MSc Aviation: Admission 2025, Syllabus, Eligibility, Colleges, Fees, & Careers

• Updated on  Jul 29, 2025, by Dharti Bhadla

An M.Sc. in Aviation is a postgraduate degree program. The duration of course is generally 2 years but some institutes like Telangana State Aviation Academy offers a 5-year integrated MSc Aviation program. M Sc Aviation provides in-depth knowledge and advanced skills related to the aviation and aerospace industries. This program goes beyond the basics, focusing on the technical, managerial, and operational aspects of the field.

 

To take admission in the MSc Aviation course, candidates must have obtained at least 50% aggregate marks or equivalent CGPA in their UG program. Graduates with any discipline can enrol in this program but it is mandatory to have studied Maths at 10+2 level. Also, some universities may grant admission directly, on the basis of UG merit but some premier institutes require GATE qualification for admission to MSC Aviation and related programs.

 

It is important to note that not all institutes offer MSc Aviation but they often provide it with other majors and categories like MSc Aviation Engineering, MSc Aviation Management, MSc Aviation Ground Duty Stream Course, MSc Aviation Mechanical etc. Therefore, applicants are advised to check the available specialisation and course categories beforehand.

 

This article provides a thorough information for the MSc Aviation program considering its future scope, admission process, syllabus, fees, colleges, etc.

 

Table of Contents

  1. MSc Aviation Key Highlights
  2. What is an MSc Aviation?
  3. Why Study MSc Aviation?
  4. Who Should Study MSc Aviation?
  5. MSc Aviation Eligibility Criteria
  6. MSc Aviation Entrance Exams
  7. MSc Aviation Colleges in India
  8. MSc Aviation Admission Process
  9. MSc Aviation Syllabus
  10. MSc Aviation vs. MBA Aviation Management
  11. MSc Aviation Job Opportunities in India
  12. MSc Aviation FAQs

 

MSc Aviation Key Highlights

The key highlights of M Sc Aviation are tabulated below.

Particulars

Details

Course Name

Master of Science in Aviation

Course Level

Postgraduate

Duration

2 years

Course Type

Full-time, Semester-based (Online mode learning available)

Admission Process

Direct or based on GATE/ AME CET merit

Eligibility Criteria

Minimum of 50% aggregate marks in any discipline from a recognized university (With mathematics as a mandatory subject in higher secondary).

Average Course Fees

INR 1,00,000 to 5,50,000

Top Colleges

Hindustan Institute of Technology & Science, The Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University, Telangana State Aviation Academy

Job Profiles

Design Engineer, Quality Control Executive, Aircraft Maintenance Officer, Aviation Operations Specialist, Airport Manager, Air Traffic Controller, Aviation Safety Officer, Aviation Marketing Specialist

Top Recruiters

Air India, Vistara, Spice Jet, Air Asia, Go Air, Yatra, Airport Authority of India, American Airlines, IndiGo, etc.

Average Salary in India

Freshers: INR 3 to 6 LPA

 

Mid-level: INR 6 to 12 LPA

 

Senior roles: INR 20 to 40 LPA

 

What is an MSc Aviation?

The M.Sc in Aviation is a postgraduate course that focuses on the science, operations, and business side of the aviation industry. It covers topics like airport management, flight operations, air traffic control basics, aviation safety, and airline economics. The goal is to help students understand how the aviation industry works — both on the ground and in the air.

 

Students learn how airlines are managed, how airports operate, what rules and systems keep flights safe, and how weather and technology affect aviation. Some programs also include basics of aircraft systems, customer service in aviation, and cargo handling. This course prepares students for roles in airline operations, airport management, aviation consultancy, and logistics.

 

Why Study MSc Aviation?

Given below are some of the points on why you should pursue MSc in Aviation:

  • It provides a competitive edge for those already working in aviation, offering the knowledge and credentials needed for senior or leadership roles.
  • The degree opens doors to a wide range of jobs, from technical positions like design engineer to managerial roles like airport operations manager.
  • Students can specialize in niche areas such as air traffic management, airport operations, or aviation safety, becoming experts in a specific field.
  • Graduates with an M.Sc. in Aviation often command higher salaries and have better job stability compared to those with only a bachelor's degree.
  • The program offers a chance to build valuable connections with faculty, industry experts, and peers, which can be crucial for career growth.

 

Who Should Study MSc Aviation?

MSc Aviation is a promising career for those who are looking for managerial or leadership positions in Airlines

  • Current aviation professionals like pilots, air traffic controllers, and maintenance staff looking to gain advanced management skills and expand their career options beyond their current roles can pursue this program.
  • Professionals with a background in engineering or a related technical field who want to specialize in aviation and aerospace should study MSc Aviation.
  • Individuals Interested in Research or want to pursue a Ph.D. or an academic career in aviation-related fields must consider pursuing MSc Aviation as a direct route to research and academic career.

 

MSc Aviation Eligibility Criteria

MSc Aviation eligibility criteria is having a minimum of 50% in any Bachelor’s degree with Maths as mandatory subject at 10+2 level. Some universities may require GATE or AME CET qualification, followed by an interview screening. Some private academies grant direct admission, considering UG performance.

 

MSc Aviation Entrance Exams

MSc Aviation admission is primarily through common entrance exams like GATE-Engineering or AME CET. Some universities may conduct their own entrance exam and interview for screening.

Exam Name

Application Date

 

(Tentative)

Exam Date

 

(Tentative)

Application Fee

GATE 2026

August - October 2025

February 2026

INR 900 - 1800

AME CET

Phase 1: September 2025Phase 2: May 2026

Phase 1: May 2026Phase 2: June 2026

INR 1600 (General OBC)INR 1400 (SC/ST)

 

MSc Aviation Colleges in India

MSc Aviation is offered by very limited institutes in India. The course often has varied specialisations, depending on the parent institute.

College Name

Program offered

Course Fees (Approx.)

Telangana State Aviation Academy, Hyderabad

MSc Aviation 5-year Integrated Program

INR 90,000

GIFT Autonomus, Bhubaneshwar

MSc Aviation

INR 1,10,000

The Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University

MBA Aviation Management

INR 5,00,000

 

MSc Aviation Admission Process

MSc Aviation admission is generally through an online application as explained below for the Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University:

 

Step 1: Candidates have to apply online by filling the application form given on the official admission portal of a chosen institute.

 

Step 2: Students need to provide all educational, personal, and contact details and upload the original documents in the form.

 

Step 3: After filling the form, it will ask to pay an application or registration fees to submit the form.

 

Step 4: Post application, the institute will call you to appear in an institute-specific entrance exam. Those who have a GAT or AME CET qualification will be exempted from it.

 

Step 5: After examination, shortlisted applicants will be called for an interview or document verification process.

 

Step 6: Upon successful verification, candidates will have to confirm their admission by paying the initial course fees.

 

Step 7: The institute will then issue an offer letter or admission confirmation letter along with the course commencement schedule.

 

Documents Required:

  • Original Marksheet of 10th and 12th grade, Graduation certificate
  • Entrance exam Scorecard
  • School Leaving Certificate
  • Caste Certificate (if applicable)
  • Birth Certificate
  • ID Proof (Aadhar/ PAN/ Passport)
  • Passport-size Photograph

 

MSc Aviation Syllabus

MSc Aviation syllabus is divided into 4 semesters, including a dissertation work in the final year. Below is the program syllabus followed by the Aviation academies.

Semester 1

Semester 2

Aviation Economics

Flight Guidance Information System

Aircraft Equipment and Processes

Principles and Practice of Management

Air Timetable and Ticketing Services

-

Semester 3

Semester 4

Airports Management

New Dimensions of Aviation Management

Aircraft Accidents Mitigation

Master's Thesis

Aviation Marketing Management

-

 

MSc Aviation vs. MBA Aviation Management

MSc Aviation and MBA in Aviation Management are two different courses dealing with the Airline business and operations. Where MSc Aviation is an academic, scientific degree, an MBA in Aviation Management is a complete Business Management area with a key focus on the Airline business. These two lead to different career paths, job roles, and responsibilities. The key differences between these two programs are tabulated below.

Aspect

MSc Aviation

MBA Aviation Management

Primary Focus

It focuses on technical, operational, and research-oriented aspects of the aviation industry. It covers the "how" and "why" of aviation systems.

It teaches business and management principles applied to the aviation sector.

 

Basically, focuses on the "what" and "who" of running an aviation business.

Curriculum

Aerodynamics, Aviation Safety and Human Factors, Air Traffic Management, Aviation Law and Regulation, Advanced Aircraft Technology.

Aviation Finance, Airline and Airport Operations Management, Aviation Marketing, Strategic Management, Supply Chain Management.

Career Path

Typically leads to specialized roles such as:

 

- Aviation Safety Officer

 

- Air Traffic Controller

 

- Aviation Consultant

 

- Design Engineer

 

- Researcher

Prepares graduates for managerial positions, including:

 

- Airport Manager

 

- Airline Operations Manager

 

- Aviation HR Manager

 

- Aviation Marketing Manager

 

- Air Cargo Manager

Job Roles

More focused on the technical and operational side of aviation, such as ensuring safety protocols, managing air traffic, or contributing to aircraft design.

Centered on business and leadership roles, such as overseeing daily airport operations, managing airline staff, or developing strategic business plans.

 

MSc Aviation Job Opportunities in India

MSc Aviation jobs are basically related to Aviation engineering and Aircraft operations. Here are some of the popular jobs that can be pursued after completing an MSc in Aviation.

Job Title

Recruiters/ Recruiting Areas

Average Salary (INR)

Aviation Operations Specialist

Airlines (e.g., Air India, IndiGo, Vistara), Airports (e.g., AAI, GMR Group), Ground Handling Companies

4 to 8 LPA

Aircraft Maintenance Officer/Engineer

MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) companies, Airlines, Aerospace manufacturing companies (e.g., HAL, Boeing)

5 to 12 LPA

Aviation Safety Officer

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Airlines, Airport operators

6 to 12 LPA

Design Engineer

Aerospace manufacturing companies (e.g., HAL, DRDO, Boeing, Airbus), and Airport designing agencies

6 to 15 LPA

Quality Control Executive

Airlines, Aircraft maintenance companies, Manufacturing units

4 to 10 LPA

Airport Manager/Operations Manager

Airports Authority of India (AAI), GMR Group, Adani Group, BIAL

8 to 18 LPA

 

MSc Aviation FAQs

Can I pursue MSC Aviation Online?

Yes, you can pursue an M.Sc. in Aviation online, although the availability may be limited depending on the specific program and university. Some institutes to be explored for online MSc Aviation are Manav Rachna University and The Global Open University, Nagaland. They might offer different specialisations within MSc Aviation. These degrees provide the same academic rigor and career opportunities as traditional on-campus programs.

Is M.Sc Aviation and M.Sc Aviation Engineering the same?

No, M.Sc Aviation and M.Sc Aviation Engineering are not the same. M.Sc Aviation is a broader program that focuses on the operational, management, and business aspects of the industry, such as aviation safety, airport operations, and policy. M.Sc Aviation Engineering is a specialization within Aviation. It is an engineering degree that delves into the technical and mechanical side of aviation, including aircraft design, maintenance, and aerospace technology.

Does MSc Aviation offer a global placement?

Yes, M.Sc. Aviation offers excellent opportunities for global placements. The aviation industry is inherently international, with a global network of airlines, airports, and aerospace companies. This interconnectedness means that skilled professionals are in high demand worldwide. Aviation academies or universities teach curriculum that aligns with the Global Airline Industry. Also, countries in the Middle East, Europe, and North America, in particular, are often seeking qualified aviation professionals.

Exam Accepting

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Birla Institute of Technology and Science|
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Consortium of National Law Universities|
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National Testing Agency (NTA)|
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Central Board of Secondary Education
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National Testing Agency (NTA)|
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ResultJun 14, 2025

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