Overview
Why study at UWL?
- In the top 30% of universities nationwide - The Guardian University Guide 2024
- University of the Year for Social Inclusion - Daily Mail University Guide 2024
- Best university for Student Experience and Teaching Quality in the UK - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024
- Number 1 London university (non-specialist) - National Student Survey 2023**
Why study this course?
Are you looking for an aviation management degree with strong industry links, taught by experienced academics?
The BSc (Hons) Air Transport Management course provides you with the knowledge and skills required to pursue a leadership management role within the aviation industry.
You will learn about various aspects of aviation including:
- the theory of flight
- how airlines transport passengers and goods around the world
- how airports welcome and process millions of passengers
- how the air traffic control system works
- how the industry ensures safety and security on every flight.
You will learn about the practice of managing people and resources and have the opportunity to practise your knowledge and understanding by completing a placement year in the industry.
The course features interaction with industry through guest lectures, field visits and case studies. This is the perfect way to start your career in the world of aviation.
Our courses offer opportunities to discuss current issues and examine solutions from a sector perspective. Our course content is developed with support from a wide network of sector professionals to include changes in the industry.
Course detail & modules
The aviation industry is a fast-paced, global industry that is constantly evolving and adapting to the needs of society. This exciting course is for those looking for a challenge and the ambition to become future leaders in the air transport industry.
Designed in consultation with graduate employers, the course covers both the commercial and operational management of airlines, airports and aviation support services. The course capitalises on its location-based in the heart of west London, just 12km from Heathrow – one of the world's busiest international airports. Home to the Heathrow Archive and Exhibition, the University of West London has a strong link with Heathrow Airport Limited, as well as links with numerous airlines and aviation companies.
The course is delivered by a diverse and experienced team of experts in the aviation industry. Students benefit from the university’s Boeing 737 flight simulator facility which provides a practical learning environment. Industry visits and engaging lectures from guest speakers will keep you knowledgeable about the latest industry insights and developments.
The placement option will give you the opportunity to experience employment within the industry to accelerate your career and put theory into practice. Throughout the course you will learn about a variety of aviation business models and strategies, discover how airports enable people to move around the globe, learn how the global aviation system operates in a safe and efficient manner and much more. Upon completion, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge required for graduate employment and further training to manage in this exciting industry.
Placement*
If you choose to study full-time, you can opt to do a work placement after your second year (Level 5). You will have the opportunity to secure an aviation-industry work placement that will allow you to complete at least 40 hours per week (1,400 hours) over the course of the academic year. Using the theories you have studied in real-life scenarios will help to ground your knowledge and can enhance your employment prospects.
While you will be responsible for finding your own placement, our placement office can give you guidance and exposure to employers through career fairs and aviation industry networks.
*As we are in unprecedented and unpredictable times, there is no guarantee that you will be successful in securing a placement in the UK in the future.
If you choose a course with placement/internship route we would like to advise you that if a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route. This is to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree.
The placement route for this course is open to UK students only.
You need to meet our English language requirement - a minimum of IELTS 5.5 for each of the 4 individual components (Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening). Visit our English language requirements page for information on other English language tests we accept.
You also need academic qualifications at the same level as UK applicants. In some countries where teaching is in English, we may accept local qualifications. Check for local equivalents.
We offer pre-sessional English language courses if you do not meet these requirements.
Find out more about our English Language courses.
Looking for BSc (Hons) Air Transport Management (Airline and Airport Specialist) with Foundation Year?
Mature applicants (aged 21+): If you do not hold the qualifications listed but have relevant work experience, you are welcome to apply. Your application will be considered on an individual basis.
We take pride in our inclusiveness and the diversity of our student population. We have a vibrant mature student community and look forward to welcoming you.

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