Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (commonly referred to as ERAU) is a private university specializing in aviation and aerospace studies. It was founded in 1926 by Talton Embry and John Riddle, making it the oldest institution of higher learning dedicated to aviation and aerospace in the world. The university has campuses in Daytona Beach, Florida and Prescott, Arizona, as well as numerous international locations. ERAU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and professional levels.
ERAU offers a wide variety of degree programs through its seven colleges: Arts & Sciences, Aviation, Business, Engineering, Extended Studies & Online Education Center, Graduate Studies & Research Center Global Campus Operations. Through these colleges, students can earn degrees in such disciplines as aeronautical science, astronautical engineering , business administration , computer engineering , homeland security , human factors psychology , spaceflight operations and many more. In addition to its academic offerings, ERAU also operates the World Flight Institute and the Eagle Flight Research Center . These institutes are dedicated to providing research and training opportunities for students and professionals alike who are interested in pursuing careers in aviation or aerospace.
The university has a long history of producing top-notch graduates who go on to have successful careers in their chosen field. Notable alumni include Neil Armstrong (the first man on the moon), Walter Cunningham (one of NASA’s original Mercury 7 astronauts), Eileen Collins (a former NASA astronaut who commanded two Space Shuttle missions), Scott Crossfield (a test pilot who flew the X-1 aircraft faster than the speed of sound), Gordon Fullerton (a former NASA astronaut who piloted two Space Shuttle missions), Jim Lovell (a former NASA astronaut who piloted four Space Shuttle missions) and many others.
With its rich history and tradition of excellence, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is poised to continue educating future leaders in aviation and aerospace for years to come.