Study how drones (small unmanned aerial systems) are employed for geography, environmental sciences, journalism, and other industries. This interdisciplinary minor prepares students with the fundamental knowledge, skills, and experience in the technological, legal, and ethical considerations and applications of drones in various fields.
This minor is suited for students interested in learning about emerging drone technologies and how they can be applied to professional settings. The minor complements environmental sciences, geography, journalism, and communication programs.
Topics Covered
- Safe µUAS/drone operations, drone flight preparation, maintenance, and flight operations (under supervision of FAA Part 107 certified Remote Pilot). Review of FAA Professional Remote Pilot (Part 107) knowledge and skills base needed to pass FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification
- Utilizing µUAS/drone imagery and video for production of aerial perspectives in digital and print form (still imagery and video production) using the following: Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Audition, and Premiere, Apple Final Cut Pro, and other digital image/video manipulation software.
- Digital Storytelling, Photojournalism, and Journalistic Broadcast techniques and technologies
- Mission Planning and µUAS/drone aerial mapping/modeling using automated flight controls (Pix4D Capture and other flight software), Post-flight Structure from Motion computational aerial photogrammetry using Pix4D Mapper and/or WebODM
- Use of Geographic Information Systems (ESRI ArcGIS and/or QGIS for aerial image processing and inclusion in mapping processes and products.
Drone Applications Across Industries
Aerial Remote Piloting for Image/Video Capture
Journalism storytelling and broadcast reporting
Photo/videography for sports and event coverage
Professional print, online, and broadcast media
Film and television production
Aerial Mapping and 3D Modeling
Landscape monitoring and surveying
Archaeological surveying
Habitat mapping and coastal zone management
Upland parks and infrastructure monitoring
Real estate imaging
First responder operations, fire/rescue, and policing
Precision agriculture
Careers
Students completing the drone technology minor gain the skills needed for careers in aerial imaging, mapping, and remote sensing across a variety of industries. These roles span creative, technical, and emergency response fields.
Typical Job Titles
- Aerial µUAS/Drone Pilot
- Aerial PhotoVideographer for Film and Television
- Aerial Surveyor for Landscape, Infrastructure, and Real Estate
- Freelance Aerial PhotoVideographer
- Aerial PhotoVideographer for First Responders, Search and Rescue
School / College
College of Arts & Sciences
Department
Environment, Geography, and Marine Sciences
Journalism
Contact
Dr. Matthew Miller
Cynthia Simoneau