Start Date
February
July

Duration
3 year(s) full-time

Mode
On-campus

Program Code
LBAN

SATAC Code
434141 (Internal)

Study as
Full-time or part-time

Prerequisites
None

Assumed Knowledge
None

Entry Scores
2025 Guaranteed Entry
Year 12 (ATAR-based): 69.00
Year 12 (Grades-based): B,B,B
TAFE/RTO: DIP
View Guaranteed Entry Info
2024 Cut-Offs
Year 12 (ATAR-based):
- Internal: 69.00
TAFE/RTO: Cert IV
View full entry requirements

Degree overview

  • Take the first steps towards becoming a pilot.
  • Study theory and practice at the same time.
  • Develop fundamental knowledge in aerodynamics, meteorology, navigation, flight planning, and aircraft power plants and systems.
  • Gain 10 hours of flight experience in your first semester with our flight partner, Flight Training Adelaide (FTA).
  • Access flight simulators and work with the latest industry software.
  • Study the Graduate Diploma in Aviation concurrently, and prepare for your Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) exams.
  • South Australia’s only degree in Aviation.

Snapshot

Snapshot

Make your dreams of being a pilot a reality with South Australia’s first and only aviation degree designed specifically to train pilots.

You’ll gain 10 hours of flight experience in your first semester, which includes pilot flying and observing in a DA40 aircraft with our partner FTA. You'll learn aerodynamics, meteorology, navigation and flight planning.

Flight training is taught separately to this degree via the Graduate Diploma in Aviation. There are a number of entry requirements that must be fulfilled before you can begin. Please read the Graduate Diploma in Aviation page carefully.

On-campus teaching for this program is based at the Mawson Lakes campus. Only 20 minutes from the city centre with easy parking. The Mawson Lakes campus is also accessible by bus and train with the Mawson Lakes train station only a short walk.

UniSA works in close partnership with industry, you will graduate ready to meet the growing global demand for pilots1.

1 Boeing’s Current Market Outlook 2014-2033

What you'll learn

What you Learn

You will undertake general studies in aviation including an introduction to human factors and safety management systems. You will do Flight Training Theory 1 and Commercial Pilot Theory, taught by instructors from the flight training provider. These courses prepare you for CASA Commercial Pilot Licence theory examinations.

As your studies progress you will explore more advanced and theoretical areas including meteorology, law, human factors and aspects of the flight and performance of large aircraft systems. You will also study communication and aviation management. Your technical studies will include aerodynamics, heavy aircraft systems, navigation and risk and safety management.

Over the course of the degree, you can select up to three electives from the Bachelor of Aviation (Management) degree and other aviation-related electives.

Flight training is done via the Graduate Diploma in Aviation and there are a number of entry requirements that must be fulfilled before you can begin. Please read the Graduate Diploma in Aviation page carefully.

You can gain an extra qualification and broaden your career prospects by completing a Diploma in Languages.

Degree structure

Course name Area and cat no. Units Reference  
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Introduction to Aviation AERO 1022 4.5
Human Performance & Limitations in Aviation AERO 1017 4.5
Aviation Law AERO 1014 4.5
Aviation Elective 1 4.5 Note(s): 2
OR
Introductory Instructional Flights AERO 1028 4.5 Note(s): 5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Introduction to Aviation Management AERO 1024 4.5
Aviation Practice AERO 1020 4.5
Flight Training Theory 1 AERO 1021 4.5 Note(s): 3,4,8,9
Aviation Safety Fundamentals AERO 1025 4.5
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
University Elective 4.5 Note(s): 1
Commercial Pilot Theory AERO 2064 13.5 Note(s): 6,7,8
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Quantitative Methods for Business MATH 1053 4.5
Advanced Pilot Theory AERO 2063 4.5
Airline Operations Management AERO 2058 4.5
Aviation Physics AERO 1011 4.5
THIRD YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Humans in Aviation: People, Systems and Safety AERO 2053 4.5
Safety and Risk Management for Aviation Professionals AERO 3016 4.5
Aviation Project 1 AERO 3013 4.5
Large Aircraft Flight Operations (Part 1) AERO 3021 4.5
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Large Aircraft Flight Operations (Part 2) AERO 3020 4.5
Aviation Project 2 AERO 3012 4.5
Aviation Elective 2 4.5 Note(s): 2
Aviation Elective 3 4.5 Note(s): 2

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week. 

Assessment

Assessment

Your studies at UniSA will incorporate both practical, professionally-focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

  • practical tasks and tests
  • essays and assignments examinations
  • an industry-relevant project
  • an oral or online presentation

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Global opportunities

Why Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot)

Why this Degree

You will learn the very latest in aviation theory from academics, industry experts and flight instructors.

We emphasise hands-on, practical knowledge. You will train in our state-of-the-art flight and airport simulators and learn on the latest industry software. Through this degree you will develop an in-depth knowledge of aerodynamics, aircraft power plants and systems, meteorology, navigation, flight planning, computer controlled flight management systems and flight operation technology.

You’ll start flight training – via the Graduate Diploma in Aviation.

Real-world connections

UniSA has a track record for building partnerships and developing new technologies for industry. We collaborate with over 2,500 companies worldwide. These extensive industry connections give us a truly competitive edge – our students get real-world skills and contacts.

This program offers aviation theory based on the CASA Commercial Pilot and Airline Transport Pilot syllabus. Our partnership with Flight Training Adelaide (FTA) draws on mutual experience and expertise to deliver Commercial Pilot Theory content within this program.

UniSA has partnered with QantasLink to offer an exciting professional engagement program and employment pathways to one of the world’s leading air groups (see below for more details)

We also host regular University-wide career expos and employment forums through our Career Service, as well as alumni events in Australia and overseas.

Qantas Group Future Pilot Program

The Qantas Future Pilot Program is an opportunity for the University’s best aviation students to gain special industry-based training and network with Qantas pilots while progressing through the Bachelor of Aviation – Pilot.  Students who successfully complete the program will be assessed upon graduation with the possibility of being fast-tracked to a career as a pilot by joining QantasLink as a First Officer

Hear from Aaron Quick, Aviation student

Aaron Quick talks about his experience studying UniSA's Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot) and Graduate Diploma in Aviation, and why UniSA’s facilities, teaching quality and industry connections made it his first choice for studying Aviation.

UniSA Video

Career outcomes

Your career

Within the next 20 years, it is predicted there will be a demand of 837,000 new personnel required in the Asia-Pacific region. Although the aviation industry is currently experiencing a downturn driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, the long-term need remains robust with anticipation of growth to the sector in coming years.1

Here are some careers to consider:

  • Professional airline Pilot
  • Charter pilot
  • Military careers
  • Aircraft maintenance
  • Aircraft manufacturing
  • Remote pilot
  • Air traffic management

1Boeing 20-year Pilot, Technician and Cabin Crew Outlook 2020 - 2039

Industry facts

data-presentation

Boeing predicts an additional 602,000 commercial airline pilots will be needed worldwide between now and 2041

(2022 Boeing Pilot and Technician Outlook)

column-chart-growth

Commercial air traffic is expected to recover to 2019 levels by 2024

(2022 Boeing Pilot and Technician Outlook)

global-travel-delivery

By 2038, global air travel transport is forecasted to support 143 million jobs and contribute $6.3 trillion to the global economy

(Aviation: Benefits Beyond Borders 2022)

How to apply

Applying to study with us:

  • go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply
  • you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:
International students interested in this program should contact UniSA International enquiries at International@unisa.edu.au.

Deferment

This degree is available for deferment. This option is made available by responding to your offer during the application process via the SATAC website. Applicants who receive an offer into a midyear degree are eligible to defer for six months.

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Your study experience and support

Our campuses are home to fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. But you’ll also discover that your journey at UniSA is about social experiences, healthy living and getting involved. You’ll find student sports and fitness facilities, community clinics, tech zones and chill-out spaces. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and loads more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Student services

Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

  • academic counselling
  • personal counselling
  • social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
  • common rooms
  • prayer rooms
  • security officers
  • career services and mentoring
  • Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
  • as well as services offered through our student association, USASA.

When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Student services

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Location This degree is delivered at the following campus.

Your study spaces

The UniSA Aviation Academy at Parafield Airport is fully equipped for flight training with networked classrooms, simulators housed in climate and sound-controlled rooms, and aircraft maintenance hangars. There is also a student lounge, briefing rooms for one-on-one time with instructors, and a flight planning area.

An operations room is staffed by qualified personnel who maintain a ‘flight watch’ service for all FTA aircraft in the air. Students have immediate access to weather, NOTAMS and other flight planning data as required.

Your study spaces

Additional info

FLIGHT TRAINING

Practical flight training is taught through the Graduate Diploma in Aviation (LGAN), which is studied concurrently with the Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot) (LBAN). The flight training courses are delivered by FTA at the UniSA Aviation Academy based at Parafield Airport.

Your program director

I’m an academic leading the UniSA’s aviation program. I teach courses and conduct research into aviation, especially on airlines and airports. My colleagues and I work on projects across all aspects in aviation, thereby enabling relevance and connections with the industry. Our aviation team comprises of experts in specific aviation sub-sectors such as flight operations, human factors, airport management and accident investigation. Both our industry collaboration and technical knowledge enable our coursework and materials to be distinctive in satisfying the needs of the ever-changing industry and ensuring academic excellence.

AsPr Paul Lee

Program Director

Enquire
Portrait image for AsPr Paul Lee
Portrait image for AsPr Paul Lee

AsPr Paul Lee

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

  • How do I apply? minus-thick plus-thick

    The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.

    The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.

    There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.

    If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.

    You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.

    If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying

  • Is there a closing date for applications? minus-thick plus-thick

    Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

    Undergraduate

    The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.

    Postgraduate

    Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.

    As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.

  • What credit can I receive for previous studies? minus-thick plus-thick

    You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central. 

  • Can I speak to someone regarding my study options? minus-thick plus-thick

    Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.

More FAQs

What others are saying

UniSA was the obvious choice because it was one of the few universities in Australia – and the only in the state – to
offer an aviation degree. As someone who is fascinated by airplanes, I have thoroughly enjoyed discovering the mysteries of the aviation industry.

Joshua Chin

Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot)
Flight Instructor | Flight Training Adelaide

josh_aviation_crop.jpg

Joshua Chin

Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot)
Flight Instructor | Flight Training Adelaide

Before my instructor sent me on my first solo flight, I was feeling quite nervous, but knowing that I was in control of the aircraft with no one sitting beside me was an experience I'll never forget. Watching yourself grow as a professional pilot is truly an amazing feeling.

Alexi Currie

Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot), Graduate Diploma in Aviation
Second Officer | Cathay Pacific Airways

Alexi Currie_2.jpg

Alexi Currie

Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot), Graduate Diploma in Aviation
Second Officer | Cathay Pacific Airways

I think I grew a passion for aviation from a young age, flying to different islands around the Eyre Peninsula with my dad, who had his Private Pilot's Licence. One of my most memorable experiences from my course was definitely my first solo flight. I went up with my instructor and did a few circuits with him, then we landed, he got out of the plane, left it to me, and I took off and did the circuit by myself. It was a surreal feeling being in total control of the plane.

Sam Rogers

Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot), Graduate Diploma in Aviation

Sam Rogers.jpg

Sam Rogers

Bachelor of Aviation (Pilot), Graduate Diploma in Aviation