Unmanned Aerial Systems

Master the Skies: Train for an In-Demand UAS Career with Practical Skills and Expertise

Unmanned Aerial Systems students working on a drone

Program Overview

Embark on an exciting career with the Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) program at College of Western Idaho (CWI). This program offers you practical, hands-on training in UAS operations, covering essential areas like mission planning, data capture, and digital imagery processing. With applications spanning agriculture, search and rescue, and real estate, your skills will be in high demand. Our experienced instructors and cutting-edge facilities ensure you gain the knowledge and expertise needed to excel in this rapidly growing field.

Be prepared to complete the FAA Commercial Remote Pilot certification with focused, intensive training that meets industry standards. Whether you pursue a Basic Technical Certificate or an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, you will be prepared to enter the workforce with a strong, competitive advantage. The AAS degree also offers entrepreneurship training, giving you the tools to start and manage your own business.

Degree or Certificate Type

Associate of Applied Science

Basic Technical Certificate

Cost

$4,317 – 8,875

Additional cost may apply.

Time to Complete

1 – 2 years

Primary Location

Unmanned Aerial Systems at College of Western Idaho

Learning Opportunities

  • Mission Planning & Execution: Learn to plan, execute, and analyze UAS missions, focusing on safety, security, and privacy considerations.
  • Hands-On Experience: Engage in real-world projects with industry partners to apply classroom knowledge in field settings, enhancing practical skills and professional readiness.
  • Advanced Digital Imagery: Master the use of GIS, photogrammetry, and digital editing software to process and interpret UAS data.
  • Entrepreneurial Skills: Gain valuable insights into starting and managing your own business with coursework in entrepreneurship, network building, and small business management.
  • FAA Certification: Gain the knowledge needed to pass the FAA Commercial Remote Pilot exam and ensure compliance with aviation regulations.

Area of Study

Degrees & Certificates

Unmanned Aerial Systems - Associate of Applied Science Degree

2

YEARS

AAS

Unmanned Aerial Systems – Basic Technical Certificate

1

YEAR

BTC

Person operating a drone with a digital screen at a construction site

Career Opportunities

  • Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians

    Operate, install, adjust, and maintain integrated computer/communications systems, consoles, simulators, and other data acquisition, test, and measurement instruments and equipment, which are used to launch, track, position, and evaluate air and space vehicles. May record and interpret test data.

    5

    Annual Openings*

    $32.53

    Hourly Median Wage*

    $67,662

    Annual Median Salary

    113.93%

    Growth (2021 – 2031)*

Load more

*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.

Admissions

Step 1

  • Apply to CWI.
  • Choose Unmanned Aerial Systems as your major.

Step 2

  • Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Step 3

  • Attend an Unmanned Aerial Systems Program Exploration event prior to registering for classes. Contact robertnovak@cwi.edu for future event details.

Academic Calendar New Student Checklist

News

CWI students and graduates used their skills to put on a drone light show at the 2022 Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic’s Night Glow Spectacular.

Read more about CTE Students and Alumni Help Light Up the Sky During Spirit of Boise Drone Light Show
View all news

Request More Information

Interested in learning more about this program or getting started? Fill out the information below to be contacted by a member of our team.

Loading...

Connect With Us

Ready to get started? Our team looks forward to assisting you!

One Stop Student Services

208.562.3000onestop@cwi.eduLocations