Swinburne University of Technology offers a Bachelor of Aviation, a future-focused program that prepares students for a career in the aviation industry, particularly as commercial pilots or aviation professionals. The course blends academic knowledge with real-world flight training, aiming to develop strong technical skills alongside leadership, safety awareness, and aviation business acumen. Students graduate not just with a degree, but with the qualifications and confidence to thrive in a global aviation environment.
Curriculum Structure:
The Bachelor of Aviation is structured to provide a balance of theoretical learning and practical experience. Key components of the course include:
Core Aviation Subjects: Topics like aerodynamics, aircraft systems, aviation safety, human factors, and air transport economics build a strong foundation in aviation science and operations.
Flight Training: Offered in collaboration with CAE Melbourne Flight Training, students work towards achieving a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating (MECIR).
Simulations and Labs: Training includes advanced flight simulators that mimic real-world flying conditions.
Capstone Projects: In the final year, students undertake applied aviation projects that challenge them to integrate and apply everything they’ve learned.
Accreditation:
Swinburne’s Bachelor of Aviation is aligned with Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) standards and is delivered in partnership with CAE, a globally recognised aviation training provider, ensuring that graduates meet industry benchmarks.
Campus Location:
The program is based at Swinburne’s Hawthorn campus in Melbourne, Australia. Flight training takes place at Moorabbin Airport, giving students access to a busy and professional flight environment close to campus.
Swinburne places strong emphasis on practical, hands-on experience to complement classroom learning. Students benefit from:
Integrated Flight Training: From early in the program, students train using real aircraft and state-of-the-art flight simulators, progressing through structured flight hours under expert supervision.
Industry-Connected Learning: Swinburne’s partnerships with aviation leaders like Qantas, Jetstar, and CAE provide exposure to live industry insights and mentorship.
Clubs and Competitions: Students can join groups such as the Aviation Society, participate in aviation challenges, and attend industry networking events.
Global Perspective: While the program is based in Australia, it prepares students for international aviation careers, and includes awareness of global regulations and cross-border operations.
Swinburne supports students throughout their career journey via the Jobs and Careers team, which offers:
Career coaching and goal setting
Resume and application support
Mock interviews and assessment centre training
Networking events and career expos featuring aviation companies
Employability:
Graduates of the Bachelor of Aviation are in demand in a range of roles. While many go on to become commercial airline pilots, others pursue careers in aviation safety, airport operations, air traffic control, aviation consulting, or flight instruction. Swinburne alumni have gone on to work with major airlines both in Australia and overseas.
Further Academic Progression:
After graduation, students can continue into postgraduate study in areas such as:
Master of Aviation Management
MBA with an Aviation focus
Master’s programs in Aerospace or Aeronautical Engineering
Courses in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or Aviation Safety
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