4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
The Bachelor of Science in Aviation with a concentration in Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) at the University of Nebraska Omaha offers a detailed curriculum combining aviation fundamentals, specialised UAS training, and interdisciplinary coursework to prepare students for careers in the expanding drone industry.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Students complete foundational courses, including ENGL 1150/1154 – Composition I and MATH 1300 – College Algebra to build essential academic skills. Public speaking skills are developed in CMST 1110 – Public Speaking. General education requirements in humanities, natural sciences (including PHYS 1050 – Introduction to Physics), and social sciences support a well-rounded education.
Year 2: Core aviation courses such as AVN 1000 – Introduction to Aviation, AVN 1020 – Private Pilot Theory, and AVN 1160 – Aviation Safety introduce students to aviation principles and safety management. The UAS concentration begins with AVN 1500 – Introduction to UAS Operations and GEOG 1090 – Introduction to Geospatial Sciences, providing essential knowledge of drone operations and spatial data.
Year 3: Students advance with AVN 2500 – UAS Flight Systems, focusing on drone hardware and flight control, and AVN 3040 – Human Factors, which examines the interaction between humans and aviation systems. Technical skills are enhanced with GEOG 4050 – Geographic Information Systems I and JMC 2320 – Video Field Production, important for data collection and analysis in UAS missions.
Year 4: The final year includes advanced courses like AVN 4500 – Advanced UAS Operations and GEOG 4630 – Environmental Remote Sensing, which teach sophisticated drone applications in environmental monitoring. Business and management skills are developed in MGMT 4730 – New Venture Formation. Students complete their studies with AVN 4990 – Air Transportation (Capstone) and gain practical experience through AVN 4200 – Internship in Aviation.
Focus areas: UAS flight operations, geospatial sciences, human factors, remote sensing, aviation safety, entrepreneurship, and air transportation.
Learning outcomes: Graduates will be proficient in piloting unmanned aircraft, managing UAS operations, analysing geospatial data, understanding human factors in aviation, and applying business principles to new aviation ventures.
Professional alignment (Accreditation): The program aligns with FAA remote pilot certification standards and integrates university policies, ensuring compliance with federal and state UAS regulations.
Reputation (Employability rankings): UNO’s UAS program benefits from strong industry and government partnerships, offering students diverse mission environments and excellent internship opportunities, preparing graduates for a rapidly growing drone industry.
At the University of Nebraska Omaha, the BS in Aviation: Uncrewed Aircraft Systems program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience that is essential for success in the rapidly evolving field of uncrewed aircraft technology. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools that enhance their learning and prepare them for real-world applications. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various projects, internships, and cutting-edge technology, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to meet industry demands.
Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the program:
- Flight Simulation Labs: Students can practice piloting uncrewed aircraft in advanced flight simulators, allowing them to gain practical skills in a controlled environment.
- Research Facilities: Access to dedicated laboratories for research on uncrewed systems, where students can engage in innovative projects and collaborate with faculty on cutting-edge research.
- Internship Opportunities: The program encourages students to participate in internships with industry partners, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects allow students to work in teams, simulating real-world scenarios where teamwork and communication are essential.
- Field Trips: Students have the chance to visit industry sites and attend conferences, gaining insights into the latest trends and technologies in uncrewed aircraft systems.
- Digital Tools: The curriculum incorporates industry-standard software and tools used in the field, ensuring students are familiar with the technology they will encounter in their careers.
- Aviation Institute: The program is supported by the Aviation Institute, which provides additional resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities for students.
The Bachelor of Science in Aviation: Uncrewed Aircraft Systems at the University of Nebraska Omaha prepares students for a dynamic career in the rapidly growing field of unmanned aerial systems. Graduates can expect to find themselves in exciting roles such as UAS Operations Manager, Drone Pilot, and UAS Data Analyst. With the aviation industry evolving, the demand for skilled professionals in this area is on the rise, making this program a smart choice for your future:
- University Services: The university offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and job fairs specifically tailored for aviation students. Additionally, the Aviation Institute provides hands-on training and access to state-of-the-art equipment.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from the Aviation program have a high employment rate, with over 90% securing jobs within six months of graduation. Entry-level positions in UAS can start at around $60,000 annually, with experienced professionals earning upwards of $100,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UNO has established partnerships with leading companies in the aviation sector, such as the Nebraska Department of Aeronautics and various drone technology firms, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board International (AABI), ensuring that the education you receive meets the highest industry standards and is recognized globally.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are well-prepared for immediate employment and often pursue advanced certifications or further studies, enhancing their career prospects even more.
Further Academic Progression: After completing the BS in Aviation: Uncrewed Aircraft Systems, students have the option to further their education by pursuing a Master’s degree in Aviation or related fields, such as an MBA with a focus on aviation management. This can open doors to leadership roles and specialized positions within the industry, allowing you to stay at the forefront of technological advancements in aviation.


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