Transfer Students
As a transfer student, you may have experience in postsecondary education or career training. At Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA), we understand there are numerous reasons why you may become a transfer student from another institution. Whether your career interests have changed, your previous institution wasn’t a good fit, or another personal reason, our admissions representatives are prepared to support you through your transition.
The training at PIA focuses on hands-on learning built around real world projects you may complete while working as an aviation technician. Aviation is a vast, ever-expanding industry, constantly contributing to the day-to-day lives of individuals around the world. Our Career Services team creates connections with aviation companies from every sector of the industry to bring opportunities to students via on site Career Fairs, employer presentations, and on site interviews.
Are you ready to find your purpose at PIA?
UNDERSTANDING YOUR AVIATION TRAINING
Credit for Comparable Education, Training, and Experience
Credit for Comparable Education and Training
At the school’s discretion, credit may be granted to a transfer student for comparable education and training. This credit may be based on approved coursework from other recognized schools or training facilities (when course descriptions match closely), or from the results of evaluation tests (when the course descriptions do not match closely enough). These examinations may be written, practical, or a combination of both, depending on the area being evaluated.
Prior Learning Assessment
Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics is a member of the Pennsylvania Commonwealth Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Consortium. As such, PIA evaluates experiential learning and prior education based upon Advanced Placement (AP) courses, military training/experience, industry training programs, and professional licenses/certifications. Assessment of credit toward PIA degree and non-degree programs can be through a recognized national evaluation (CLEP, DANTES, ACE), a school challenge examination, or through a skill demonstration. A maximum of 16 credit hours may be granted through College Level Examination Program (CLEP). Credit awarded for comparable education/training is limited to 50% of the total program credit hours.
Evaluation
Under the PLA program, the Director of Education reviews each transcript(s) and/or exam result(s) to assign the appropriate credit. The transfer student is responsible for furnishing all required training documentation, test scores, and/or transcripts to the school for evaluation.
Regardless of the amount of credit awarded for previous education and training, a minimum of 25% must be completed in-residence in order to receive an Associates in Specialized Technology Degree or diploma/certificate from PIA.

VISITING PIA
Applicants for admission to PIA’s School of Specialized Technology are required to visit the school for a personal interview and a tour of the school’s facilities prior to beginning classes. The tour and personal interview are conducted by a qualified Admissions Representative and are intended to give the prospective student an understanding of the following:
— Program Options —
— Admission Policies —
— Tuition & Fees —
— PIA’s Learning Environment —
— Program Goals and Outcomes —
— Academic Assistance —
— Graduate Placement Statistics —
Visitors are encouraged to ask questions, so that they can make informed decisions concerning the career fields presented, costs, and methods of payment.
The Individualized Attention You Deserve
– PIA Admissions Department

Hagerstown Campus
Barbara Martin
Admissions Representative
Myrtle Beach Campus
Dana Smith
Admissions Representative
Youngstown Campus
Lori Fine
Admissions Representative