range of careers in the aviation and aerospace industries, including pilots, aerospace engineers, air traffic controllers, airport managers, and aviation safety specialists. Air Force Academy graduates commission as officers in the U.S. Air Force or Space Force, serving in various roles such as pilots, engineers, intelligence officers, and space operations officers. Some may later transition to civilian careers after completing their military service.

• How does the emphasis on leadership development differ between the two institutions?

  Both institutions emphasize leadership development, but in different ways. Embry-Riddle Prescott offers leadership opportunities through student organizations, clubs, and activities, allowing students to develop leadership skills in a civilian context. The Air Force Academy provides a comprehensive leadership development program integrated into the curriculum and daily life, focusing on military leadership principles, ethics, and command responsibilities. Cadets are constantly evaluated and trained to become effective military leaders.

• What are the opportunities for flight training at each institution?

  Embry-Riddle Prescott offers extensive flight training programs, allowing students to earn various pilot certifications and ratings. The university has its own fleet of aircraft and experienced flight instructors. The Air Force Academy offers flight training opportunities, including soaring and powered flight programs, but the primary focus is on preparing cadets for military flight training after graduation. Selection for pilot training is highly competitive.

• How do the institutions compare in terms of research opportunities?

  Embry-Riddle Prescott offers various research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, particularly in areas related to aviation, aerospace, and engineering. The Air Force Academy also conducts research, often focused on military applications of science and technology. Cadets may have opportunities to participate in research projects under the guidance of faculty members.