MSc in Airport Planning and Management, Cranfield University

12 Months

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About this course

The Airport Planning and Management MSc is a one-year full-time programme designed to equip students with skills in airport business development, strategic planning, design, operations, and environmental management. The course emphasizes understanding the interactions between infrastructure, business strategies, and regulatory environments, aiming to prepare graduates to transform airports into key assets in achieving net zero aviation. The curriculum features a mix of taught modules, a group project, and a substantial individual research project, supported by industry involvement and real-life case studies. The programme is suitable for students with degrees in diverse fields such as engineering, economics, geography, or social sciences, and supports the development of both technical and management competencies in the aviation sector.

Why this course is highly recommended

The MSc offers a unique combination of academic rigor and industry relevance, guided by an industry advisory board comprising senior professionals from leading airport, consultancy, and aviation firms. Cranfield University’s proximity to a fully operational airport provides an unparalleled environment for learning and practical exposure. The course develops transferable management skills along with industry-specific expertise, making graduates highly employable in various sectors of air transport. The degree’s recognition and Cranfield’s strong industry links give students a competitive edge in a growing, evolving field that demands sustainable and innovative solutions.

Specialisation

Students can tailor their learning to specific interests and career aspirations through a range of modules, including airport design, operations, strategic planning, finance, environmental planning, market analysis, and more. Two elective modules are available to allow further specialisation. The course also offers practical experience through case studies, industry-led projects, and an individual research project based on topics like airport hub strategies, secondary slot trading, or multi-airport traffic distribution.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

29.46L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should typically hold a UK upper second-class (2:1) honours degree or an equivalent international qualification, preferably in relevant fields like engineering, economics, or social sciences. Those who do not meet the standard entry criteria may qualify by successfully completing the Pre-master's course. The course also requires ATAS clearance for international students and proof of English language proficiency, with specific test score thresholds detailed in the application guide.

English language test

DUOLINGO

130

IELTS

TOEFL

100

PTE

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Cranfield University admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates are well-prepared for roles across airports, consultancies, design firms, and other aviation sectors, including airport planners, operations controllers, project managers, and sustainability specialists. Employers include major airports like Manchester Airport, aviation consultancies such as Jacobs and Arup, and infrastructure companies such as Airbus. The programme’s industry links and Cranfield’s career support enhance employment opportunities, enabling graduates to contribute to sustainable air transport initiatives and airport development projects worldwide.

FAQs

What are the English language requirements?

Applicants must demonstrate effective communication in English, typically through tests like IELTS (7.0 overall, 6.0 in all skills) or equivalent scores from other recognized tests such as TOEFL or Cambridge assessments.

What are the typical entry requirements?

A UK 2:1 honours degree or equivalent in a relevant field is usually required. International applicants can also qualify via a Pre-master's course if they do not meet the standard academic criteria.