Program Overview

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Aeronautical Management Technology (Unmanned Aerial Systems), BS

The unmanned aerial systems concentration of the Bachelor of Science program in aeronautical management technology prepares students for careers in the rapidly growing area of unmanned aerial systems, including operations, remote sensing, data collection and analysis.

Program Description

The concentration incorporates all aviation management technology core courses and unmanned aerial systems concentration courses. Students receive an overview of unmanned aerial systems operations, followed by coursework that enables them to acquire detailed knowledge of relevant systems, technology (ground control stations; data links; flight planning and operations; search, detect and avoid technologies; and payloads), and sensor operations. A critical aspect of this academic area of study is the data capture and transfer of the sensor information collected from the unmanned aerial vehicle.

At a Glance

• College/school: Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering
• Location: Polytechnic
• Second language requirement: No
• STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
• First required math course: MAT 170 - Precalculus
• Math intensity: Moderate

Curriculum

View 2025 - 2026 curriculum. View curriculum archives.

Concurrent Program Options

Students pursuing concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”) earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with their academic advisors, students can create their own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.

Accelerated Program Options

This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. Accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for high-achieving students who want the opportunity to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of their master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.

Admission Requirements

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

Tuition Information

When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.

Change of Major Requirements

A current ASU student must have a minimum cumulative ASU GPA of 2.00 to change majors to this program.

Transfer Options

ASU is committed to helping students thrive by offering tools that allow personalization of the transfer path to ASU. Students may use MyPath2ASU to outline a list of recommended courses to take prior to transfer.

Global Opportunities

Unmanned aerial systems are used across the globe. Students who participate in a study abroad experience learn a great deal about global practices, laws and emerging technologies within the aviation field.

Career Opportunities

Students graduate from this program ready to find various employment opportunities as unmanned aerial vehicle pilots and sensor operators in the U.S. and throughout the world. This concentration prepares students to operate small to midrange platforms that are used by emergency responders and in industries including forestry, agriculture, energy and oil. Entry-level pay is competitive for this highly specialized field.

Professional Licensure

ASU programs that may lead to professional licensure or certification are intended to prepare students for potential licensure or certification in Arizona. Completion of an ASU program may not meet educational requirements for licensure or certification in another state. For more information, students should visit the ASU professional licensure webpage.

Program Details

• Program code: TSAMTUASBS
• Program description: The unmanned aerial systems concentration of the Bachelor of Science program in aeronautical management technology prepares students for careers in the rapidly growing area of unmanned aerial systems, including operations, remote sensing, data collection and analysis.
• STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas: This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website. The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.