BS Aviation Maintenance: Unmanned Aerial Systems

If you want to launch a career in the rapidly evolving field of drone and unmanned aerial vehicle technology, Liberty University’s BS in Aviation Maintenance: Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) is the perfect fit. This four-year, on-campus program is designed to give you hands-on technical skills and industry certifications that set you apart in the aviation maintenance world. You’ll train on state-of-the-art equipment, work with real aircraft and drones, and learn from faculty who are seasoned professionals in the field.

Here’s how you’ll develop your expertise and take advantage of Liberty’s specialised facilities and resources:

• FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certification: Complete all requirements for your FAA A&P certificates in less than one year, twice as fast as most other programs, giving you a competitive edge in the job market.

• UAS Crew Chief Certification: Earn your UAS crew chief certification through Liberty’s exclusive training partnership with Textron Systems, including hands-on experience with the Aerosonde aircraft and other medium UAS platforms.

• School of Aeronautics Fleet: Train with a fleet of 27 aircraft, 13 flight training devices, and 6 unmanned aerial vehicles, ensuring you’re ready for any maintenance challenge in the field.

• Advanced Labs and Simulators: Access cutting-edge training devices and simulators for real-world practice in troubleshooting, powerplant systems, avionics, hydraulics, and more.

• Aviation Maintenance Competition: Participate in the national Aviation Maintenance Competition, where you’ll work in teams to solve real maintenance scenarios, build your professional network, and showcase your skills to industry recruiters.

• Medium UAS Maintenance Courses: Take specialised courses like Medium UAS Maintenance I & III (AVMX 445, AVMX 447) and UAS Avionics and Powerplants (AVIA 323) to master the unique systems found in unmanned aircraft.

• FAA Part 147 Instruction: Benefit from Liberty’s FAA-approved curriculum and instruction, ensuring your training meets the highest industry standards.

• Career Preparation: Complete an aviation interview course (AVIA 460) and receive mentorship from faculty who know the industry and care about your success.

• Award-Winning Program: Study in a School of Aeronautics that is a four-time recipient of the Loening Trophy for excellence and has won multiple national safety and flying awards.

​Graduates of Liberty University’s B.S. in Aviation Maintenance: Unmanned Aerial Systems are prepared for careers as UAS maintenance technicians, crew chiefs, operators, and leaders in the rapidly growing unmanned aerial systems industry.

Here’s how Liberty supports your success:

• Career services and mentoring: Liberty’s Career Centre offers personalised career advising, resume workshops, and job fairs. The School of Aeronautics provides faculty mentorship, hands-on training, and connects students with industry partners such as Textron Systems for internships and employment pathways.

• Employment outcomes and salary figures: While specific salary data for this program is not published, graduates with FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificates and UAS crew chief certification are in high demand, with national median starting salaries for aviation maintenance technicians typically ranging from $55,000 to $70,000.

• Industry partnerships and job placement: Liberty partners with Textron Systems for UAS crew chief certification and collaborates with aviation organisations for internships and job placement. The program’s industry connections help students gain real-world experience and employment opportunities.

• Accreditation and long-term value: Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The School of Aeronautics is recognised for technical training and industry alignment.

• Career preparation and outcomes: Graduates earn FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificates, UAS operator and crew chief certifications, and develop leadership and troubleshooting skills. They are prepared for roles in UAS operations, aviation maintenance, and technical management.

Further academic progression: After earning your B.S. in Aviation Maintenance: Unmanned Aerial Systems at Liberty, you’ll be prepared to pursue advanced certifications, specialised training, or a master’s degree in aviation management or engineering. These paths can lead to leadership, consulting, or academic roles in the UAS and aviation maintenance industries.