LEAD THE FUTURE OF DRONE TECHNOLOGY

MSc Advanced Drone Technology

MSc Advanced Drone Technology develops advanced skills in drone systems, autonomous technologies, sensing, AI, cyber security and real-world drone applications.

Award

MSc

Duration

One year full-time or two years part-time

Tuition Costs 2026/27

Study Location(s)

Course starting dates

September, January, May

Advanced drone systems and autonomous technology

Develop specialist skills for the evolving drone technology sector

MSc Advanced Drone Technology is designed to equip you with the technical and professional competencies needed to work in the fast-moving drone industry. The course gives you a strong foundation in drone systems, applications and operations, with the opportunity for certified pilot training in General Visual Line of Sight.

You will explore areas such as remote sensing, data analysis, intelligent drone perception, software engineering for autonomous drones, cyber security and drone systems integration. The course also connects with the UWS Drone Systems Laboratory, giving the programme a strong research-led and industry-informed focus.

For the 60-credit capstone element, you can apply your learning through either an intensive research dissertation linked to the Drone Systems Laboratory or a hands-on professional development and industry internship with sector employers, subject to availability and competitive selection.

Who is this course for?

This course is for graduates with a background in computing, engineering or a relevant technical discipline who want to specialise in drone systems, robotics, autonomous systems, remote sensing, AI, cyber security or related technologies.

Where this degree can take you

Graduates may progress into roles such as remote sensing data analyst, software engineer, autonomous systems engineer, computer vision engineer or cyber security engineer within drone technology, robotics, logistics, inspection, environmental monitoring, infrastructure or research settings. The course can also support further study through MPhil or PhD routes.

Course Details

Drone systems focus

Study drone systems, operations, integration and real-world applications.

Research and industry links

Connect with UWS Drone Systems Laboratory activity and industry-facing drone technology projects.

Specialist technical pathways

Develop skills in areas such as sensing, AI, cyber security, software engineering and autonomous systems.

Core modules

  • Theory & Operation of Uncrewed Aerial Systems — 10 credits
  • Advanced Drone Systems Integration and Design — 10 credits
  • Remote Sensing and Data Analysis — 20 credits
  • IoT Security — 10 credits
  • Collaborative Drone Project — 20 credits

Optional modules

  • Intelligent Drone Perception Systems — 20 credits
  • Foundations of Cyber Security — 10 credits
  • Network Penetration Testing — 10 credits
  • Advanced Network Security — 10 credits
  • Threat Intelligence — 10 credits
  • Autonomous Software Engineering — 20 credits

Core modules

  • Masters Project — 60 credits
  • Professional Development and Industry Internship — 60 credits

The capstone route may involve either a research dissertation or a professional development and industry internship. Internship opportunities are competitive and subject to availability.

The course uses a blended and hybrid learning approach. In-person lectures and practical engagement are the norm, supported by online materials, simulations and virtual learning environments. Assessments develop technical skills, leadership, collaboration and reflective practice.

There is no mandatory additional cost, although optional costs may vary from around £200 to £2,000 depending on activities such as optional training or related opportunities.

Entry Requirements

What qualifications do you need?

We welcome Scottish, UK and international students and consider all applicants on an individual basis.

Please visit our Postgraduate entry requirements page for information on our different entry requirements, including country-specific details for EU and non-EU qualifications.

Applicants will typically possess an Honours degree at 2:2 or above in computing, engineering or a relevant discipline from a UK academic institution, or an equivalent four-year international degree qualification.

Candidates with other academic, vocational or professional qualifications may be considered. Candidates with at least two years of relevant industrial experience may also be considered on a case-by-case basis and may be invited to interview.

Applicants whose first language is not English must satisfy the University’s English language requirements. Equivalent recognised English language qualifications may be considered.

Relevant preparation may include study or experience connected to drone technology, robotics, autonomous systems, software, cyber security, artificial intelligence, engineering or related technical fields.

Careers across MSc Advanced Drone Technology

Career Prospects

Explore the career opportunities this course can lead to. The skills and knowledge you gain can prepare you for a wide range of roles across your chosen industry and support your long-term professional development.

Our application process is simple and fast.

Our application process is simple and fast.

Ready to apply or just exploring? Follow these simple steps to begin your journey to a career-focused education in one of the world’s most exciting cities.
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