CAO Code: DC117 Duration: 4 years full-time *New for 2010*

Ireland's first and premier aviation management degree
 

* Learn business and technical aspects of aviation
* Benefit from opportunity to qualify as an airline pilot
* Undertake valuable aviation industry placement
* Enjoy tremendous career flexibility

Download the course brochure (pdf - 225kb)

Why Study Aviation Management at DCU?
This ground-breaking programme offers a distinct choice for those wishing to train as commercial pilots or to pursue fast-paced management careers in the dynamic world of aviation.
 

The aviation industry spans the airlines, airports and ancillary activities directly connected to the airline business as well as other sectors such as tourism, logistics and areas dependent on international trade.

To date, few pilots have possessed a sound business understanding of the industry in which they work, nor have business professionals in the aviation industry had access to a course of study that directly targeted those areas of business which are of central importance to the success of the industry.

This exciting new course addresses gaps in the education of those entering the aviation industry: for those who wish to become commercial pilots, it offers a route to a professional qualification as a commercial pilot combined with a strong background in business education; for those who see themselves playing other roles in the industry, it provides the necessary expertise to maximise your potential in this ever-changing industry.

Course Structure: Flexibility and Choice
For those who plan to enter the world of aviation – whether as a commercial pilot or as a manager – a sound foundation in business management principles as they affect the aviation industry are key to success in this rapidly changing and challenging industry.
 

The aviation management course is structured to give you an introduction to all aspects of the aviation business, both technical and managerial.
 

The first two years of the course provide a general introduction to business analysis, the aviation sector and technical aspects of piloting, and they offer an opportunity to acquire a Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL).

Work Placement
The third year of the course begins with a substantial period of industrial placement within the aviation industry. This enables you to put into practice the theoretical knowledge that you have gained over the previous two years. It introduces you to the commercial world – not as an observer but as an active participant, with all of the responsibilities and privileges which that entails. The work placement will also help you to make an informed decision on your choice of specialism for final year and, of course, it is an enviable addition to your C.V.
 

The second half of third year comprises specialist business modules including supply chain management, business ethics, airport operations modelling and simulation, and aviation safety management.

Choice of Final Year Specialisms – Aviation Management or Pilot Studies
In the fourth year, the programme divides into two streams: some students will opt to pursue training at an approved Flight Training Organisation with a view to qualifying as a commercial pilot (Airline Transport Pilot Licence - ATPL)*; others will choose to follow more specialist studies in aviation management here in DCU.

What Will I Study?
 

A Future Career
Aviation is a high-tech, dynamic and competitive industry operating in a global arena. Targeted aviation management skills are needed by both aviation management professionals and airline pilots, and the career options within the industry are diverse.
 

The work of a pilot is demanding, both mentally and physically, but it also is an exciting and rewarding career. Airline pilots have responsibility for the safety of aircraft, passengers and crew. They must study flight plans, communicate with crew members, calculate fuel requirements, conduct checks on aircraft controls and instruments, and liaise with air traffic control. A degree in aviation management educates an airline pilot to view the airline in its entirety and to recognise business opportunities that might arise. It also offers flexibility in terms of alternative career paths within the industry.
 

Aviation also requires effective management in the areas of business operations, marketing, logistics, flight operations, finance, public relations, and employee relations. Managers in the aviation industry may also be responsible for planning and supervising maintenance and safety programmes, enforcing airline or airport rules and regulations, setting budgets, and promoting increased use of an airport’s or airline’s facilities. Thus a career in aviation management offers a diverse range of unique management opportunities.