Aviation Operations with Commercial Pilot Training BSc (Hons)
Subject and course type
- Engineering: aerospace, aviation and aircraft
- Undergraduate
If you want a successful career in the aviation industry, our BSc (Hons) Aviation Operations with Commercial Pilot Training is for you. You'll focus on both the operational and commercial aspects of airline and airport operations, and develop the skills needed for the fast-paced, global industry. We are the only UK university with industry-standard flight simulators that include Airbus A320 Flight Simulator, Helicopter Simulator and Six-Degree of Freedom Motion Simulator.
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Take off as a pilot and future aviation leader with Kingston
Prepare for career lift off.
As part of your studies, you will benefit from access to our specialist facilities. These include a flight simulator, drone lab, computer lab and rocket lab. All are designed to enhance your learning and prepare you for the challenges of the aviation sector.
Whether you are aiming to become a commercial pilot or an aviation operations specialist, this course will help you stand out. You’ll graduate ready to take the next step in your aviation journey.
The aims of the course are to:
- Provide you with a thorough understanding of the principles and practice of aircraft operation and of aviation operations in general so you are fully prepared for the EASA ATPL theory examinations and a career as a commercial pilot.
- Equip you with the knowledge and practical skills necessary for graduate employment in the air transport industry.
- Provide you with the opportunity to develop your written and oral communications skills.
- Prepare you to undertake research, further study and continue with lifelong learning by developing intellectual, problem-solving and key (transferable) skills.
Satisfactory completion of the BSc (Hons) Aviation Operations with Commercial Pilot Training will give you the possibility of postgraduate study on a suitable Air Transport Management MSc course.
Before starting Year 2, you will have the option to change course to Aviation Operations BSc (Hons).
Engineering at Kingston University
Follow along as our students talk through the skills they're developing to design their future careers.
The Kingston University aviation studies course has been essential for me in securing a position with Ryanair. The aviation industry is by nature very competitive and unstable, so putting all the odds on your side is fundamental in improving your chances of success. By the end of the course you will not only have an in-depth knowledge of pilot theory, but also of the aviation industry as a whole.
Why choose this course
Study for a degree in aviation operations alongside your flight training to ensure you graduate ready to fly into a graduate job with an airline. This programme combines theory with practical skills to ensure you have the most up-to-date awareness of the aviation industry and piloting abilities.
In Year 2, you will be able to do your Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) Theory on-campus, we will be delivering this in-house in partnership with an EASA/CAA approved Training Organisation (ATO). You'll study the syllabus of the 13 Theoretical Knowledge exams needed to obtain a UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATPL (A) Licence.
Please note: the cost of flight training could be around £90,000, in addition to University fees. Student Finance does not cover any CAA exams or flight training. Hence, additional funding will be required to complete the ATPL training.
In addition, an ATPL is only valid if you hold a Class 1 CAA Medical Certificate. In consultation with the ground school, students are encouraged to undertake the Class 1 Medical between the first and second years of the course. For those who may be concerned that there may be an impediment to being awarded the Class 1 Medical, it is recommended that the medical is undertaken prior to commencing the course.
For further information on Class 1 Medicals and other regulatory restrictions (including those affected by the UK leaving the European Union), visit the UK Civil Aviation Authority website.
The decision to pursue a career in civil aviation is one that cannot be taken lightly. Commercial pilot training is expensive, complex and daunting. The Kingston University aviation studies course equipped me with the knowledge and flexibility I needed to secure a job as a first officer with the Europe's largest independent regional airline.
International Success Support Scholarship
If you are an international student, you may be eligible for a £2,500 International Success Support Scholarship for this course, for September 2026 start only.
Course content
The programme will be taught at Kingston University and, in Year 2, you will be able to do your Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) Theory, which will be delivered in partnership with an EASA/CAA approved Training Organisation (ATO).
Year 1
Year 1 introduces aviation and equips you with the maths and physics skills needed for Years 2 and 3. You are introduced to the theory of flight and the aircraft systems that enable aircraft to fly. You are also provided with the core communication skills required to become a pilot and a future leader.
Core modules
30 credits
This module provides a foundation in mathematics and science relevant to aviation operations and pilot training. It gives you essential analytical and problem-solving skills to apply mathematical concepts and scientific principles in an aviation context, ensuring a strong basis for future flight training and operational decision-making.
The computing component introduces you to Excel for problem-solving, data analysis, graphical representation, and visualisation.
30 credits
You will be introduced to your course learning aims and consider your anticipated learning targets from induction to graduation. You will be guided to identify and take ownership of your personal academic journey through the development and application of academic skills aligned to KU Graduate Attributes and their discipline-specific professional body learning outcomes.
You will be tutored in a range of learning-to-learn techniques, and introduced to assessment for learning and the role of feedback, reflection and feedforward as an integrated part of your learning journey. This will be supported through active engagement in KU Navigate Programme, enabling you to understand and begin to develop a design thinking approach to Future Skills development.
30 credits
This module introduces students to the principles of airline flight operations. Key topics include flight planning, air traffic control (ATC) procedures, flight dispatch, and crew resource management (CRM). The module also explores operational safety standards and abnormal situations.
30 credits
This module introduces students to the key concepts of human factors in aviation and their impact on flight safety. Topics include situational awareness, decision-making, fatigue management, and safety management systems (SMS).
Aims
- To introduce the fundamentals of human factors and aviation safety.
- To explore how human performance affects flight operations.
- To develop skills in risk assessment and safety management.
Year 2
In Year 2, you will study the specialised topics required for commercial pilot training.
The course covers the Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) theory, following either the UK CAA or EASA syllabus.
You will follow a modular approach to ATPL theory. To enrol on the modular route, you must complete a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) in Year 1, as this is a regulatory prerequisite for admission to an ATPL theory course.
All flight-training and CAA examination costs are the responsibility of the student and are not included in the degree programme fee.
Core modules
30 credits
This module is designed to cover the syllabus required to pass the flight training theoretical knowledge topics covering Principles of Flight, Aircraft Performance, Flight Planning, and Monitoring, Meteorology, and Communications. These topics are considered to be the core subjects for flight operations and the content is designed and approved by the UK CAA. The assessment replicates the format and structure of the Theoretical Knowledge assessment of the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
30 credits
This module is designed to cover the syllabus required to pass the CAA flight training theoretical topics covering Air Law, General Navigation, Instrumentation, Mass and Balance, and Radio Navigation and Human Performance. These topics are considered to be the core subjects for flight operations and the content is designed and approved by the UK Civil Aviation Authority. The assessment replicates the format and structure of the Theoretical Knowledge assessment of the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
30 credits
This module is designed to cover the syllabus required to pass the CAA flight training theoretical topics covering Aircraft General Knowledge – Airframe, Systems and Powerplant, Instrumentation, Operational Procedures. These topics are considered to be the core subjects for flight operations and the content is designed and approved by the UK Civil Aviation Authority. The assessment replicates the format and structure of the Theoretical Knowledge assessment of the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
30 credits
This module supports you in identifying the skills acquired during their integrated pilot licence training and the early stages of your degree. It prepares you for Level 6 study by enhancing your ability to reflect on learning, develop critical thinking, and strengthen communication skills.
Aligned with Kingston University graduate attributes, the module fosters a reflective approach to learning, an appreciation of lifelong learning, creativity, and effective communication. This mirrors industry expectations, where trainee airline pilots must reflect on their performance during training phases.
Year 3
In Year 3, the focus is on understanding the operational and commercial nature of the airline industry. You are given the opportunity to research a topic of your choice to enhance your independent learning skills. You will also carry out a group project on airline management.
Core modules
30 credits
This module examines the strategic decision-making processes within the aviation industry. It provides you with a set of analytical tools to support long-term organisational planning. It introduces core strategic management concepts and applies modern economic and operational principles to real-world aviation scenarios.
The module covers both qualitative and quantitative tools, including scenario analysis, forecasting techniques, game theory, and linear programming. You will develop the ability to evaluate strategic options, manage uncertainty, and formulate evidence-based, data-driven strategies in airline, airport, and aviation service contexts.
30 credits
This module aims to develop students' understanding of the principles of airline and airport operations, including the interdependencies between airlines, airports, regulatory bodies, and ground service providers. It explores operational efficiency, safety, regulatory compliance, and the economic and logistical challenges that influence decision-making in the aviation industry. The module also emphasises real-world case studies, technological advancements, and sustainability in airport and airline operations.
As part of the module, flight simulator sessions will be used to reinforce operational concepts through practical, scenario-based learning. These sessions will enhance students’ situational awareness, decision-making, and problem-solving skills in realistic operational environments.
15 credits
This multidisciplinary module reflects the needs of transportation business. It explores the role of digital technology and innovation in the aviation industry, providing you with an understanding of emerging technologies, digital transformation, and their impact on operational efficiency and stakeholders experience. It covers topics such as artificial intelligence (AI), future air systems, big data analytics, digital twins, automation, and cybersecurity within aviation. The module integrates theoretical concepts with real-world applications through case studies and hands-on activities.
30 credits
This module provides you with the essential research skills and methodologies required for academic and professional investigations in aviation operations. The module will equip you with qualitative and quantitative research techniques and critical evaluation skills to conduct independent research. You will develop a research proposal and prepare for your dissertation by engaging with industry-relevant problems, ethical considerations, and data collection strategies.
15 credits
This module provides you with a dedicated opportunity to develop your Future Skills Graduate Attributes that will set you apart from other graduates and enhance your employability and confidence. At the start of the module, you will be supported to self-assess your current skills profile and determine which attributes you need to develop to support your career ambitions.
Taught sessions will give you the opportunity to have coaching conversations with students from across the University, supported and facilitated by the Module team. Outside of these taught sessions, you will engage in activities from a menu of opportunities to develop your Graduate Attributes.
The menu of opportunities allows you to self-select activities such as hackathons, masterclasses and taster sessions, short online learning courses, and study abroad. In your taught classes with students from across the University, you will be encouraged to reflect on the activities you undertake to develop your graduate attributes and work towards the final assignment, a portfolio.
Aviation Operations BSc (Hons): an alternative route
Before starting Year 2 you will have the option to change course to Aviation Operations BSc (Hons).
Students on both routes follow the same foundational modules in Year 1 and re-join again in Year 3, developing strategic, operational, and research skills.
The pilot route diverges in Year 2, where students complete the training required for the UK CAA ATPL exams (all flight training is funded and arranged independently by the student). This integration allows pilot route students to gain both the academic and regulatory qualifications needed for a flying career, while also developing a wider understanding of airline and airport operations.
Aviation Operation BSc (Hon) students will continue to study at Kingston’s Roehampton Vale campus and not take part in the pilot training. Aviation Operations BSc (Hons) students may still pursue pilot training separately after graduation, having already developed a strong operational and academic grounding.
This course is designed for aspiring professionals eager to enter the diverse and rapidly evolving aviation industry.
Delivered in a dynamic, inclusive learning environment, it welcomes individuals from a wide range of academic backgrounds, interests, and experiences. The programme uniquely equips students with both the commercial insight and technical expertise needed to thrive in various roles across the aviation sector, preparing them to navigate and succeed in one of the world’s most complex and competitive industries.
What truly sets this course apart is its built-in flexibility, especially for those with ambitions to become commercial airline pilots.
Foundation Year in Engineering
Want to study on one of our engineering degrees, but don't meet our standard entry requirements?
Our Foundation Year in Engineering provides an alternative entry route.
International students: direct application
Are you an international student? Have you decided Kingston is the place for you? If so, you can apply for this course directly, rather than having to go through UCAS.
Throughout the course, instructors and lecturers are always available, helpful, professional and very knowledgeable. The atmosphere is friendly and I made some very close friends. The flexible nature of the course means that you can adapt your training to suit your needs. As choosing where to carry out your next stage of training can be difficult, I found that the three years gives you enough time to weigh up all your options.
What career opportunities does this course offer?
With your degree and frozen ATPL, you'll be able to apply for initial employment as a commercial pilot with regional and short-haul airlines. For example, easyJet, Loganair, Ryanair and more.
Future Skills
Our Future Skills programme is embedded within all our undergraduate courses and throughout the whole Kingston experience. These skills will help you to become a future-proof graduate by equipping you with the skills most valued by employers, such as problem-solving, digital competency and adaptability.
As you progress through your degree, you'll learn to navigate, explore and apply these graduate skills. You’ll also understand how to demonstrate and articulate to employers how these future skills give you the edge.
Teaching and assessment
Scheduled learning and teaching on this course includes timetabled activities including lectures, seminars and small group tutorials. Most of the teaching will be classroom-based using traditional techniques.
It may also include placements, project work, workshops, workshops in computer labs, and laboratory workshops.
Outside the scheduled learning and teaching hours, you will learn independently through self-study which will involve reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, preparing for and completing your work for assessments. Some independent study work may need to be completed on-campus, as you may need to access campus-based facilities such as studios and labs.
Our academic support team here at Kingston University provides help in a range of areas.
When you arrive, we'll introduce you to your personal tutor. This is the member of academic staff who will provide academic guidance, be a support throughout your time at Kingston and show you how to make the best use of all the help and resources that we offer at Kingston University.
A course is made up of modules, and each module is worth a number of credits. You must pass a given number of credits in order to achieve the award you registered on, for example 360 credits for a typical undergraduate course or 180 credits for a typical postgraduate course. The number of credits you need for your award is detailed in the programme specification which you can access from the link at the bottom of this page.
One credit equates to 10 hours of study. Therefore 120 credits across a year (typical for an undergraduate course) would equate to 1,200 notional hours. These hours are split into scheduled and guided. On this course, the percentage of that time that will be scheduled learning and teaching activities is shown below for each year of study. The remainder is made up of guided independent study.
- Year 1: 28% scheduled learning and teaching
- Year 2: 68% scheduled learning and teaching
- Year 3: 21% scheduled learning and teaching
The exact balance between scheduled learning and teaching and guided independent study will be informed by the modules you take.
Your course will primarily be delivered in person. It may include delivery of some activities online, either in real time or recorded.
Types of assessment
- Year 1: Coursework 50%; exams 45%; practical 5%
- Year 2: Exams 82%; practical 18%
- Year 3: Coursework 48%; exams 42%; practical 10%
Please note: the above breakdowns are a guide calculated on core modules only. If your course includes optional modules, this breakdown may change to reflect the modules chosen.
We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 20 working days.
Your individualised timetable is normally available to students within 48 hours of enrolment. Whilst we make every effort to ensure timetables are as student-friendly as possible, scheduled learning and teaching can take place on any day of the week between 9am and 6pm. For undergraduate students, Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities, but there may be occasions when this is not possible. Timetables for part-time students will depend on the modules selected.
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Fees and funding
| Fee category | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| £10,050* | |
| Foundation Year | £10,050 |
| International | |
| Year 1 (2027/28): | £To be confirmed |
| Year 2 (2028/29): | £To be confirmed |
| Year 3 (2029/30): | £To be confirmed |
| Year 4 (2030/31): | £To be confirmed |
Plus the additional cost that involves the integrated ATPL training: around £90,000 (subject to any increase imposed by our training partner).
The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2026/27 the fees for this course are above.
For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed on the undergraduate fees table. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.
*For full-time programmes lasting more than one academic year, a tuition fee is payable for each academic year of the course.
Your annual tuition fee covers your first attempt at all modules required for that academic year. Any re-study or repeat of modules will incur additional charges, calculated according to the number of credits taken.
Home students (UK): Tuition fees are subject to inflation-linked increases in line with government policy. Updated fees will be confirmed in line with the maximum fee cap set by the Government or the Office for Students (OfS) for each academic year. This means your fee may increase for each academic year of study, but only up to the maximum amount permitted for that year.
Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.
International students: Full-time taught international student fees are subject to an annual increase, which is published in advance for the full duration of your programme.
| Fee category | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | £9,790* |
| International | |
| Year 1 (2026/27): | £19,200 |
| Year 2 (2027/28): | £19,900 |
| Year 3 (2028/29): | £20,700 |
Plus the additional cost that involves the integrated ATPL training: around £90,000 (subject to any increase imposed by our training partner).
The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2026/27 the fees for this course are above.
For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed on the undergraduate fees table. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.
*For full-time programmes lasting more than one academic year, a tuition fee is payable for each academic year of the course.
Your annual tuition fee covers your first attempt at all modules required for that academic year. Any re-study or repeat of modules will incur additional charges, calculated according to the number of credits taken.
Home students (UK): Tuition fees are subject to inflation-linked increases in line with government policy. Updated fees will be confirmed in line with the maximum fee cap set by the Government or the Office for Students (OfS) for each academic year. This means your fee may increase for each academic year of study, but only up to the maximum amount permitted for that year.
Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.
International students: Full-time taught international student fees are subject to an annual increase, which is published in advance for the full duration of your programme.
| Fee category | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | £9,535* |
| International | |
| Year 1 (2025/26): | £18,500 |
| Year 2 (2026/27): | £19,200 |
| Year 3 (2027/28): | £19,900 |
Plus the additional cost that involves the integrated ATPL training: around £90,000 (subject to any increase imposed by our training partner).
The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2025/26 the fees for this course are above.
For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed on the undergraduate fees table. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.
* For full time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.
Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.
Additional course costs
Some courses may require additional costs beyond tuition fees. When planning your studies, you’ll want to consider tuition fees, living costs, and any extra costs that might relate to your area of study.
Your tuition fees include costs for teaching, assessment and university facilities. So your access to libraries, shared IT resources and various student support services are all covered. Accommodation and general living expenses are not covered by these fees.
Where applicable, additional expenses for your course may include:
Our libraries have an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as open-access computers and laptops available to rent. However, you may want to buy your own computer or personal copies of key textbooks. Textbooks may range from £50 to £250 per year. And a personal computer can range from £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.
While most coursework is submitted online, some modules may require printed copies. You may want to allocate up to £100 per year for hard-copies of your coursework. It’s worth noting that 3D printing is never compulsory. So if you choose to use our 3D printers, you’ll need to pay for the material. This ranges from 3p per gram to 40p per gram.
Kingston University will pay for all compulsory field trips. Fees for optional trips can range from £30 to £350 per trip.
Your tuition fees don’t cover travel costs. To save on travel costs, you can use our intersite bus service. This route links the campuses and halls of residence with local train stations - Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames, and Norbiton.
Courses involving placements or direct work with vulnerable groups may require a DBS check or other security checks.
Specific courses may require uniforms, specialty clothing, or specific equipment like lab coats and safety shoes. Kingston University will supply you with a lab coat and safety goggles at the start of the year.
Please note that students on the Commercial Pilot Training pathway must obtain a Private Pilot Licence (PPL) independently during Year 1 to progress to the modular ATPL Theoretical Knowledge (TK) course in Year 2. This requirement aligns with UK CAA and EASA regulations and is essential for enrolment with an Approved Training Organisation (ATO).
PPL in Year 1:
- Costs vary by provider; as a guide, £11,000–£15,000.
- You may choose any approved flying school to complete the PPL.
Indicative additional costs in Year 2:
- UK Class 1 Medical (initial): from £831.
- UK CAA ATPL exams are currently £93 per exam (13 exams; total £1,209). Fees may change - please check the latest rate on the UK CAA website.
- Once you sit your first UK CAA ATPL exam, you have 18 months to pass the remaining 12 exams and complete the KSA (Knowledge, Skills & Attitude) assessment. If you do not complete within this window, all 13 exams must be re-sat.
Please note that UK CAA ATPL exam credits remain valid for 36 months from the date you pass the final exam, for the purposes of issuing a frozen ATPL (fATPL). Completing the ATPL flight phase will involve additional costs; these can be spread over up to 36 months. This means you can complete your flying training in Year 3 or later, within the 36-month validity window. The total cost of flight training varies by provider; as a guide, it is £70,600–£90,000.
All flight-training and CAA examination costs are paid by the student and are not included in the university tuition fee.
Scholarships and bursaries
For students interested in studying this course at Kingston, there are several opportunities to seek funding support.
International Success Support Scholarship
The International Success Support Scholarship provides £2,500 towards tuition fees if you are an international student starting in September 2026, on this course or selected others. Eligible undergraduate students can receive £2,500 per year for up to three years, helping to support their academic journey from day one.
You don’t need to apply separately. If you’re eligible, the scholarship will automatically be applied to your tuition fee invoice, empowering you to focus on achieving your goals at Kingston University.
For more details, please visit the International scholarships webpage.
For me, the course struck the right balance between university education and pilot training. I have made lifelong friends and have had experiences I will always cherish. It also served its purpose perfectly and I look forward to starting my new career as an airline pilot!
Course changes and regulations
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Find out more about course changes
Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
What our students and graduates say
The course is designed for aspiring commercial airline pilots to gain a frozen Airline Transport Pilot Licence and BSc degree. During the first two years at Bournemouth Airport, I completed my PPL and ATPL ground school. As the ground school covers much more detail than the norm over a longer period of time, you acquire a greater understanding of all the subjects. This helps in securing very good ATPL results, which in turn helped me impress the Ryanair interview panel. During the third year at Kingston University, you cover all the modules of the aeronautical engineering course, as well as an additional airline operations and scheduling module. Numerous progress tests and individual/group reports and presentations along the way help develop good communication skills, confidence, and teamwork. These above average skills will definitely make you stand out from the crowd.
The course is designed for students who want to study for a bachelor of science degree in parallel with professional flight training. Basic flight training and ATPL theory are conducted alongside a standalone 'degree' qualification in Bournemouth. Knowledgeable instructors and modern teaching techniques ensure a solid training foundation for students. The extended teaching period and development of communication skills through technical reports, group projects and presentations instilled a greater depth of understanding which I firmly believe helped me secure my first airline job!
Kingston University is an incredible place to earn a degree while pursuing your Air Transportation Pilot Licence (ATPL). The journey may be challenging and uncomfortable at times, but it’s precisely these experiences that shape you into a remarkable pilot. I recently secured a job offer from the Civil Aviation Authority, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here.
Key information
The scrolling banner below displays some key factual data about this course (including different course combinations or delivery modes of this course where relevant).
