Get certified.
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate
August start only.
Lake Area Tech’s Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) certificate prepares you to operate and maintain drones used across a range of industries. You’ll build skills in flight operation, system maintenance, and the regulations and ethics required for safe, effective use.
Graduates are prepared to pursue the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification, qualifying them for roles as drone operators and technicians. This two-semester, 18-credit program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining online coursework with on-campus training, and begins each August.
The UAS program at Lake Area Technical College is recognized in the FAA Unmanned Aircraft Systems Collegiate Training Initiative (UAS-CTI) Program and a member of the Consortium for Small Unmanned Aircraft System Technology Training.
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate Learning Outcomes
- Develop in-depth knowledge of FAA regulations, operational limits, and safety standards essential for the responsible and legal operation of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), including environmental impacts and privacy concerns.
- Gain practical skills in UAS flight operations, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Apply basic aeronautical principles and technical knowledge to ensure effective, proficient, and safe UAS operation in real-world scenarios.
- Acquire advanced knowledge and hands-on experience with remote sensing technologies, including radar, LiDAR, multispectral, hyperspectral, and infrared imaging. Interpret and analyze data collected from various remote sensing platforms for informed decision-making.
- Understand the engineering principles and technical specifications required to design, construct, and
integrate UAS components. Develop practical skills in materials selection, fabrication techniques, and
assembly procedures. Apply UAS technology in multiple industries and diverse fields such as agriculture, urban planning, environmental monitoring, and construction by creating high-resolution maps, 3D models, and conducting spatial analyses. - Gain comprehensive technical knowledge and hands-on skills in drone operations, mapping software, weather and meteorology, airport and FAA terminology, radio communication, and geo-spatial/GIS tools. Prepare for employment by mastering drone photogrammetry, aerial data collection, 3D modeling, and utilizing industry-standard mapping and media editing software for quality control and analysis.
Certificate Cost Note: Students that do not have a facilitator/drone will be accessed a course fee for simulation software. The course fee for the fall semester is $250 and $150 for the spring semester, which will bring the Certificate Cost to $6,458.
Degree Pairings
Explore relevant degree programs offered at LATC that match well with this class / certificate.
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate+ Aviation - Professional Fixed Wing Pilot
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate+ Building Trades Technology
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate+ Photography & Media
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate+ Computer Information Systems
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate+ Energy Operations
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate+ Energy Technology
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate+ Heavy Equipment Operator
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate+ Law Enforcement
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate+ Med/Fire Rescue
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate+ Precision Agriculture Technology
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate+ Robotics
Every class, every semester. Find the right pathway to achieve your degree on your timing.
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"I did not know exactly what I wanted to do when graduating high school, however, through my classes at Lake Area Tech I realized what steps I wanted to take next!"
Estimated Cost
At Lake Area Tech, there are no surprises. View expected expenses below, so you can plan ahead for a successful year.
| Tuition | $2,412 |
| State Fees | $810 |
| Departmental Fee | $990 |
| Campus Support Fee | $558 |
| Course Fees | $325 |
| Tools/Kit | $300 |
| Books | $50 |
| Laptop (What laptop should I get?) | $1,190 |
| Total Estimated Program Cost: | $6,635 |
We know that college is a significant investment in your future. Our goal is to offer you the most transparent look at potential costs associated with your degree.
Note that other indirect costs, such as housing, food, transportation, personal and other miscellaneous costs will vary for each student’s situation, and are not included in this estimate. You can find these estimates and a semester breakdown in the PDF cost breakdown worksheet.
We strive to offer a variety of financial aid options, as well as helpful resources regarding outside financial aid options.
