Unmanned Systems Degree (BS) | Indiana State University

Why Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Unmanned Systems at Indiana State?

Indiana State is one of the first universities to offer unmanned systems [UMS] education. We are ranked as one of the top drone training colleges in the United States by Successful Student. Indiana State’s unmanned systems program is recognized for the excellence of its facilities, faculty, and graduates.

Learn to Program Drones and More

As an unmanned systems major at Indiana State, you will gain experience in UMS programming, unmanned aircraft theory, flight operations, post-flight inspection, and mission analysis. With hands-on training in advanced technology for unmanned systems [air vehicles and equipment without a human operator], you will prepare for careers in transportation, agriculture, retail, disaster relief, recreation, photography, videography, food delivery, and more.

Special consideration will be given to allow college credit to students who have already obtained flight certificates or aviation flight experience. Flight training is not required prior to enrolling in the unmanned systems program. However, students are required to complete the remote pilot certificate before graduating.

Learn from Our Excellent Faculty

Indiana State's instructors are highly skilled leaders in the aviation industry. Teaching small classes, our faculty will train you in all areas of UMS operations. Your instructors also encourage you to interact with other students and industry professionals by participating in Alpha Eta Rho, the American Association of Airport Executives, and Women in Aviation International.

Obtain Practical Experience in Our Facilities

The Department of Aviation Technology features state-of-the-art, hands-on computer laboratories and simulation facilities for practice and training outside of the classroom. These include the Unmanned Systems Mobile Laboratory, which allows you to plan and execute drone missions. With guidance from professors, you will complete projects in support of local government and private agencies.

What You'll Learn in the Unmanned Systems Program

The BS in unmanned systems includes an introduction to UMS operations and a study of advanced unmanned aircraft theory. Specific coursework focuses on UMS modeling and control fundamentals; ground-based systems; visual and electro-optical aspects of navigation; obstacle and terrain avoidance systems; modular on-board processing systems; safety assessment; communications and data links; and related courses.

All unmanned systems majors must pass each class in their major with a C grade or higher. Students also are encouraged to pursue a minor in a related area of study, including aviation technology; criminology and criminal justice; geographic information science; computer engineering technology; computer science; communication; or business administration. Also, there is an opportunity to pursue a double major.

Transfer Credit

Indiana State University accepts credit from regionally accredited colleges and universities within the United States, and from selected schools located outside the United States. Credit also may be granted for military training and experience. Previously earned college credit can be applied toward completion of the program per Indiana State's transfer guidelines.

Transfer Guidelines

Career Possibilities for Unmanned Systems Majors

Unmanned systems majors train for careers in a variety of industries, including disaster response, crisis management, precision agriculture, construction, government, and military operations. From entertainment and journalism to insurance and logistics, businesses increasingly rely on UMS technology.

A white male student with short brown hair poses outside, wearing khaki pants and a blue zipped-up jacket with “Indiana State University” in white lettering in the top right corner of the jacket. He holds a white drone remote controller with a screen. A white drone is flying away from him, blurred in the photo. Green trees are visible in the background, also blurred in the photo.

Reaching for Higher Dreams

Unmanned systems and aviation management alumnus Travis Eckert, ’19, seized every opportunity to pursue his dream career as a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force, as well as founding his own drone photography company, American Aerial Imaging. With help from his professors, he pursued his degree uninterrupted while serving overseas in Afghanistan.

Read Travis Eckert’s story.