Air Transport Planning and Management

Course summary

This course has been developed to meet the needs of graduates worldwide seeking to gain greater knowledge and experience of the air transport industry, and looking to progress into senior roles in management, operations and commercial planning of airlines, airports, government departments and aviation-related businesses such as aircraft manufacturing, finance and consultancy. It is designed to provide a strong theoretical and analytical basis, coupled with the application of many practical techniques and strategies.

The course builds on the successful series of aviation short courses that have attracted participants from around the globe to the University each year. The School has a long-established interest in air transport research, consultancy and teaching, having been set up by the renowned aviation academic Professor Rigas Doganis some 40 years ago. The University's association with aviation goes back much further, however, as it was here in the 19th century that Sir George Cayley first demonstrated the principles of flight.

Modules on both the one-year full-time course and the two-year part-time course are taught in blocks of five days at a time. Students take six taught modules in total (over one year on the full-time course, or two to three years on the block release part-time course) and complete a research dissertation. Email contact and tutorial support is provided between the module blocks along with guest lectures and workshop sessions for full-time students. International students who require a student visa will need to apply for the one-year full-time course.

Top reasons to study with us

• Gain industry insider knowledge – International industry speakers and practitioners contribute to our programme, bringing you their latest expert knowledge and experience to boost your learning
• As well as lectures, this is a practical course with hands-on activities such as simulation exercises, management games, and workshops, plus visits to airports and aviation facilities are organised to enhance your practical experience of the industry 
• Our expertise covers the three main areas within air transport – airlines, airports and air traffic management
• We’ll support you in choosing a topic of your choice for your research dissertation by providing guidance and industry contacts
• Flexible teaching – Modules are taught in blocks allowing you to study full-time or part-time to accommodate your time commitments, also giving you the opportunity to combine some sessions with our specialist short course activities, enabling you to further enhance your knowledge and expertise

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2). If you do not have formal academic qualifications we will consider an application if you have substantial (normally at least three years) relevant work experience in the air transport industry. If you do not have formal academic qualifications, but you have professional qualifications, an application will be considered.

If your first language is not English you should have an IELTS 6.5 with 6.0 in one component.

This course brings together people who wish to move into the industry and those already working in the aviation field who seek to progress their careers further. 

If youre a full-time student without a background in the air transport industry, youll be well placed to take up a junior position in a planning, management and operational role with airlines and airports after completing this course. Youll also be well equipped for employment as an analyst with consultancies, government bodies, and aircraft manufacturers.

If you have an industry background you should be able to return to your position with new skills and understanding, plus a greater maturity of approach. Youll be well placed to move into senior managerial, policy or research functions. The competitive nature of the industry will also provide many new opportunities for suitably qualified personnel.

A strong performance on the MSc can provide you with the opportunity to study further by registering for a research degree in our School of Architecture and Cities.

By obtaining this MSc qualification, youll be well equipped with the knowledge, understanding, and skills needed to participate in the activities of professional and industry bodies, such as the Air Transport Research Society, AirNeth, and the German Aviation Research Society.