Bachelor of Science Degree in Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Program Overview
Lewis University's Bachelor of Science in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) program prepares students for careers in this rapidly growing field. The program offers three concentrations: Computer Science, Maintenance, and Media Production. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to design, develop, and operate UAS for various applications, including piloting, engineering, maintenance, software development, and media production.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Bachelor of Science in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) program at Lewis University prepares students for careers in this rapidly growing field. The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, develop, and operate UAS for a variety of applications. The program offers three concentrations:
- Computer Science: Students in this concentration will learn how to develop algorithms for UAS, including autopilot systems, flight planning, and mission planning.
- Maintenance: Students in this concentration will learn how to maintain and repair UAS, including electrical systems, avionics, and propulsion systems.
- Media Production: Students in this concentration will learn how to use UAS for aerial photography and videography, including camera operation, editing, and post-production. The curriculum for the UAS program is hands-on and project-based. Students will have the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art equipment, including fixed-wing platforms, multirotors, and unmanned marine vehicles (gliders and submersibles). In their senior year, students will complete a capstone project in which they will design, build, and test their own UAS application.
Outline:
The UAS program consists of 120 credit hours, which are divided into three sections:
- General Education: Students will take courses in English, mathematics, science, history, and social science.
- Major Requirements: Students will take courses in UAS design, operation, and maintenance.
- Concentration Requirements: Students will take courses in their chosen concentration. The following is a sample outline of the UAS program:
General Education (36 credit hours):
- English Composition I and II (6 credit hours)
- Mathematics (6 credit hours)
- Science (8 credit hours)
- History (6 credit hours)
- Social Science (6 credit hours)
- Fine Arts (3 credit hours)
Major Requirements (48 credit hours):
- Introduction to Unmanned Aircraft Systems (3 credit hours)
- UAS Flight Operations (3 credit hours)
- UAS Design and Development (3 credit hours)
- UAS Maintenance and Repair (3 credit hours)
- UAS Regulations and Policy (3 credit hours)
- UAS Applications (3 credit hours)
- UAS Capstone Project (3 credit hours)
Concentration Requirements (24 credit hours):
- Computer Science:
- Introduction to Programming (3 credit hours)
- Data Structures and Algorithms (3 credit hours)
- Computer Graphics (3 credit hours)
- Artificial Intelligence (3 credit hours)
- Robotics (3 credit hours)
- UAS Software Development (3 credit hours)
- Maintenance:
- Basic Electricity (3 credit hours)
- Electronics (3 credit hours)
- Avionics (3 credit hours)
- Aircraft Maintenance (3 credit hours)
- UAS Power Systems (3 credit hours)
- UAS Maintenance Management (3 credit hours)
- Media Production:
- Introduction to Photography (3 credit hours)
- Introduction to Videography (3 credit hours)
- Digital Editing (3 credit hours)
- Aerial Photography and Videography (3 credit hours)
- UAS Journalism (3 credit hours)
- UAS Media Production (3 credit hours)
Assessment:
Students in the UAS program will be assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams
- Quizzes
- Projects
- Presentations
- Portfolios
Teaching:
The UAS program is taught by a team of experienced faculty who are experts in their respective fields. Faculty members are actively involved in research and industry partnerships, which allows them to bring real-world experience to the classroom. The program also utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, hands-on labs, group projects, and guest speakers.
Careers:
Graduates of the UAS program are prepared for a variety of careers in the growing field of unmanned aircraft systems. Potential career paths include:
- UAS Pilot
- UAS Operator
- UAS Engineer
- UAS Maintenance Technician
- UAS Software Developer
- UAS Data Analyst
- UAS Instructor
- UAS Sales Representative
Other:
The UAS program at Lewis University is one of the few programs in the nation that offers a degree in this field. The program is also one of the most affordable in the Midwest. The program has a strong industry advisory board, which provides guidance on curriculum development and career opportunities. The program is also located in the Chicago metropolitan area, which is a major hub for the UAS industry. This gives students access to a wide range of internship and job opportunities.
Lewis University
Overview:
Lewis University is a private, Catholic university located in Romeoville, Illinois, approximately 35 miles southwest of Chicago. It is known for its Lasallian education, which emphasizes community service, social justice, and academic excellence.
Services Offered:
Lewis University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing center, and other resources to help students succeed in their studies.Career Services:
Career counseling, job search assistance, internship opportunities, and employer connections.Student Life:
Student organizations, clubs, intramural sports, and other activities to enhance the campus experience.Health and Safety:
Student Wellness Center, University Police, and emergency planning services.Housing and Dining:
On-campus housing options and dining services.Library:
Extensive library resources, including books, journals, databases, and research support.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and other financial assistance options.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at Lewis University can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a variety of opportunities for students to get involved, including:
Student Organizations:
Over 100 student organizations, clubs, and groups representing a wide range of interests.Athletics:
NCAA Division II athletics, with a variety of sports teams for students to participate in.Recreation and Fitness:
Fitness center, intramural sports, and club sports.University Ministry:
Opportunities for spiritual growth and service.Campus Events:
Concerts, lectures, performances, and other events throughout the year.Key Reasons to Study There:
Lasallian Education:
Lewis University's commitment to Lasallian values provides a unique and enriching educational experience.Strong Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including highly regarded programs in aviation, business, nursing, and education.Small Class Sizes:
Students receive personalized attention from faculty and have the opportunity to build close relationships with their professors.Location:
The university's location near Chicago provides students with access to a variety of cultural, educational, and employment opportunities.Career Outcomes:
Lewis University graduates are well-prepared for successful careers in a variety of fields.Academic Programs:
Lewis University offers a wide range of academic programs across six colleges and schools:
College of Aviation, Science and Technology (CoAST):
Aviation, engineering, computer science, and other STEM fields.College of Business (CoB):
Business administration, accounting, finance, marketing, and management.College of Education and Social Sciences (CoESS):
Education, psychology, social work, and criminal justice.College of Humanities, Fine Arts and Communications (CoHFAC):
English, history, art, music, theatre, and communication.College of Nursing and Health Sciences (CoNHS):
Nursing, health sciences, and pre-professional programs.School of Graduate, Professional & Continuing Education (SGPCE):
Master's and doctoral programs, as well as certificate programs.Other:
Lewis University also offers a variety of online programs for students who prefer to study remotely. The university has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, and it provides a welcoming and supportive environment for students from all backgrounds.
Entry Requirements
Domestic Students:
- High School Diploma or equivalent
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Minimum ACT score of 21 or SAT score of 1060
