Remote Drone Pilot Certification at KSU
Train for a Career in Commercial Drone Operations
The Remote Drone Pilot Training Program, offered through a partnership between Kennesaw State University and Alpha Drones USA, prepares individuals for careers in the rapidly growing field of professional drone operations. This collaboration combines Kennesaw State’s workforce training expertise with Alpha Drones USA’s real-world aviation experience to deliver industry-focused drone pilot training.
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Also, meet our team, explore the Remote Drone Pilot Training Certification program, and get answers to your questions before you enroll.
The first Wednesday of every month we invite you to come meet our staff and get answers to any questions you may have.
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Remote Drone Pilot Training Certificate
This course prepares students for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification Exam and introduces the foundational knowledge and hands-on skills required for safe, professional small unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) operations.
Certification Overview
The Remote Drone Pilot Training Program combines FAA certification preparation with hands-on flight training using professional-grade drone equipment.
Participants gain practical experience designed to prepare them for real commercial applications and operational environments.
Phase 0: Information Session & Enrollment
- Attend a live or virtual Information session
- Learn program details with live Q&A opportunities
- Complete enrollment process and secure your place
- Receive access to preliminary learning materials
Phase 1: FAA Remote Pilot Certification Course
- Comprehensive preparation for the FAA Part 107 Knowledge Exam
- 4 weeks of training with ten online classroom sessions
- Self-study computer-based training software (included in program cost)
- In-depth study of airspace regulations, weather, flight operations, and safety
- Expert guidance on FAA application procedures after exam completion
Phase 2: Flight Training & Qualification
- Select your preferred sUAS/UAS from Alpha Drones USA fleet options
- Ground school in-class training sessions (4 hours)
- Hands-on flight training (10 hours) with professional-grade commercial drones
- Equipment-specific operational training
- Learn service-specific applications (agriculture, cinematography, inspections, etc.)
- Performance evaluation and qualification assessment
Course Prerequisites
To participate in our program and obtain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, applicants must:
- Be at least 16 years of age
- Be able to read, write, and speak the English language
- Pass a background check (certain medical issues and criminal history may disqualify)
PPE and Safety Equipment are provided for use during Phase 2, and must be returned. Upon hiring, uniform shirts, badges, and other gear will be available for purchase.
Alpha Drones USA and KSU
Drone technology is transforming industries including agriculture, construction, infrastructure inspection, media production, and environmental monitoring, creating growing demand for skilled commercial drone operators.
Alpha Drones USA is owned and operated by commercial airline pilots who bring decades of aviation experience to drone operations.
Their expertise helps ensure the training reflects the safety standards, operational procedures, and expectations used throughout the aviation industry.
Unlike many drone courses that focus only on passing an exam, this program emphasizes hands-on training and practical skills that prepare participants for real commercial drone services.
Located in the North Metro Atlanta area, the program provides accessible workforce training for individuals looking to enter the expanding drone industry.
Certification Highlights
- Hands-on flight training (10 hours) with professional-grade commercial drones
- Equipment-specific operational training
- Instruction on service-specific drone applications including agriculture, cinematography, and infrastructure inspections
- Performance evaluation and qualification assessment
- Training is designed to build workforce-ready skills that can be applied in commercial drone operations across multiple industries.
Career Outlook for Drone Pilots
Defense & Government
- High demand as military and security agencies expand UAV operations
- Average Salary: $85,000 – $150,000+
Agriculture (Precision Farming)
- Rapid adoption of drones for crop monitoring, spraying, and mapping
- Average Salary: $60,000 – $90,000
Film, Media & Video Production
- Growing demand for aerial cinematography in TV, film, and marketing
- Average Salary: $50,000 – $100,000+
Construction & Infrastructure Inspection
- Strong demand for site mapping, surveying, and progress monitoring
- Average Salary: $50,000 – $85,000
Real Estate & Property Marketing
- Growing use of drone photography for property listings and development marketing
- Average Salary: $40,000 – $70,000
Mapping, Surveying & GIS
- High demand for LiDAR mapping, land surveys, and environmental monitoring
- Average Salary: $70,000 – $100,000+
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need drone flying experience?
No previous experience is required, though basic familiarity with drones is helpful. Our program starts with fundamentals and builds to advanced commercial applications.
What equipment will I use during training?
You’ll train on the same professional equipment used in commercial operations, including agricultural drones, cinematography platforms, and inspection-specific models.
What’s included in the certification fee?
The program fee includes:
- Training Materials
- FAA exam preparation
- Hands-on flight instruction
- Qualification assessment
The only additional cost is the FAA testing fee (approximately $175), which is paid directly to the testing center.
How long is the training?
Most participants complete the full program in approximately 6–8 weeks, depending on their schedule and pace of learning.
