Why Graduate Diploma in Aviation?
Get ready to soar, making your dreams of becoming a pilot a reality.
Gain the knowledge and skills needed to test for a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and Multi-engine Command Instrument Rating (MECIR). Delivered in partnership with Flight Training Adelaide, you’ll learn under the guidance of highly experienced instructors at Parafield Airport.
The sky’s the limit when you study our Graduate Diploma in Aviation at Adelaide University.
Overview
Our Graduate Diploma in Aviation is a technical flight training program delivered with Flight Training Adelaide at Parafield Airport. Applications for this program are invitation only, for students with a current enrolment in the Bachelor of Aviation majoring in Pilot.
Obtain the skills, knowledge and competencies to test for a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and Multi-engine Command Instrument Rating (MECIR). These are professional qualifications recognised by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority and the International Civil Aviation Organisation.
Take introductory courses in advanced flying, aircraft navigation, night flying and instrument flying. You’ll complete ground simulator lessons and be mentored by experienced flight instructors.
While this program is an intensive study commitment, you’ll finish your studies on a rewarding career path. Graduate prepared to work as a first officer in multi-crew aircraft or as a pilot-in-command in single engine aircraft.
Key features
Prepare to sit for a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and Multi-engine Command Instrument Rating (MECIR). - Learn to fly with our industry partner Flight Training Adelaide (FTA).
- Complete training at Parafield Airport, conveniently located adjacent to our Mawson Lakes Campus.
- Get the opportunity to join the Qantas Group – Aviation Career Enrichment Program.
- Have the option to obtain a Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL).
- Submit detailed flight plans and access the latest aerodrome alerts and weather forecasts.
What you'll learn
Your studies will teach you advanced aviation skills and prepare you to obtain necessary licences to practice as a pilot. You’ll complete a total of seven courses covering the following topics.
Introductory and advanced flying: Learn core principles of flying including pre-flight and post-flight procedures, basic in-flight manoeuvres and aircraft operating. You’ll then progress to studying key competencies required to be recommended for the Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL) flight test.
Aircraft navigation: Learn how to carry out cross country flying using visual flight rules with professionalism and accuracy. You’ll then carry out cross country flying and aircraft handling to pass the Commercial Pilot Licence Flight Test.
Night flying: Learn how to confidently operate an aircraft at night under visual flight rules.
Instrument flight: Hone your flying abilities under Instrument Flight Rules and gain a multi-engine endorsement. Complete IFR ground simulator lessons and successfully pass the CASA Instrument Rating Flight Test.
Your assessments will include the following:
- Flight and navigation practice
- Practical exams including the Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and Command Instrument Rating (MECIR)
- Theoretical exams with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA).
Note: This graduate diploma, studied alongside the Bachelor of Aviation majoring in Pilot, is a demanding study commitment. You’ll need to have a minimum of three weekdays and an occasional weekend day available for flying. Flights will also be scheduled outside normal business hours.
Degree Structure: Graduate Diploma in Aviation
Program code: GDAVI
Complete 48 units comprising:
- 48 units for all Core courses
Study plan
A study plan sets out the courses you will need to complete and the recommended timing for each one. This will help to guide your enrolment in each study period, alongside any additional information provided below. If you have received a personalised plan or alternative advice from your Program Director, please refer to that guidance in the first instance, or seek help from your Program Director or Student Assist if you are unsure.
Enrolment information
Find details about the rules and notes that apply to your program, along with other essential information required for successful enrolment. Supplementary supporting resources may also be provided where applicable.
Courses
Listed here are all the courses that contribute to your program, including elective options that can be chosen. These courses come together to form your study plan. Courses fall into different categories, each of which have specific unit values that need to be met under the program rules.
What courses you'll study
Complete 48 units comprising:
- 48 units for all Core courses
Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Advanced Flying
|
Course code
AERO5000
|
Units
8
|
|
|
Course name
Aircraft Navigation 1
|
Course code
AERO5001
|
Units
8
|
|
|
Course name
Aircraft Navigation 2
|
Course code
AERO5002
|
Units
8
|
|
|
Course name
Instrument Flight 1
|
Course code
AERO5003
|
Units
8
|
|
|
Course name
Instrument Flight 2
|
Course code
AERO5004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Night Flying
|
Course code
AERO5005
|
Units
2
|
|
|
Course name
Introductory Flying
|
Course code
AERO5007
|
Units
8
|
Career outcomes
With our Graduate Diploma in Aviation, you’ll be equipped to transport people from A to B safely. You could work as a medical or ambulance pilot, moving patients who need critical medical attention. You might be a flight instructor, training new pilots to confidently operate aircrafts. Perhaps you’ll take on roles in airport management, operations or airline administration.
You can also consider the following careers:
- Commercial pilot
- Professional airline pilot
- Defence force pilot
- Charter pilot.
Industry trends
By 2038, forecasts suggest that the aviation industry could support 143 million jobs and contribute $6.3 trillion in economic revenue (ATAG, 2020). Additionally, it’s projected global passenger traffic will double by 2040 (IATA, 2023). With strong growth predicted in aviation, demand for your skillset as a licensed pilot will continue to soar.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Ask Adelaide University
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.
