Aviation is a broad industry with hundreds of different practical, technical, and administrative roles. A Diploma of Aviation and a Bachelor of Aviation both offer a fantastic foundation for anyone pursuing a successful career in aviation.
However, there are some key differences between the two qualifications that set them apart, particularly if your dream is to become an airline pilot as soon as possible.
Time
The main distinction between Diploma and Bachelor courses is time.
It takes at least three years to complete a Bachelor’s Degree, whereas a comprehensive, practical course like Airflite’s Professional Pilot Pathway, can be completed in as little as 15 months. Furthermore, pilots graduate with two nationally recognised diplomas because it’s a packaged course.
In the remaining time it would take to complete a Bachelor’s Degree, a skilled Professional Pilot Pathway graduate can be well on their way to acquiring enough flying hours to be considered for an airline pilot role (usually 1,500 hours).
Knowledge Scope
Diploma of Aviation courses focus on practical skills, specifically piloting a fixed wing aircraft. They offer training in pilot skills, flight operations, navigation, and aviation safety.
A Bachelor of Aviation provides a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of aviation theory, principles, and practices. It covers a wide range of subjects such as aviation management, aerodynamics, flight operations, aviation law, and safety management and may or may not include training to be eligible for a pilot licence.
Career Prospects
Upon completion of a Diploma of Aviation course, graduates can expect to be considered for commercial pilot roles, flight instructor (with further training) positions and related technical jobs.
On the other hand, a Bachelor of Aviation graduate can only be eligible for pilot roles, if hands on pilot training is included in the course and they acquire their Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). Otherwise, typical roles for Bachelor of Aviation graduates are an aviation manager, an aviation consultant or work for aviation safety and regulatory bodies.
Postgraduate Qualifications
For a Diploma graduate, postgraduate qualifications are focused on practical flying skills, such as a Flight Instructor course or Instrument Rating. If an individual wants to move into an administration role, there may be a knowledge gap that can be overcome with additional qualifications or bridging programs.
To be a commercial pilot, a Bachelor of Aviation will likely need further practical training to fly certain aircraft types.
If they prefer to work in the business of aviation as opposed to flying itself, they may progress their education with a master’s degree or specialised certifications in specific areas of aviation administration.
Academic Entry Requirements
Academically, Airflite requires completion of high school or equivalent qualifications for any Diploma of Aviation course.
Universities require an ATAR score of between 70-75, depending on the institution and intake year.
Summary
If you have a holistic interest in aviation, an appreciation for engineering, a head for business, and an entrepreneurial spirit, the Bachelor of Aviation is probably a good choice for you.
On the other hand, if your interest in aviation comes from a deep desire to actually fly, then a Diploma of Aviation is going to be the quickest way to get your pilot career up and away.
If you are weighing up your aviation career options, download our cheat sheet comparing the two qualifications.
