Program Overview

Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Flight and Operations Bachelor's Degree

The Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Flight and Operations Bachelor's Degree program at Kansas State University Salina prepares students for careers in the field of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) or remotely piloted aircraft. This program is built on one of the most advanced UAS infrastructures in the nation, including advanced airspace access, dedicated BVLOS operations areas, and partnerships with the FAA, FEMA, and many other state and private entities.

Program Details

This bachelor's degree option of study prepares students for careers in the field of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) or remotely piloted aircraft. The program includes foundational courses in aviation flight and maintenance necessary for UAS operation and specific courses designed to enable commercially available payload to platform integration and to enable students to think critically in a rapidly developing technical field. Students will be prepared for technical and/or entry-level managerial positions and will be required to successfully defend a portfolio of accumulated learning prior to graduation.

Why Our Program?

Our program is built on one of the most advanced UAS infrastructures in the nation, including advanced airspace access, dedicated BVLOS operations areas, and partnerships with the FAA, FEMA, and many other state and private entities. Students gain hands-on experience at locations such as Crisis City Training Center, often participate in live exercises, support research efforts, and fly for real-world missions that are not available at most universities.

Tracks

• Advanced Air-Mobility: Explore the integration and operation of next-generation drone technologies and air transportation systems.
  • Focusing on communication, navigation and surveillance (CNS) fundamentals necessary for the aerospace sector.
  • Students will contribute to the evolving field of air mobility, enhancing urban transportation and logistics while conducting research for the safe and smooth implementation of advanced air mobility.
• Composites: Learn about the capabilities, properties, and applications of composites, such as carbon fiber and fiberglass, to enhance the performance, durability, and efficiency of uncrewed aircraft.
  • Glean insight on manufacturing processes, repair techniques, and structural analysis of composite components.
  • Preparing graduates to build and maintain high-performance UAS with improved strength and reduced weight.
• Data Analytics: Combine the technical aspects of drone operations with skills in analyzing the data they collect.
  • Students in this track will learn data collection methods, data processing techniques, and advanced analytics to extract actionable insights.
  • Graduates will be prepared to utilize drone technology while leveraging data analytics to enhance decision-making, operations, and efficiency.

Careers

UAS is used in various industries, including:

• Agriculture
• Composites
• Data analytics
• Power infrastructure
• Research
• Manufacturing
• Aviation Maintenance Career options for UAS flight and operations graduates can be pilots, analysts, maintainers, and researchers in a variety of industries.

Curriculum

The program includes a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of UAS flight and operations. Students can learn more about the courses in the program through the course guide.

Faculty

Our esteemed faculty is made up of individuals who have real-world industry experience and a wealth of research expertise to help students learn the most essential skills and information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Uncrewed Aircraft System (UAS)?

A UAS, or drone, is much more than just the aircraft. It includes the platform itself, the payload it carries, the onboard autopilot and avionics, the communication links that allow control and data transmission, and the remote pilot or crew who operate it. Together, these elements form a complete system designed to safely and effectively conduct flight operations.

What are UAS used for?

Uncrewed Aircraft Systems are used anywhere you need to gather information or perform a task from the air quickly, safely, and often more cost-effectively than traditional methods.

What is a payload?

A payload is any equipment mounted on the aircraft to collect data or perform a task.

When is a Remote Pilot Certificate required?

Anyone flying a UAS for work or any other non-recreational purpose must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.

What are the key rules under Part 107?

Part 107 allows for operations of small UAS under 55 pounds but includes important limitations. Flights must not fly higher than 400 feet above ground level unless operating near a structure, and the aircraft must stay within visual line of sight. Operations are permitted only during daylight or civil twilight unless the pilot has completed night training and complies with lighting requirements.