Program Overview

Unit Overview

The Drone Mapping and Pilot Certification unit (KGG300) is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills required to become a certified drone pilot. The unit consists of three components: CASA RePL theory, drone flight training, and using drones for geospatial mapping.

Introduction

This unit is offered in Semester 2 and Spring School teaching periods. The face-to-face flying practical is the assurance of learning task for this unit. Enrolments for each availability are capped at 12. If you are unable to enroll because the quota has been reached, please note that elective spaces may be available.

Unit Details

• Unit name: Drone Mapping and Pilot Certification
• Unit code: KGG300
• Credit points: 12.5
• College/School: Sciences and Engineering
• School of Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences
• Discipline: Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences
• Coordinator: Doctor Darren Turner
• Available as an elective: No
• Delivered By: University of Tasmania
• Level: Advanced

Availability

• Location: Hobart
• Study period: Semester 2
• Attendance options: On-campus
• Available to: Domestic students

Key Dates

• Study Period: Semester 2
• Start date: 6/7/2026
• Census date: 28/7/2026
• WW date: 31/8/2026
• End date: 25/10/2026

Learning Outcomes

• Explain basic aerodynamics, aircraft systems, air law, operational planning, and meteorology in the context of drone piloting.
• Conduct drone flying activities in a professional manner.
• Use radio communications procedures considering appropriate CASA regulations.
• Plan a drone flight for geospatial mapping in a real-world scenario.
• Produce a 3D point cloud and orthomosaic using photogrammetric software.

Fee Information

• Field of Education:
• Commencing Student Contribution: $1,192.00
• Grandfathered Student Contribution: $1,192.00
• Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution: Not applicable
• Domestic Full Fee: $3,401.00

Requisites

Prerequisites

• KGG102

Teaching

• Teaching Pattern:
  • 15 hours for delivery of prescribed CASA theory for license certification
  • 9 hours delivery of drone mapping theory
  • 5 x 3 hour practical sessions for use of mission planning and photogrammetric software
  • Minimum of 5 hours (up to max of 6 hours) of flight instruction and assessment as prescribed by CASA
• Assessment:
  • Drone Flight Test (20%)
  • CASA RePL Theory and Aeronautical Radio Operator Certificate (AROC) Exam (40%)
  • Geospatial Mapping with a Drone (40%)

Textbooks

• Required: CASA remote pilot licence (RePL) theory - supplied as part of the unit.