Bachelor of Aviation (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems) (CRICOS course code 114591B) is a Bachelor Degree delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 3 years. This AQF Level 7 program is designed for students seeking careers in the rapidly growing field of remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS), commonly known as drones. UNSW, a leading Australian university (CRICOS 00098G), offers this course at its Kensington campus in Sydney. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses to international students. This page provides essential information for international students considering this unique degree, including indicative fees, entry requirements, and student visa guidance.
Bachelor of Aviation (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems) (CRICOS course code 114591B) is a Bachelor Degree (AQF Level 7) delivered by The University of New South Wales (UNSW) over 3 years (156 weeks). The course falls under the field of education 031505 - Aircraft Operation within Engineering and Related Technologies. Students gain expertise in RPAS design, operation, regulations, and data analysis, preparing for roles in aviation, agriculture, defence, and logistics. UNSW is a Group of Eight university with a strong reputation for engineering and technology. All data on this page is sourced from the official CRICOS register as at April 2026, ensuring accuracy and trustworthiness.
This bachelor degree focuses on the operational and technical aspects of remotely piloted aircraft systems. Students typically cover topics such as aerodynamics, flight planning, sensor technology, air law, safety management, and data processing. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, including simulated and real flight operations. Graduates are prepared for careers as drone pilots, operations managers, or specialists in RPAS integration. The field of Aircraft Operation (031505) is distinct from pilot training for manned aircraft, emphasising autonomous and remote systems.
The course is scheduled for 3 years (156 weeks) on the CRICOS register. It is delivered in English, and there is no dual qualification or foundation studies component. The program is a single bachelor degree, typically offered on a full-time basis. Students should confirm the exact study load and session dates with UNSW.
The indicative tuition fee is A$234,000 for the full program, with non-tuition fees estimated at A$3,000, resulting in an estimated total of A$237,000. These figures are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses (average weekly rent in Sydney around A$500-700, groceries A$100-150, and public transport A$40-50), and the visa application charge (currently A$1,600). Always check the provider's website for current fees.
International students typically need an IELTS overall band score of 6.0-6.5 with no band below 5.5-6.0 (or equivalent English test). Applicants are expected to have completed an Australian Year 12 or equivalent qualification with prerequisite subjects in mathematics and physics. UNSW may also consider prior tertiary study or work experience. Foundation or pathway programs may be available for students who do not meet direct entry requirements; contact UNSW for details. Always verify specific requirements on the provider's website.
This course has no mandatory work component. Students may undertake voluntary internships or industry placements, but these are not part of the CRICOS-registered program. International students on a student visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks, subject to visa conditions.
The course is delivered at The University of New South Wales — Kensington, New South Wales. Kensington is an inner-eastern suburb of Sydney, approximately 4 km from the CBD. Sydney is Australia's largest city with a population of over 5 million, including a large international student community. There are more than 20 CRICOS-registered providers in the Sydney region offering a wide range of courses. The UNSW campus is accessible by bus and light rail, and students can enjoy a vibrant, multicultural environment.
International students require a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course in Australia. Key requirements include: genuine temporary entrant (GTE) criteria, sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and dependents, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay. Student visa holders can work 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled holidays. For detailed information, consult the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent (MARA). Note: HeadStart Academy does not provide immigration advice.
Sydney offers a dynamic lifestyle with world-class beaches, diverse culture, and a strong job market, particularly in technology and aviation. Living costs are higher than the Australian average, with weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment near the city ranging from A$500 to A$800. Groceries cost around A$100-150 per week, and a monthly public transport pass is about A$200. However, Sydney's universities, including UNSW, provide excellent support services for international students. Consider your budget, climate preference, and career aspirations when deciding.
Follow these three steps to apply for Bachelor of Aviation (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems) at The University of New South Wales (UNSW):
1. **Research CRICOS-registered providers** — Use the CRICOS register to filter by course level (Bachelor Degree), field (Aircraft Operation), and location (NSW). Ensure UNSW (CRICOS 00098G) is listed for this course. 2. **Apply directly to UNSW** — Meet entry requirements, submit your academic transcripts, English test scores, and any other documents. Check application deadlines and prepare for possible interviews or tests. 3. **Receive your CoE and apply for your Student visa** — Once UNSW issues your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500) through the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement.
Start your journey today by visiting the UNSW website for the most up-to-date application procedures.
Ready to take the next step? Follow the three-step application process above to start your journey at UNSW.
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Bachelor of Aviation (Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems) is a CRICOS-registered programme at The University of New South Wales (UNSW). 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.