Master of Science
Specialization in Aviation Management

The Master of Science (MSc) in International Business Administration with a specialization in Aviation Management at the American Institute of Applied Sciences in Switzerland (AUS) is designed for students who aspire to build management careers in the global aviation sector. The program combines advanced business education with industry-relevant aviation knowledge and practical exposure to the operational, strategic, and commercial realities of aviation management.
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A distinctive feature of the program is its dual-degree structure. All students enrolled in the Aviation Management specialization will graduate with two qualifications: the Master of Science (MSc) in International Business Administration from AUS, with a specialization in Aviation Management, and the Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Tiffin University (TU) in the United States, with a specialization in International Business. This dual-degree award gives students the advantage of combining aviation-focused management preparation with broader global business expertise.
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Students learn from experienced faculty and industry professionals who bring together strong academic credentials and direct aviation-sector experience. This combination ensures that classroom learning remains closely connected to current industry developments. What happens in the aviation industry today informs what is discussed in the classroom, helping keep the program relevant, practical, and aligned with the demands of a fast-moving global market.
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Our Aviation Management faculty come directly from the aviation industry. Through their years of professional experience, they bring real-world insight, industry perspectives, professional networks, and firsthand examples into the classroom, enriching the academic experience and helping students better understand the realities of management in aviation.
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AUS places strong emphasis on applied and experiential learning. Students benefit from case-based teaching, simulations, applied projects, presentations, and exposure to aviation professionals through guest lectures and industry engagement. As an IATA Authorized Training Center, AUS further enhances this experience by giving students access to learning informed by IATA-qualified faculty and opportunities to earn professional certificates inside their degree. This approach is designed to help students move beyond theory and build the confidence, judgment, and communication skills required for leadership roles in aviation-related organizations.
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The specialization is especially suited to students who want the flexibility and breadth of an international business degree while also developing focused preparation for management roles in the aviation sector. It is ideal for those seeking careers in airlines, airports, aviation services, passenger operations, sustainability, compliance, and other business functions across the wider air transport ecosystem.

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In addition to classroom learning, students have opportunities to gain firsthand exposure to aviation and business operations in Switzerland and across Europe. The program includes visits to aviation-related sites and organizations such as airports, hangars, cargo facilities, and air traffic control centers, giving students valuable insight into how aviation organizations operate in practice. AUS also hosts guest speakers and industry leaders who share professional experiences, current market perspectives, and career insights with students.

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The Master of Science in International Business Administration (MIBA) program at the American Institute of Applied Sciences in Switzerland (AUS) ensures that our students are fully prepared to lead and manage in today’s competitive and changing global marketplace. We focus on integrating traditional business knowledge with practical decision-making, problem-solving, creativity, and strategic thinking while engaging in real-world projects. We create a practical learning and research environment that emphasizes collaboration and active engagement with industry leaders.

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The curriculum links cutting-edge business theory to practical research and applications as students are guided to solve real-world challenges. This environment emphasizes collaboration and team building alongside healthy competition. At AUS, top-tier internationally diverse classmates come together, share professional experiences, and form synergistic groups where mutual commitment and joint accountability lead to highly effective teams.

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Courses integrate experiential learning activities such as:

• Simulations
• Presentations – individual and/or group
• Case studies
• Projects – individual and/or group

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Beyond the depth and breadth of knowledge gained in the classroom, the life-long connections developed while attending AUS will be of immeasurable value. To this end, we actively support on-site company visits and executive mentoring. With our vast network of contacts at nearby, world-renowned corporate headquarters, students are sure to find opportunities tailored to meet their specific needs. Whether the student aspires to manage a leading company, have their own business, or work for a family-run business, AUSprovides the tools to follow the desired career path. AUS graduate students are expected to produce quality and practical business research summarized in their Master’s Capstone submission.

The Tiffin University Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program helps students develop advanced competencies in communication, leadership, teamwork, information technology, and problem-solving. A distinguished faculty addresses current issues in management and preparesstudents for the technology-driven global workplace. Through case studies, research, and analyses of current business topics, you’ll learn to translate theories into practical business applications.

The International Business specialization at Tiffin University equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an increasingly globalized business environment. With a strong emphasis on global management, international trade and investment, financial management, and organizational design, the specialization prepares students to understand how multinational organizations operate and compete across diverse cultural and business contexts.

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The program is designed as a two-year master's degree requiring the completion of 60

credit hours (120 ECTS). The structure consists of six academic terms, with three terms

per year: Fall, Winter, and Spring. Each term typically includes ten weeks of instruction

followed by two weeks of examinations.

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In addition, students complete a Master's Capstone during their final term. The capstone

may take the form of either:

• A thesis, involving research and the investigation of one or more hypotheses, or
• A business plan, developed as a practical response to a real-world business opportunity or challenge.

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This structure is designed to give students both academic depth and practical relevance,

while combining international business preparation with focused expertise in Aviation

Management.

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The conferring of a degree follows only after completing the following requirements:

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• Academic credit requirements - a minimum of 60 Credit Hours/120 ECTS.

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Please note students who are enrolled in a dual degree program with our educational

partner Tiffin University (TU) shall be subjected to the specific TU conditions for

graduation.

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Master students may be eligible for other credit-earning opportunities, when available,

through internships, microcredential uptake and by working with professors on research

initiatives and program activities surrounding their specialization.

What students can expect to achieve in this program:

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1. Knowledge and Understanding
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• Systemic Industry Knowledge: Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected nature of the global aviation ecosystem, including the economic drivers of airlines, the operational complexities of airports, and the role of aerospace manufacturers.
• Regulatory & Ethical Frameworks: Explain the evolution and impact of international aviation law, safety regulations (ICAO/EASA/IATA), and the socio-economic imperatives of environmental sustainability in a carbon-constrained world.
• Advanced Business Theories: Critically understand advanced management theories as they specifically apply to capital-intensive and highly volatile aviation markets.
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2. Applying Knowledge and Understanding
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• Strategic Modeling: Apply advanced financial and operational modeling techniques to optimize fleet planning, route network development, and revenue management strategies.
• Crisis & Risk Management: Utilize evidence-based methodologies to develop robust contingency plans and risk-mitigation strategies for global disruptions (e.g., fuel price volatility, geopolitical shifts, or health crises).
• Data-Driven Innovation: Leverage business intelligence and analytics tools topropose innovative service delivery models or operational improvements within an aviation context.

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3. Making Judgments

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• Strategic Criticality: Formulate advanced managerial judgments by synthesizing conflicting data points from financial reports, market trends, and technical safety requirements to guide long-term organizational strategy.
• Ethical Leadership: Evaluate the ethical implications of business decisions, specifically balancing profitability with corporate social responsibility (CSR), passenger safety, and labor relations.
• Complexity Management: Demonstrate the ability to make high-stakes decisions in "low-margin, high-risk" environments where information may be incomplete or rapidly changing.

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4. Communication Skills

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• Executive Presence: Communicate complex aviation business analyses and strategic recommendations with clarity, using professional terminology suited for board-level or regulatory stakeholders.

• Stakeholder Negotiation: Defend strategic solutions in diverse settings, demonstrating the ability to negotiate and influence across the multi-faceted aviation value chain (e.g., ground handlers, unions, and government bodies).
• Digital & Visual Fluency: Use sophisticated data visualization and reporting tools to translate technical operational data into actionable business insights for non-technical audiences.

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5. Learning Skills
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• Autonomous Research: Conduct independent research into emerging aviation trends, such as Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) or sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), demonstrating a high degree of self-direction.
• Cross-Cultural Collaboration: Lead and collaborate effectively in multi-disciplinary and multicultural teams, reflecting the globalized nature of the American Institute of Applied Sciences in Switzerland.
• Continuous Professional Development: Internalize a commitment to lifelong learning, maintaining currency with the rapid technological and digital transformations defining "Aviation 4.0."

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The Master’s program is a two-year program during which the student must obtain 90 credit hours | 120 European Credit Transfer System. The two-year program structure comprises six academic terms, with three terms per year (Fall, Winter, and Spring). Each term typically includes ten weeks of instruction and two weeks of examinations. A standard course of study to complete a Master’s program over two years requires the completion of fifteen (15) AUS core courses, two (2) AUS elective courses, ten (10) TU core courses, and four (4) TU specialization courses. In addition, nine credit hours are required for Capstone work which should be completed during the last term of enrollment. The Master Capstone work can be either a thesis in the form of a research proposal, where the validity of one or more hypotheses is investigated, or in the form of a business plan.

The conferring of a degree follows only after completing the following requirements:

• Academic credit requirements – a minimum of 90 CH | 120 ECTS.

MIBA students have other credit-earning opportunities, when available, by working with professors on research initiatives and program activities surrounding their specialization.

Graduation with honors will be recognized for the superior achievement of AUS students at three levels:

• Cum laude – for graduates with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.50 to 3.79.
• Magna cum laude – for graduates with a cumulative GPA of 3.80 to 3.99.
• Summa cum laude – for graduates with a cumulative GPA of 4.00 or higher.

Studying at the American Institute of Applied Sciences in Switzerland (AUS) is more than an academic choice; it is a strategic career move. Positioned in the heart of the Swiss Riviera, we provide a boutique, high-tech, and globally recognized education designed for the 2026 business landscape.

Guaranteed accommodation in Switzerland

We solve the #1 barrier for international students. Securing housing in Switzerland is notoriously difficult for those without a local history. The Promise: AUS guarantees safe, high-quality accommodation near Lake Geneva for up to 80% of students who apply early. Focus on your studies, not your housing search. We recommend applying early to avoid disappointment and to secure your accommodation. You can choose between private rooms or shared rooms.

Top-tier global rankings

Your two degrees are backed by a legacy of proven excellence. In the 2026 QS business masters Rankings, AUS stands as:

• Top 1 in Switzerland for business masters (3 consecutive years).
• Top 3 in Switzerland for Global MBA programs.
• 5-Star Rated for Teaching and Class Experience.

Boutique learning architecture

Personalized mentorship model designed for your transformation.

• 1:7 Student-to-Staff Ratio: Every student receives direct career guidance and classes are restricted to 20 students: Less crowded and more intimate cohorts foster deep and long-lasting networking, and enhance peer collaboration.
• Faculty: Your professors are industry leaders who “live” the theories they teach. You gain direct access to faculty who teach at other exclusive schools worldwide and in Switzerland at a fraction of the cost.
• IBM Skills Build: While optional, you can choose to earn additional professional certifications in Generative AI, Cybersecurity, and Data Science alongside your degree. Skills in high demand by employers worldwide.

Industry-integrated & future-proof

• AUS bridge the gap between “knowing” and “doing.” At AUS, you gain the technical skills that the 2026 job market demands.
• Master the Language of Business with additional specialization modules and understanding.
• Benefit from industry visits, guest speakers and networking with C-level executives.

The ultimate strategic location

• Situated on the shore line of the UNESCO Swiss Riviera, our campus is surrounded by over 850 multinational headquarters.
• The Hub: The Lake Geneva region is Switzerland’s #1 hub for foreign multinational headquarters, further driving economic power. Multinationals in this region account for 40% of the cantonal added value, placing you at the doorstep of the world’s leading employers.
• Experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be immersed in the most prestigious French-speaking part of Switzerland, the epicenter of the Swiss Riviera where you can be in Paris within 4 hours, Milan 3 hours, and Vienna 5 hours by frequent high-speed trains.

A global gateway

Join a vibrant community of 40+ nationalities in Lake Geneva, our campus offers a safe, high-quality lifestyle. Graduate not just as a business professional, but as a global citizen ready to lead on any continent.

By completing this dual master’s degree program, you are not just earning a diploma; you are unlocking a gateway to the highest echelons of the global aviation industry. You will join an elite network of alumni who have successfully transitioned from the classroom to influential roles within major airlines, international airports, aviation consulting firms, and regulatory bodies. Whether your ambition is to optimize airline operations as a VP of Operations, lead airport expansion as an Airport Business Director, or shape industry standards as an Aviation Safety Executive, this degree provides the multidisciplinary foundation in aviation business, safety management, and regulatory compliance needed to get there. Holding both a Swiss and an American credential gives you a distinct advantage that few others possess, effectively opening doors across the European market and throughout the US.

To qualify for this dual degree program, you should have successfully completed your secondary education in your home country, earning a secondary school diploma or a leaving certificate that grants you eligibility for university-level study.

We recognize that excellence isn’t always captured by standardized testing, so we do not require GMAT or other entrance exam scores for admission. Instead, we prioritize a holistic review of your potential through a comprehensive assessment of your application and a mandatory online interview. This approach ensures that we welcome motivated, career-oriented students from all nationalities, genders, and backgrounds who are ready to prove themselves in a rigorous, dual-accredited environment.

This program is a fast-paced, three-year intensive experience requiring a strong command of English to ensure academic success. To maximize the likelihood of a successful student visa application, we strongly encourage applicants from outside the EU or EEA to apply before their 28th birthday. Our mission is to provide an elite, world-class education that remains accessible to motivated students. We offer a prestigious dual Swiss and US degree designed for those who prioritize a global professional network and career-ready results over a traditional Ivy League path.

• Language: English C-Level. But CEFR B2 level is considered after completing an oral interview.
• Education: Secondary school’s diploma with good academic achievements or IELTS Overall 5.5, with no single element below 4.5
• Motivation letter: Explain why you are pursuing a degree in your chosen field and your goals, and the specific value you will bring to your peer group.

Age requirements: (due to Swiss visa requirements)

• Age: 18-30 (EU/EEA nationals Including Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway)
• Age: 18-28 (International)

AUS offers a fair and transparent admissions process based on individual merit and potential. We look beyond basic eligibility to understand the specific context of your background, ensuring we balance high standards with true inclusivity. Guided by international quality standards and global partnerships, we provide direct, honest advice to help students and families choose the right path. Our goal is to align your prior experience and interests with the program that will best drive your future career.

To maximize your chances of securing a spot in our exclusive dual degree program, you can easily submit your application and supporting documents through our online portal. Because we prioritize a high-impact learning environment with a 1:7 faculty-to-student ratio, each intake is strictly limited to 20 students to ensure you receive the personalized coaching and mentorship necessary for professional success.

For applicants from outside the EU or EEA (including Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway), we strongly recommend initiating your application before the age of 30, as Swiss authorities typically view the ideal age range for student visa approval as 18 to 29.

If you are ready to master both the data-driven hard skills and the collaborative soft skills required of modern aviation administration leaders, we encourage you to start your application today.

Note: A set of three foundation courses is offered to students who need additional proficiency in English communication, Math, and applied IT.

Foundation courses
AUS FOUNDATION 6 CH | 8 ECTS

AUS core courses
AUS CORE 65 CH | 130 ECTS

AUS Aviation Management Courses
AUS SPECIALIZATION 18 CH | 36 ECTS

AUS is an IATA Authorized Training Center allowing students to earn IATA certificates alongside their degree. Students will normally obtain an IATA certification as part of these courses.

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AUS Capstone
CAPSTONE 9 CH | 18 ECTS

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MICROCREDENTIALS

In addition to their degree, students may complete selected IATA certifications designed to enhance their aviation management expertise and provide internationally recognized credentials that complement their Dual Degree.

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Course Title

1. Airline Customer Service Fundamentals
2. Airport Emergency Response Awareness 
3. Aviation Security Awareness (General Staff)
4. Basic Airside Safety 
5. CORSIA Fundamentals
6. Data Science: Set your project up for success
7. Diversity & Inclusion
8. E-Commerce in the Travel Industry
9. Flight Data Analysis Fundamentals
10. Marketing Essentials for Aviation Professionals
11.  Safety Management Systems for Ground Operations
12. Safety Management Systems Fundamentals
13. Social Media Strategy for the Travel Industry
14. State Safety Program Fundamentals

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Potential Career Paths

• Airline Operations & Management
• Airport Administration
• Aviation Consultancy & Strategy
• Aircraft Leasing & Finance
• Regulatory & Governmental Bodies
• Air Cargo & Logistics
• Sustainability & Innovation

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