Bachelor of Science
Computer Science – Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
TAKE OFF WITH A CAREER IN THE FAST-GROWING DRONE FIELD.
The field of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly referred to as drones, is rapidly expanding, with drone technology becoming central to the functions of various commercial industries, businesses and governmental organizations. In response, Tiffin University’s Bachelor of Science in unmanned aircraft systems program, as part of the University’s cutting-edge Drone Academy, is leading the way in equipping students with the latest knowledge, technical abilities and specialized training needed to thrive in this fast-growing, dynamic field.
Program Highlights
Unmanned aircraft systems, or drones, are being utilized in myriad ways, from law enforcement, agriculture and transportation to surveying, storm tracking and journalism – just to name a few. And with drone-related technology continuing to grow as the technology continues to advance, skillful drone pilots, developers and builders will be in great demand.
To train the future leaders of this burgeoning industry, Tiffin University has established a Drone Academy that, under the direction of the School of Business, houses the University’s B.S. Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) program. In this leading-edge program, you’ll gain a deeper knowledge of, and appreciation for, UAS technology. You’ll explore various UAS platforms and master the concepts of programming for UAS technologies. And you’ll enhance your credentials to pursue jobs in an industry that will only expand in years to come.
Widely recognized in the field, the Tiffin University Drone Academy has become a place of learning, research and achievement for the advancement of UAS – and an invaluable resource for our UAS program and students. The Drone Academy has been designated to participate in the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Collegiate Training Initiative by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which allows the Academy and University to collaborate with the FAA, in order to provide aid to students pursuing a career in aviation. Through the designation, students will also have the opportunity to partner with industry professionals, local government officials, members of law enforcement and other organizations.
Through the Academy, students can join the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) through the Tiffin University AMA University Model Aviation Student (UMASC) Chapter. This opportunity provides extensive resources, scholarships, grants and insurance for the students in UAS.
As drone technology progresses, the FAA is granting more companies waivers to fly in the airspace for specific purposes. This has allowed companies to start growing exponentially in the drone arena. As a result, immense opportunities await in this exciting, growing field. And for the well-prepared Tiffin University UAS graduate, the sky is the limit.
Preparing You for the Real World
In your unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) program, you’ll learn from instructors who bring years of experience in the field. From leadership in the Drone Academy; to years of designing, building and flying drones; to owning and running a drone services and training business; to actively serving on the Sandusky County Emergency Management Agency Drone Response Team; our UAS Flight Instructors are real-world experts within their field.
With our faculty’s real-world experience comes a real-world education. You’ll acquire practical foundational knowledge of UAS, and learning from active expert practitioners, you’ll continue to build on your knowledge as the technology continues to change and grow.
Learning from experienced UAS experts, you’ll acquire the in-depth knowledge and professional skills you’ll need to:
- Take the Part 107 FAA Remote Pilot Exam.
- Apply the fundamental skills of UAS operation to project design.
- Make use of foundational computer science and engineering skills.
- Understand the aspects of aviation flight practices and physics.
- Comprehend the flight systems from various drone manufacturers.
- Code and program.
- Employ spatial and abstract planning.
- Discern ethical issues of unmanned aircraft systems.
Active, Experiential Learning
Active learning is an integral part of Tiffin University’s unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) program. The degree program provides the opportunity to learn hands-on with drone flights in class and assistance on passing your Part 107 Remote Pilot License by the FFA. You’ll also gain knowledge in python programming as well as advanced UAS flight platforms. And, you’ll be taught taught the basics of videography and photography using drones.
In addition, the Drone Academy promotes safe flying on campus and issues flying permits on campus to students who have met the criteria to fly safely. Also, with the TU Athletics Department, the Academy has established a Club Drone Racing Team, on which students can participate.
In the UAS program, you’ll learn by doing – in the classroom, in the field and in the community, including:
- Experience with Drone Academy
- Hands-on flight practice
- Hands-on labs/coding
- Real-world learning with Certified Remote Pilots
- Mapping/Surveying local properties, such as mapping out safety routes
- Working with local public safety agencies to continue to develop and research the technology
- Engaging in public outreach to educate the community about flying safely and the possibilities of the technology
- Community Fly Days, teaching attendees the basics of drone operation
- Community engagement, such as filming events and sports
Courses & Format
CURRICULUM
General Education Core (37 hours)
Computer Science Core (48 hours)
MKT151 Introductory Marketing – 3 hours
CST155 Introduction to Operating Systems – 3 hours
ACC210 Financial Accounting – 3 hours
MGT201 Management of Organizations – 3 hours
CST201 Introduction to Programming – 3 hours
CDS345 Cyber Law and Ethics – 3 hours
ECO222 Principles of Microeconomics – 3 hours
CST230 Networking Fundamentals – 3 hours
CDS244 Cyber Security – 3 hours
CST280 Database I – 3 hours
CST285 Spreadsheets and Analytics – 3 hours
FIN301 Business Finance – 3 hours
CST412 IT Project Management – 3 hours
CST460 Research in Computer Science – 3 hours
CST470 Internship – 3 hours
MGT495 Organizational Strategy – 3 hours
Total – 48 hours
Concentration: Unmanned Aircraft Systems
UAS150 Introduction to UAS Technology and Licensing – 3 hours
UAS225 UAS Photography And Videography – 3 hours
DMD230 Digital Video I – 3 hours
CST301 Advanced Programming Concepts – 3 hours
CST312 Information Systems for Managers – 3 hours
UAS350 UAS Advanced Flight Operations – 3 hours
Total. – 18 hours
Total BS hours = 127-135
This is a sample course sequence to illustrate course offerings for this major. Consult the official Academic Bulletin for detailed registration and advising information.
SAMPLE COURSES
Introduction to UAS Technology and Licensing (UAS150) – This course allows students to explore UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Technology and Licensing requirements. The course topics include: UAS operating rules, aviation weather, airspace classification, safety procedures, flight operations, maintenance, photography basics and sectional chart reading in preparation for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Exam. This course will includes hands on flying with real UAS platforms operating under Part 107 pilots to learn basic maneuvers and operations of UAS platforms. This course is conducted by qualified UAS flight trainers and Part 107 UAS pilots with several years experience.
UAS Photography and Videography (UAS225) – In this course, students will understand the principles behind UAS photography and videography and the many factors that contribute to creating an acceptable final product. Students will examine camera controls and settings on a UAS in this course, as well as master hands-on flight methods that will result in industry acceptable aerial images and films. To show distinct capabilities, UAS cameras will be compared by resolution, sensors, and settings. Participants will also be introduced to various photo and video editing platforms used in the industry.
UAS Advanced Flight Operations (UAS350) – This course will offer students scenario-based, hands-on, and precise flying instruction designed to improve piloting abilities and prepare students to operate in practically any UAS situation. Students will learn about the equipment, tools, and strategies needed to ensure that their UAS program meets the mission objectives. During hands-on flight operations, students will get experience with operator maintenance, composites, battery systems, communication and instrumentation systems, rigging and assembly, and UAS component troubleshooting.
FORMAT
On Campus – Offered in a 15-week semester format with start dates of January and August
OTHER CONCENTRATIONS
Other Computer Science concentrations offered:
Career Opportunities
The drone industry is expected to grow at 15% CAGR (Continued Annual Growth Rate) over the next five years. The Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International predicts that there will be more than 100,000 new jobs in UAS technology by 2025 in the United States. Without a doubt, as more advanced drones continue to enter the market, skilled drone operators will be highly sought after.
CAREERS
- Aerial/field mapping (GIS)
- Agriculture
- Photography/Videography
- Disaster relief
- Environmental research
- Inspections (Cell phone towers, bridges, power lines, windmills, etc.)
- Public safety (Fire/Law enforcement/EMS)
- Surveillance
- Filmmaking
- Geological surveying
- Parcel Delivery
- Search and Rescue
- Wildlife monitoring
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