Diploma of Aviation Theory

The Diploma of Aviation Theory will enable you to develop a thorough understanding of both theories and practices in aviation technology and explore the associated ethical, legal and security issues in this field.
Throughout the program you will study courses including aviation theory and cover topics such as aerodynamics, aircraft systems, air law, meteorology, navigation, pilot licences and ratings, air service operations, aerodromes, airspace classifications, air traffic control and flight service and handling emergencies. You will also develop sound knowledge in mapping techniques, aviation time, charts and publications, navigation computations, pilot navigation and radio navigation, the composition of the atmosphere, heat, temperature, pressure and humidity, atmospheric stability, clouds and precipitation and many other areas.

An agreement between the Australian Flight Academy (AFA) and CQUniversity now offers you the opportunity to combine theoretical studies with professional flight training in a 52-week program. AFA’s Flight Training Program includes training for the Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) and Multi Engine Command Instrument Rating (MECIR) resulting in the issue of a CASA Commercial Pilot Licence. The Flight Training Program includes approximately 200 flight hours of which 155 hours are in a single engine aircraft (including 70 solo hours) and 45 hours are in a twin engine aircraft. The Flight Training Program is conducted by AFA at the Bundaberg Regional Airport, adjacent to CQUniversity Bundaberg. The AFA Flight Training Program, whilst offered in conjunction with the Diploma of Aviation Theory, is not covered by your University tuition fee and needs to be funded separately by students. For more information on costs and the AFA Flight Training Program please contact the AFA directly.

What am I studying?

Aviation in Australia is a rapidly growing sector with over  54 million domestic passengers and 28 million international passengers, and more than 507,000 tonnes of freight taking flight in  2011. Boeing predicts demand for 460,000 new commercial airline pilots over the next two decades, including 185,600 pilots in the Asia-Pacific Region alone. The program will enable you to develop a thorough understanding of both theories and practices in aviation technology and explore the associated ethical, legal and security issues in this field.

Why Study Aviation at CQUniversity

The Diploma of Aviation Theory is the first essential step towards becoming a Commercial Pilot. Alongside your theoretical studies, first-class professional flight training is available adjacent to CQUniversity Bundaberg.  Bundaberg enjoys a moderate climate with year-round good flying weather, as well as an uncongested airport and uncrowded airspace.

The Diploma of Aviation Theory can also be used as a transition program if you are seeking an entry pathway into the Bachelor of Aviation Technology. On successful completion of this program you are eligible for a credit transfer into the Bachelor of Aviation Technology should you choose to further your studies.   

Career Opportunities

By studying the Diploma of Aviation Theory you will have a range of career choices. Completion of the Theory Program will prepare you for roles such as Aviation Analyst, Flight Operations Manager, Flight Scheduler, Logistics Operations Manager, and Rescue Operations Manager.

Completion of the flight training alongside the Diploma provides you with the internationally-recognised qualifications to work as a Commercial Pilot anywhere in the world.

Program Structure

You are required to complete five core aviation theory courses. These are available in a traditional term structure. Alternatively, the courses are available as blocks of study if you are undertaking flight training alongside.

Course Information

For example courses you could study as part of the Diploma of Aviation Theory program please click here.

As CQUniversity is committed to providing quality, up-to-date and relevant education, please note courses are refreshed regularly and may not be an exact indication of course availability for your study. Please call 13CQUni 13 27 86 if you have specific questions regarding course information regarding your specific application.