Park University Selected for FAA Training Program

March 18, 2021 — The Federal Aviation Administration has selected Park University to be a member institution of its Unmanned Aircraft Systems – Collegiate Training Initiative. Park University is the first college/university in the State of Missouri to be a part of this program.

The FAA’s UAS–CTI program recognizes institutions that prepare students for careers in unmanned aircraft systems, commonly referred to as drones. In order to qualify for the initiative, colleges/universities must offer a bachelor’s degree or associate degree in UAS or a degree with a minor, concentration or certificate in UAS. Schools must provide curriculum covering various aspects of UAS training, including hands-on flight practice, maintenance, uses, applications, privacy concerns, safety and federal policies.

“The result of Park’s collaborative relationship with the FAA includes a continuous dialogue with stakeholders to connect the University with general industry, local governments, law enforcement and regional economic development entities to address labor force needs,” said Katie Ervin, Ed.D., Park’s associate vice president of strategic alliances.

Park University offers an undergraduate certificate in Unmanned Aerial System Drone Application. The 12-credit hour program prepares students to become FAA-certified small UAS remote drone pilots who are trained to conduct safe, legal and effective aerial flight operations. The three core courses (and one elective course) supporting this certificate are designed to instruct remote drone pilots in how to fly mission-driven and incident-free sorties, and effectively capture/record and post-process aerial imagery.

Students who successfully complete Park’s Commercial Drone Pilot Certification Prep Course (UAS 107) will be prepared to sit for the FAA’s Part 107 UAS Remote Pilot Certification Exam, which is the accepted certification for small UAS-drone commercial and municipal operations.

For more information about Park University’s undergraduate certificate in Unmanned Aerial System Drone Application, visit park.edu/academics/explore-majors-programs/uas-drone-certificate.