MSc Airport Planning and Management

The MSc Airport Planning and Management at Cranfield University is a specialist course designed for students who are passionate about the fast-changing and complex airport industry. It is ideal for those with a background in subjects like engineering, economics, business, geography, or social sciences. The course offers a deep understanding of how airport infrastructure, business strategies, and regulations all work together.

By studying the MSc Airport Planning and Management at Cranfield University, you will join a group of like-minded individuals who share a strong interest in aviation. You’ll also gain practical skills in areas such as Airport Planning, Business Development, Design, and Operations, preparing you for a successful career in the airport sector.

The course also offers flexibility, allowing you to focus on areas that interest you most. This means you can tailor your learning to match your career goals and explore the parts of the airport industry that inspire you the most.

Cranfield University began as the College of Aeronautics in 1946, with a strong focus on Aerospace Engineering. Today, it has grown into a respected university offering postgraduate study and research in many areas, including Energy, Water, Agrifood, Management, and Defence. Its quiet countryside location in Bedfordshire provides a peaceful place to study, while still being close to London and other major cities. This mix of calm surroundings and easy access to career opportunities makes it a great choice for students. The university welcomes students from all over the world and offers excellent facilities like modern libraries, specialised laboratories, and shared study spaces. These help support both learning and collaboration.

Cranfield University is regularly recognised in international rankings. For the past three years, it has been ranked in the global top 30 for Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering. In the 2024 QS World University Rankings by Subject, Cranfield was placed among the top 150 in the world for Business and Management Studies, and in the top 200 for both Environmental Sciences and Materials Science. If you're looking for a postgraduate university that combines strong academic quality with a supportive environment, Cranfield is an excellent option. 

Grade Requirements:

To apply for this course, you will need at least an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution. In addition, you must obtain clearance through the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) before starting your studies.

English Proficiency: 

• An IELTS of 7.0 with at least 6.0 in each element is accepted from students whose first language is not English.

For the 2025/2026 academic year, the tuition fee to study the MSc Airport Planning and Management at Cranfield University is £27,910.

Cranfield University offers a range of scholarships to support international students with their studies. One of these is the ISTAT Foundation Scholarship, which supports students interested in aviation careers. Cranfield can nominate one student each year for this award, worth up to US$10,000.

There are also five fully funded British Council Scholarships for Women in STEM, available to female students from countries including Armenia, Turkey, and Kazakhstan. These scholarships cover all major study expenses and are aimed at encouraging more women into science and technology.

In addition, the Cranfield University GREAT Scholarship, in partnership with the British Council, offers five scholarships worth £10,000 each. These are open to students from Bangladesh, India, Kenya, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Graduates of MSc Planning and Management from Cranfield University have the opportunity to work in the following:

• Airport Manager
• Airside Operations Manager
• Terminal Manager
• Airport Planner
• Aviation Infrastructure Consultant 
• Regulatory Compliance Manager

To apply for this course, you have to submit your application through UCAS. You can speak to one of our trained counsellors if you need more information on the application process.