Master of Engineering (Airworthiness)

Master of Engineering (Airworthiness)

POSTGRADUATE

Develop specialist knowledge in the design, manufacture, certification, operation and maintenance of aircraft.

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Student type:
Mode of study:
On campus and blended learning
Entry score:

Not applicable

Duration:
Full-time 1 year
Part-time 2 years
Fees:

AU$35,520 (2023 annual)

Next intake:
February
Location:
Melbourne City
Bundoora
Mode of study:
On campus and blended learning
Entry score:

Not applicable

Duration:
Not applicable
Fees:

Not applicable

Next intake:
Not applicable
Location:
Not applicable

Overview

Are you an engineer looking for further develop your specialist knowledge in the field of airworthiness engineering and management?

In this degree you will develop specialist knowledge in the design, manufacture, certification, operation and maintenance of aircraft including the design, manufacture, certification, operation and maintenance of aircraft, both civil and military.

This degree provides you with specialised knowledge and expertise in the areas of initial and continuing airworthiness engineering and management. The objectives of this degree are to educate you as an airworthiness engineering professional who is able to:

  • analyse complex engineering assets in the initial and continuing airworthiness engineering environment, and develop engineering, scientific and technological solutions to ensure problem-free operations
  • find innovative solutions from an array of possibilities through systematic problem-solving and engineering/technological systems and associated design methodologies used in all airworthiness requirements pertaining to the design, certification, operation and maintenance of aircraft
  • build, lead and work in teams with trust and respect
  • achieve results in an industry characterised by global competition and driven by rapidly changing market forces.

Why choose engineering at RMIT?

Industry connected

Learn from academics with extensive industry and research experience and well-developed contact networks.

Put theory into practice

Work on an industry-based research project and gain the practical experience and work-ready skills needed to thrive in industry.

Global opportunities

Chance to complete a 6-to-12-month work or research placement with global companies in Europe, Asia and North America.

Details

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Several learning and teaching approaches are used within this degree to develop your capabilities and to assist you in developing skills as an independent and lifelong learner.

These approaches may include classroom teaching and/or online sessions, laboratory sessions, problem-based learning, assignments and projects. Classes are normally run during the afternoon and evening to fit in with the work commitments of part-time students.

RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional practice. You'll undertake and be assessed on structured activities that allow you to learn, apply and demonstrate your professional practice. You will complete these activities in real-work contexts or situations - any or all of these aspects of a work-integrated learning (WIL) experience may be simulated.

Blended learning options

Courses offered as part of blended learning programs include a meaningful blend of online, on-campus, and workplace based learning tailored to the type of study you undertake. This learning is active, prioritising tasks that involve exploration and development of skills and knowledge through interaction and engagement.

Online aspects provide positive benefits such as flexibility and adaptability using digital activities and materials, while also strengthening the interaction and connection with timetabled and on-campus experiences such as tutorials, practicals, or workshops.

This course has strong links with industry through its Industry Advisory Committees and research and teaching collaborations.

Many teaching staff are from local industry or have extensive previous industry experience and well-developed contact networks, and many are currently engaged in industry-funded research projects. These attributes, when integrated into teaching and courseware development, ensure that your learning experience is industry relevant and work-integrated. The Minor Research Project subject provides opportunities for Work Integrated Learning through industry-based projects.

RMIT encourages you to aspire to a global career, not just a local one.

Through partner organisations in Europe, Asia and the United States, the RMIT International Experience and Research Program (RIIERP) offers workplace training and academic research placements of between six and 12 months.

Global work, exchange and study experiences

RMIT offers a range of opportunities for our students to study abroad through global work, exchange and study experiences with over 165 partner universities worldwide.

Most lectures take place at the Melbourne City campus and some lab classes run at the Bundoora campus.

The knowledge and skills you will acquire throughout this degree and how they can be applied in your career are described in the learning outcomes.

The Master of Engineering (Airworthiness) consists of 96 credit points.

The curriculum includes the master's Minor Research Project which constitutes a capstone experience. This is relevant to the different airworthiness engineering and management aspects taught throughout your study. It also provides realistic work situations either in an industry project environment or in a simulated industry setting with operational constraints. In either case, you'll be jointly supervised by an academic and/or a qualified industry professional investigating and researching problems in airworthiness engineering within the civil/defence domain.

As part of your studies you will complete the following core subjects:

  • Airworthiness Management Frameworks
    This subject introduces you to the different aspects of initial and continuing airworthiness management frameworks, both in the operational and technical field. You will examine different legislation, guidelines and technical manuals relating to airworthiness as commonly used in both civil organisations (ICAO, EASA, FAA, CASA, etc.) and defence (US Defence Forces, UK MAA, EDA MAWA Forum, ADF AA, etc). You will learn how to apply technical airworthiness management frameworks and how to implement airworthiness assurance functions.
  • Engineering Risk Management in Aviation
    You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the risk management process and its application to the aviation environment. You will learn to apply the risk management process and assessment tools to examples and case studies set in an aviation context.
  • Aviation Safety Systems
    This subject provides you with an understanding of safety management systems (SMS), addressing the fundamental components stipulated in the ICAO framework. You will gain an insight into key areas that are relevant for the implementation of a safety program in the context of small and large organisations.
  • Aircraft Certification
    This subject covers the different aspects involved in aircraft and aeronautical program certification. You will examine the different regulatory requirements in civil and military aviation with particular focus on certification regulatory requirements.
  • Aircraft Maintenance
    You will cover key areas of study including aircraft maintenance concepts, aircraft maintenance in practice, continuing airworthiness regulations, maintenance programs and planning and ageing aircraft.
  • Master's Minor Research Project
    The subject involves a minor experimental, computational and/or analytical research project. You will work on your project individually or in small groups. The subject requires you to demonstrate in-depth technical and research skills. The project can be completed in conjunction with industry or in a simulated engineering work environment.

You will also be required to complete one of the following subjects:

  • Human Factors in Aviation Safety
  • Aircraft Structural Integrity.

Course structure

Choose a plan below to find out more about the subjects you will study and the course structure.

Master of Engineering (Airworthiness)
Program code: MC238
Title
Location
Duration
Plan code
CRICOS
Master of Engineering (Airworthiness)
City Campus
1 year full time, 2 years part-time
MC238
085117F
Location
City Campus
Duration
1 year full time, 2 years part-time
Plan code
MC238
CRICOS
085117F
View plan
Master of Engineering (Airworthiness)
City Campus
1 year full time
MC238
085117F
Location
City Campus
Duration
1 year full time
Plan code
MC238
CRICOS
085117F
View plan

Note: International student visa holders can only study full-time.

Career

Airworthiness is a key area in aviation as it entails a set of procedures and regulations with an aim to ensure aircraft can be safely operated throughout their lives without significant hazard to aircrew, passengers or third parties.

Given the stringent operational scenarios of both civil and military aircraft on a global scale, the need for aviation professionals with specialised knowledge in airworthiness is of paramount importance.

The Master of Engineering (Airworthiness) is a unique degree that has been designed with an aim to meet the industry needs in this area.

Graduate career paths include:

  • airworthiness engineering in design, engineering and manufacturing organisations
  • airworthiness policy and regulations formulation and administration in aviation regulating authorities
  • aircraft and aeronautical product design and certification in design and engineering organisations
  • aircraft maintenance management in airlines, continuing airworthiness management organisations and maintenance organisations.
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The Master of Engineering (Airworthiness) is not accredited, although it has been developed to align with the Engineers Australia accreditation framework.

Engineers Australia is the professional body responsible for the accreditation of higher education programs that prepare students to practise as professional engineers.

Graduates of the Master of Engineering (Airworthiness) may be eligible to apply for membership of Engineers Australia.

Admissions

You need to satisfy all of the following entry requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

Applicants must hold:

(1) an Australian AQF 8 Bachelor (Honours) degree or an Australian 4-year AQF 7 Bachelor degree (or international equivalent) in aerospace engineering, aeronautical engineering, aviation, aviation management with a GPA of at least 2.0 out of 4.0.

(1.a) Applicants who have a successfully completed a relevant degree (as above) with a GPA of at least 1.5 out of 4, will be considered if they have at least 3 years of relevant industry experience in airworthiness.

 OR

(2) an Australian AQF 8 Bachelor (Honours) degree or an Australian 4-year AQF 7 Bachelor degree (or international equivalent) in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, automotive engineering, electronics/electrical engineering, computer network engineering, electrical avionics with a GPA of at least 1.5 out of 4.0 and three (3) years of relevant industry experience in airworthiness.

OR

(3) Successful completion of an Australian postgraduate qualification (or international equivalent) in aerospace engineering, aeronautical engineering, aviation, aviation management.

OR

(4) Successful completion of an Australian postgraduate qualification (or international equivalent) in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, automotive engineering, electronics/electrical engineering, computer network engineering, electrical avionics and three (3) years of relevant industry experience in airworthiness.

OR

(5) Applicants without any relevant prior qualifications will be considered if they have at least ten (10) years of relevant industry experience in airworthiness.

International qualifications are assessed for comparability to Australian qualifications according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

Applicants who wish to have industry experience in airworthiness assessed as part of meeting the entry requirements will need to provide a detailed CV/resume listing previous positions, dates of employment, position responsibilities; a letter of endorsement from your employer confirming these details; and evidence of any relevant professional development undertaken.

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

You must meet the University's minimum English language requirements to be eligible for a place in this program.

You need to satisfy all of the following requirements to be considered for entry into this degree.

Applicants must hold:

(1) an Australian AQF 8 Bachelor (Honours) degree or an Australian 4-year AQF 7 Bachelor degree (or international equivalent) in aerospace engineering, aeronautical engineering, aviation, aviation management with a GPA of at least 2.0 out of 4.0.

(1.a) Applicants who have a successfully completed a relevant degree (as above) with a GPA of at least 1.5 out of 4, will be considered if they have at least 3 years of relevant industry experience in airworthiness.

 OR

(2) an Australian AQF 8 Bachelor (Honours) degree or an Australian 4-year AQF 7 Bachelor degree (or international equivalent) in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, automotive engineering, electronics/electrical engineering, computer network engineering, electrical avionics with a GPA of at least 1.5 out of 4.0 and three (3) years of relevant industry experience in airworthiness.

OR

(3) Successful completion of an Australian postgraduate qualification (or international equivalent) in aerospace engineering, aeronautical engineering, aviation, aviation management.

OR

(4) Successful completion of an Australian postgraduate qualification (or international equivalent) in mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, automotive engineering, electronics/electrical engineering, computer network engineering, electrical avionics and three (3) years of relevant industry experience in airworthiness.

OR

(5) Applicants without any relevant prior qualifications will be considered if they have at least ten (10) years of relevant industry experience in airworthiness.

International qualifications are assessed for comparability to Australian qualifications according to the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

Applicants who wish to have industry experience in airworthiness assessed as part of meeting the entry requirements will need to provide a detailed CV/resume listing previous positions, dates of employment, position responsibilities; a letter of endorsement from your employer confirming these details; and evidence of any relevant professional development undertaken.

There are no prerequisite subjects required for entry into this qualification.

A selection task is not required for entry into this qualification.

To study this course you will need to complete one of the following English proficiency tests:

  • IELTS (Academic): minimum overall band of 6.5 (with no individual band below 6.0)
  • TOEFL (Internet Based Test - IBT): minimum overall score of 79 (with minimum of 13 in Reading, 12 in Listening, 18 in Speaking and 21 in Writing)
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE (A)): minimum score of 58 (with no communication band less than 50)
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): minimum of 176 with no less than 169 in any component.

For detailed information on English language requirements and other proficiency tests recognised by RMIT, visit English language requirements and equivalency information.

Don't meet the English language test scores? Complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) Advanced Plus Certificate at RMIT English Worldwide.

Additional information

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Non-academic abilities you’ll need to complete this program

The following information outlines the tasks you will be required to undertake during professional experience placement and on-campus learning activities.

The non-academic abilities listed are provided for your information only and are not entry requirements.

If there are any activities outlined which may be difficult for you to undertake, there are a range of adjustments to your study conditions available to enable and support you to demonstrate these abilities. Please contact the Equitable Learning Service to discuss any adjustments you may require.

By understanding the types of activities you’ll participate in, you can:

  • understand more about the program
  • determine if you may need support during your studies
  • make an informed decision about whether the program is suitable for you

If you are living with disability, long-term illness and/or a mental health condition, we can support you by making adjustments to activities in your program so that you can participate fully in your studies.

To receive learning adjustments, you need to register with Equitable Learning Service

The University considers the wellbeing and safety of all students, staff and the community to be a priority in academic and professional experience placement settings.

Pathways

You can gain entry to this masters degree from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs, if you meet the entry requirements.

Masters advanced standing

While the standard duration of a Masters program is 2 years (192 credit points), all students admitted to MC238 Master of Engineering (Airworthiness) will be eligible to complete the program in 1 year (96 credit points). The entrance requirements to qualify for admission (and hence the reduced volume of study) are specified in the Entry Requirements listed above.

Further credit, recognition of prior learning (RPL), exemptions or advanced standing may only be awarded on the basis of qualifications or experience not used as a basis of entry to the program.

Upon successful completion of this degree, you may be eligible for entry into an RMIT Masters by Research or Doctoral (PhD) program.

You can gain entry into this degree from a range of RMIT undergraduate programs.

Credit

Credit may reduce the duration of your study by acknowledging your earlier, relevant study experience.

When you are submitting an application, please indicate that you want to be considered for credit and provide detailed course syllabus (also known as course outline), outlining volume of learning, course content and weekly topics, learning objectives/outcomes, assessment types and their weightings, and reference to the learning resources such as prescribed textbooks and recommended readings.

Credit and exemptions will be assessed consistent with the principles of the RMIT Credit Policy.

Upon successful completion of this degree, you may be eligible for entry into an RMIT Masters by Research or Doctoral (PhD) program.

Fees

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2023 indicative fees

  • Full-fee places: AU$35,520.

Additional expenses

  • Student services and amenities fee (SSAF): AU$326 maximum fee for 2023*.
  • Other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment.

Annual fee adjustment*

Amounts quoted are indicative fees per annum, and are based on a standard year of full-time study (96 credit points). A proportionate fee applies for more or less than the full-time study load.

*Fees are adjusted on an annual basis and these fees should only be used as a guide.

Defer your payment

This program is offered on a full-fee paying basis only. If you are offered a place, you will need to pay the full tuition costs of your program. However, eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

Paying your fees and applying for refunds

For information on how to pay your fees or how to apply for a refund, please see Paying your fees and applying for refunds.

In addition to tuition fees, you will be charged an annual student services and amenities fee (SSAF), which is used to maintain and enhance services and amenities that improve your experience as an RMIT student.

The SSAF is calculated based on your enrolment load and the maximum fee for 2023 is $326. 

For more information about calculating your actual SSAF see Paying SSAF.

You may also be required to purchase other items related to your program, including field trips, textbooks and equipment. These additional fees and expenses vary from program to program.

FEE-HELP loans

Eligible students (such as Australian citizens or holders of an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) may apply to defer payment of some or all of their tuition fees via the Commonwealth Government’s FEE-HELP loan scheme.

SA-HELP Loans

You may be eligible to apply to defer payment of the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF) through the SA-HELP loan scheme. If you use SA-HELP, the amount will be added to your accumulated HELP debt.

How does a HELP loan work?

If your FEE-HELP and/or SA-HELP loan application is successful, the Australian Government will pay RMIT, on your behalf, up to 100% of your fees. This amount will become part of your accumulated HELP debt.

You only start repaying your accumulated HELP debt to the Australian Government once you earn above the minimum income threshold for repayment, which is set each year by the Australian Government (this also applies if you are still studying). The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will calculate your compulsory repayment for the year and include this on your income tax notice.

For more information about loan repayment options see Commonwealth assistance (HELP loans) or Study Assist.

You may be eligible to apply for income tax deductions for education expenses linked to your employment.

See the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for more information.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

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The total indicative tuition fee for 2022 commencement is AU$42,240.

In addition to tuition fees you also need to pay for:

You also need to account for your living expenses. Estimate the cost of living in Melbourne.

Find out more details about how fees are calculated and the expected annual increase.

Applying for refunds

Find information on how to apply for a refund as a continuing international student.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Looking for answers or more general information?

Use our Frequently Asked Questions to learn about the application process and its equity access schemes, find out how to accept or defer your offer or request a leave of absence, discover information about your fees, refunds and scholarships, and explore the various student support and advocacy services, as well as how to find out more about your preferred program, and more.

Sorry, this program is not available for international students intending to study on a student visa.

If you hold a different visa type, you may be eligible. Please contact Study@RMIT for more information.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.

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aboriginal flag
torres strait flag

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information