BSc (Hons) Airline, Airport and Aviation Management

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Airline, Airport and Aviation Management program at London Metropolitan University is specifically designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the global aviation industry. Developed in collaboration with experienced aviation professionals, the course provides a strong academic foundation in the core disciplines of aviation management, with a particular emphasis on the international business environment in which airlines and airports operate. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that graduates possess sound business skills in addition to specialized knowledge of the aviation system. The program aims to cultivate students' decision-making abilities at operational, international, and strategic levels, preparing them for high-ranking professional roles within the sector. A key feature of the program is its strong links with the aviation community, with the university's London location providing proximity to major airports and the UK headquarters of leading aviation companies. This facilitates guest lectures from industry experts and offers potential opportunities for students to engage with the industry directly.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSc (Hons) Airline, Airport and Aviation Management program is structured to provide a well-rounded education in the various facets of the aviation industry. Core modules typically cover fundamental areas such as the principles of airline and airport management, airline operations, air cargo services and operations, aviation law and regulation, and aviation safety and security. Students also delve into the broader business context, studying modules in areas like economics, human resources, marketing specifically tailored for the aviation industry, and finance. As they progress, students may encounter more specialized modules such as airline commercial planning, revenue and pricing management, aviation psychology and human factors, and risk and crisis management. The curriculum often includes a strong emphasis on developing essential academic and professional skills, including research methods, critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication, which are crucial for success in the industry.

Research Focus: Within the BSc (Hons) Airline, Airport and Aviation Management program, the research focus is primarily on applied research relevant to the aviation industry. While it's an undergraduate degree, the curriculum is designed to be informed by current industry practices and challenges. Modules often require students to engage in research activities such as case studies, data analysis, and the critical evaluation of industry reports. The program typically culminates in a final-year project or dissertation, providing students with the opportunity to conduct independent research on a topic of their choice within the field of aviation management. This research component allows students to delve deeper into a specific area of interest, develop their research skills, and potentially contribute new insights to the field.

Industry Engagement: A significant strength of the London Metropolitan University's program is its commitment to industry engagement. The university's strategic location in London provides a natural advantage, with easy access to major airports like Heathrow, Gatwick, London City, Luton, and Stansted, as well as the UK offices of major aviation companies like Boeing and Bombardier. The program actively leverages these connections by inviting guest lecturers from airlines, airports, maintenance organizations, and other aviation-related businesses. These guest speakers provide students with real-world perspectives and insights into the latest industry trends and challenges. Furthermore, the program often includes opportunities for practical, career-enhancing modules, such as work-related learning, which can involve the university advertising suitable work experience opportunities and providing guidance to students. Although placements are not always guaranteed, the emphasis on industry links significantly enhances students' employability upon graduation. The university's Aviation Society also plays a role in industry engagement, organizing trips and inviting guest speakers.

Global Perspective: Given the inherently international nature of the aviation industry, the BSc (Hons) Airline, Airport and Aviation Management program at London Metropolitan University naturally incorporates a strong global perspective. The curriculum is designed to help students understand the global business environment in which airlines and airports operate, considering factors such as international regulations, global market trends, and the challenges of managing a globalized workforce. Modules often examine case studies of international airlines and airports, allowing students to compare different operating models and strategies across the globe. The diverse student body at London Metropolitan University also contributes to this global perspective, providing opportunities for students to collaborate with peers from various cultural backgrounds and gain a broader understanding of the international aviation community. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in a globally interconnected industry, where an understanding of international dynamics is crucial for success.