The newest program offered by the Department of Aerospace available under the Aerospace major is the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Operations concentration earning the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. Other concentrations under this major are Aviation Management, Flight Dispatch, Maintenance Management, Professional Pilot, and Technology, along with an Air Traffic Control certification program.

UAS Operations students will take traditional aerospace courses to build a strong foundation as professional aviators. In addition, five specific unmanned aircraft courses are required, ranging from a basic introduction to UAS through an in-depth study of UAS systems; ultimately, students are expected to achieve proficiency in operating a UAS and in creating a solid business plan.

The concentration includes manned flight training (to the Private Pilot certificate level) and preparation for the FAA UAS knowledge test to earn a Remote Pilot Certificate. Interdisciplinary courses are also included in electricity, electronics, microprocessors, computer science, management, geographic information systems, and others.

Graduates in the new UAS Operations concentration will be a part of a rising business sector expected to bring 70,000 new jobs with starting salaries of $50,000 or higher and to contribute $13.6 billion to the U.S. economy by 2018-20. The program is designed for students who have an interest in unmanned aviation—whether that is flying the UAS, providing support services (consulting, data analysis, UAS construction/modification/repair, etc.), or in managerial roles at a company operating UAS. The concentration is expected to create new operators, consultants, managers, and leaders who will thrive in the UAS industry.