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Introduction to Drone Operations ( L7, 10 ECTS)

  • Location: Blended

  • weeks: 16

  • Fees: €1,250* see below for funding opportunities

  • Level 7

  • Course Type Flexible and Professional Learning

  • Study Mode Part Time

  • Department Built Environment

  • Start Date 09/09/2026

Course Overview

The aim of this module is to equip learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to operate drones safely and effectively within, but not limited to, construction-related environments. The module covers on-site operational procedures, aircraft technical and maintenance , flight limitations, and emergency protocols. Learners will also develop the competencies needed to manage and utilise drone-captured data efficiently through structured training in drone flight operations.

This programme equips participants with the skills needed to operate drones effectively in real-world construction environments and other sectors where high-quality aerial data is essential for planning, monitoring, and analysis.

More Information

  • Fundamentals of Drone Operations (5 ECTS)

    • Introduction to drones
    • EU and National Regulations
    • Legal and safety obligations
    • Pre-flight planning
    • Risk assessments and on-site procedures

    Drone Skills Acquisition (5 ECTS)

    • Drone Pilot Registration with IAA Accreditation
    • Simulated pilot training skills
    • Surveys, data collection, and storage
    • Flight training for Competency Test

  • A level 6 qualification or equivalent is required.

    Or

    Applicants who do not meet these requirements will be considered for entry on the basis of an assessment and, if appropriate, also an interview. Equivalence can be demonstrated by an appropriate qualification and significant relevant experience in the construction industry.

    Or

    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) 

    If you do not meet the academic entry requirements listed above but would like your application assessed under RPL please select YES on the online application form. Please include any relevant work experience/further information relevant to your application under the ‘Additional Information’ section.

    English Language: Applicants who do not have English as their first language must ensure they satisfy English Language requirements. For entry to undergraduate courses, a score of 5.5 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. For postgraduate courses, a score of 6.0 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure their English proficiency meets these requirements. Please note that we do not request proof of English language qualification or proficiency.

  • The programme will run for 16 weeks in a blended learning format (a mixture of online and 3 site visits per semester) as follows;

    Online classes 1 evening per week, 2 hours per evening, Tuesdays (fortnightly) from 7-9pm

    Three full day face to face practical workshops and site visits on Fridays or Saturday (Location and dates to be confirmed)

    Start Date

    There will be an online welcome session for all students on 9th September 2026.

    Classes will commence on Tuesday 15th September 2026.

    The proposed delivery schedule is subject to change.

  • Each 5 credits will normally equate to approximately 100 Total Learning Hours. Total Learning Hours includes the time you spend in class (lectures, tutorials, practical elements) and the time you spend completing work outside of college. The balance between these two varies by discipline, and by level of study. You should bear in mind that the workload will increase at particular times e.g. when assignments are due.

  • Assessment will be through a range of continuous assessments, which will involve:

    • Case Studies
    • Online Quizzes
    • Project Reports
    • Final Project

  • Certificate in Introduction to Drones Operations (Special Purpose Award, L7, 10 ECTS)

  • The fee is €1,250 and is part funded by the DASBE Initiative (HEA HCI Funded) for eligible applicants in 2026.

    Successful applicants will qualify for €416 in funding towards the cost of the programme. The balance of €834 will be payable by the applicant upon registration.

    Funding is limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis to eligible applicants.

    All students will be required to complete an Open A2  (UAS Remote Pilot Competency Certificate) during the programme.

    This is a requirement for remote pilots operations of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Additional Cost = €149.

  • Applications will close 2 weeks before the listed start date or once the maximum number of applicants is reached.

    Places are allocated on a first come first served basis.

    Programme run subject to viable numbers.

  • All students require a laptop.

    TUS will provide the necessary software to upload.