BS in Aviation Maintenance – Unmanned Aerial Systems

An exciting career in drone and unmanned aerial vehicle operations is waiting for you. At Liberty, we offer a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Aviation Maintenance – Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) so you can obtain certification to work with these ever-evolving machines. Train on state-of-the-art equipment and study under industry professionals with years of field experience.

What exactly is an unmanned aerial system? UAS incorporates everything from the operation of a drone or unmanned aerial vehicle to the communication, support equipment, and ground control station elements of operation. Basically, you can gain the skills to work on aircraft that are controlled remotely.

Our School of Aeronautics is one of only a few schools that offer UAS certification training with medium UAS. Earn your FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificates, as well as your UAS crew chief certification, through our training partnership with industry leader Textron Systems. Our partnership allows students like you to gain more hands-on, field-applicable skills and utilize cutting-edge equipment such as the Aerosonde aircraft.

Get excited for a career that never stops evolving and changing for the better. Partner with Liberty to get hiring agreement opportunities, expert faculty, and hands-on aircraft maintenance experience. Your future starts here!

124

Credit Hours

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Next start date: Aug 18, 2025

Degree SACSCOC

Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC


Train Using the Tools the Pros Use

Get ready to study hands-on from day 1! Our School of Aeronautics features a fleet of 33 aircraft, 13 flight training devices, and 11 unmanned aerial vehicles – plus access to state-of-the-art simulators and training equipment that reflect what professionals use in the field.

Compete With Our Flight Team

You can be part of a championship legacy! Our National Intercollegiate Flying Association (NIFA) team has claimed 19 straight SAFECON Region X titles, showcasing the skill and dedication of our students and faculty.

Earn Recognition with Industry-Leading Awards

Liberty aviation students don’t just meet expectations – they exceed them. Many have won the highly respected American Airlines Safety Award, reflecting our strong emphasis on safe, professional flight operations.

Top Aviation Program

Liberty’s School of Aeronautics is a 4-time recipient of the prestigious Loening Trophy – awarded to the most outstanding college aviation program in the U.S.

Train with Purpose at a Premier Faith-Based Program

As one of the largest faith-based collegiate aviation programs in North America, Liberty’s School of Aeronautics combines technical excellence with a mission-driven focus.

Fast-Track Your Career in Aviation Maintenance

With FAA Part 147 instruction and the ability to complete FAA licensure training in as little as 1 year, you can launch your career quickly.

Our Aviation Maintenance program can also help prepare you for the A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) license, opening doors to a range of high-demand aviation roles.


Liberty University’s Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance with a specialization in Unmanned Aerial Systems can help prepare you for the following occupations: 

  • Aircraft mechanic
  • Government and military mechanic
  • Maintenance manager
  • UAS maintenance manager
BS Aviation Maitenance AUS
Niche Best Colleges White

Our aviation maintenance bachelor’s degree is designed to provide a route for A&P licensure while covering important, broader topics licensed mechanics face, such as human factors and safety.

Some of the major areas of study examined in our aviation maintenance unmanned aerial systems program include:

  • Our unmanned aerial systems (UAS) concentration develops your ability to work with drones and other medium UAS. You can study the inner workings of these devices, as well as how to repair them when something malfunctions, effectively.
  • Our courses can help develop your ability to work with a wide range of systems, from propeller to hydraulic and pneumatic systems.
  • You can gain a greater awareness of how to incorporate Christian ethics into all the work that you do!
  • The program includes a course that can help prepare you for aviation field interviews.

Degree Information

Choose a Degree Built for Your Future

We get it – picking the right school isn’t easy. That’s why we’ve designed a program that simplifies the decision by offering you a career-focused education led by experienced industry professionals. Our curriculum is built around the skills employers want, so your time here directly supports your future goals.

Train with Real Equipment

As a student in our School of Aeronautics, you can get more than textbook knowledge. You can gain hands-on experience using state-of-the-art equipment and even have the chance to compete in the national Aviation Maintenance Competition. It’s a fun, challenging way to sharpen your skills, bond with peers, and stand out to future employers.

Earn FAA Certification

Want to hit the ground running in your career? Our unique program lets you complete all FAA A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certifications in less than 1 year, twice as fast as many other programs. That means you can get licensed, start working, and make an impact in the field sooner than you might think.

Grow in a Faith-Focused Community

You won’t be just another number here. Our faculty genuinely care about your success and are committed to mentoring you both academically and spiritually. From praying with you to helping you prepare for the workforce, your professors will be in your corner every step of the way.

Every application is reviewed by the admission committee on a case-by-case basis, meaning there are no set minimums for acceptance. However, all applicants must submit the following documents* for admission:

  • Admission application
  • Official high school transcripts
  • Official college transcripts (if applicable)
  • Admission essay