Drone Technology
6 courses · Merced College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
DRON-01 Introduction to Drones
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- 1 hour lecture, 3 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course introduces students to the foundations of unmanned aerial systems including the history, UAS systems, maintenance, payloads, data links, ground support equipment, classes of UAS systems, categories, applications, mission planning and control and recovery systems. Students will also learn the basics of piloting and operating a sUAS. Safety and ethics associated with drone flight as well as the law will also be stressed. (03/21)
DRON-02 Federal Aviation Administration Drone Pilot Test Preparation
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 1 hour lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course reviews and prepares students to take the Federal Aviation Administration’s initial aeronautical knowledge test, and attain remote pilot license, through lecture, discussion and individual flying of drones. It will help guide students on basic aeronautics, safety, laws and operations as they pertain to drone piloting. (03/21)
DRON-10 Drone Technology I
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Advisory
- ENGL-C1000 (Formerly ENGL-01A)
- Transfers to
- CSU
This class is a basic introduction to drone technology. Lab involves construction and repair of a drone including the software used to manage data and fly. The many uses of drone technology will be explored through projects. This course will also prepare students to successfully pass the FAA aeronautical knowledge test and receive Remote Pilot Certification. (04/21)
DRON-11 Drone Technology II
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2 hours lecture, 3 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- CPSC-06 or CPSC-14
- Advisory
- DRON-10; ENGL-C1000 (Formerly ENGL-01A)
- Transfers to
- CSU
This class covers drone technology data acquisition and analysis. Several different sensors and data analysis applications will be utilized. (04/21)
DRON-20 Drone Media I
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hour lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course is an introduction to using drones commercially and creatively for digital imaging, and provides a starting point to using drones in multiple careers. This hands-on course covers operating, and outfitting drones for video and still imaging. Emphasis is placed on using drone photography and videography equipment, drone safety, performing inspections, and producing professional media using professional editing software. (03/21)
DRON-21 Drone Media II
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.5 hour lecture, 4.5 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- DRON-20
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course is designed to teach advanced skills in aerial photography, cinematography, construction management, and inspection with drones. Topics include inspection techniques, cinematic techniques during flight, video production techniques, 3D mapping, photographic techniques, panorama, video and photo editing, high resolution video, and intelligent mission planning. Students will use software to create original content that showcases a variety of professional aerial projects. (03/21)