Program Type(s)
Certificate of Achievement 18+ Semester (27+ Quarter) Units
Program Goals
Unmanned aerial vehicle systems or “drones” is a recently developed technology that, as an industry, has been exponentially expanding. According to the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International, between 2015 and 2017, in California, there will be 12,292 new positions created and $2.4 billion invested in this booming industry. Unmanned aerial systems are now used in many industries including agriculture, law enforcement, surveying, landscaping, telecommunication, weather monitoring, oil and gas exploration, architecture, environmental monitoring as well as in search and rescue operations. The applications are nearly unlimited provided the drone has either a still camera or a video camera appropriate to the application. In the photography field, new technologies, such as photogrammetry, are expanding employment opportunities and providing excellent paying positions. The AUVSI report on the Economic Impact of Unmanned Aerial Systems indicates that California is projected to lead the nation in the development and use of drones. Mt. SAC, with leading aviation and photography programs, is poised to become a leader in training for this new industry. The Arts Division, home to the college’s Photography Program, and the Technology and Health Division, which includes programs in aeronautics and aviation technology, are working closely together to share resources and offer students in both areas the most rigorous training in order to ensure that upon completion of their programs our students can start excellent careers in this new industry.
This degree is designed for students who want to specialize as Drone camera imaging operator for multiple career applications in commercial photography, cinematography, construction, surveying, inspection, public safety.