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Getting an Unmanned Systems Degree

Getting an Unmanned Systems Degree

A degree in Unmanned Systems is an interdisciplinary education that focuses on deploying, developing, and managing unmanned aircraft systems. This includes policy, design, regulations, related technology, and other fields of study supporting this dynamic and rapidly-evolving industry.

One school's description of their Unmanned Systems degree program notes that this type of study "prepares students for entry and advancement within the aerial, land, and water vehicles/robotics workforce of the future."

Coursework may involve studies of aviation and the design of unmanned systems, and students are encouraged to take related minor degrees in aviation technology, computer engineering technology, and business administration. In many cases, flight training may NOT be a requirement.

What can you do with an Unmanned Systems degree?

A degree in Unmanned Systems opens opportunities for a wide variety of careers including:
  • Military
  • Government
  • Energy
  • Transportation
  • Telecommunications
  • Entertainment

Is an Unmanned Systems degree hard?

You may earn a degree in Unmanned Systems as a bachelor’s, master’s, or certificate program. Certificate programs at undergraduate and graduate levels are increasing in popularity. These programs are typically non-engineering, with students studying the industry through topics such as policy, ethics, and systems management.

Certificate in Unmanned Systems

Both undergraduate and graduate certificates are available to students.

Certificates may be important assets for those already working in or seeking a career in industries affected by the growth of this field. This includes:
  • Aviation
  • Transportation
  • Retail
  • Remote sensing
  • Emergency response
  • Defense
Graduate certificates are usually geared towards professionals already working within the unmanned industry and those working in industries impacted by drone technology.

Associate Degree in Unmanned Systems

Students will be prepared for entry-level careers in a wide variety of fields. An Associate Degree in Unmanned Systems will also provide students with a strong academic foundation should they continue their college career to earn a Bachelor’s Degree.

Bachelor’s Degree in Unmanned Systems

An undergraduate degree in Unmanned Systems typically emphasizes the air domain. However, a comprehensive program will also cover unmanned and robotic systems in the space, ground, and maritime domains.

A Bachelor’s in Unmanned Systems is interdisciplinary and will cover a wide range of introductory studies such as:
  • Airspace integration
  • Communications
  • Education and training
  • Propulsion and power
  • Policy and regulation
  • Autonomy
  • Robotics

Jobs with a Bachelor’s in Unmanned Systems

  • Photographer– Uses technical expertise (including the rising popularity of aerial footage), creativity, and composition skills to produce and preserve images. Median Annual Salary: $39,000.
  • Electro-Mechanical Technicians– Operate, test, and maintain electromechanical or robotic equipment. Median Annual Salary: $60,000.
  • Mechatronics Technologists– Operate, test, and maintain electromechanical or robotic equipment. Median Annual Salary: $60,000.

Master’s Degree in Unmanned Systems

Graduate students are guided to customize their studies to fit their desired career path. Three popular career paths are:
  • Administration
  • Operations
  • Development
A Master’s is also a popular choice for those choosing career paths such as research, writing, or teaching.

Jobs with a Master’s in Unmanned Systems

GI Bill®-approved Schools with Degrees in Unmanned Systems

Ready to start your Certificate or Degree in Unmanned Systems? Check out these great programs available at our partner schools:  

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Worldwide

Offers a Bachelor of Science in Unmanned Systems Applications (BSUSA), a Master of Science in Unmanned Systems, and a graduate certificate in Unmanned Systems. ERAU-Worldwide has GI Bill approved programs, offers credit for military experience, and awards credit for both the CLEP and DSST exams. ERAU-Worldwide is a Yellow Ribbon school and is approved for Tuition Assistance.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University at Daytona

Offers a Bachelor of Science in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Science and a Master of Science in Unmanned Systems. ERAU-Daytona Beach has GI Bill approved programs, offers credit for military experience, and awards credit for both the CLEP and DSST exams. ERAU-Daytona Beach is a Yellow Ribbon school and is approved for Tuition Assistance.

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University at Prescott

Offers a Offers a Bachelor of Science in Unmanned Aircraft Systems. ERAU-Prescott has GI Bill approved programs, offers credit for military experience, and awards credit for both the CLEP and DSST exams. ERAU-Prescott is a Yellow Ribbon school and is approved for Tuition Assistance.

University of Nevada Las Vegas

Offers a minor in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for those students majoring in Computer Science or Engineering only. UNLV has GI Bill approved programs, offers credit for military experience, and awards credit for both the CLEP and DSST exams. UNLV is a MyCAA approved school, approved for Tuition Assistance, and proudly participates as a Yellow Ribbon school.

Lasell University

Offers a Drone Pilot Certification Test Prep. Emphasis is on the knowledge requirements to prepare students for the FAA 107 Remote Pilot Examination. Lasell University has GI Bill approved programs, offers credit for military experience, and awards credit for both the CLEP and DSST exams. Lasell University is a Yellow Ribbon school and is approved for Tuition Assistance.

*All statistics and calculations from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. For more information click here.