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 ShowUnmanned Aerial Systems
Master the Skies: Train for an In-Demand UAS Career with Practical Skills and Expertise
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
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
Degree Requirements
Cost: $8,875
Unmanned Aerial Systems – Basic Technical Certificate
Certificate Requirements
Cost: $4,317
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)*
*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.
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
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