UCLan launches aviation pilot programme

The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has launched the three-year BSc (Hons) Aviation – Pilot programme.

Commencing in September 2021, it is the first of the university's planned portfolio of integrated aviation industry, practice-based degrees which aims to address national skills' shortages.

The new course has been designed by Aviation 360 and will be delivered in partnership with approved training organisation L3Harris Airline Academy at Gatwick and Cranfield. It aligns to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) requirements.

Students will complete the course with an Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) and the core skills needed to progress towards a command role or into management.

Students will gain theoretical knowledge using the latest industry-standard platforms, be trained on modern training aircraft and utilise fully approved flight simulators and training aids. During the final stages of the programme students will work in an airline, undertaking work-based modules to complete their studies while starting their aviation career.

Prof Graham Baldwin, UCLan vice-chancellor, said: "This is another exciting development in our mission to combine academic excellence and real-world teaching, providing our students with the skills and experience industry needs. Despite the issues caused by the pandemic, aviation is a huge international industry and the long-term future is very bright."

"We will provide a quality educational experience while playing a key role in the industry’s change agenda to provide aviation-related opportunities for those from a wide variety of backgrounds.

"We are particularly keen to encourage applications from women who are significantly under-represented within pilot roles.”

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