BSc (Hons) Air Transport Management (Airline and Airport Specialist)

Introduction

The aviation industry is a fast-paced, global industry that is constantly evolving and adapting to the needs of society. This exciting and innovative 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.

Throughout the course students 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, students will be equipped with the skills and knowledge required for graduate employment and further training to manage in this exciting industry.

Course Objectives

LEVEL 4

Level 4 is intended to develop the student’s knowledge of the air transport industry and the key issues, trends and developments facing it. The emphasis is on developing skills and delivering the broad topic areas of the industry. The six core modules studied at level 4 are designed to provide a sound platform of learning to support the higher levels of the programme and to stimulate and maintain the student’s interest in aviation. All the modules develop the student’s understanding and knowledge of the industry, its different sectors, the major players and the current issues facing each sector, thus providing essential knowledge and understanding as they commence their initial modules.

The modules provide a thorough understanding of the history, development and attributes of the aviation industry. The subject-specific themes of service provision and management are also covered so that these topics can be developed at later levels. To enable management students to develop confidence in analytics and technology, a gentle introduction to the physics of flight and financial calculations is introduced so that further numerical skills can be developed at later levels. A key element of the early part of the course is to instil professional values in students so that they can develop confidence in building professional relationships and networks with their peers both in academia and in industry. This incorporates developing soft skills required by the industry and their own personal employability skills so that they can better market themselves as future leaders.

LEVEL 5

Level 5 builds on the learning and skills acquisition in level 4 and introduces the student to some more complex and challenging issues facing aviation management. The emphasis at this level is to develop an in-depth understanding of the operational processes and systems of the industry. At the heart of delivering a safe and efficient service is the management and development of people.

This is broadly covered by multiple modules though formally covered within the Talent Management and Leadership module. For placement students, in particular, the content is tailored to developing service provision and management skills prior to commencing their experience in the industry year. The aim of the course at this level is also to introduce students to research methods within both academia and industry so that students can build on this at Level 6 during the dissertation module and also explore the processes of business research and insight if on the placement route.

LEVEL 6

Level 6 is aimed to further develop the student into a confident, open-minded and innovative leader, taking a more strategic approach to the aviation industry and exploring current and future trends. Their individual academic development to graduate level is aided through their dissertation/business project, a substantial piece of research-based work that builds on the skills and knowledge attained in the Applied Research Methods module at Level 5. A key element of level 6 is for students to develop skills in independent thinking, planning and decision making. Students are encouraged to reflect on the progress at previous levels identifying areas of strength and weakness.

In part, this develops students to take on further training and study at the postgraduate level. In preparation for graduate employment, modules at this stage of the course enable authentic assessments, critical analysis and evaluation. Many of the air transport industry’s contemporary issues are covered so that students can be more confident when communicating with potential employers and other industry leaders. Skills development is increasingly recognised as making a significant contribution to the careers of graduates in terms of the achievement of their full educational potential and adding value to their lifelong learning through preparing them for employment and/or career progression.

The Library has a strong commitment to teaching information literacy skills and the encouragement and development of truly independent learners and is increasingly embedding information skills teaching within the curriculum. Online learning objects allow students to independently learn and practice their information skills and test their progress. Throughout the degree, students will be expected to exercise initiative and take responsibility for their learning. This, for example, is reflected in their ability to work to deadlines. A range of transferable skills and competencies such as oral and written communication are developed across and between levels and in doing so provide a foundation for life-long learning. Successful completion of the course is an indication of competence as an academic practitioner and a student’s ability to confirm/repudiate and apply existing theory and knowledge in the chosen field.

About University of West London

The University of West London is located in the heart of one of the UK’s most successful business regions, with strong connections to many national and multinational organisations.

The University prides itself on being “The Career University” offering over 140 undergraduate and postgraduate courses with a strong focus on employability and practical experience. UWL is ranked as the top modern* university in London, 8th modern university in the UK, and ranked as the 34th university nationally by the Guardian University Guide 2021.

In The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2020 rankings, UWL is ranked 52 in the UK of over 150 universities, rising an impressive 31 places in the league table, which was the biggest rise in the UK. In the National Student Survey (NSS) 2020, the University of West London was ranked the top university in London and in the top 25 in the UK for overall student satisfaction. Moreover, 98% of graduates are in employment or further study within six months of graduation**.

* Modern universities are defined as higher education institutions that were granted university status in, and subsequent to, 1992. UWL received the rankings listed above when compared to all other modern universities ranked in the guides/surveys cited.

** These are the latest figures according to Employment Performance Indicators (EPI) released by the Higher Education Statistics Agency HESA in 2018.

Awarding Body

University of West London, UK

Entry Requirements

Minimum Age

Language Requirement

Attainment of IELTS 6.0, or
SDH Certificate in Foundation English, or
Attained the minimum score of 90/120 on the SDH’s English Aptitude Test, or
Other equivalent English qualification

(Applicants with IELTS band below 6.0 may be considered for entry subjected to undertaking SDH Certificate in Foundation English course before being admitted into this course, for which they will be charged for a fee)

Academic Requirement

Cambridge GCE A level (From a minimum 112 UCAS tariff points depending on the course), or
SDH Higher Diploma in Aviation Management, or
Other CPE registered PEIs’ Advanced or Higher Diploma of related field, or
Polytechnic Certificate with grade C or higher, or
Other equivalent qualifications deemed acceptable by the University

(Applicants who completed the SDH Institute Higher Diploma in Aviation Management course can be admitted with Advanced Standing into Year 2 at Level 5 of the course)

Mode of Delivery

The method of lesson delivery consists of multiple delivery dimensions like face-to-face lectures, e-learning, individual and group discussions, case analysis, demonstration, role-plays, online quizzes and project assignments.

Assessment Methods

Assignments / Projects

Graduation Requirements

Obtained a passing mark in all examinable modules

Progression Pathway

Achievement of the BSc (Hons) Degree will entitle successful candidates the opportunity to progress to postgraduate (Level 7) study (subject to meeting the required entry requirements)

Course Duration

Full-time: 36 months
Part-time: 54 months
Industrial Attachment: Not Applicable

Maximum Candidature Period

Full-time: 6 years
Part-time: 8 years

Next available intake(s)

1st intake: March period

2nd intake: September period

Year 1 (Level 4)

Air Passenger Experience

This module is designed to give students a conceptual underpinning and thorough knowledge of basic principles in relation to air passenger travel experience. It is intended that the module will introduce students to a range of self-service options: check-in, bags ready to go, document check, flight rebooking, self-boarding and bag recovery. The module will analyse the facilitation aspects focusing on areas of the passenger journey related to border control management, identity management, travel authorisations and passenger data. The module will review common use systems: self-service, common-use kiosks, and baggage processes in relation to the passenger experience. The design of terminal buildings will be researched and analysed to determine how this has an impact on the passenger experience. Low-cost carrier (LCC) and full-service network carrier (FSNC) differences will be analysed and evaluated in relation to the passenger experience in air transport. Past, current and future trends will be researched.

Air Transport Finance and Business Strategy

One of the key skills identified by employers as required by graduates is numerical skills. This module aims to provide a foundation by which to underpin numerical and analytical understanding of the financial performance of the air transport industry. Students will interpret and analyse air transport industry financial statements, in the context of both budgeting and via ratio analysis, to attempt to understand the various components associated with an organisations financial performance and requirements. Economic concepts and principles will be studied in the context of the air transport industry and students will be expected to interpret and evaluate these – predominantly in the context of business costs and revenues. One of the key objectives in the business strategy of contemporary organisations is profitability. The airline industry has historically been a sector that, on the whole, has only achieved marginal profitability. The airport industry has generally seen better profitability amongst the largest hub airports, whilst smaller, more regional airports have struggled and many are loss-making. Another key characteristic of the air transport industry is the high levels of capital required to both operate and grow – this is evident in the airline, airport and aircraft manufacturing sectors. This module will provide the knowledge related to the underlying concepts of profitability in financial and economic terms – the principles of supply and demand, costs and revenues – and the relentless desire amongst many air transport organisations to reduce costs and grow ancillary revenues. The module will also analyse the concepts and principles as to how air transport organisations attempt to obtain the capital they require in order to operate and grow. This module provides the necessary foundation in order to develop students numerical and analytical skills through the course and it provides a link to the Level 6 module – Aviation Strategy and Commercial Analysis

Aircraft Operations and Flight Planning

The aim of the module is to provide aviation management students with a basic overview of the principles of flight and operation of commercial aircraft. Aviation managers often find this knowledge to be useful when collaborating with flight operations, engineering and environmental sustainability departments within airlines and airports.

Introduction to Air Transport Management

This module is designed to give students a conceptual underpinning and thorough knowledge of basic principles in relation to the history and development of commercial aviation whilst looking at broader technological developments in aviation. Students will gain an insight into the rapid growth of the industry, business models, airlines, airports, aircraft manufacturers and environmental issues.

Specialised Air Transport Services

Specialised Air Transport Services module aims to provide students with a basic understanding of the structure, nature and operating characteristics of the segments of aviation that are outside of the mainstream of civil passenger aviation industry. These include but are not limited to, Business and Corporate Aviation, Cargo Airlines, Unmanned Air Systems, Air Ships, Law Enforcement, Air-Ambulance and Military. They generally represent a relatively small percentage by the number of aircraft (fixed-wing or rotorcraft). Still, they serve important roles supporting society in roles that otherwise would not be completed as efficiently and as promptly as possible. Some of them even support the future development of the aviation system and extend it in directions not utilised at present. Although they share a similar natural environment to the airlines, there are many substantial differences in their operating scenarios and regulatory requirements. Related planning, operational, financial and management issues are highly complex, involving a balance between such factors as safety, operational, human factors, maintenance and financial performance. Therefore, it is vital for students to acquire sufficient knowledge of the key developments and components that have helped shape those parts of the international aviation industry. Students are expected to understand the complex and changing issues required to maximize all aspects of the services including challenges, risks, advantages of different vehicles utilised (rotary, fixed-wing, and airship). Linked into these students will examine the roles and responsibilities of the major organisations outside the scheduled carrier system to equip themselves with the skills and knowledge required for potential roles in, or interfacing with, these exciting areas of aviation.

The Aviation Professional

The module will address the key areas required for future employability within the aviation industry. The module will also focus on comprehending and applying effective academic competencies. In terms of employability, the module is designed to equip students with knowledge and understanding pertinent to employment within the aviation sector. With these skills, graduates can enhance their employment prospects.

Year 2 (Level 5)

Air Transport Network and Operations

In this module students will acquire a knowledge and understanding of the range of systems, operational concepts, planning processes, infrastructures and regulations that are required to move people and goods safely by air. It focuses on the movement of passengers/ people as well as the study of the movement of goods (cargo), airports systems and air navigation services providers (ANSPs). Essential to the above is to understand the operational technologies, systems, processes and regulations which all go to providing a sustainable, economically viable and service orientated experience for customers and or stakeholders. This module builds upon subject areas taught in L4 (first year) such as Introduction to Air Transport Management and Air Passenger Experience and is designed to both broaden and deepen knowledge and understanding in these areas.

Air Accident Investigation and Safety

The aviation industry operates in a rapidly evolving environment that has significantly changed over the last 30 years. Still, human error is estimated to be a major cause in the majority of all aircraft accidents. The consequences of failure can be catastrophic and far-reaching therefore, aviation safety, and human factors, as a discipline are considered essential elements of Air Transport Management. The air transport safety management approach is strongly driven by an underlying concept of accident causation. Therefore, when situations have not gone as planned civil aviation investigation of aircraft accidents is the task of respective government agencies and other involved and interested parties. Under international civil aviation regulations (e.g. ICAO Annex 13) and relevant national regulations, the investigation participants must have the technical expertise to support the investigation as well as an understanding of the accident investigation process to provide accurate and timely support. This module aims to provide students with knowledge of accident and incident investigation procedures and regulations. Through the use of case studies and group work, it will present the fundamentals of accident and incident investigation and provide students with the knowledge to understand, if not to participate, in an investigation. It is designed to give students a conceptual underpinning and thorough knowledge of basic principles and to introduce a model of safety/accident causation which lies under the adopted Safety Management System (SMS) concept. It will provide an overview of the principles of the overall SMS picture (i.e. Components, Implementation, Regulatory requirements and the role of the aviation authorities). It is intended for the module to introduce students to the fundamentals of Risk Management (RM) and the rationale behind RM, Risk Assessment and Risk Analysis. Finally, to help investigate the possible human error it will cover the main theories in key concepts and components of Human Factors as a discipline and apply this to airlines and aviation.

Applied Research Methods

The module aims to provide students with broad knowledge and understanding of the theory and practice of research. It focuses on the use of a range of different research methods and approaches. The module encompasses the understanding and application of appropriate research methodologies, research approaches, research designs, forms of data collection, research statistics and report writing and presentation.

Aviation Technology and Innovation

The aviation industry has applied technology and innovation since before the Wright Brothers first flight in 1903. This module will examine and analyse historical technological developments and focus on contemporary technologies and how they are being utilised and could be utilised in the future, by 3 of the main sectors within the aviation industry – airlines, airports and aircraft manufacturers. An understanding and the ability to apply technological solutions, in an innovative way, will be a key skill in the graduate of the future and this module aims to provide the foundations in these key areas. Technology and innovation can be categorised into 5 approximate areas, in terms of the rationale for development and implementation; operational efficiencies, cost reduction, revenue generation, product differentiation and improve environmental performance. These will be analysed in the context of the 3 main aviation sectors mentioned above. The airline industry, since deregulation, has increasingly utilised technological developments to improve business performance. The introduction of the low-cost business model and the advent of the internet, has resulted in increased competition and the search for effective technological solutions to reduce costs, generating improved and new sources of revenue and as a product differentiator. The airport industry has become increasingly competitive in recent times and this has led to the search for operational efficiencies and product differentiation especially, as airports seek to compete and prosper in this competitive environment. Environmental issues and the drive from airlines for reductions in fuel consumption, has led aircraft manufacturers to develop new technologies and innovative materials, components and processes, to meet the demand from both the airlines and regulatory authorities. Students will not only analyse technology and innovation in the above contexts but also propose innovative technological solutions to identified problems.

Digital Marketing & Revenue Management

This module will study two important co-related areas in Two Parts; the use of digital marketing and revenue management applied in commercial aviation as well as airports. Part One – Digital marketing greatly contributes to competitive advantage in aviation through building brand and differentiation. This module will offer an introduction to Consumer psychology and Digital marketing. It provides a detailed overview of the technologies, issues and context underpinning digital marketing. Part Two – Aims to provide students with a systematic understanding of the theory and practice of revenue management and its impact on aviation companies as well as their customers. It seeks to provide the students with knowledge and skills to enable them to critically analyse and evaluate market conditions, pricing strategies, inventory control tactics and customer value assessment in order to make appropriate management decisions that enable hospitality organisations to achieve sustainable financial success.

Talent Management and Leadership

This module explores talent management, which has become an area of significant importance in internationally HR practice, as retaining excellent employees plays an important role in the strategic competitiveness of an organisation. This is never so important than in today’s ever-changing work environment, where businesses operate in an environment of not only risk but also volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA). The module will develop your understanding of the requirements for entrepreneurial leadership, which is essential in enabling the dynamic capabilities of the organisation. This module aims to develop your understanding of the requirements for successful leadership and talent management in an ever-changing world.

Year 3 (Level 6)

Airline Maintenance and Fleet Management

This module aims to provide the students with the knowledge of maintenance, fleet selection and planning. Students will have an understanding of aircraft maintenance and how this can impact the airlines’ schedules. The manufacturers have set requirements for maintenance checks and ad hoc requirements. Fleet planning is core to each airline and the choice of aircraft and configuration will have an impact on the routes served (current and planned) as well as crew rostering. The passenger experience will be considered by looking at cabin layout and IFEC.

Airline Route Development and Operations

The aim of this module is to provide students with the knowledge and understanding required to plan and perform airline route operations. The module covers both the commercial and operational aspects of route development and operations through critical analysis and evaluation of information and data and the application of management science. Political, economic, regulatory and environmental considerations are embedded throughout the learning.

Aviation Strategy and Commercial Analysis

Organisational strategy is a key factor in the success of air transport organisations. Decisions made at the top (board) level permeate through the organisation and dictate overall strategy, the strategy of individual business units and play a vital role in the profitability of the organisation. This module comprehensively develops students’ understanding of the strategic and commercial aspects of air transport management. It examines approaches to aviation strategic management, strategic analysis and seeks to determine how these organisations may improve, grow and develop; alongside an investigation of key strategic, financial, and economic trends, problems, and developments in aviation management. Strategy is linked into the context of commercial performance via commercial analysis. This will take the form of building on the foundations studied in the L4 module – Air Transport Finance and Business Strategy – by utilising more advanced ratio analysis, which will continue to develop student’s numerical skills. It will also study the commercial performance of air transport organisations in a more applied way, covering some of the key topics in this area, such as; ownership structures and commercial performance, sources of finance/leasing, fuel hedging and the role of aircraft manufacturers. The importance of technology will be studied throughout, where relevant.

Sustainable Aviation and the Environment

This module is designed to give students a conceptual underpinning and thorough knowledge of basic principles and operational practice in sustainable aviation; providing an overview of the principles of sustainability and sustainable aviation management. It is intended that the module will introduce students to sustainable aviation policy, procedures and strategy for airlines, airports and aircraft manufacturers. It will cover the main theories in regulating environmental externalities and help the students to assess and evaluate these policies and initiatives. Finally, it aims to create a critical and collaborative learning environment that will manifest itself in students reflecting on their contribution to corporate social responsibility and sustainability and taking their place as responsible global citizens.

Dissertation

The aim of the dissertation module is to provide students with the opportunity to critically review, analyse and evaluate a topic of their choice related to the subject area of the course that they are studying. This is best done by conducting research on that topic and presenting the outcomes in a thesis. The module builds on knowledge and understanding that students may have achieved as part of an introductory research methods module. However, this is a self-contained module and it is not a pre-requisite to have been previously studied in an introductory research module. Students initially produce a proposal report of their research idea and complete a set of research ethics forms in accordance with the University’s research ethics policy. Thereafter, students work towards completing the research project with advice and guidance from the academic team. The project culminates in the submission of a capstone thesis that incorporates a thorough critical review of the literature, a detailed methodology outlining relevance and limitations, critical analysis and discussion of the results and the critical evaluation of the outcomes of the work.

Fees

	Local	International
Application Fee (Non-Refundable)	$108	$3515
Course Fees
BSc (Hons) Air Transport Management (Airline and Airport Specialist) Year 1	$11,000	$15,000
BSc (Hons) Air Transport Management (Airline and Airport Specialist) Year 2	$11,000	$15,000
BSc (Hons) Air Transport Management (Airline and Airport Specialist) Year 3	$11,000	$15,000

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Course Time Table
Application Form

Note:

All prices stated above are inclusive of the prevailing Goods & Services Tax (GST)
Local Applicant: Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents
International Applicant: International students including international students transferring from other local institutes

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BSc (Hons) Air Transport Management (Airline and Airport Specialist)