Drone Program

Are you looking for an exciting new career as an FAA certified drone pilot?

Dallas College has joined forces with the Unmanned Safety Institute (USI)—a leader in training and certifying Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) pilots—to prepare the next generation of drone industry professionals. This partnership is built on the core values of safety, respect, responsibility and excellence. Through this program, aspiring aviators will earn credentials they can be proud of as they take flight into the future of aviation.

UAS Industry is Soaring

450,000+ Drone pilots needed over next 10 years
*According to FAA Research

$55 Billion Global Industry by 2030
*According to Future Business Insights

The UAS industry is expanding rapidly, reshaping the landscape of modern aviation. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the use of drones is expected to rise significantly in the coming years. This growth is fueled by evolving regulations, advancements in technology and a surge in demand across numerous sectors.

From agriculture and construction to emergency response, environmental monitoring, logistics and even filmmaking, drones are transforming the way industries operate. As automation and artificial intelligence become more integrated into drone systems, their capabilities will continue to expand—allowing more complex, autonomous operations.

The FAA continues to refine rules and certifications to support growth, while prioritizing safety and innovation. As the UAS industry evolves, it will create a wave of career opportunities for skilled pilots, technicians and engineers ready to lead the future of aerial technology.

Course Information

This USI @ Dallas College pathway offers students two flight track options for both the Primary and Advanced flight training. They are held in 16-week (full-time) and 8-week (part-time) sessions, hosted in a hybrid environment with both virtual training and practical flightline experience.

Primary Courses

sUAS Safety Level 1 Certification validates a student’s foundational knowledge in small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) technology. The student demonstrates comprehension of system components and interdependencies. The certification confirms the ability to apply industry standards and contribute effectively to the upkeep and safe operation of sUAS.

sUAS Safety Level 2 Certification validates a student’s foundational knowledge in small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) maintenance. The student has demonstrated proficiency in key principles of sUAS maintenance and safety practices. The certification confirms the ability to apply industry standards and contribute effectively to the upkeep and safe operation of sUAS.

Advanced Track Courses

Advanced Unmanned Safety Level 1 Certification validates the student’s comprehensive understanding of the human factors facing UAS operators and technicians as well as the tools and techniques used to combat human error. The student has demonstrated proficiency in assessing situational awareness, the core tenets of Crew Resource Management, and identifying risks in highly autonomous systems.

Advanced Unmanned Safety Level 2 Certification confirms a thorough understanding of safety management principles within the UAS sector. The student has demonstrated expertise in safety policies, hazard identification, risk assessment, and risk mitigation. Key areas of focus include fostering a "just culture," utilizing data to drive safety assurance, and applying quality assurance practices to enhance aviation safety.

UAS Cyber Security Certification validates a student's foundational knowledge of cybersecurity as it applies to Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). The student has demonstrated an understanding of common cyber threats, the importance of securing UAS networks and data, as well as proficiency in penetration testing, incident response, and strategies for protecting endpoint devices and sensitive information.