About us
Australia’s leading, industry-connected centre of aviation learning and research.
Welcome from the Head of School
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the UNSW School of Aviation. Aviation is an exciting and unique industry that is dynamic, evolving in response to global, social, economic, and environmental challenges. Key to aviation’s success, is the professional within the industry, who has the knowledge and skills to understand these challenges and develop solutions accordingly. UNSW Aviation prides itself on creating graduates who are equipped to contribute and develop in this exciting industry.
The School of Aviation is made up of a world-class teaching and research team who are dedicated to providing the aviation industry with graduates of the highest calibre, and with an understanding of relevant and current research. Our qualifications are recognised throughout the world as being of superior academic quality and industry relevance. Our team is made up from an impressive range of backgrounds, encompassing academics that are leaders within their field, and industry experts. In addition to their teaching and research duties, our staff hold and have held senior industry positions including Senior Management positions with international airlines, major airports, government, and national/international regulatory authorities. The School of Aviation is committed to the high standards essential for the future of the aviation industry in Australia and throughout the world.
Here at the School of Aviation, we offer tailored degree programs to meet the needs of the aviation industry. Our research capabilities are also extensive, uniquely placing us as leaders in the industry. Our programs range across management, flying and technology specialities at both an undergraduate, and masters level. We offer doctorate research programs supervised by our aviation experts and producing high quality research graduates. We deliver our own flying training under Civil Aviation Safety Regulation certification (CASR Parts 141/142) with single engine Diamond DA-40CS and twin engine Piper PA44 airplanes. At our Flight Operations Unit, located at Bankstown Airport, our professional ground and flight instructors deliver flight training utilising our fleet of aircraft, as well as our three flight simulators. Co-located at this facility is our airborne research laboratory. The school also provides consultancy and short courses in aviation related topics delivered by our highly specialised staff.
I highly recommend our program for your consideration and look forward to welcoming you in person soon.
Professor Brett Molesworth
Head, School of Aviation
UNSW, Sydney
Who we are
The School of Aviation at UNSW consists of a core of permanent staff members, together with a large number of affiliated academics and aviation staff actively involved with delivering our degree programs and undertaking research. Our academics are internationally recognised for their expertise and leadership in applied research, which is widely used by educators across the globe to develop course materials and teach aspiring pilots and aviation managers. This research plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of aviation, ensuring that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this dynamic industry. By combining innovative research with practical teaching methods, UNSW Aviation remains at the forefront of global aviation education, inspiring and preparing the next generation of aviation leaders.
We own a fleet of Diamond DA-40 training aeroplanes, a Cessna 182RG and a Piper PA-44 Seminole for airborne research. Flying training and airborne research are conducted from our Flying Operations Unit at Bankstown Airport.
There are currently more than 500 students enrolled in the programs at UNSW Aviation. They range from school leavers to senior management. Students from the Bachelor of Aviation tend to come directly from high school and attend university on a full-time basis, although it’s also possible to study management part-time. Several students study for the degree while working within the industry. Some second-year students also spend up to three months completing work experience with major airlines during their holidays.
If you’re seeking a research or consulting partner, our facilities and academics are world-class.
Launch your career
We offer a selection of programs and services to serve the aviation industry. Degree programs range from the Bachelor of Aviation (flying and management streams) to our masters and doctorate programs and are available in a range of different delivery modes.
Whether you want to be a pilot, airport or airline manager, or work in government, we have a program to help fulfil that goal. Our flying students have found jobs all over the world, with airlines including Qantas, Rex, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Viva Air and more. Many of our aviation management graduates hold senior positions around the world.