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Full Description

The Bachelor of Science degree in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Flight Operations is for students who aspire to become professional unmanned aircraft pilots (drone pilot). This program is focused on the safe operations of unmanned aircraft systems, regulations, the technology of autonomous systems and policies regarding the operations of unmanned aerial elements.

The mission of the Bachelor of Science degree in Unmanned Aircraft Systems Flight Operations is to cultivate a new generation of professionals equipped with the knowledge, skills and technological awareness to excel in the dynamic field of unmanned aviation, and provide students with a comprehensive education that combines cutting-edge technological expertise with a deep understanding of the regulatory, operational and safety considerations essential to the responsible and effective use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and advanced air mobility (AAM).

Students may apply early to the and double count 9 credit hours of graduate courses toward both degree programs. See the policy in the University Catalog for more information.

Admission Requirements

The university affirmatively strives to provide educational opportunities and access to students with varied backgrounds, those with special talents and adult students who graduated from high school three or more years ago.

First-Year Students on the Kent Campus: First-year admission policy on the Kent Campus is selective. Admission decisions are based upon cumulative grade point average, strength of high school college preparatory curriculum and grade trends. Students not admissible to the Kent Campus may be administratively referred to one of the seven regional campuses to begin their college coursework. For more information, visit the .

First-Year Students on the Regional Campuses: First-year admission to Kent State’s campuses at Ashtabula, East Liverpool, Geauga, Salem, Stark, Trumbull and Tuscarawas, as well as the Twinsburg Academic Center, is open to anyone with a high school diploma or its equivalent. For more information on admissions, contact the Regional Campuses admissions offices.

International Students: All international students must provide proof of English language proficiency (unless they meet specific exceptions) by earning a minimum 525 TOEFL score (71 on the Internet-based version), minimum 75 MELAB score, minimum 6.0 IELTS score or minimum 48 PTE Academic score, or by completing the ELS level 112 Intensive Program. For more information, visit the admissions website for international students.

Transfer Students: Students who have attended any other educational institution after graduating from high school must apply as undergraduate transfer students. For more information, visit the admissions website for transfer students.

Former Students: Former Kent State students or graduates who have not attended another college or university since Kent State may complete the reenrollment or reinstatement form on the University Registrar’s website.

Admission policies for undergraduate students may be found in the University Catalog's .

Some programs may require that students meet certain requirements before progressing through the program. For programs with progression requirements, the information is shown on the program's Coursework tab.

Transfer students must have a minimum 2.250 overall GPA in all college-level coursework for admission to the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Flight Operations major.

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of this program will be able to:

1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of unmanned aircraft systems, including their design, operation and maintenance. 
2. Demonstrate the ability to effectively plan, execute and manage UAS missions for a variety of applications, ensuring optimal performance, data accuracy and safety.  
3. Interpret and apply current and future regulations related to airspace, privacy, safety and data protection. 
4. Demonstrate and employ critical thinking and problem solving techniques when unexpected issues arise to make informed decisions, adapt strategies and ensure the successful completion of missions while prioritizing safety and mission goals.

The educational objectives of the program are the following:

1. Exhibit the qualities of excellence, integrity, leadership, management and professionalism within their area of professional specialization in aviation.  
2. Demonstrate a professional commitment to safety and contribute to the safety culture within their area of professional specialization in aviation.   
3. Demonstrate the ability to improve aerospace for generations to come through experiential learning, creativity and innovation within their area of professional specialization in aviation. 
4. Manifest the college’s core values in the areas of collaboration, compassion, inclusiveness, innovation, integrity, respect and perseverance within their area of professional specialization in aviation.  

Program Requirements

Major Requirements

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A minimum C grade must be earned to fulfill the writing-intensive requirement.

Graduation Requirements

Roadmap

This roadmap is a recommended semester-by-semester plan of study for this major. However, courses designated as critical (!) must be completed in the semester listed to ensure a timely graduation.

• Delivery:
  • In person
• Location:
  • Kent Campus