Master of Science in
Unmanned & Autonomous Systems Engineering

Housed in the College of Engineering, the M.S. in Unmanned & Autonomous Systems Engineering is one of the first — and still one of the few — programs to offer the opportunity to study the engineering of unmanned and autonomous systems. This master's program prepares students to work in an industry developing systems that operate along a spectrum of autonomy, from unmanned aircraft and autonomous cars to robotic surface water and underwater vessels, spacecraft and industrial robots.

• A typical first year will include core classes such as Modern Control Systems and Unmanned and Autonomous Vehicle Systems, plus advisor-approved electives.
• This is a 30-credit program, including a 15-credit core and 15 elective credits. These credits may consist of coursework, coursework and a capstone project completed individually or with a team, or a thesis.
• Students will have access to the highly specialized labs and facilities within the College of Engineering.

Learn more about the Daytona Beach, FL Campus

The Master of Science in Unmanned and Autonomous Systems Engineering provides students with an education focused on gaining and applying the knowledge necessary for success within the unmanned systems industry. This 30-credit-hour program includes rigorous, multidisciplinary coursework designed to provide a flexible, online, graduate-level experience. Graduates will be prepared to join an emerging industry that designs, develops and supports systems capable of operating along the spectrum, from remotely controlled to fully autonomous systems.

Gain a competitive edge

Our comprehensive curriculum provides students with a systematic understanding of unmanned and autonomous systems. Through the coursework, students receive a diverse education, including core topics such as:

• Addressing the needs and opportunities of the public and commercial (civil) communities through the development and design of unmanned systems and their associated elements (subsystems and components).
• Examining and proposing innovative solutions to support evolving needs from the field, including compliance with design and operational requirements, enhancing system performance and adaptability, and integration of current and emerging technologies.
• Participating in an interactive, inquiry-based learning approach to education, with significant opportunities to explore topics connected to personal goals.
• Gaining specialized knowledge to support the development, application and advancement of the unmanned systems technology.
• Attaining essential experience investigating and addressing design and development challenges within the industry, including integration, spectrum management, system performance and autonomy.
• Developing and refining knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) to identify trends, analyze requirements, develop strategies, recommend solutions, recognize opportunities for innovation and communicate clearly from a rich knowledge and experience base.
• Learning and applying fundamental skills necessary for a successful career in today’s competitive and collaborative working environment.

The master’s in Unmanned and Autonomous Systems Engineering culminates with a two-term capstone project in which students develop a technical solution to a critical, real-world challenge.

Master your field while maintaining your career

With our flexible online platform, you can interact with professors and students on your schedule from anywhere in the world. Since the classes can be taken at your convenience, you can adjust your schedule to accommodate any career or family disruptions. No commute, no rigid classroom hours and no demanding schedule. Embry-Riddle provides an education designed to fit your needs.