Cadet Pathway
January 2 - 9, 2025
Opens at 7:00 a.m. CST
Opens at 7:00 a.m. CST
Destination 225°®
University Pathway
Destination 225°®
University Pathway
University Pathway
The program
The program
Selected participants attend and complete all required college courses and flight training to gain the flight time and experience needed to fly at one of our program partners.
Upon graduation and the completion of your university’s time commitment as a flight instructor, participants are eligible for hire by one of Southwest’s program partners.
Participants receive ongoing mentorship from a Southwest Airlines Pilot throughout their time in the program.
Most flight partners require a two-year commitment during which you'll complete their initial training, earn a type rating, and ultimately build the quality experience needed to start your career as a Southwest Airlines First Officer.
Upcoming University Pathway Information Session
Upcoming University Pathway Information Session
Prepare to fly with Destination 225°, the fastest path to the right seat of a Southwest 737! Our Destination 225° Team is hosting a virtual information session to give you a sneak peek into what's new in the University Pathway.
Mentorship that matters
Mentorship that matters
Along with an engaging training program, cadets receive personal mentorship from active Southwest Airlines First Officers who guide their course throughout the program, from single-engines to Boeing 737s.
"It's rewarding to see the change and the knowledge that our cadets build in such a short amount of time. Mentorship from Southwest First Officers sets Destination 225° apart."
- First Officer Jennifer M.
Destination 225° Lead Mentor
Destination 225° Lead Mentor
University partners
University partners
Students from the following universities who are interested in the university pathway need to apply and complete a comprehensive selection process. The process includes interviews and assessments by Southwest® and its partners.