{"id":1500,"date":"2016-12-06T19:18:01","date_gmt":"2016-12-06T19:18:01","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/bestdroneforthejob.com\/?page_id=1500"},"modified":"2021-03-16T15:02:06","modified_gmt":"2021-03-16T15:02:06","slug":"drone-pilot-training-definitive-guide-online-courses-ground-training-schools","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/bestdroneforthejob.com\/drone-pilot-training-definitive-guide-online-courses-ground-training-schools\/","title":{"rendered":"Drone Pilot Training: The Definitive Guide to Online Courses & UAV Ground Schools"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"drone<\/strong><\/p>\n

Over 50 Drone Pilot Training Courses and Programs<\/strong><\/h2>\n

This list below covers more than 50 of the best professional drone pilot training programs and UAV ground schools available in the world.<\/strong><\/p>\n

These courses are designed for people interested in piloting a UAV as a professional<\/strong> and\/or running their own drone \/ UAV service<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

I’ve also included a few programs that serious racing drone<\/a><\/strong> and camera drone<\/a><\/strong> operators may want to consider.<\/p>\n

And, I included comprehensive introductory courses<\/strong> for people new to the industry.<\/p>\n

The list has two parts: first, I cover online courses (organized by subject)<\/strong>, then I list ground training programs (by country)<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\n

State of The UAV Training Industry<\/h2>\n

\"warningCommercial and professional use of in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), unmanned aerial systems (UASs) and drones (multi rotor and fixed wing) has really taken off in recent months.<\/p>\n

With aerial photography<\/strong> and mapping<\/strong> invading so many industries today, governments around the world are introducing regulations that govern UAV operation and operators, to keep the public safe.<\/p>\n

In the United States, for example, the FAA recently introduced Part 107 certification for UAV operators<\/a>. The UK, Australia and Canada have also come up with new regulations and certifications for remotely piloted aircraft.<\/p>\n

To keep up with these requirements, it has become essential that amateur and professional drone and UAV operators get the right kind of training. <\/strong><\/p>\n

The nature of the training you need depends on what you plan to do with your aircraft.<\/p>\n

Luckily, a wide variety of UAV\/UAS\/drone training schools and online courses are springing up all over the world, to help.<\/p>\n

One thing I discovered when compiling this list is that there are a LOT of training options<\/strong> out there now; so, whatever your skill level and specialization, there is probably something out there for you.<\/p>\n

There are courses available for beginner pilots<\/strong>; courses to learn specific skills like aerial mapping<\/strong> and industrial inspection; <\/strong>and, courses for people who want to fly drones for fun<\/strong>. There are even courses that teach you how to build your own drone<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"bestAnother trend I have seen rising for a while is the increasing variety in courses that teach people how to properly plan and shoot aerial photographs and professional video<\/strong>. Given that aerial photography is the biggest application of UAVs today, it makes sense there are plenty of courses for this.<\/p>\n

Finally, I’ve noticed that industry-specific training courses<\/strong> have really taken off, this year.<\/p>\n

For example, there are courses that teach commercial drone operators how to safely inspect industrial towers<\/strong>. Another course teaches you how to stitch images together to create topographical, NDVI and other types of industry-specific aerial maps<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

If you are looking for career change<\/strong> into drone\/UAV services, there are plenty of learning opportunities for that, as well.<\/p>\n

With the proper training, certifications and experience, any drone enthusiast can now pivot into a high-paying career<\/strong> or even create their own drone service business<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\n

How To Navigate This List<\/h2>\n

The list is organized into two main sections: first is a list of online courses<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

If you prefer in-person training, then jump to the second section, which contains a list of ground training programs<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

For international<\/strong> courses<\/strong>, jump to the bottom of the list.<\/p>\n

To learn more about a course<\/strong>, touch or click the name to visit the educator’s website.<\/p>\n

For the latest availability<\/strong> on a particular course, visit the educator’s website or contact the instructor directly.<\/p>\n

Please leave your suggestions in the comments, below.<\/p>\n

Good luck!<\/p>\n

\n

Online Drone Training Courses – By Subject<\/h2>\n

Part 107 UAV Operator Certification (USA)<\/h3>\n

Part 107 Ground School Study Guide<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Tim Trott
\nCost: $50
\nNumber of learners: 407
\nPart 107 of FAA regulations regarding the use of UAS (unmanned aircraft systems) requires drone operators to be proficient in 12 subject areas. This 2-hour course with 14 lectures will help you prepare for the test. The course has basic math as a basic requirement for those planning to undertake it.<\/p>\n

Part 107 Prep Course: Test Questions<\/a><\/p>\n

Cost: $24.95 for 90-day access
\nThis course is designed specifically to help drone operators prepare for the new FAA Part 107 certification. Course materials include a vast database of test questions, practice tests and simulations of the real certification test. You can access course materials on your desktop, tablet or smartphone.<\/p>\n

Part 107 Test Prep<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: DARTdrones
\nCost: $350
\nIf you are preparing to take the FAA Part 107 exam, this course will help you prepare for it. It gives you access to a simulated test prep, 300 test questions, a student guide and ability to ask a chief pilot questions. The course is prepared by an expert team and is designed to make you fully ready to pass your Part 107 exam and become a certified UAS pilot.<\/p>\n

FAA Remote Pilot Certification Course<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructors: David Jensen, Alan Perlman, Lana Axelrod, Scott Lashmit
\nCost: $299
\nThis course prepares you for the FAA Part 107 certification exam. Course materials include thirty video lectures, 5 practice tests to simulate the real exam and real test questions. The course also includes flight proficiency training, which equips you with a drone pilot ground school diploma. “Over 99% of our students pass on their first attempt”.<\/p>\n

\n

Aerial Photography and Video<\/h3>\n

Aerial Videography: Drone Filming<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Drew Roberts and Nathan Labruzza
\nCost: Free (on Skillshare – $8\/month)
\nNumber of learners: 5,399
\nDrew Roberts and Nathan Labruzza in collaboration with aerial cinematography company, Wild Rabbits, provide a captivating introduction to drone filming. You will learn cool camera moves, drone control, shot selection and safety among other lessons. The course comprises 11 videos totaling 44 minutes.<\/p>\n

How To Tell Aerial Stories<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Alex Assenmacher
\nCost: $65 (currently discounted to $19)
\nNumber of learners: 611
\nHave you ever wanted to tell a beautiful story through drone filming? This is your chance. Through 46 lectures (totaling 4 hours) he shows you how to tell stories through aerial filming. The course includes lessons on proper flying, shot taking and film production.<\/p>\n

Video Creativity: GoPro Cameras<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Greg Hung
\nCost: Free (on Skillshare – $8\/month)
\nNumber of learners: 181
\nThe South African-born but Canada-raised video and photography guru provides an in-depth look at GoPro filming whether in the air, on land or in the ocean. Made up of 20 videos, the 53-minute course begins with the basics of GoPro filming and slowly expands into some of the creative ways you can use a GoPro camera.<\/p>\n

Aerial Photography and Videography<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Umair Vanthaliwala
\nCost: $50 (Currently discounted to $19)
\nNumber of learners: 923
\nOver the course of 12 hours and 80 lectures, you will become a master of shooting videos with a drone, safety and editing your great videos. Most importantly, the course guides you on how to start an aerial filming business.<\/p>\n

Aerial Videography and Photography Using DJI Phantom 3 Professional<\/a>
\nInstructor: Greg Hung
\nCost: Access provided to premium account holders ($8\/month)
\nNumber of learners: 114
\nThe DJI Phantom 3 Professional is one of the most powerful drones for aerial work. But it can be tough to handle and use safely. This course, consisting of 8 videos totaling 44 minutes, will guide you through the overview and basics of using the Phantom 3 Professional.<\/p>\n

DJI Phantom Aerial Photography and Videography Basics<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Mark Richardson
\nCost: $200 (currently discounted to $19)
\nNumber of learners: 1,881
\nIf you are just starting out on aerial photography and videography, this is one of the best courses. Over the course of 54 lectures and 2 hours he teaches things like choosing the right drone, customizing your drone and capturing amazing aerial shots.<\/p>\n

Phantom Film School 3: 3D models, Focus, Follow & more<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Laurence Seberini
\nCost: $40 (currently discounted to $19)
\nNumber of learners: 1,069
\nOver 21 lecturers totaling up to 4 hours, you will learn master-level flying, filming and editing skills to turn you into a drone filming pro. The course uses a DJI Phantom as the main learning tool. At the end, you will be able to capture stunning cinematic footage and panoramas, edit them and create aerial 3D models.<\/p>\n

Drone Aerial Photography and Videography<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Dr Bruce Geddes
\nCost: $50 (currently discounted at $19)
\nNumber of learners: 3,591
\nThis course (77 lectures over 6 hours) combined stunning drone footage with important lessons on areas like video shooting, aerial photography, editing and the legal issues surrounding drone usage. This course is for anyone who wants to seriously get into videography and photography using a drone. You will be a master by the end of the course.<\/p>\n

Aerial Post-Production Editing<\/a> <\/p>\n

Instructor: Christian Tucci
\nCost: About $250 (waiting list)
\nThe post-production editing process is just as important as the shooting. Learning how to edit your creations can help you produce amazing projects and save money you would have spent hiring a professional editor. This course teaches you everything you need to know from adding music to correcting color and choosing the right drone.<\/p>\n

Aerial Photography<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: DARTdrones team
\nCost: $100
\nDon\u2019t just fly your drone around taking average shots. This 40-minute online course gets you on the journey to being a master aerial photographer. Lessons include drone angling to get the best shot, proper camera settings, how to work with the weather and a handy checklist every aerial photographer should keep handy.<\/p>\n

\n

Industry-Specific Training<\/h3>\n

Introduction to Aerial Thermography (Thermal Imaging)<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Brendan Stewart
\nCost: Not currently open for enrollment
\nUnmanned Thermal imaging is an area that has grown in importance to energy, infrastructure and communication industries. Thermal imaging drones are used to perform safety and maintenance checks in places humans would typically not go. If you want to make money doing thermal imaging for companies, this course is a good place to start.<\/p>\n

Precision Agriculture<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Enrique Qui\u00f1ones
\nCost: $200 (currently discounted to $19)
\nNumber of learners: 178
\nIf you are interested in the applications of UAVs in enhancing agriculture, this course is for you. It will introduce you to hardware and software requirements, flight planning and software processing. It includes 1.5 hours of lectures spanned over 23 videos.<\/p>\n

Introduction to 3D mapping<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Enrique Qui\u00f1ones
\nCost: $200 (currently discounted to $19)
\nNumber of learners: 376
\nIf you are involved in 3D mapping projects whether in engineering, urban planning or law enforcement, this course will be hugely beneficial. It shows you how to achieve speedy, effective and affordable 3D mapping using drones. Over 17 lectures, the instructor will introduce you to hardware and software requirements, show you how to take measurements and open your eyes to many other 3D mapping applications of drones.<\/p>\n

Mapping and 3D Modeling 101<\/a> <\/p>\n

Instructor: Icarus Aerials team
\nCost: $199
\nIf you have ever thought about making money from your skills, this is a great place to start. The course teaches you how to use your drone for mapping and 3D modeling. You will be introduced to all the hardware and software requirements as well as the important techniques for capturing data and transforming it into maps and models.<\/p>\n

\n

Operating a Drone Business<\/h3>\n

Drone Business Seminars<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructors: DARTdrones experts
\nCost: $300
\nThe course will teach youLearn everything you need to know to start your UAS \/ drone service business – the business laws surrounding UAS companies, how to properly insure your business and how to market your UAS business. These seminars are great for any drone operator considering making money from their craft. They equip you to successfully handle the business side of operating a drone service business.<\/p>\n

UAS Foundation Course<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructors: Unmanned Experts team
\nCost: $800
\nIf you are looking to get into UAS, this is one of the best courses to get you going. It is compact and fast paced yet comprehensive, covering a total of 19 modules. It begins with the basics of UAS classifications and command and control operations. It then delves into deeper topics such as human factors, payload options and UAS maintenance. There are a number of case studies and an intensive quiz at the end that lead to certification.<\/p>\n

Cine Chopper University Drone Training<\/p>\n

Instructor: Chris Newman
\nCost: $1,497 (currently discounted to $797)
\nThe price quoted above gives you lifetime membership to Cine Chopper University. You will get access to more than 30 hours of lectures, a course to prepare you for Part 107 certification, access to a community of drone flyers and mentorship from a pro. This is one comprehensive program to teach you everything about using a drone, taking pictures, shooting footage, editing and business training.<\/p>\n

Drone U<\/a><\/p>\n

Cost: $47\/month
\nAnother comprehensive program for those aspiring to be expert and certified drone operators. For $47 a month, you get access to various courses to help you advance your skills. You also get access to webinars, Q and As, expert interviews and an exclusive community. The program will not only make you a UAV expert, it will also guide you on how to turn your skills into a healthy income.<\/p>\n

Hobby Training<\/p>\n

Instructor: DARTdrones
\nCost: $100
\nWhile many online drone courses are targeted toward those who want to become professional drone operators, this one is designed specifically for hobbyist flyers. You will learn all the important FAA rules, the different components of a drone, and safety. If you have no interest in becoming a UAS professional but just want to fly drones for fun, this is for you.<\/p>\n

\n

Introductory Courses<\/h3>\n

Aviation Fundamentals<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructors: Unmanned Experts team
\nCost: $400
\nFor those who want to get into UAS but have no prior aviation experience, this introductory course is highly recommended. It introduces you into basic aviation knowledge, expound on various topics like navigation systems, GPS, aerodynamics, radio communications and weather effects. The 7-lecture course will prepare you to undertake full training in drone operations and control.<\/p>\n

Introductory Quadcopters Course<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Yogesh Ramakrishnan
\nCost: $19
\nNumber of learners: 1,235
\nThis is the perfect course for someone with no background in drones. Even if you have a bit of experience, a deeper understanding of different parts of a drone and how they work will prove beneficial. The videos are easy to understand and there are clear instructions on what you need to buy and where to get them.<\/p>\n

Hobby Training<\/p>\n

Instructor: DARTdrones
\nCost: $100
\nWhile many online drone courses are targeted toward those who want to become professional drone operators, this one is designed specifically for hobbyist flyers. You will learn all the important FAA rules, the different components of a drone and safety. If you have no interest in becoming a UAS professional but just want to fly drones for fun, this is for you.<\/p>\n

National Drone School<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: National Drone Schools
\nCost: $199
\nThis is a full UAV training course comprising various subject areas starting with the basics and then the intermediate and advanced lessons. Whether you have just gotten into drone flying or you have been doing it for some time, this course is great. The course is completely self-paced with plenty of video and audio materials to help you along.<\/p>\n

Drone Masterclass: Your Complete Guide to DJI Drones<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Kate Kay
\nCost: $175 (currently discounted to $19)
\nNumber of learners: 2,107
\nAfter 21 lectures (1 hour total), you will become a master at flying DJI drones and using them for all sorts of aerial applications. This is a beginner course for people who have just started flying drones or are planning to start soon. Thus, the lessons start with the very basics. You will need to own a DJI Phantom or Inspire to follow the lessons.<\/p>\n

\n

Build Your Own<\/h3>\n

Build Your Own Quadcopter<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Mohiudin Malik
\nCost: $19
\nNumber of learners: 112
\nThis is an introductory course for leaners that have no background in drones or aviation. You will be taught how to build your own radio-controlled drone and through the process, understand the various parts of a drone and how they work. The course is self-paced course with 26 lectures totaling 2 hours. Expect to spend around $250 on required parts.<\/p>\n

Building a Racing Quadcopter<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Silvio Gollega Jr
\nCost: $19
\nNumber of learners: 447
\nChallenge yourself and put together a racing drone using this course. With a few tools, some bits and pieces you can get at an affordable cost and plenty of patience, you will be suprised at what you can construct. There are 47 (2.5 hours) easy to follow videos with instructions on everything you need to get going.<\/p>\n

\n

UK Commercial Drone Certification<\/h3>\n

3iC Remote Pilot Authorization Course (UK)<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Unmanned Experts
\nCost: $1,500
\nThis is a UK-based online course to prepare learners for the UK Commercial Operations accreditation<\/strong>. The 8-module course introduces students to subjects like aircraft regulations, radio communication and safety among others. You do not need any prerequisite qualification and successful completion is rewarded with a certificate. It also sets you up for entry into the next 3iC qualification course.<\/p>\n

\n

UAV Ground Training Programs – By Country<\/h2>\n

UNITED STATES<\/h3>\n

UAV Pilot Training<\/a><\/p>\n

Instructor: Unmanned vehicle University
\nCost: $3500
\nThis program consists of three phases. The first phase is the theory part and is web-based. It introduces the basics of UAV piloting. The second phase involves working with a UAV simulation to give you a feel of what reality is like. In the final phase, you are scheduled for a 2-day in-person training program at one of the many flight training centers they have in the US.<\/p>\n

UAS Flight Training<\/a> <\/p>\n

Instructor: Unmanned Experts
\nCost: $895 for 2.5-day boot camp, $1,795 for 7-day academy
\nThere are three levels offered under this program by Unmanned Experts. The first is a 2.5 day introductory boot camp designed for beginners. The second is a 7-day academy for UAS fliers who want to explore advanced drone applications. The third is an advanced program designed for operators in specific industries, including:<\/p>\n