Oct 08, 2024  
PUBLISHED 2023-2024 Credit Catalog 
    
PUBLISHED 2023-2024 Credit Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Professional Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs

Program Description


Gain specialized professional skills to become a drone pilot in this emerging field with application to various industries. Our Professional Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) program will teach you all aspects of operating drones for commercial use. From agricultural, environmental and industrial monitoring and inspection to emergency response to 3-D mapping and beyond, the use of drones for a variety of applications in numerous industries is rapidly evolving. 

You’ll learn about the construction and maintenance of drone technology and be trained and licensed according to Transport Canada guidelines for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems. You’ll also add value to clients and employers by gaining practical experience with inspections, mapping and the processing of geomatics data performed by Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems and emerging Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations.  Understanding these systems will allow you to contribute to business operations by addressing how RPAS and BVLOS can help meet business needs and client demands.

Opportunities in this emerging field are wide-ranging, some of the tasks you’ll be trained to perform include:

  • Creating basic GIS-ready data outputs from RPAS projects.
  • Coordinating RPAS flight operations with various RPAS pilots and projects.
  • Leading RPAS teams in high risk, complex operations.
  • Carrying out complex image analysis and create high level geospatial outputs for RPAS projects.
  • Developing policy for RPAS operation at the company or federal level.
  • Ensuring company compliance and site audits.
  • Contributing to your company’s business plan and design.

Program Overview


Student Success


In accordance with Transport Canada’s overall requirements, the pilot operating the RPAS must:

  • Not suffer from any condition which would render them unfit to perform their duties.
  • Have visual acuity 20/20 or 20/20 corrected (i.e. use of corrective lenses).
  • Have sufficient English language ability so to be understood by local Air Traffic Control when using VHF radio.
  • Evidence of good health.

Credentials


Certificate

Progression


The progression requirement for students taking credit courses is a Term GPA and Total Institutional GPA of 2.0, with the exception of English Language Foundations and Academic Upgrading programs.

Admission Requirements


English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2, Minimum 50%

Math 30-1 or Math 30-2, Minimum 50%

 

Other High School Requirements

One grade 12 science course, minimum 50%

English Language Proficiency (ELP)

ELP: All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Program Outline


Credits 18


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs