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The Drone Technology and Applications program at Harper College equips you with the skills and training to use Small Uncrewed Ariel Systems (sUAS or drones). This comprehensive program covers a wide range of concepts including drone operations, aerial photography, data analysis, and regulatory compliance. Whether you're aiming for a career in aerial surveying, agriculture, real estate, or emergency response, this program provides a solid foundation to help you succeed.
Harper College's Drone Technology and Applications Certificate provides foundational drone operations skills and allows you to develop either photography/videography for drone post-production or geospatial technology skills for mapping or GIS applications.
This certificate is closely tied to Harper’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) certificate program which provides students with hands on experience with the latest GIS technology and techniques.
This 16 credit-hour certificate program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively use drones (Small Uncrewed Aerial Systems, sUAS) in variety of business and public sector domains working as pilots, drone image specialists, or remote sensing technicians. Drone technology is used in diverse fields including agriculture, ecological monitoring, cinematography, environmental management, insurance, mapping and surveying, military operations, mining, photography, public safety, real estate, search and rescue, and structural inspections.
F = Fall only course S = Spring only course U = Summer only course
| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ART 250 | Introduction to Photographic Art | 3 |
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Description: Employs digital technology as a medium for producing works of photographic art. Basic techniques and processes for using a digital still camera, image editing software and archival print technology are used to investigate straight photography as well as highly manipulated images. May be repeated for up to six hours of credit. Limited free camera loans available for duration of the course; contact the instructor for more information. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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| ART 251 | Intermediate Photographic Art or | |
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Description: Moving beyond basic tools and techniques for generating digital photographic artworks, students explore varied digital image workflow strategies, studio photography and lighting, and emerging photographic technologies, such as drone aerial photography, video, and camera phones. Artwork output and presentation tactics are stressed. May be repeated for up to six hours of credit. Limited free camera loans and misc. photo equipment available for duration of the course; contact the instructor for more information. Although not a requirement, students interested in an introduction to photography are recommended to begin with ART 250 Introduction to Photographic Art. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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| GEG 150 | Introduction to Geospatial Technologies | 3 |
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Description: Provides an introduction to geospatial technologies, such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and Remote Sensing through hands-on computer based exercises. The essential principles of map use and design, and spatial analysis are also included in this course. Fundamental desktop computer skills assumed. IAI S4 905 Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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| GEG 160 | Drone Pilot Ground School | 1 |
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Description: Provides knowledge about the regulations and procedures governing the legal operation of Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) in the United States of America. Course content aligns with knowledge areas in the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA's) Part 107 airman knowledge test for a Remote Pilot Certificate with a sUAS rating. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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| GEG 161 | Mastering Drone Flight: Essential Skills and Techniques | 3 |
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Description: Introduces the fundamentals of flying drones (or Small Uncrewed Aerial Systems, sUAS) with a focus on flight proficiency skills, safety procedures, mission planning best practices, and image acquisition procedures. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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| GEG 162 | Drone Data Acquisition and Analysis F | 3 |
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Description: This course is only offered in the fall term. Introduces students to the methods used to capture, process, analyze, and present drone (or Small Uncrewed Aerial Systems, sUAS) data. Includes drone data applications, image and sensor characteristics, mission planning, data acquisition, post processing, and data analysis fundamentals. Prerequisite: GEG 161 with a grade of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| GEG 250 | Introduction to Remote Sensing F | 3 |
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Description:
This course is only offered in the fall term. Prerequisite: GEG 150 with a grade of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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| MCM 210 | Video Editing and Video Post -Production | 3 |
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Description: Focuses on using non-linear editing software to combine visuals and sound for a variety of genres and media types including cinematic storytelling, documentaries, news, and web series. Includes editing theory and techniques; film history; and post-production workflow including ingesting media, editing, sound mixing, color correction, and final delivery. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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| MCM 212 | Multi -Camera Production | 3 |
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Description: Introduces students to the application of fundamental multi-camera production techniques. Includes terminology, conceptualization, basic script writing, audio board operations, editing, shooting and lighting in multi-camera settings including live events, social media streaming and video conferencing. IAI MC 916-A Class Schedule: Fall 2024 | Spring 2025 |
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Want to learn more about Drone Technology and Applications courses? Contact contact Mukila Maitha, Associate Professor, Chair, Geography Department, at mmaitha@harpercollege.edu or 847.925.6521 or contact Admission Outreach at 847.925.6700. You can also submit a request information form.