Program Type(s)
Associate of Science Degree
Program Goals
Item 1. Program Goals and Objectives
The Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) industry is experiencing unprecedented growth (the public uses the term “drones”). The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), through Public Law 112-95, Section 331(8), defines Unmanned Aircraft Systems, drones, as “Aircraft”.
The FAA claims jurisdiction over the operation of all aircraft. The FAA Remote Pilot Operator Certificate is the pilot’s license established by the FAA in 2016 (FAA Part 107). Per current FAA regulations, all businesses investing in drones must have a trained piloting team to implement the technology.
The FAA is working swiftly to develop standards for licensing, training, integrating UAS into the national airspace system. Southern California is a hub for UAS companies and the deserts are test grounds for flight-testing.
Mt. San Antonio College operates the largest aviation program in California – training pilots in Commercial Flight; training air traffic controllers in an FAA approved partnership (AT-CTI Program), and training FAA Aircraft Dispatchers through an FAA approved certificate program (fewer than 30 colleges nationwide).
The goal of the UAS degree program is to prepare students to work in the aviation industry, and allied industries, and solve the challenges facing the operation of unmanned aircraft.
The goals of the Associates Degree in Science in Unmanned Aircraft Systems are as follows:
1) Advance aviation education by reaching a diverse student body, integrating aviation safety culture and commercial aviation knowledge into unmanned aircraft systems education.
2) Provide a specialized unmanned aircraft systems associate degree that can serve workforce needs in areas of aviation, public service, conservation science, agriculture, construction, and other allied industries.
3) Through course work, simulation, and flight training, students may achieve licensing as an FAA Remote Pilot (FAA Part 107 licensing).
4) Support California strong workforce goals by providing a pathway into industries that provide living-wage jobs.