FAQ

The following hardware is recommended: Windows Operating System: Windows 10 or higher CPU: Intel Core i7 @ 3.6 GHz or equivalent Memory: 8 GB RAM Hard Drive: 8 GB available on hard disk Graphics Hardware: Direct X 10 or higher compatible graphics card (GTX660 equivalent or higher) Internet Connection: DSL or higher MacOS Operating System: macOS Monterey CPU: M1 or higher Memory: 8 GB RAM Hard Drive: 8 GB available on hard disk Internet Connection: DSL or higher

Everyone learns at different rates, so the number of hours it takes to complete the various courses will depend on the individual. However, here is a range of times that will cover most learners. Part 107 Exam Prep: 8 – 16 hours UAS Essentials: 20 – 30 hours Applied UAS Thermograph (excluding Level 1 exam prep) 15 – 20 hours UAS Vocation 35 – 50 hours UAS Mission Administration 35 - 50 hours

Weekly web calls (virtual classes) are included with the UAS Essentials Plus, UAS Vocation courses and UAS Mission Administration courses. The web calls for the UAS Essentials Plus and UAS Vocation are on Mondays at 2:30 pm EST. The web calls for the UAS Mission Administration course are on Tuesdays at 2:30 pm EST. The specific time may vary so please check with the instructor to confirm.

Yes! Veterans and active-duty military members may be eligible for financial assistance through various VA and military funding programs: For Veterans: Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill®) – Veterans can have the UAS Vocation course tuition and Part 107 exam fee reimbursed under this program. Chapter 31 (VR&E – Veteran Readiness & Employment) – Veterans with a service-connected disability (10% or more) may have the UAS Vocation course fully covered as part of their approved vocational plan. For Active-Duty Servicemembers: Army Credentialing Assistance (CA) Program – Eligible Army personnel can use CA funding to cover the full cost of the UAS Vocation course. Air Force COOL (Credentialing Opportunities Online) Program – Active-duty Air Force members may receive funding for the UAS Vocation course as part of their professional development.Yes! Veterans and active-duty military members may be eligible for financial assistance through various VA and military funding programs: For Veterans: Chapter 33 (Post-9/11 GI Bill®) – Veterans can have the UAS Vocation course tuition and Part 107 exam fee reimbursed under this program. Chapter 31 (VR&E – Veteran Readiness & Employment) – Veterans with a service-connected disability (10% or more) may have the UAS Vocation course fully covered as part of their approved vocational plan. For Active-Duty Servicemembers: Army Credentialing Assistance (CA) Program – Eligible Army personnel can use CA funding to cover the full cost of the UAS Vocation course. Air Force COOL (Credentialing Opportunities Online) Program – Active-duty Air Force members may receive funding for the UAS Vocation course as part of their professional development.

Clemson Drone courses are designed to be flexible while maintaining a structured learning experience. You can progress through the material at your own pace within the course duration, but some assignments have recommended deadlines to help you stay on track. The UAS Vocation and UAS Mission Administration courses are structured as 8-week programs, with an estimated commitment of about six hours per week. While you have access to all materials immediately upon enrollment, timely completion of assignments ensures you receive personalized feedback from the instructor and stay aligned with the course schedule. If “life” gets in the way, it’s no problem for you to complete the material at your own pace to meet your specific learning goals.Clemson Drone courses are designed to be flexible while maintaining a structured learning experience. You can progress through the material at your own pace within the course duration, but some assignments have recommended deadlines to help you stay on track. The UAS Vocation and UAS Mission Administration courses are structured as 8-week programs, with an estimated commitment of about six hours per week. While you have access to all materials immediately upon enrollment, timely completion of assignments ensures you receive personalized feedback from the instructor and stay aligned with the course schedule. If “life” gets in the way, it’s no problem for you to complete the material at your own pace to meet your specific learning goals.

All Clemson Drone courses are 100% online and asynchronous, meaning you can complete the coursework on your own schedule without required live sessions. However, the UAS Essentials Plus and UAS Vocation courses include optional weekly Zoom meetings with Dr. Burgett. These live sessions provide an opportunity to ask questions, review key concepts, and receive additional guidance. While attendance is not mandatory, students find these sessions valuable for enhancing their understanding and getting real-time feedback. Recordings may be available for those who cannot attend live.

No! All of the courses are non-credit professional development courses. These courses are specifically developed for working professionals not enrolled at Clemson.

Nearly every assignment in our courses is reviewed by hand and given individual feedback based on what the student submitted, just like you would expect with a college class. The exception is the Part 107 Exam Prep course, where detailed automated feedback is provided with the assignments to help keep the enrollment fee down.

Unfortunately, as the courses are online non-credit classes, they do not qualify for traditional financial aid.

Clemson Drone courses have multiple start dates throughout the year. See below for the start schedule for each of our offerings: · UAS Essentials Plus, UAS Vocation and UAS Mission administration start on the first Monday of February, April, June, August and October · UAS Essentials and Applied UAS Thermography star on the first Monday of every month. · Part 107 Exam prep has immediate enrollment

Depending on the course you enroll in, there are three potential additional costs to consider. 1) The FAA Part 107 exam is provided at a third-party testing facility. The exam fee is typically $175 and is paid to the testing facility. This does not apply to the Applied UAS Thermography course. 2) There is an additional $300 proctoring fee for those wishing to take the Level 1 UAS Thermographer Certification exam. This is only applicable to the Applied UAS Thermography course. 3) The APSA BPERP flight proficiency exam is included in the UAS Essentials Plus and UAS Vocational class. A $75 certification fee, paid to APSA, is required for the certification. The $75 is included with the UAS Vocation class.

A drone is not required for most Clemson Drone courses, including the UAS Vocation course, as flight skills are taught using a simulator. However, the UAS Mission Administration course requires access to a drone for completing the practical flight assessment.

Yes. Drone images can be used to create 3D models with SfM software. Those models are digital representations of the site. The SfM software can be used to scale distances, determine area, and calculate the volume. That data can be used to create estimates quickly and more accurately than with traditional methods. They can also be used to verify invoices received by vendors and validate the invoices you provide to clients.

Drones are a great tool to improve safety. They can collect data or inspect an asset without having to put the operator in harm's way. Inspecting a roof is a classic example where a drone can observe and document the condition in real-time while the operator is on the ground or even at their office if the video is live-streamed. Another example is to create surveys near traffic. Drones can collect data to be processed into a 3D model without the surveyor being anywhere near the road.

No, UAS Vocation is not a prerequisite for UAS Mission Administration. However, the skills and certifications earned in UAS Vocation—such as FAA Part 107 knowledge, flight proficiency, 3D mapping, and thermal imaging—directly support the learning objectives of UAS Mission Administration. Since UAS Mission Administration is an advanced-level course, students should already have: · A Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required) · Access to a drone for the flight assessment (required) · Experience operating a drone (recommended)

There are three certifications available in the UAS Vocation class. The FAA provides the Part 107 drone license. The license does not expire but requires you to take a free online recurrent training course every two years. The flight proficiency exam is provided by APSA and is valid for two years. After the two-year period, students are required to retake the BPERP exam to maintain their certification. The UAS thermography training and certification exam is valid for two years. A refresher course with an accompanying exam is required to renew the certificate. You will earn the AUVSI Levels 1, 2, and 3 Trusted Operator certificates in the UAS Mission Administration Course. These certificates are valid for two years.

Yes, drones are an incredibly powerful tool to document a site. Simple aerial images are the lowest hanging fruit. However, those drone images, when stitched together in SfM software, will create a georeferenced 3D model. Job progress, site fence conditions, underground utilities, and much more can be documented with sub-inch accuracy. After completing this course, you'll be able to provide your client with a high-quality model of the site that will only take you minutes to create.

No. Our courses prepare you to take and pass the Part 107 exam; however, the exam is given by an FAA approved, 3rd party testing facility. Detailed instructions are provided on how you sign up and your instructor will verify that you signed up correctly and for the right test.

Yes. The UAS Essentials, UAS Essentials Plus, and UAS Vocation courses show you how to you AirMap, a free online tool to locate airspace, file ATC authorization through the LAANC system, and create mission plans.

The FAA does not require insurance; however, it may be required by your client or local jurisdiction. Our courses provide a section that specifically covers what you need to know for drone insurance. It also guides you on what kind of coverage to purchase and how to buy it by the hour, month, or year.

No prior experience is required for most Clemson Drone courses, including our flagship UAS Vocation course. However, the UAS Mission Administration course is designed for experienced pilots and requires an FAA Part 107 certificate and access to a drone.

The only course you need to own a drone for is the UAS Mission Administration course. There is a practical flight assessment you will need to video yourself completing. Sample drone data is provided to complete the assignments in the other courses.

Drones are a widespread tool used by police, fire departments, and other first responders. One use case is to provide "over-watch" where a drone is positioned above an incident and provides scene commanders an aerial overview in person or via live stream. Drones can also be sent into dangerous situations to collect information before sending in manned assets. Additionally, drone data can be used to create 3D models of the scene to document the conditions and be used for future training exercises. A leading application of UAS is to support aerial thermography. IR cameras can see through fog and smoke. They can detect warm bodies easily, making them an essential tool for search & rescue.

The only course where having your Part 107 certificate is required is the UAS Mission Administration course. You will earn your Part 107 remote pilot certificate as part of the UAS Essentials, UAS Essentials Plus and UAS Vocation courses.

Drones can get to hard-to-reach places and inspect existing assets or newly installed work. As-built conditions can be seen in real-time or documented with images for review by an expert later. The video can also be live-streamed so supervisors, designers, or consultants can observe the condition in real-time remotely. The inclusion of thermography can introduce a higher level of quality control. Water intrusion, missing insulation, faulty electronics, and unfilled CMU cells are just a few things that can be checked with a UAS IR imager that can't be seen with the naked eye.

There are many factors that influence how accurate a drone (photogrammetric) survey is, such as camera quality, drone elevation, weather, if ground control points (GCP) were used, number of images, image overlap, angle of the camera, and the terrain. However, a DJI Phantom 4 Pro or Mavic 2 Pro, with a 20mp camera, flown at 100'AGL, with GCP on a cleared site can expect to have sub-inch accuracy with an RMS error less than 1 pixel. We explore this in our courses and give you sample data to create your own model given these conditions.

The UAS Mission Administration course is designed for experienced UAS pilots and administrators looking to expand their expertise in advanced drone operations. This course builds on the foundational knowledge gained through the UAS Vocation course or similar training, providing skills necessary to manage and execute complex UAS missions. The class teaches advanced mission planning techniques, including real-world scenario simulations with 360-degree virtual walkthroughs. These skills are essential for professionals conducting tasks such as bridge inspections, construction monitoring, or aerial marketing. The course also focuses on creating customized Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) tailored to organizational needs. Students learn to use cutting-edge AI tools to streamline documentation processes, enhancing operational efficiency and compliance. Finally, the program includes a NIST-based flight assessment, preparing students to earn the prestigious AUVSI Trusted Operator Level 1, 2, and 3 certifications. These credentials are highly valued in industries like public safety, infrastructure inspection, emergency management, and large-scale UAS program administration.

There is a wide range of applications for UAS thermography. Aerial IR images can determine where there is heat loss through a building, which can be used to improve energy efficiency. Many contractors are using IR imagery for quality control. UAS thermography can be used to determine the location of water behind membranes, identify windows that have lost their argon gas filling, find CMU block cavities that have not been properly filled, and locations of missing insulation. Handheld thermal cameras have been helping first responders for decades. IR cameras can see through smoke and fog and are a critical tool for search and rescue. Law enforcement can also use IR cameras in low light conditions to see fleeing suspects in pitch darkness.

The prerequisites vary depending on the course: UAS Essentials, UAS Essentials Plus, and UAS Vocation – No prior drone experience is required. This course is designed for both beginners and experienced pilots looking for a comprehensive foundation in drone operations. UAS Mission Administration – You must have a valid FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and access to a drone to complete the required flight assessment. This course is designed for existing drone pilots and administrators managing multi-crew UAS programs.

Yes. Our courses are specifically designed for working professionals. You have access to all of the material on the first day of class. You can go through it at your own pace.

Yes. If you fly a drone for commercial activities, then you will need a license from the FAA. The phrase "commercial activities" is very broadly interpreted and includes anything that does or potentially could involve the exchange of money. The license is most commonly received by taking an FAA knowledge test and earning your Part 107 remote pilot certificate.

Yes. Dr. Joe Burgett teaches all of the courses listed and is available by email to answer questions. Emails are responded to within 24hrs. Priority email and phone support are available to students taking the UAS Essentials Plus and UAS Vocation courses.

The best way to learn to fly is with a high-quality flight simulator that approximates actual aircraft physics in real-world conditions. A simulator allows you to learn to gauge distance and know how close you can fly to an object. You can't know where your aircraft's envelope is unless you fly close to obstructions, and yes…crash! If you're not crashing, you're not learning. Once you master a simulator, you're ready to start practicing with a real drone.

The UAS Vocation course is designed to provide a comprehensive curriculum on operating a UAS for commercial purposes. The class prepares you to pass the Part 107 exam to earn your FAA remote pilot certificate. Our state-of-the-art simulator will also teach you how to fly a multirotor drone. The FAA license and skills to operate a drone are essential for all commercial UAS operations. The course also teaches you how to collect drone data and create 3D maps, models, and orthophotos. These deliverables are commonly used by contractors, surveyors, and anyone looking to document site conditions or collect quantity take-off information from a scene. UAS thermography has a wide range of use cases and applications. Infrared radiation can be used for building quality control, detecting missing insulation, locating roof leaks, evaluating solar roof panels, search & rescue, assisting first responders, and a wide range of other activities.

The exam has 60 multiple choice questions given over 2.5 hours. A passing score is 80%. Before the exam, students are provided multiple practice quizzes to gauge their level of understanding before taking the level 1 exam. The exam is proctored remotely through an online service. A webcam and microphone are required to take the exam.

As the expression goes, "a picture is worth a thousand words." However, just taking simple pictures is an underutilization of what drone technology can do. Instead of emailing a simple progress photo, people who complete this course can send their clients daily 3D digital as-builts of the site. Clients can then navigate the site, zoom into areas of interest, and measure various characteristics to sub-inch accuracy.

Our courses are most commonly paid for with a credit card through our secure website. However, a custom invoice can be created for large classes or for government agencies. Contact us directly for more information.

Yes, the UAS Vocation course is eligible for tuition assistance through the Army CA program. Learn more by going to Army CA | Clemson Drone

The easiest way to verify your benefits is to go ask a VA rep through the https://ask.va.gov/ portal. Feel free to copy and paste the verbiage below which indicates the specific program and facility code you’ll need. You can also call the at 888-442-4551. My name is (state full name), and I am a veteran with Chapter 33 benefits. My military ID number is (provide #). I am interested in taking a preparatory course using the benefits associated with 38 U.S.C. § 3315B – Preparatory courses for licensure, certification, or national test. Can you please confirm that I am eligible and have remaining benefits to take the “LACAS-UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYS VOCATION” courses offered by the SSA-approved licenses and certifications institution “Clemson Drone” (facility code 46P00540)? This is a different facility code than Clemson University. The course fee is $3,500.

Yes, the UAS Vocation course is eligible for tuition assistance through the Army CA program. Learn more by going to Army CA | Clemson Drone

Yes, but it requires several extra steps. Unlike the UAS Vocation course, the UAS Mission Administration course has not been approved in the VA’s License and Certification (LACAS) WEAMS system. Past veterans have been able to pay for the course out of pocket and have the VA reimburse them using VA Form 28-1905M. It is very important to have the UAS Mission Administration course included in your vocational plan and approved by your VR&E counselor before you enroll in the course.

To qualify for VR&E assistance, veterans must meet the following criteria: · Have a service-connected disability rating of at least 10% from the VA. · Possess a discharge status other than dishonorable. · Were discharged from active duty after January 1, 2013. Active duty servicemembers may also be eligible if they: · Have a 20% or higher pre-discharge disability rating and will soon leave the military, or · Are awaiting discharge due to a service-related illness or injury.

The UAS Mission Administration Course is the second course in Clemson Drone's comprehensive online program. This course is not eligible for VA support using the Chapter 33 LACAS program.

1) Go to VA's WEAMS Licenses/Certification Search online tool at: https://inquiry.vba.va.gov/weamspub/buildSearchLCCriteria.do 2) Copy and paste "UNMANNED AIRCARAFT SYSTEMS" in the L&C Name field. (It is misspelled but copy it in just as it provided). Use the drop down to select "Certification." Hit the enter key to search. 3) Click on the blue hyperlink that reads "UNMANNED AIRCARAFT SYSTEMS." This will bring you to a screen that verifies the preparatory course has been approved for up to $3,500. Click on the grey box that reads "Institution Profile" to verify Clemson Drone is approved.

There are four steps to take and be reimbursed for the UAS Vocation course using your chapter 33 VA benefits. Step #1: Confirm that you are eligible for Chapter 33 “preparatory course” benefits and have remaining entitlement to cover the course tuition ($3,500) by going to https://ask.va.gov/. Log in and copy the italicized text below into the chat box. You can also call the VA at 1-888-442-4551 for additional clarification. Please note that the preparatory course program does not pay a monthly housing stipend. My name is (state full name), and I am a veteran with Chapter 33 benefits. My military ID number is (provide #). I am interested in taking a preparatory course using the benefits associated with 38 U.S.C. § 3315B – Preparatory courses for licensure, certification, or national test. Can you please confirm that I am eligible and have remaining benefits to take the “LACAS-UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYS VOCATION” courses offered by the SSA-approved licenses and certifications institution “Clemson Drone” (facility code 46P00540)? This is a different facility code than Clemson University. The course fee is $3,500. They have asked me to remind you that they are approved as a License and Certification (LACAS) provider and NOT as a Program, OJT, or Institution provider. (If the VA representative looks up Clemson Drone as anything other than a LACAS, it will incorrectly show that the program was "withdrawn" on Jan 26th, 2023.) Clemson Drone's approval can be verified using the LACAS WEAMS system by following the steps outlined at this website: https://www.clemsondrone.com/vaverification. Step #2: Enroll in the course by clicking here. Select the option “Yes – Eligible for 100% VA reimbursement” in the dropdown field. Click the “Enroll Now” button and enter your payment information. A receipt will be emailed to you immediately, and Dr. Burgett will contact you within 24 hours with additional course information. Step #3: Complete the course over eight weeks. Clemson Drone will provide you with an enrollment verification letter (sample). Step #4: Complete VA Form 22-10272 (course) and VA Form 22-0803 (exam) for reimbursement. Some of the fields have been completed for you. Mail the completed VA forms and the course completion letter received by Clemson Drone to the VA. The address is provided on the last page of the VA form.

Yes, the UAS Vocation course is eligible for tuition assistance through the Air Force COOL program. Learn more by going to AF COOL | Clemson Drone

Possibly, but it depends on the course and your VR&E counselor’s approval. The UAS Vocation course includes flight training using a simulator, which is provided as part of the course. Since a physical drone is not required to complete the coursework, the VA is unlikely to approve funding for one under VR&E benefits. However, the UAS Mission Administration course does require a drone to complete assignments and practical flight assessments. Because of this, a drone may be covered by the VA as necessary course material. Approval for this will depend on your VR&E counselor and how your vocational plan is structured. Before enrolling or purchasing any equipment, discuss your needs with your VR&E counselor to determine if a drone can be included in your approved benefits.

No, the UAS Vocation course is considered less than half-time, requiring approximately six clock hours per week to complete. As such, it is not eligible for a Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) stipend.