WILLISTON — The Vermont Technical College is going to begin offering a four-year bachelor of science program in aviation called Professional Pilot Technology.

The college said Thursday it had received approval for the program from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and is accepting applications for the fall semester.

The college said retirements in the aviation industry are expected to surge over the next decade and the demand for pilots, engineers, technicians and information specialists is expected to be high.

Vermont Tech’s aviation degree is designed to offer a comprehensive aviation education and flight instruction will be offered by the Vermont Flight Academy.

Graduates will be eligible for direct access to jobs and internships at airports and Federal Aviation Administration facilities.