Enter OTP
Central Queensland University (CQU), based in Rockhampton, Queensland, offers the Bachelor of Aviation (Flight Operations) — a program carefully designed to equip aspiring pilots with both the academic foundation and the practical knowledge needed for a successful career in aviation. The course focuses on flight theory, aviation safety, meteorology, air law, and navigation, giving students the tools to work toward becoming commercial pilots or aviation professionals. While the degree itself is theoretical in nature, it is often complemented by a Graduate Diploma of Aviation (Flight Operations) for those wishing to gain actual flight training and licensing.
Curriculum Structure
The program combines structured academic coursework with aviation-specific subjects that reflect the real-world demands of the industry. Students study topics such as:
• Aerodynamics and Aircraft Systems – understanding how aircraft operate and respond in flight.
• Navigation and Meteorology – key elements in safe and efficient flight planning.
• Aviation Law and Human Factors – covering legal frameworks, decision-making, and risk mitigation in aviation.
• Safety Management Systems (SMS) – an increasingly critical area in today’s aviation industry.
• Flight Planning and Performance – helping students grasp how to operate aircraft efficiently within various environmental conditions.
Although the course does not include flight hours, it is designed to meet the academic requirements for pilot training, making it ideal for students looking to complete flight training through an external provider or within CQU's associated programs.
Accreditation
CQU’s aviation programs are developed in consultation with industry partners and align with Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) standards, ensuring the degree is relevant to both Australian and international aviation requirements.
Campus Location
The program is based at CQU’s Rockhampton campus, which offers access to dedicated aviation facilities, experienced faculty, and a supportive learning environment. It provides both in-person and flexible learning options, catering to the varied needs of students, including those combining study with flight training.
While the bachelor’s degree itself is non-flying, students are strongly encouraged to undertake practical flight training alongside the academic coursework.
• Flight School Partnerships – CQU collaborates with approved flight training organisations where students can work toward their Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and additional ratings.
• Industry-Connected Learning – Coursework is grounded in real-world case studies, and guest lectures from aviation professionals help bring theory to life.
• Clubs and Networking Opportunities – Students can engage in university clubs related to aviation and participate in events that enhance industry exposure.
• Professional Internships – Although optional, students are encouraged to explore aviation internships or part-time work within airports, flight schools, or regulatory bodies to gain firsthand experience.
CQU’s student support services offer comprehensive guidance to help students plan their aviation career path.
• Career Advising – from resume building to interview preparation, CQU helps students get industry-ready.
• Job Search Support – students benefit from job listings, employer meetups, and career fairs both on campus and online.
• Pathways to Employment – graduates can transition into airline cadet programs, apply for roles in air charter, or become flight instructors after licensing. Some also pursue aviation management roles or continue on to postgraduate study.
Employability
Graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue roles such as professional airline pilot, charter pilot, agricultural pilot, or flight operations manager, depending on the additional licenses and training acquired. The degree also opens up opportunities in aviation safety, airport operations, air traffic support, and aviation consultancy. Employers value the combination of strong theoretical grounding and operational awareness that CQU graduates bring.
Further Academic Progression
Students who wish to deepen their expertise can go on to study postgraduate qualifications such as:
• Graduate Diploma of Aviation (Flight Operations) – to qualify for commercial flying.
• Master of Aviation Management – for those aiming for leadership roles.
• Programs in aviation safety, logistics, or unmanned aerial systems, depending on evolving interests and industry trends.
IELTS - at least 6.0 with a minimum 5.5 in each subsetTOEFL - Requires 550 or better overall & minimum TWE score of 4.5 (Paper Based Test), or 75 or better overall and no score less than 17 (Internet Based Test)Proof of secondary school completionEvidence of English proficiency (if you're an international student)Full record of your previous studies (secondary or tertiary).Government-issued ID like passport or driver's licence.Required by Year 2 if you’re on the Flight Operations major and planning to pursue the Graduate Diploma for flying. Needed once you start the Flight Operations major and again if you pursue the Flight Diploma (CM54). Detailing any work, volunteering, or relevant activities—especially aviation or leadership roles (it may boost your application/interview).Some applicants include a brief statement outlining their interest in aviation and career goals—especially helpful for the interview in Term 2.Professional airline pilotcommercial pilotflight instructorflight operations team member or managertourism pilot or operatoragricultural pilotairline or airport management rolesaviation manageraviation business administrationair freight services operatorairport operations staffconsulting firm aviation rolesgovernment or tourism authority aviation rolesair safety authority or regulator rolescadetship or traineeship positions with airlinesAustralian Defence Force pilot roles
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Central Queensland University Rockhampton
