Type of qualification
Level of study
An undergraduate qualification is usually the first one you study.
Our courses follow the New Zealand Qualification Framework (NZQF) levels.
Time to complete
Where you can study
International students
International students are not New Zealand citizens or residents.
Study a Certificate in Aviation Studies – CertAvStuds
A unique qualification
Massey University’s Certificate of Aviation Studies is the only one of its kind in New Zealand. Massey is the only place in New Zealand where you can turn your passion for aviation into a tertiary qualification.
We are an internationally recognised pilot training facility, but we also give you a broad knowledge of the global aviation industry.
You will learn communication, management and administrative skills that will broaden the range of careers open to you in the aviation industry.
The qualification consists of 60 credits (four courses). You can either stop here, or continue studying towards a bachelor’s degree like the Bachelor of Aviation Management. Should you choose to continue studying, the credits from your certificate study will be credited towards this degree.
Get a taste of an aviation qualification
The Certificate in Aviation Studies draws from teaching in the Bachelor of Aviation Management, giving you an insight into what studying towards this qualification may be like.
Key skills for progressing your career
You will gain knowledge of specialist aviation subjects to assist your professional development. You will also learn some of the essential skills necessary to move into senior roles and those that are hallmarks of tertiary study:
- self-directed and independent learning
- high-level oral and written communication skills
- basic research skills.
The Certificate of Aviation Studies will give you a solid platform to move into further tertiary study, if you so wish.
A CertAvStuds is a good fit if you:
- have an interest in aviation
- are in the aviation industry, but do not have a tertiary qualification
- have your pilot’s licence but now want a tertiary qualification as well.
Entry requirements
Admission to Massey
All students must meet university entrance requirements to be admitted to the University.
Specific requirements
There are no specific entry requirements for this qualification, outside of university admission regulations.
English language requirements
To study this qualification you must meet Massey University's English language standards.
Prior learning, credit and exemptions
For information on prior learning, exemptions and transfer of credit or other questions:
- review the Recognition of Prior Learning regulations
- contact us through the Get advice button on this page.
English language skills
If you need help with your English language skills before you start university, see our English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses.
Official regulations
To understand what you need to study and must complete to graduate read the official rules and regulations for this qualification.
You should read these together with all other relevant Statutes and Regulations of the University including the General Regulations for Undergraduate Degrees, Undergraduate Diplomas, Undergraduate Certificates, Graduate Diplomas and Graduate Certificates.
Returning students
For returning students, there may be changes to the majors and minors available and the courses you need to take. Go to the section called ‘Transitional Provisions’ in the Regulations to find out more.
In some cases the qualification or specialisation you enrolled in may no longer be taking new enrolments, so may not appear on these web pages. To find information on the regulations for these qualifications go to the Massey University Calendar.
Please contact us through the Get advice button on this page if you have any questions.
Structure of the Certificate in Aviation Studies
The Certificate in Aviation Studies is awarded without specialisation.
If you hold a pilot’s licence you may be able to study this certificate full-time.
Courses and specialisations
Key terms
- Courses
- Each qualification has its own specific set of courses. Some universities call these papers. You enrol in courses after you get accepted into Massey.
- Course code
- Each course is numbered using 6 digits. The fourth number shows the level of the course. For example, in course 219206, the fourth number is a 2, so it is a 200-level course (usually studied in the second year of full-time study).
- Credits
- Each course is worth a number of credits. You combine courses (credits) to meet the total number of credits needed for your qualification.
- Specialisations
- Some qualifications let you choose what subject you'd like to specialise in. Your major or endorsement is what you will take the majority of your courses in.
Credit summary
60 credits
- Courses from the Schedule – 45 credits
- Elective – 15 credits
Course planning key
- Prerequisites
- Courses that need to be completed before moving onto a course at the next level. For example, a lot of 200-level courses have 100-level prerequisite courses.
- Corequisites
- Courses that must be completed at the same time as another course are known as corequisite courses.
- Restrictions
- Some courses are restricted against each other because their content is similar. This means you can only choose one of the offered courses to study and credit to your qualification.
Course code: 190109 Aviation Studies 15 credits
An introduction to the interaction of components in the aviation system, including human resources, aircraft, airports and airways systems.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190115 Introduction to Aeronautics 15 credits
An introduction to the non-practical components of airline and commercial pilots’ aeronautical knowledge. Emphasis is placed on general aircraft technical knowledge, principles of flight, aeronautical meteorology, flight procedures and aviation law.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190116 Introduction to Management in Aviation 15 credits
An overview of management concepts in the aviation industry.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190117 Introduction to Human Factors 15 credits
The application of information processing strategies for improving performance in learning, problem-solving, decision-making, interpersonal interrelations, coping in situational anxiety and mental rehearsal.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190118 Aeroscience I 15 credits
An introduction to mathematical principles and basic physics as they relate to aerodynamics and aircraft systems.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190119 Aeroscience II 15 credits
An introduction to calculus and advanced physics as they relate to aerodynamics and aircraft systems.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190206 Aerodynamics 1 15 credits
This course introduces principles of incompressible fluid statics and fluid dynamics, basic concepts of low and high speed aerodynamics, and lift theory.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190211 Aviation Strategic Management 15 credits
An examination of the strategic management processes employed in the aviation industry, and how the business environment shapes strategy formulation and implementation in the aviation industry.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190215 Heavy Aeroplane Performance 15 credits
An analysis of fundamental performance considerations and compliance requirements for CAR Part 121 "A" performance aeroplanes, focussing on the relationship between aircraft performance and flight planning in an airline context.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190216 Aviation Human Factors 15 credits
The course provides an overview of the basic concepts of human factors in aviation, human performance, and issues relating to judgement and decision-making in this high risk environment. Communication and other aspects of social psychology in various aviation environment are also explored.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190220 Managing Airline Systems 15 credits
An examination of the management of airline organisations.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190222 Basic Air Safety Investigation 15 credits
The aim of this course is to give students an insight to aircraft accident investigation. The course will also benefit those who need to understand the investigation process, such as managers of airlines and regulatory authorities. The course covers the basic requirements and procedures involved in air safety investigation.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190224 Environmental Impacts of Aviation 15 credits
Advanced study of the environment of aviation, the impacts of aviation on the environment and the methods for reducing the impacts.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190225 Introduction to Research Methods in Aviation 15 credits
An introduction to the theories and methods of research in the aviation industry. A range of both quantitative and qualitative methodologies is explored, and various techniques for aviation research are examined.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190240 Air Power 15 credits
This course examines military air power, its characteristics, history and development, including selected air campaigns and use of Remote Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS).
View full course detailsCourse code: 190249 Aircraft Maintenance Management 30 credits
An examination of knowledge appropriate to the management of an aircraft maintenance organisation.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190256 Aerodynamics II 15 credits
The second of two courses. This course investigates principles of stability and control of subsonic and transonic flight, theory of supersonic aerodynamics, and the aerodynamic properties of transonic and supersonic aerofoils. It provides students with the methods for analysing aerodynamic forces on the performance of aircraft at transonic and supersonic speeds, and methods for calculating air properties through supersonic waves.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190299 Aviation Special Topic 15 credits
Course code: 190301 Flight Instructor Human Factors 15 credits
Theory and application of human factor issues in decision-making, interpersonal relations, communication styles and personality characteristics as they affect flight deck performance in the instructional environment.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190302 Check and Training for Airlines 15 credits
This course is designed for experienced pilots wishing to develop their knowledge in airline check and training concepts.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190306 Airline Strategic Management 15 credits
A review of the current state of strategic management in the airline industry. The approach is both multidisciplinary in focus and international in scope. Attention will be focused on the Asia-Pacific region, as the potential location of the world's largest aviation market.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190307 Airport Planning 15 credits
A study of demographic, environmental and economic considerations which apply to the design and evaluation of airport facilities.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190308 Airport Operational Management 15 credits
An examination of the management of airport systems, such as air-side and land-side facilities, technical and support services which contribute to the operational effectiveness of modern airports. The course will further examine the relationship between airport authorities and the local community.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190309 Design of Airways and Air Traffic Systems 15 credits
An examination of air traffic and air navigational systems and the principles which apply to their operational infrastructure, including the development of visual and instrument flight procedures.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190313 Advanced Aviation Human Factors 15 credits
This course explores the role of human behaviour and physiological limitations in aviation, how they fit with complex systems, and how behaviour and systems may be modified to improve safety.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190314 Legal Issues in Aviation 15 credits
General principles of law as applied in the context of the airline transport industry. The course will focus on the application of law to flight crew, airline operations and civil aviation authorities in terms of both international conventions and treaties and of national legislation and law. Issues such as contractual and tortious liability will be considered.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190317 Evaluation Methods in Aviation 15 credits
The identification, development and analysis of tests and measures in aviation aptitude, achievement and licensing evaluation.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190327 Managing Cultures in Aviation 15 credits
A critical evaluation of theory and practice of management of cultures in aviation, incorporating: (a) an exploration of theoretical and practical aspects of cultural diversity and its effect on aviation industry in the global business environment; and (b) an assessment and management of international, national, and organisational cultural dimensions and their shaping influence in various aspects of aviation operation.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190328 Aviation Management Practicum 15 credits
Provides a practical experience in an aviation organisation, linking theory to practice.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190340 Contemporary Issues in Aviation Security 15 credits
This course explores aviation security with a particular emphasis on terrorism. Students explore key incidents, areas at risk, and the legislation and practical means by which risks are managed. The trade off between an erosion of civil liberties and increased security will be explored, as will the reasons why risks will always remain.
View full course detailsCourse code: 190398 Aviation Internship Project 15 credits
Course code: 190399 Aviation Special Topic 15 credits
Fees and scholarships
Fees, student loans and free fees scheme
Your tuition fees may be different depending on the courses you choose. Your exact fees will show once you have chosen your courses.
There will also be some compulsory non-tuition fees and for some courses, there may also be charges for things such as study resources, software, trips and contact workshops.
- Get an estimate of the tuition fees for your qualification
- View a list of non-tuition fees that may be payable
Already know which courses you're going to choose?
You can view fees for the courses that make up your qualification on the course details pages.
Student loans (StudyLink) and Fees Free scheme
You may be eligible for a student loan to help towards paying your fees.
The New Zealand Government offers fees-free tertiary study for eligible domestic students. Find out more about the scheme and your eligibility on the Fees Free website. To use the site's eligibility checking tool, you will need your National Student Number.
Current and returning Massey students can find their National Student Number in the student portal.
- Student loans (StudyLink)
- Fees Free
- Student portal
Fees disclaimer
This information is for estimation purposes only. Actual fees payable will be finalised on confirmation of enrolment. Unless otherwise stated, all fees shown are quoted in New Zealand dollars and include Goods and Services Tax, if any. Before relying on any information on these pages you should also read the University's Disclaimer Notice.
Careers and job opportunities
This programme enables busy aviation professionals to gain a taste of university study. Successful completion of the Certificate of Aviation Studies can then be your pathway to enrolling in Massey’s Bachelor of Aviation Management (BAvMan).
Accreditations and rankings
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Massey Business School is rated in the top 5% of global business colleges by AACSB International.
QS Ranking - Business Management Studies
Massey University is ranked by QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) as one of the top 350 universities for business and management.
Singapore Aviation Academy
Massey's School of Aviation offers the Bachelor of Aviation Management and Master of Aviation via distance learning to international students through a partnership with Singapore Aviation Academy. The academy is an ICAO TRAINAIR PLUS Full Member, ICAO endorsed Government Safety Inspector Training Centre and ICAO Aviation Security Training Centre.
ShanghaiRanking – Business Administration
Massey University is ranked #1 in New Zealand for business administration by ShanghaiRanking.
Related study options
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Aviation Studies – Graduate Diploma in Aviation
Take your aviation career to the next level with Massey's Graduate Diploma in Aviation. Gain a university qualification while following your passion for aviation.
Flight Instruction – Graduate Diploma in Aviation
Add a new dimension to your commercial pilot’s licence. Gain a university qualification while following your passion for aviation.
Master of Aviation – MAv
Enhance your career prospects in the internationally competitive aviation sector with the Master of Aviation. Massey is the only place in New Zealand where you can turn your passion for aviation into a tertiary qualification.
Useful planning information
Key information for students
Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions. Learn more on careers.govt.nz