Bachelor of Science (Hons) -
AIR TRANSPORT WITH COMMERCIAL PILOT TRAINING
As one of the few programmes that allows you to gain a Frozen ATPL as well as a university degree, our BSc (Hons) Air Transport with Commercial Pilot Training can help you achieve your dream of becoming a commercial pilot.
Why study this subject?
The aviation industry keeps the world moving and a career in this sector promises unique opportunities. Boeing predicts that Europe will need another 147,000 commercial pilots by 2039 (Boeing Pilot and Technician Outlook 2020).
This programme is aimed at those who wish to develop the skills, knowledge and employability profile that will provide them with the opportunity to gain employment as First Officers on commercial airlines. With the aviation industry everchanging, this programme is continuously adapted to meet these ongoing changes so you can be sure you’re receiving up-to-date knowledge.
Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?
BNU's BSc (Hons) in Air Transport with Commercial Pilot Training allows you to achieve a degree and a ‘frozen’ Commercial Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL), in just three years. After you graduate, and have completed all remaining elements of your ATPL, you’ll be able to apply for First Officer roles with commercial airline.
They have a strong focus on employability, and their training partners and professional connections give you the chance to immerse yourself in the industry. Their close proximity to Heathrow and other major UK airports – along with their suppliers – means you’re perfectly placed for networking, seasonal jobs and work placements that are available.
At BNU, you will learn from skilled lecturers within the School of Aviation and Security who have a high level of working knowledge, based on industry experience. Their teaching will allow you to gain a deep insight into the latest trends and requirements of air transport.
As well as receiving top-class lectures and seminars, students are also supported by personal tutors, module leaders and course leaders. In addition, guest speakers often deliver sessions for students within the University to enrich their learning – previously we have welcomed speakers from TUI, British Airways, Ryanair and Gatwick Airport.
At BNU, we recognise roles in this field are hands-on – that’s why you’ll take part in simulated learning experiences throughout the course using our specialised facilities, including our FNPT II Flight Simulator. You’ll also be able to use our library to support your studies, whether you’re looking for the resources you need or just a quiet place to study.
As part of your studies, you’ll enjoy free membership of the Royal Aeronautical Society, the UK professional association dedicated to the aerospace and aviation industry. As a member, you will be able to participate in a number of exciting industry events, including conferences, guest talks, student competitions, and networking opportunities.
If you are interested in the military world, UK students will be eligible to apply for a place in our regional University Air Squadron (part of the Royal Air Force) offering unique access to military flying and adventurous training.
In addition to the above, students can also benefit from free Air League memberships that enable you to apply for flying, gliding and engineering scholarships reducing the amount of your ATPL costs.
Buckinghamshier's top 5 tips before applying
Before you make an application, they recommend you consider the following:
- There are additional costs involved with this course, in addition to the University’s tuition fees. The University does not offer any loans as they are not a financial institution. Students often get funding from private bank loans as well as student finance to pay for the tuition fees. Seek professional financial help to understand what it means for you.
- Talk to, and visit, the flight schools you are considering for most up-to-date pricing. BNU have included approximate costs for guidance on their approved training organisation factsheet.
- Make sure you understand the differences between a UK CAA Licence and an EASA Licence; your chosen flight school will be able to offer some guidance on this. You can find the contact details for BNU's approved training organisations on their factsheet.
- Understand the UK CAA/EASA Class 1 (Commercial Pilots) or Class 2 (Private Pilots) medical requirements, and check that you can successfully hold such licenses, before committing to the flight training.
What facilities can you use?
BNU have invested in a range of state-of-the-art-facilities across their campuses to support your learning. They are one of the very few UK universities to have an FNPT II Flight Simulator and as a student pilot you’ll have exclusive access and will be able to gain vital experience, without leaving the ground.
Alongside this, their other specialised simulation facilities allow you to experience real-life airport scenarios, developing your abilities in airfield planning and operations, and crisis and emergency management.
What will you study?
Throughout the course, you’ll study key modules in aviation law, meteorology and instruments alongside broader subjects such as global aviation and airport operations. You’ll take basic theoretical pilot training, while a range of practical and advanced theoretical training modules will be available through our Approved Training Organisation (ATOs).
We look at trends in the industry to make sure your knowledge is up-to-date and regularly adapt our courses to reflect the most recent changes within the air transport industry globally.
Read Fareeha’s blog, an Air Transport with Commercial Pilot Training graduate, explaining why she chose to combine her flight training with a degree.
How will I be taught and assessed?
BNU has over 20 years’ experience in running this course and you will be taught by professional commercial pilots with many years’ worth of experience. You will also benefit from the team’s connections and valuable networking opportunities. Industry-leading professionals often deliver talks and presentations, providing valuable insight into the profession.
What are your career prospects?
Throughout your time with BNU, they will support you on the route to your chosen career. They'll help you to develop crucial skills, encouraging you to become enterprising and skilled leaders and support you in your search to find employment after graduation. Have a look at our Careers and Employability pages to find out more.
On successful completion of this programme, you’ll be the proud owner of a Commercial Pilot Licence with instrument rating and a frozen ATPL – this will enable you to apply for First Officer positions with airlines.
Your ATPL will remain frozen until you’ve accumulated 1,500 hours, at which point you’ll then be able to apply for promotion to Senior First Officer.
Buckinghamshiers graduates have gone on to become First Officers with a range of airlines including British Airways, Ryanair, easyJet, Cathay Pacific and Jet 2.
As you’ll have also developed a wider understanding of the airline business, you can also choose to pursue a variety of different careers within the aviation industry.
If you’re interested in undertaking further study or specialising in a certain field, you can choose to study one of our renowned postgraduate programmes, such as:
- MSc Aviation Security
- MSc International Aviation Regulation and Law
- MSc Aviation Operations and Management
- MSc Organisational Resilience
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