It’s no surprise that the demand for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) professionals is growing. From infrastructure inspection and agricultural surveying to emergency response and filmmaking, drones are transforming industries worldwide. As commercial UAS applications expand, proper training and certification is essential. And Clemson University is one of those top players offering it.
Clemson Drone is an online UAS training program through Clemson University, offering a two-course Comprehensive UAS Training Program.
The course offers not just certifications you need to land a job, but practical skills you need. Courses are structured yet flexible to serve everyone from students new to drone technology or experienced pilots seeking advanced training.
Clemson Drone’s two-course program
The Clemson Drones course is broken out into two programs: UAS Vocation and UAS Mission Administration
UAS Vocation: laying the foundation for a job in drones
The UAS Vocation course is designed for individuals looking to develop a strong foundation in drone operations. Whether you’re just starting your drone career or seeking a structured approach to mastering UAS technology, this eight-week, fully online course provides training in key areas, including:
- FAA Part 107 Exam Preparation – Gain the knowledge needed to pass the FAA’s Part 107 exam and obtain your Remote Pilot Certificate.
- Flight Training Using Advanced Simulators – Build essential flight skills with a professional-grade simulator and an included flight controller.
- 3D Mapping and Modeling Techniques – Learn how to create high-resolution maps and models using DroneDeploy, a leading industry software. Enterprise-level license included.
- Introduction to UAS Thermography – Explore the fundamentals of thermal imaging and its applications in inspections and surveillance.
Certifications earned upon completion: UAS Vocation graduates leave the program with three of the industry’s most recognized certifications:
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate – Required for commercial drone operations.
- APSA Flight Proficiency Certificate – Demonstrating hands-on piloting skills.
- Level 1 UAS Thermography Certificate – Certifying competence in thermal imaging applications.
The course is designed around eight week-long modules, though you don’t have to confine yourself to eight weeks if that doesn’t work with your schedule. In fact the program offers incredible flexibility as students receive access to all course materials on day one. Sure, you could follow the eight-week structure or you might slow down or take additional time based on individual schedules and learning preferences.
Additionally, weekly live calls with Dr. Joe Burgett offer personalized support and expert insights. Dr. Burgett, a tenured professor at Clemson University and director of the Clemson Applied Technology (CAT) Lab, is a leading figure in drone education. As the chair of the FAA’s CTI Curriculum Committee, he ensures that students receive the most relevant and up-to-date training available.
UAS Mission Administration: advanced training for experienced pilots
The UAS Mission Administration course is designed for pilots who already have foundational drone skills and are ready to advance into mission planning, program management and high-level UAS operations. This eight-week online course focuses on:
- Advanced mission planning and execution – Develop the skills necessary to lead and coordinate complex drone operations.
- Immersive 360-degree virtual mission simulations – Engage in real-world mission walkthroughs in various environments, from bridge inspections to emergency response.
- Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) development – Learn how to craft professional SOPs using AI-powered tools.
- NIST-based flight assessments – Evaluate your piloting proficiency using standardized flight tests recognized by industry leaders.
Certifications earned upon completion: Graduates of UAS Mission Administration earn three AUVSI Trusted Operator certifications, which are:
- Level 1, 2, and 3 Trusted Operator Certifications – Recognized industry-wide as the benchmark for high-level UAS competency.
Like UAS Vocation, this course is also fully online and structured for flexibility, with weekly live sessions led by Dr. Burgett.
Support for Active Duty Military and Veterans
Clemson Drone is committed to supporting active-duty military personnel and veterans in their transition to civilian careers. Through various funding and reimbursement programs, service members can gain FAA certifications and industry-recognized training at little to no cost.
- Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) Program (Chapter 31) – Provides tuition assistance for veterans with service-connected disabilities to pursue career-aligned training, including Clemson Drone’s courses.
- Post-9/11 GI Bill® (Chapter 33) – The UAS Vocation course is approved for full tuition reimbursement under the GI Bill, helping veterans gain drone industry credentials.
- Air Force Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (AF COOL) – Covers the cost of drone certification training for enlisted Air Force personnel, including preparation for the FAA Part 107 exam.
- Army Credentialing Assistance (CA) Program – Provides financial support for Army servicemembers pursuing civilian certifications related to their military occupational specialties.
Specialized course offerings for targeted training
For individuals seeking more specific drone training, Clemson Drone also offers specialized courses derived from the UAS Vocation curriculum. These courses provide targeted skills for professionals looking to focus on a particular niche within the drone industry, including:
- Part 107 Exam Prep – A self-paced online course designed to prepare students for the FAA Part 107 knowledge test, an essential certification for commercial drone operations.
- UAS Essentials – Covers the fundamentals of drone operation, including flight simulation and basic 3D mapping for industries like construction and real estate.
- Applied UAS Thermography – An in-depth course focused on thermal imaging techniques, essential for building inspections, search and rescue and energy audits.
These courses are better for those looking to gain specific skills without committing to the full UAS Vocation program (and they’re much more affordable, too).
Clemson Drone is one of the American universities leading the way in professional drone education, offering a structured, certification-driven approach to UAS training.
The Clemson Drone’s website has more course details, enrollment options and information about upcoming start dates.