Course summary

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. 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. 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. 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.