From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.
Why Bachelor of Aviation?
Are you fascinated by aircraft and aviation technology? Do you have a strong sense of responsibility?
Embark on an exhilarating career in the skies where your leadership, interpersonal skills and physical capabilities will be tested to their limits every day. Whether you crave the adrenalin rush or simply thrive under pressure, becoming a pilot is more than just flying passengers from one destination to another. Through our longstanding partnership with Flight Training Adelaide, a world-class training facility that collaborates with Cathay Pacific and STARLUX, you’ll gain the confidence, situational awareness, and discipline required to excel as a pilot.
Overview
Embark on an exhilarating journey to become a pilot. This comprehensive pathway is designed for aspiring pilots who seek to thrive in various aviation settings. Your education will be a blend of theoretical studies, hands-on flight training, and rigorous exams to earn the necessary professional qualifications.
Our Bachelor of Aviation majoring in Pilot will give you the technical knowledge, practical experience and critical thinking required to become a diligent and successful pilot.
Key features
Challenge yourself as you dive into aviation theory. - Gain 5 hours of real-life flying experience and 5 hours of observational flying experience.
- Benefit from flight training in single and multi-engine aircraft.
- Practice your skills in popular A320 and 737 flight simulators.
What you'll learn
The Bachelor of Aviation majoring in Pilot is the perfect pathway for those looking to become a pilot. You’ll engage in intensive study, combining theoretical practice and flight training – both physical and simulated.
In your first year, which is shared with the Bachelor of Aviation majoring in Management, you’ll be introduced to flight operations, management and safety. You'll learn about aviation law and its applications in Australia and abroad. You'll explore the relationship between human physiology, psychology, and the aviation environment, recognising the limitations of the human body.
You’ll study tailored subjects in areas such as:
- Aviation management
- Aviation law
- Human performance in aviation
- Flight training theory
- Commercial pilot theory
- Navigation and aircraft systems theory
- Advanced pilot theory
- Aviation physics
- Airline operations management.
In your second year, you’ll have the opportunity to choose from three pilot pathways which include obtaining, in addition to your degree, either the Graduate Diploma in Aviation, which will provide you with three professional qualifications: the Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), Command Instrument Rating (CIR) and Multi-Engine (M/E) aeroplane class rating or a CPL only. The last pathway, which is the degree only option, will give you the choice to secure employment with an airline, where you could go on to participate in a cadetship. The first pathway is also a launchpad into gaining a Private Pilot Licence (PPL). However, this will come at an additional cost and is also subject to required flying hours, competencies and theories being met.
The three flying pathways to choose from are:
- Bachelor + Graduate Diploma
- Bachelor + CPL
- Bachelor ONLY.
In your final year, you will address a real-world aviation-related problem. Collaborating with your peers, you’ll apply your theoretical and technical expertise to develop a logical solution and produce a comprehensive report.
We’ll also help you enhance your employability outcomes by developing essential interpersonal, cultural literacy and interprofessional collaboration skills in a global context.
What courses you'll study
You're required to complete 144 units to complete your degree, across a mix of core courses, elective and work integrated learning. A list of indicative courses is provided below.
Complete exactly 66 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Introduction to Aviation | AERO1000 | 6 |
|
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Human Performance & Limitations in Aviation | AERO1002 | 6 |
|
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Aviation Law | LAWS1017 | 6 |
|
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Introduction to Aviation Management | AERO1004 | 6 |
|
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Aviation Practice | AERO1005 | 6 |
|
|
Flight Training Theory 1 | AERO1006 | 6 |
|
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Introduction to Aviation Safety | AERO1007 | 6 |
|
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Quantitative Methods for Business | STAT2004 | 6 |
|
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Airline Operations Management | AERO2004 | 6 |
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Humans in Aviation: People, Systems and Safety | AERO2002 | 6 |
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Safety and Risk Management for Aviation Professionals | AERO3001 | 6 |
Complete exactly 12 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Aviation Project 1 | AERO3002 | 6 |
|
|
Aviation Project 2 | AERO3004 | 6 |
Complete exactly 18 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Elective 1 | AUXX1011 | 6 |
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Elective 2 | AUXX1012 | 6 |
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Elective 3 | AUXX1013 | 6 |
Complete exactly 48 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Aviation Physics 1 | AERO2005 | 6 |
|
|
Commercial Pilot Theory | AERO2006 | 18 |
|
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Advanced Pilot Theory | AERO2007 | 6 |
|
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Theory of Aircraft Performance & Flight Planning | AERO3007 | 6 |
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Large Aircraft Flight Operations | AERO3008 | 6 |
|
|
Elective 1 | AUXX1011 | 6 |
Career outcomes
You’ll graduate with the discipline, critical thinking and situational awareness required for the global workforce, well prepared to practise as a:
- Professional airline pilot
- Charter pilot
- Skydiving pilot
- Scenic bush pilot
- Military pilot
- Medical pilot
- Aircraft maintenance officer
- Air traffic manager.
You could fly across vast terrain, giving adrenaline seekers a once-in-a-lifetime thrill. You might connect doctors and health professionals to those impacted by natural disasters, delivering vital aid and resources. As intergalactic tourism gains momentum, you could even transport eager space enthusiasts to the moon.
Industry trends
Efficiency, security and sustainability are among the key factors shaping industry trends in the aviation world. More people are taking flights, engaging in professional and personal endeavours at home, interstate and overseas, resulting in increased air traffic. Security is more crucial than ever as individuals devise new ways to bypass safety systems. Like in many other professions, eco-friendly initiatives are essential for the longevity of the airline industry. A career in aviation equips you with the knowledge, humility, and determination needed to navigate these global challenges and contribute to innovative, insightful solutions.
Accreditation
Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing in 2026.
How to apply
FAQs
Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
