Designed for current remote pilots and UAS crew members who want to expand their understanding and develop safe habits. Each course leads to industry-recognized certification, demonstrating your commitment to safety and excellence to employers.

About the course

25–35 hour instructor-supported USI course

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and components of UAS, focusing on their design, operation, and applications. Students will gain a solid understanding of foundational concepts, including system classification, aerodynamics, control systems, data links, and payloads. Through theoretical lectures, practical exercises, and discussions, students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to work with UAS technology effectively.

Course format

• This is an online, instructor-supported course that will take you approximately 23-35 hours to complete, depending on your previous knowledge and experience.
• The course materials are provided via USI’s Learning Management System. Instructor Sessions are delivered using Microsoft Teams, and the exam is proctored by RP Now.
• You will have 12 months from the date you purchase the course to complete the course and exam.
• The recommended level for this course is Entry-level and Intermediate.
• Performance will be based on an examination. Please refer to the Exam Information below for more details.

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

• Define the specialized terminology associated with UAS in the context of regulation, classification, and systems design.
• Discuss UAS capabilities, applications, and challenges facing their full integration into the National Airspace System (NAS).
• Summarize the interaction between UAS components by describing a generic UAS data architecture.
• Explain how the performance of an air vehicle is influenced by aerodynamics.
• Explain common guidance, navigation, and control methods used in airborne robotic vehicles.
• Identify the different types and functions of control stations within a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System.
• Describe environmental and design factors that limit the performance of UAS data links.
• Examine various types of payloads used in Unmanned Aircraft System operations.

Who should attend

This course is recommended for:

• Entry-level unmanned aviation employees
• Newly hired staff working at Part 135 or Part 108 Operators

Certification awarded

The USI sUAS Safety Level 1 Certification is awarded to participants who pass the final USI exam. USI Certification is valid for 24 months; recertification is accomplished by completing recurrent training.

Exam information

• Method: Online exam with remote supervision (RP Now)
• Format: 70 multiple-choice questions. Closed course book exam.
• Time Allowance: 1.5 hours
• Passing Grade: 70% correct answers
• Number of exam attempts: 3

About the course

25–35 hour instructor-supported USI course

This course equips learners with the foundational knowledge and practical skills to maintain small, remotely piloted aircraft systems. Each unit provides a focused exploration of key topics, ensuring participants thoroughly understand small Unmanned Aircraft System (sUAS) maintenance principles and safety practices. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on applications, participants will be prepared to contribute effectively to the maintenance and operational integrity of sUAS.

Course format

• This is an online, instructor-supported course that will take you approximately 23-35 hours to complete, depending on your previous knowledge and experience.
• The course materials are provided via USI’s Learning Management System. Instructor Sessions are delivered using Microsoft Teams, and the exam is proctored by RP Now.
• You will have 12 months from the date you purchase the course to complete the course and exam.
• The recommended level for this course is Entry-level and Intermediate.
• Performance will be based on an examination. Please refer to the Exam Information below for more details.

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

• Establish a regular maintenance schedule based on the system's requirements and operational usage.
• Select the proper tools needed for various maintenance tasks to ensure safety and efficiency.
• Interpret technical schematics, maintenance work orders, and log entries for effective system analysis.
• Conduct thorough inspections to identify signs of wear and tear on the system components.
• Update system software and firmware while maintaining data integrity.
• Apply troubleshooting methods to identify common issues that may arise with the system.
• Explain inventory management and supply chain operations fundamentals to ensure timely part replacements.
• Replace small system parts such as rotors, ensuring correct installation and function without voiding the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) warranty.
• Apply correct cleaning and servicing procedures to maintain system performance and longevity.
• Explain the proper disposal methods for scrapped parts, including hazardous material handling and environmental safety.
• Define safety procedures to minimize risks during maintenance tasks.

Who should attend

This course is recommended for:

• Entry-level unmanned aviation employees
• Newly hired staff working at Part 135 or Part 108 Operators

Certification awarded

The USI sUAS Safety Level 2 Certification is awarded to participants successfully passing the final USI exam. USI Certification is valid for 24-months, recertification is accomplished by completing recurrent training.

Exam information

• Method: Online exam with remote supervision (RP Now)
• Format: 70 multiple-choice questions. Closed course book exam.
• Time Allowance: 1.5 hours
• Passing Grade: 70% correct answers
• Number of exam attempts: 3

About the course

35-40 hour instructor-supported USI course

The Visual Line-of-Sight (VLOS) System Operations Ground course provides a comprehensive overview of the planning and preparation required to conduct successful VLOS operations with a small remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS), a subset of UAS. Learners will gain a thorough understanding of essential planning concepts, including assessing the area of operations, conducting site surveying, preparing equipment for transportation, conducting preflight-risk assessments, and post-flight procedures. Through theoretical instruction, practical exercises, and real-world case studies, participants will develop the knowledge and skills required to confidently and responsibly plan RPAS operations.

Course format

• This online, instructor-supported course will take approximately 35-40 hours, depending on your previous knowledge and experience.
• The course materials are provided via USI’s Learning Management System. Instructor Sessions are delivered using Microsoft Teams, and the exam is proctored by RP Now.
• You will have 12 months from the date you purchase the course to complete the course and exam.
• The recommended level for this course is Entry-level and Intermediate.
• Performance will be based on an examination. Please refer to the Exam Information below for more details.

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

• Assess the regulatory requirements associated with a specific operational area.
• Choose an appropriate flight altitude that aligns with mission goals, guarantees airspace segregation, and prevents collisions with terrain and obstacles.
• Describe the available tools for risk assessment and mitigation during an operation.
• Describe methods for improving system reliability and reducing potential harm to personnel and equipment by employing personal protective equipment and ensuring proper equipment transport, assembly, and inspection procedures are followed.
• Describe the tools and methodologies used in formulating preflight decisions, strategies for communicating information to crews, and evaluating the soundness of decisions post-flight.
• Explore common planning and control software used by unmanned aircraft systems.
• Outline the standards of professional and ethical conduct that remote pilots adhere to in their operational practices.

Who should attend

This course is recommended for:

• Entry-level unmanned aviation employees
• Newly hired staff working at Part 135 or Part 108 Operators

Certification awarded

The USI Visual Line of Sight Systems Operation (VSO) Ground Certification is awarded to participants who pass the final USI exam successfully. USI Certification is valid for 24 months; recertification is accomplished by completing recurrent training.

Exam information

• Method: Online exam with remote supervision (RP Now)
• Format: 70 multiple-choice questions. Closed course book exam.
• Time Allowance: 1.5 hours
• Passing Grade: 70% correct answers
• Number of exam attempts: 3

About the course

25–35 hour instructor-supported USI course

This course focuses on addressing human factors in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) operations to enhance safety, efficiency, and overall performance. It aims to equip participants with the knowledge and tools to identify and mitigate psychological, physiological, and environmental challenges affecting remote pilots. Through a blend of theoretical insights and practical exercises, the course promotes a comprehensive understanding of human factors, emphasizing strategies to improve human performance in UAS contexts.

Course format

• This online, instructor-supported course will take approximately 25-35 hours, depending on your previous knowledge and experience.
• The course materials are provided via USI’s Learning Management System. Instructor Sessions are delivered using Microsoft Teams, and the exam is proctored by RP Now.
• You will have 12 months from the date you purchase the course to complete the course and exam.
• The recommended level for this course is Entry-level and Intermediate.
• Performance will be based on an examination. Please refer to the Exam Information below for more details.

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

• Recognize the key human factors influencing UAS operations.
• Evaluate remote piloting stations using ergonomic principles.
• Explain the role of automation in human performance and error. 
• Develop strategies to address fatigue, stress, and cognitive overload.
• Improve decision-making, situational awareness, and operational performance through effective threat and error management techniques.

Who should attend

This course is recommended for:

• Intermediate-level unmanned aviation employees
• Newly hired staff working at Part 135 or Part 108 Operators

Certification awarded

The USI Advanced Unmanned Safety Level 1 Certification is awarded to participants who pass the final USI exam successfully. USI Certification is valid for 24 months; recertification is accomplished by completing recurrent training.

Exam information

• Method: Online exam with remote supervision (RP Now)
• Format: 70 multiple-choice questions. Closed course book exam.
• Time Allowance: 1.5 hours
• Passing Grade: 70% correct answers
• Number of exam attempts: 3

About the course

25–35 hour instructor-supported USI course

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of safety management principles and practices specifically tailored for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) operations. Students will learn key concepts, strategies, and tools to establish and maintain effective safety management systems within UAS organizations. The course covers safety policy development, risk management, assurance, promotion, and SMS implementation. Additionally, real-world case studies and practical examples will enhance the learning experience.

Course format

• This online, instructor-supported course will take approximately 25-35 hours, depending on your previous knowledge and experience.
• The course materials are provided via USI’s Learning Management System. Instructor Sessions are delivered using Microsoft Teams, and the exam is proctored by RP Now.
• You will have 12 months from the date you purchase the course to complete the course and exam.
• The recommended level for this course is Entry-level and Intermediate.
• Performance will be based on an examination. Please refer to the Exam Information below for more details.

Upon completing this course, you will be able to:

• Summarize the safety management principles utilized by the aviation industry and applicable to the remotely piloted aircraft systems sector.
• Differentiate between safety policies and procedures, and proficiently articulate the process involved in designing, implementing, and enhancing safety processes.
• Examine how safety policies and practices influence organizational culture and articulate strategies for promoting a "just culture" within the UAS aviation sector.
• Demonstrate an industry-accepted and standardized method for identifying hazards, conducting risk assessments, devising risk mitigation controls, and efficiently monitoring risk within UAS aviation operations.
• Explain the role of information and data in driving the safety assurance process within a safety management system.
• Describe the foundational principles of Total Quality Management (TQM) and illustrate their practical application within aviation safety.
• Describe the interconnected nature of health, safety, and the environment within the aviation industry as integral components of a unified safety culture.
• Apply safety management principles in practical, real-world scenarios, provide analysis from the line operator's perspective, and effectively address safety-related challenges.

Who should attend

This course is recommended for:

• Intermediate-level unmanned aviation employees
• Newly hired staff working at Part 135 or Part 108 Operators

Certification awarded

The USI Advanced Unmanned Safety Level 2 Certification is awarded to participants who pass the final USI exam successfully. USI Certification is valid for 24 months; recertification is accomplished by completing recurrent training.

Exam information

• Method: Online exam with remote supervision (RP Now)
• Format: 70 multiple-choice questions. Closed course book exam.
• Time Allowance: 1.5 hours
• Passing Grade: 70% correct answers
• Number of exam attempts: 3