Schedule
Commercial Drone Pilot course runs August 17 - October 12
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Prepare for the FAA Remote Pilot Certificate
Welcome to ground school! This course will equip you with the knowledge needed to successfully pass the Remote Pilot Certificate administered by the FAA. Learn from expert instructor Casey Phinney who will teach you all about FAA regulation, operation, and commercialization. Be sure to check if you qualify for the TECP grant to cover 100% of your course cost.
TECP State Grant Funding
The Technology Employment in Colorado Partnership (TECP), a workforce initiative of the City and County of Denver, may help cover the cost of this program for eligible Colorado residents pursuing a career in remote pilot (drone) operations.
Getting Started
1. Review eligibility criteria to determine if you might qualify.
2. Create a Connecting Colorado Account and complete the initial assessment form.
3. Once you have created your Connecting Colorado account, email [email protected] and share what career pathway you are interested in pursuing. A resume and information on previous experience is appreciated to help determine eligibility. Afterwards, you will be connected with a case manager who will support you moving forward.
3. Eligible students can secure grant funding and enroll in Commercial Remote Pilot Certificate courses with no out-of-pocket cost.
Want to apply or have questions? Contact [email protected].
Who Qualifies / Eligibility
- Age 17 or older
- Colorado resident, any county
- Unemployed, underemployed, or looking to transition to a tech career
- All backgrounds welcome, no prior IT experience required
Format
Self-paced course that is 100% online to fit into your busy schedule.
Cost
Course cost is $850 plus a $35 registration fee.
Why take Commercial Drone Pilot course?
Professional Career Advisement
Receive a personal advising session with your instructor and gain confidence in your future career.
Commercialize Your Drone Business
Under FAA regulation, you must pass the Remote Drone Pilot test to operate a uncrewed aircraft system in the United States.
Grant Funded for Eligible Students
Those who are eligible for TECP funds will pay no out-of-pocket cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Take your first step into the rapidly growing world of drone aviation with Introduction to Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). This engaging, non-credit course is open to the public, no prior aviation experience is required and is designed to prepare you for the FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification exam.
Through a mix of real-world examples and practical knowledge, you’ll build a strong foundation in drone operations, including airspace regulations, weather, flight planning, safety, and industry best practices. Whether you’re pursuing a career in aerial photography, infrastructure inspection, public safety, agriculture, or simply expanding your skill set, this course provides the essential knowledge needed to operate drones legally and professionally.
By completing this course, you’ll earn a Metropolitan State University of Denver issued badge that enhances your resume, showcases a higher level of professional credentialing, and demonstrates the knowledge, competence, and confidence expected of a skilled and responsible drone pilot.
You will also be prepared to take the FAA Remote Pilot Certificate to gain a credential to commercially operate a drone in the United States.
Yes, this course is online and self-paced. The instructor may host in-person office hours for students who want brief hands-on experience with uncrewed aircraft systems.
Meet Your Instructor
Casey Phinney
Casey Phinney is an Assistant Professor of Aviation and Aerospace Sciences at MSU Denver, specializing in uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and real-world drone operations. With a background as a helicopter pilot and extensive experience in UAS technology, he brings a powerful combination of traditional aviation expertise and cutting-edge drone knowledge to every course he teaches.
Casey has worked across a wide range of drone applications, giving him a deep understanding of how UAS are used in today’s fast-growing industries. He is passionate about helping students and professionals turn drone skills into real opportunities, building confidence, earning credentials, and standing out in a competitive field. His courses are designed to go beyond theory, equipping learners with the practical knowledge and industry insight needed to succeed as professional drone pilots.
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Email usPhone: 303-615-1234
Office Location:
Jordan Student Success Building
3rd Floor – #330
Auraria Campus
Mailing Address:
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Innovative and Lifelong Learning
P.O. Box 173362
Campus Box 6
Denver, CO 80217-3362