“This agreement should help cement Southeast Missouri State University’s position as the leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) education in the state as well as the region,” said Andrew Chronister, coordinator of the Southeast’s Unmanned Aircraft Systems program. “The UAS program at Southeast offers bachelor’s and associate degrees in UAS, as well as a minor in UAS, offering Southeast students access to highly specialized training and education in a cutting-edge technology.” 

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, schools must offer a bachelor’s 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 concerning UAS.  

“The drone industry is a very new career field,” Chronister said. “Many people are unaware of the shortage of UAS pilots in the industry today. Southeast has continuously updated the program to meet industry needs. The result is a program that not only prepares students for careers in the UAS industry but prepares them to become leaders in the industry.”