Bachelor of Aviation (Airline and Airport Operations) (CRICOS course code 108749B) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Central Queensland University over 3 years. This program, registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), equips students with foundational and applied knowledge in aerospace engineering and technology, specifically tailored to the operational aspects of airlines and airports. As an international student, you will study at CQU's Cairns campus in Queensland, a vibrant gateway to tropical North Australia. All data on this page is sourced directly from the official CRICOS register (April 2026), ensuring accuracy and trust. HeadStart Academy is a free resource—no commissions, no referral fees—designed to help you navigate study options in Australia. With over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers and 26,000+ courses, finding your pathway is easier with verified information.
Bachelor of Aviation (Airline and Airport Operations) (CRICOS course code 108749B) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by Central Queensland University over 3 years. This qualification is classified under AQF Level 7 and falls within the field of Aerospace Engineering and Technology (n.e.c.). The course is designed to prepare students for careers in airline and airport management, operations, and logistics. Central Queensland University (CRICOS 00219C) is a government-funded institution with a strong reputation for applied learning. The course is delivered at the Cairns campus, offering a unique blend of academic theory and practical industry exposure. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian Government standards for international students, including ESOS Act protections. The indicative tuition fee is A$125,280, with no additional non-tuition fees listed on the CRICOS register. However, fees are set by the institution and subject to change—always confirm directly with CQU before applying.
This Bachelor's degree in Aviation (Airline and Airport Operations) focuses on the practical and theoretical aspects of managing air transport systems. While specific subjects are determined by the university, students typically study areas such as aviation safety, airport planning, airline operations management, air traffic control fundamentals, human factors, and aviation law. The field of education (031599 Aerospace Engineering and Technology, n.e.c.) encompasses a broad range of topics related to the design, operation, and maintenance of aerospace systems. At this level, graduates develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills applicable to dynamic aviation environments. The course also incorporates work-integrated learning, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. For a detailed syllabus, prospective students should consult Central Queensland University directly.
The course duration is 3 years, equivalent to 156 weeks on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English, and it is a single qualification (no dual awards). The program does not include foundation studies. Full-time study is expected, and the Cairns campus provides face-to-face learning with access to facilities and industry connections. Students should note that the duration may vary if they commence with credit for prior learning or take a reduced study load, subject to visa conditions. International students must maintain full-time enrolment as per Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements.
The indicative tuition fee for the full program is A$125,280, as recorded on the CRICOS register. Non-tuition fees are listed as A$0. Therefore, the estimated total cost is A$125,280. Important: This does not include Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, or the visa application charge. OSHC is mandatory for international students and costs approximately A$500–A$700 per year depending on provider and coverage. Living costs vary by location; for Cairns, average weekly expenses for rent, groceries, and transport are approximately A$400–A$600. Always verify current fees with Central Queensland University, as they are subject to change. HeadStart Academy provides indicative data only—confirm directly at www.cqu.edu.au.
International applicants must meet English language proficiency and academic requirements. Indicative IELTS scores are 6.0–6.5 overall, with no band below 5.5–6.0 (exact bands may vary; check with CQU). Equivalent tests like TOEFL or PTE are also accepted. Academic entry typically requires completion of secondary schooling equivalent to Australian Year 12, with prerequisite subjects possibly including mathematics and English. Some applicants may need foundation or pathway programs—Central Queensland University offers various options; refer to the provider for specific prerequisites. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as places are competitive.
This course includes a mandatory work component of 12 weeks, totaling approximately 360 hours (30 hours per week). This work-integrated learning (WIL) typically takes the form of an industry placement or internship within an airline, airport, or related aviation organisation. It provides practical exposure to airline and airport operations, helping students build professional networks and apply theoretical knowledge. The placement is supervised and assessed as part of the degree. International students can undertake WIL under their Student visa, provided it is a compulsory part of the course. The university assists in securing placements, but students may also source their own opportunities with approval.
The course is delivered at Central Queensland University’s Cairns campus, located in Cairns, Queensland. Cairns is a major regional city in tropical North Queensland, known for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and rainforests. The student population includes a mix of domestic and international students, with several CRICOS-registered providers in the area. Living costs in Cairns are generally lower than in Sydney or Melbourne; indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around A$250–A$350, and public transport includes buses with student discounts. The campus is accessible by bus and bicycle. Studying in Cairns offers a unique lifestyle with outdoor activities and a multicultural environment. For more on studying in Queensland, see our /states/qld page.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course full-time. Key requirements include: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and English proficiency. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (subject to current Department of Home Affairs regulations). OSHC must be maintained for the duration of the visa. For detailed visa guidance, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or visit homeaffairs.gov.au. HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent and does not provide immigration advice.
Applying for the Bachelor of Aviation (Airline and Airport Operations) at Central Queensland University involves three steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to compare courses and providers. Filter by course level (Bachelor Degree), field (Engineering and Related Technologies), and location (Cairns). 2) Apply directly to Central Queensland University – check entry requirements, prepare documents (academic transcripts, English test results, passport), and submit an application through the university’s online portal. Observe application deadlines, which vary by intake. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – once accepted, CQU will issue a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Ensure you meet GTE and financial requirements. For assistance, contact the university’s international admissions team.
Considering Cairns for your aviation studies? Cairns is a regional hub with a relaxed lifestyle and growing international student community. The city has several CRICOS-registered institutions, including Central Queensland University’s campus. Living costs are moderate, with average weekly rent around A$250–A$350 for a one-bedroom unit, groceries A$100–A$150, and transport A$30–A$50. The tropical climate means warm weather year-round, perfect for outdoor activities. Public transport includes buses and a small airport for domestic connections. Cairns offers a supportive study environment with less congestion than larger cities. However, part-time work opportunities may be more limited than in Sydney or Melbourne. For more on studying in Queensland, visit /states/qld.
Ready to take off? Start your application today—explore Central Queensland University’s Bachelor of Aviation (Airline and Airport Operations) on HeadStart Academy.
Bachelor of Aviation (Airline and Airport Operations) is a CRICOS-registered programme at Central Queensland University. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.