Group of people at airport security

MSc Aviation Security

  • Study Mode: Part Time
  • Location: Distance Learning
  • Duration: Two Years
  • Start Date: September 2024
In cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), this MSc in Aviation Security allows you to explore and develop theories and methodologies to mitigate risks and consider and analyse the future of safe and secure aviation.
The two-year distance learning master’s qualification represents the first time ICAO has partnered with an academic institution. By working together, Buckinghamshire New University and ICAO aim to help you become qualified and knowledgeable aviation security professionals and meet the needs of the aviation industry.
Pushed by zeal of feeling secure in aviation and career development, I sought to take aviation security to acquire knowledge and skills of evaluating and mitigating aviation risks by understanding the challenges. I sought a university that would enable studying and work at the same time. BNU was the best choice for its collaboration with ICAO and only university offering MSc Aviation Security. It has enabled me to appreciate aviation security input and instilled proactive approach to security. The staff is supportive and provides interactive seminars by renowned experts in aviation.
Antony Kamile
Antony Kamile Profile photo

Why study this subject?


The development and maintenance of effective security management has a pivotal role to play in all areas of the aviation sector – with a continually evolving and dynamic threat and risk landscape bringing constant and moving challenges.

This master’s is for anyone whose role involves ensuring security protection is incorporated into aviation operations, or those aspiring to move into this work. You may also be looking to build on your experience and skills in general security management or aviation, and want to specialise in this field.

Read Hristina Ivanova's story

Hristina, one of our MSc Aviation Security students, recently shared with us how her experience as a part-time, distance-learning BNU student is going so far.

Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?

Keeping air travellers, cargo, aircraft and company employees safe extends far beyond simply screening passengers and their baggage.

This master’s analyses, evaluates and develops the multi-layered and interconnected processes involved in security management in the high-risk and technology-dependent world of aviation. By doing so, the programme seeks to develop confident, capable, analytical and knowledgeable security management professionals for now and into the future.

Drawing on best practice and regulatory guidance from aviation business leaders and governing bodies, you will be challenged, and stimulated, to explore innovative approaches to managing, and planning for, aviation security issues.

Buckinghamshire New University has strong connections to the aviation and security industry, and extensive expertise in this area and is working in cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

 

Studying with us at this level is a unique chance to develop applied, high level knowledge and understanding, and to work with some of the leading thinkers in this field.

You will work with specialist academics and practitioners from the aviation, security and resilience sectors – and have unique opportunities to build your knowledge, network and opportunities to move forward in this stimulating and challenging field.

We will support you to achieve your specific work goals and to tap into current and future opportunities in the sector.

ELC scheme

This programme is eligible for funding under the UK Ministry of Defence Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) scheme. Our ELCAS number is 1682.

Armed Forces Covenant

Buckinghamshire New University is a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant and supports the Armed Forces Community. We recognise the value Serving Personnel, both Regular and Reservists, Veterans, and military families contribute to our business and country.

Armed forces and ICAO logos

What will I study?

The course draws on knowledge from a broad range of academic disciplines that need to come together, and be considered, in an aviation security context.

We will look at everything from threats, risks and challenges, to impact perspectives, and the multiple organisations, agencies and air travel stakeholders involved. We will explore topics such as aviation and organisational resilience, while also analysing the context and future of secure and safe aviation.

The programme culminates in you completing a research dissertation or project looking at issues that most interest you relating to aviation security, both now and in the future.

By the end of the course, you will have:

  • a master’s level qualification relevant to your professional development
  • high level knowledge that gives you professional recognition in this field
  • lifelong skills and, particularly, the ability to analyse and evaluate operational and strategic contexts
  • the skills to apply academic theory and principles in a business environment.
 
I'm confident I have made the right choice with BNU, and I'm grateful for all the knowledge, guidance, patience and understanding my tutors have provided. I'm looking forward to exploring new horizons and contributing to building a safe and secure sky.
Hristina Ivanova MSc Aviation Security student

How will I be taught and assessed?


You will study by distance learning and learn in a virtual classroom, providing you with the flexibility to study this course alongside your work or other commitments. We will tailor the way it is delivered based on your particular needs and work profile.

You will attend online learning events, where you will participate in open discussions, with contributions from tutors, practitioners and industry representatives.

You will receive lectures and study materials online, as well as podcasts and other tools, and interact with your tutors online, through discussion boards, blogs and wikis.

Virtual visits from industry professionals and web seminars are an integral part of the programme, giving you first-hand insight into current aviation security practice, and preparing you for working, or progressing, in this emerging field.

Female going through Airport Security

MSc Aviation Security Programme Specification

What are the course entry requirements?

Entrants to the programme will normally have an Honours degree or equivalent. Recent graduates would generally have achieved an upper second-class honours degrees in any field. It is anticipated that this degree will also evoke interest from students overseas for whom such qualification is not available in their home country. Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate English language skills to IELTS 7.0 or equivalent. Applicants who are in employment may qualify for entry without holding a first degree.

For further details of our international English entry requirements, please visit our international pages.

If you have specific questions about entry requirements or any other elements of the course please email rania.khbais@bucks.ac.uk.

Modules

This provides a guide of the modules that make up your course. You can find more information about how your course is structured on our Academic Advice section.

What are the tuition fees

Home

Home, Academic Year 2024 - 2025

£5,450 per year

International

Overseas/International, Academic Year 2024 - 2025

£5,450 per year

Additional course costs and financial support

Most courses will involve some additional costs that are not covered by your fees.
You could benefit from financial support through a bursary or scholarship during your time as a student. For more details visit our financial support, bursaries and scholarships section.

Questions about fees?

If you have any questions about the fees above, contact our Enquiries team by calling 0330 123 2023 or emailing advice@bnu.ac.uk.

What are my career prospects?

By the end of the programme, you will be well placed to consider, or further develop, your employment in the aviation and security industries. You could work as a practitioner, manager or, in the wider context, as a consultant or general security adviser to the sector.

Course leader

A head and shoulders shot of a smiling Rania Khbais looking directly at the camera
Rania Khbais
  • Senior Lecturer
Read full profile
Ravi Khanna staff profile photo
Ravi Khanna
  • Associate Lecturer
Read full profile