Medium Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Certificate

Are you considering a career in the growing field of military or commercial drone operations? Liberty University offers a certificate in medium unmanned aerial systems (UAS) that you can complete in just 1 semester! That means you can pursue your career goals, earn credentials in your field, and get to work without stopping to complete a 2- or 4-year degree.

Even if you already work in the field of aviation, pursuing certification can help you stand out for promotions, new positions, or increased earning potential. Our UAS certificate can help you become exceptionally more marketable to employers as you study hands-on with our partner, Textron Systems – a trusted leader in unmanned aircraft since the 1980s.

Our School of Aeronautics is a center of excellence for aviation professionals and seeks to inspire the next generation of Christian aviation leaders. Let us come alongside you to provide the training you need to make an impact in this cutting-edge industry.

18

Credit Hours

View Courses

Next start date: Aug 18, 2025

Degree SACSCOC

Liberty University is accredited by SACSCOC


Get Hands-On Experience in a Growing Industry

This program offers you over 10 hours of actual flight time and an additional 18 to 20 hours of simulator experience, giving you a practical edge as you enter the unmanned aerial systems (UAS) field.

The UAS industry is growing rapidly, offering specialized opportunities that support infrastructure, defense, and national security efforts across the globe.

Build on Your Background and Advance Your Skills

If you already have experience in civilian or military aviation maintenance, this certificate can help you deepen your expertise with focused training in UAS maintenance.

You’ll gain access to industry-recognized certifications that can set you apart in the job market and open potential doors to new and advanced career options.

Take the Next Step Without Committing to a Full Degree

You can work toward your career goals without the time and financial investment of a full bachelor’s program.

And if you decide to continue your education later, your certificate credits can transfer directly into Liberty’s BS in Unmanned Aircraft Operations or BS in Aviation Maintenance – UAS, helping you finish faster. Please note that military benefits from the Veterans Administration are not accepted for this certificate at this time. 

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You can be confident that your undergraduate certificate in medium UAS can help you become more hirable as you study how to fly and maintain an industry-leading UAS platform. This program can help you obtain certification as a UAS crew member and maintenance technician. We work with Textron Systems to cross-train all our students in both flight and maintenance operations.

Some of the other key concepts you can explore in our medium UAS program include:

  • How to launch, fly, and recover a fully autonomous fixed-wing aircraft
  • How to maintain equipment and troubleshoot issues
  • How to work in team settings with hands-on projects and simulators
  • Safety and integrity principles are vital to the aviation discipline
  • AVIA 230 – Unmanned Aerial Systems
  • AVIA 323 – UAS Avionics and Powerplants
  • AVIA 335 – Medium UAS Ground and Flight I
  • AVIA 446 – Medium UAS Ground and Flight II
  • AVIA 447 – Medium UAS Ground and Flight III
  • AVMX 445 – Medium UAS Maintenance I

Certificate Information

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