Aye, none of the MSc courses has an ATPL thrown in. But Cranfield is home to Bonus and Cabair who both do ATPL courses (sorry if I missed any other reputable school out). Do you honestly think that integrating a BSc with flying will yield any discount for the lot?
The course in London (re Roger Wootton et al) is structured for maximum flexibility (ie for those with rosters that shift like sand), which is absolutely brilliant for those of us working for ‘not quite so supportive companies’ –and bravo to that –I know GAPAN had a lot to do with the initiation of the course. The idea is absolutely essential to companies (particularly larger companies like BA etc) that recognise the innate potential in each of its pilots, to contribute to the airline (inc outside operations).
But here is where the debate on reputability begins: Assuming Pilots are intelligent (a debate for another thread, ho), and this training is necessary/desirable. So what level of academic study do you place a course award? BTEC, HND/C, Diploma, Certificate? Where? MSc? The academic training we are talking about is decreed to be at the same level as post–grad classroom study.. so fine call it an MSc..
On making my decision on where to go for my MSc, it was odds on certain for City due to (mainly) the core skills being aimed at pilots (ie moi), the flying fraternity there, and lastly the flexibility. Cranfield is an airfield in the middle of nowhere..
However, what changed my mind was that the basic entrance requirement was my ATPL (akin to a very very long A-Level course), leaving my shiny degree irrelevant. Horrified at what appeared like an appalling abandonment of institutional self-respect–and cheapening of the name of a British education, I looked elsewhere.. Flame away.. but its this continual lowering of the bar, tactical pricing, overseas marketing and businesslike way of what were the bastions of global technology and management that is ultimately weakening our economy (flame that as twaddle, and you’ll give your alma mata away). The corrosion won’t be undone. The Cranfield course is not aimed at pilots, its aimed at people aspiring to top airline management (yes, not me- diplomat, I am not), and the materials are rather different I was assured by a gentleman who may well have been Professor of ATM on both courses, no name necessary. Endaxi.
Forgive me if this is a stir, I will bring my uncooked BK Whoppers out for the responses…
Patience; I have.
