Bachelor of Aviation (Management)

If you want to work in aviation, but not necessarily as a pilot, this is the degree for you. The aviation industry relies on a large network of systems, processes and functions to operate smoothly – flying is just one part of it. The aviation sector in Australia has persevered through immense challenges in recent years, and is adopting more complex and sophisticated systems to keep the country moving. Employers are looking for graduates who have wide industry knowledge, tertiary qualifications and all-round capabilities.

The Bachelor of Aviation (Management) is ideal for those seeking to join one of the world’s most critical industries. This three-year, full-time program teaches the essential skills and knowledge required to break into the aviation industry and begin making an impact from day one. 

Throughout the course, you’ll engage in independent and team-based learning activities to solve contemporary air transport problems. From human factors and safety to finance and aviation law, you’ll graduate as a knowledgeable, confident aviation professional, ready to take on roles of influence. You’ll also have the opportunity to pursue on an optional minor to develop a stand-out specialisation, such as Aviation Data Analytics, Human Factors and Aviation Safety, or Aviation Law and Sustainability. 

With a Bachelor of Aviation (Management), you’ll unlock opportunities within international and regional airlines of all sizes, as well as airports, government agencies and air safety authorities.

The Concurrent Graduate Diploma in Flying (UNSW Program 5536)

Australian citizens and permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens with special Australian residency visas may concurrently study for the Graduate Diploma in Flying. This will allow you to also achieve professional flying qualifications. The concurrent Bachelor of Aviation (Management) and Graduate Diploma (Flying) programs take four years to complete. Read more about the Graduate Diploma in Flying.

• Industry-aligned degree
  As part of our university-wide approach to producing career-ready graduates, we’ve recently revamped this program to reflect the changing needs of this rapidly evolving sector. The Bachelor of Aviation (Management) will equip you with essential skills and knowledge in the fields of science, engineering, interpersonal relations, the environment and management.

• Practical experience
  Learning exercises range from operating a start-up airline in a management simulation to exploring the cognitive abilities of humans in the fast-developing environment of aviation. Throughout your degree, you’ll also be encouraged to undertake industry-based scholarships and internships. These programs provide valuable opportunities to consolidate knowledge, determine career interests and significantly enhance your employment prospects upon graduation. 

• Aviation streams
  The management degree shares a common academic core with the flying specialisation. Please note this degree does not provide training or accreditation to work as a pilot. In the management stream, you’ll also explore airline and airport operations management, law and regulations, airline marketing, human factors and safety and aviation economics.

Join a top 20 global university^*
UNSW Aviation operates as a school within the Faculty of Science. UNSW is the highest ranked global university with a stand-alone aviation school that offers aviation degrees, operates flight training under its own Air Operator’s Certificate and undertakes research. The School of Aviation has been a leading educator in the industry for over 25 years.

^{*QS World University Rankings, 2024}

Learn from expert educators
Our industry facilitators bring a wealth of aviation experience, while our academic staff regularly engage with regulatory authorities, industry bodies and research collaborators. Our courses are written and coordinated by experts with substantial industry experience. UNSW Aviation educators come directly from leadership roles in industry, having held senior management positions with Qantas, Sydney Airport, Airservices Australia, CASA, ATSB and the Federal Airports Corporation.

Gain industry-relevant knowledge and experience
This program was developed in consultation with the Australian aviation industry to produce graduates who will advance to positions of management and influence. Our courses are regularly reviewed to ensure quality and relevance. Reflecting the requirements of the aviation environment, students will learn critical thinking and decision-making skills in topics including airline marketing, aviation safety and security, schedule planning, flight operations, airline and airport management and more. With industry-based scholarships and internships on offer, students will gain first-hand experience in the aviation sector to confidently join the workforce after graduation.