Hey Guys,
Thought i'd post a comment since we are basing our conversation on the degree or not decision. Well i've just commenced my bachelor of aviation course at griffith university and all is going well so far. A few weeks back a qantas 747 captain emphasized the fact that getting this particular degree will better our chances for the future and will make us work ready in no time. With the pilot shortage predicted for the next 10 years, he did say now is the best time to get onboard and that this particular degree which has been established with Qantas is a never before seen opportunity. To all out there that are considering this opition, as mentioned above, the uni aspect is covered under HECS whilst the flying/grad diploma (qantas cadetship) is covered by HELP. There is however a catch ..... flight tests, CASA fee's, medicals etc etc etc are all self funded and total to about $16,000 ..... so be prepared.
One more thing, choose your subjects in school wisely, it's only my second actual teaching week and the workload is massive. I done physics, biology, math B and C in high school and the workload is still horrible. First semester will involve human biology, physics and math, so be well prepared!!
Cheers,
Mark
(p.s. i've noticed a lot of people doing my course aren't really there to become Airline Pilots, so please those who have their hearts set on something else please don't waste your time
)