a drone in the foreground being piloted by a pilot in the background

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)

CNM UAS Program Description

Earn a certificate in CNM's UAS program and pursue work as a drone pilot in industries such as surveying, mapping, construction, and public safety.

CNM UAS Program Details

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CNM's UAS Certificate of Completion is a two-term program that prepares you for real-world drone work across industries like construction, mapping, public safety, government, and film. You'll learn the fundamentals of UAS safety, regulation, and flight operations, and log hands-on hours with both fixed-wing and multi-rotor airframes.

The program emphasizes practical applications including high-precision measurement, mapping, surveying, and construction management. Coursework covers the full range of UAS workflows, from foundational skills to more specialized uses.

Students who complete UAS 1011 (UAS Standards, Regulations and Law and Exam Prep) are eligible to sit for the FAA Part 107 exam, the standard certification for commercial drone operators. 

Paying for Your UAS Training

Financial barriers shouldn't hinder your education, which is why CNM provides a range of resources, including financial aid, scholarships, and flexible payment plans. Our dedicated Financial Aid and Scholarship staff is here to guide you through the process, helping you secure the funding you need for your degree or certificate.

With competitive tuition rates and support in navigating financial aid options, we’re committed to making your educational goals achievable, without the stress of financial constraints.

Additional Information for UAS Students

  • Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) saves students time and money on their degree or certificate program at CNM. If you are interested in earning credit towards the UAS program, please review the Unmanned Aircraft Systems CPL Request Form.
  • Learn more about Career Technical Education (CTE) programs at CNM, which prepare students for work in all advanced healthcare fields and more.
  • As a CNM student, you will have access to a variety of services and resources to help make your educational journey successful and enjoyable.
  • Our experienced faculty design unique learning opportunities that enable you to apply your skills in real-world projects and gain hands-on experience in the field. For example, many of our UAS students traveled to Clayton Lake to document, map, and model one of the largest dinosaur tracksites in the U.S.