COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Flight Operations is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers as professional drone pilots and unmanned aviation specialists. The curriculum combines technical, regulatory, and operational knowledge to ensure graduates are proficient in both piloting and managing unmanned aircraft systems. Foundational courses such as Introduction to Aeronautics, Non-Pilot Elements of Flight Theory, and Aircraft Systems I and II provide students with a strong understanding of aeronautical principles, propulsion, flight dynamics, and aircraft technologies. Courses in aviation management, aviation law, and safety theory develop students’ knowledge of regulatory compliance, operational protocols, and human factors, while specialized UAS courses—including Introduction to Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Flight Operations Theory, Sensing and Sensor Systems, and Command, Control, and Communications—equip students with advanced technical skills for drone operations. Hands-on practicums in small UAS flight and advanced flight operations allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in realistic flight scenarios, ensuring competency in mission planning, navigation, and operational safety. Writing-intensive and professional development courses cultivate communication, analytical, and leadership skills critical for careers in both commercial and government sectors. Elective options in aeronautics, applied flight dynamics, and aviation policy allow students to tailor their studies to specific career goals, including air traffic control, aviation security, or autonomous system operations. Supporting coursework in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles reinforces problem-solving and analytical abilities essential for technical proficiency. With a minimum of 120 credit hours, this degree emphasizes a balance of technical expertise, practical experience, and professional judgment, preparing graduates to meet the high standards of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and industry requirements. By integrating cutting-edge flight technologies with regulatory knowledge, safety protocols, and operational skills, the program produces highly capable UAS professionals ready to excel in a dynamic, fast-growing field.