UniSQ becomes Australia’s only university offering MBA Aviation

Aviation professionals looking to take their career to new heights can now pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Aviation.

University of Southern Queensland’s (UniSQ) new MBA Aviation will launch this month to respond to the increasing need for aviation leaders with technical knowledge and strategic management skills.

"UniSQ is proud to be the only university in Australia to offer the MBA Aviation and one of only a few in the world,” UniSQ program director and Associate Professor Tarryn Kille said.

“The MBA Aviation equips aviation professionals with the advanced leadership, management, and strategic skills required to navigate the complexities of a dynamic and global aviation industry.

“It is a transformative program for those passionate about future-proofing their skills, advancing their careers and shaping the future of aviation.”

Associate Professor Kille said the aviation industry was undergoing growth and transformation.

“Aviation is inherently safety-critical and operates within a highly regulated environment, demanding professionals who can balance operational efficiency with compliance and safety excellence,” she said.

“There is a significant global demand for leaders who understand these complexities and can address challenges such as sustainability, innovation, and regulatory changes.

“Airlines, regulators and aviation organisations increasingly seek individuals with a combined skill set in technical aviation expertise and business leadership, making this degree a timely and essential offering.”

The new postgraduate degree was designed with industry input, bridging technical expertise with critical business acumen to prepare graduates for senior and executive roles in aviation.

Led by experienced aviation professionals and researchers, the degree is delivered through six-week teaching blocks and can be completed in only 12 months full-time or part-time equivalent.

“As the only university in Australia with its aviation faculty housed within its School of Business, enabling seamless integration of aviation-specific knowledge with core business principles, we are uniquely placed to deliver this degree,” Associate Professor Kille said.

The degree builds on UniSQ’s strong reputation for aviation education and close ties with industry leaders for mid-career aviation professionals.

“It is tailored for pilots, air traffic controllers, airline and airport managers, aircraft maintenance engineers, defence personnel and aviation safety regulators who want to transition into leadership roles,” Associate Professor Kille said.

“MBA Aviation students will gain the skills to lead and build a valuable network with the aviation community.”

Applications for the first intake close Monday 13 January.

Learn more about UniSQ’s MBA Aviation.