Small Unmanned Aerial Systems: CP (CTE)

Certificate of Proficiency | 16 credits

Program Website
Academic Advising

Program Description
Small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) includes unmanned aircraft as well as other software and hardware components required for the operation of that aircraft. This certificate prepares students to enter the fast-growing sUAS market and industry. The required coursework provides students with the skills to manage and plan flight operations, collect and process imagery data for analysis, and develop skills that can be applied in multiple applications, including geographic information systems, agriculture, environmental science, geosciences, natural and cultural resource management, emergency response, criminal justice, aerial video and photography, and more.

Career Opportunities

Students completing the Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) Certificate of Proficiency will be highly qualified for most entry-level geospatial technology positions, specifically using sUAS and related technology. sUAS industries are growing exponentially nationally and internationally. Many industries will be directly connected to sUAS technology, while others will be indirectly impacted.

Career pathways in sUAS technology include, but are not limited to, local, state, and federal governmental agencies; nonprofit organizations; transportation; public utilities; energy sector; military and homeland security; law enforcement and public safety; delivery and fulfillment; journalism; photography and video making; scientific research and exploration; disaster response and recovery; natural resource, wildlife management, forestry, agriculture, and environmental conservation; surveying and engineering, geographic information systems (GIS), and more.

Estimated Cost for Students
Tuition and student fees: http://www.slcc.edu/student/financial/tuition-fees.aspx
Books: courses use Open Education Resources (OER) material.
Course Fees: $45

NOTE: Fees may vary based upon specific registration and are subject to change.

Program Requirements

Required Courses (16 credits)

Time to Completion & Graduation Map

Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) CP: Part-time
Time to completion is 3 semesters based on part-time enrollment of 6-9 credits per semester. Course sequence pathway alignment includes summer so students can complete the program of study within one year.

Program Learning Outcomes

Program learning outcome alignment with Student Learning Outcomes in brackets.

Compare various types of drones used in remote sensing applications. [1,4]
Acquire practical skills and techniques in image acquisition and analysis techniques using remote sensing data. [1,7]
Acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the FAA Part 107 exam. [1,4]
Apply elements of geospatial data quality, including geometric accuracy, thematic accuracy, resolution precision, and fitness for specific applications. [1,7]