Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Technology and Operation

What is the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Technology and Operation Program? Why Should I Study It?

Unmanned aerial vehicle systems have a large market both in Turkey and worldwide, with applications in precision agriculture, infrastructure inspection and monitoring, natural resource monitoring, environmental compliance, atmospheric research, media and entertainment, sports photography, filmmaking, wildlife conservation and research, disaster relief, firefighting, logistics, and defense industry. As technology continues to evolve, UAV systems are also advancing. It is expected that the demand for graduates of the UAV Technology and Operation Program, who will perform planned maintenance according to manufacturer manuals and carry out various related tasks, will continue to grow in line with the sector’s expansion.

This program is suitable for those interested in aviation, high-tech systems, and future robotic applications, offering a wide range of career opportunities.

Double Major (ÇAP) Opportunities in the UAV Technology Program

Students in the UAV Technology Program can benefit from the double major (ÇAP) opportunity, enriching their technical expertise in UAV systems with complementary technology disciplines and expanding their career horizons.

Programs Available for Double Major

• Aircraft Technology

• Information Security Technology

• Computer Programming

Students admitted to the double major program can complete their second associate degree simultaneously with their main UAV Technology program, earning two separate diplomas. This allows them to combine flight control and maintenance skills with in-depth knowledge in aircraft design, cybersecurity, or software development, providing a strong competitive advantage in defense, aviation, R&D, and technology sectors.

This double major opportunity helps our students develop project management, multidisciplinary teamwork, and innovative technology integration skills, enabling them to excel in the dynamic aviation and technology sectors. For application requirements, success criteria, and quota details, please contact your program advisor.

Why Should I Study UAV Technology and Operation at Kapadokya University?

Since 2016, Kapadokya University has been conducting leading UAV activities in Turkey through its UAV Systems Application and Research Center, including the development of the General Directorate of Civil Aviation UAV Registration System. As an authorized institution by the DGCA for all UAV classes, the university has trained over 2,000 UAV pilots. The center’s R&D activities produce UAVs and components with various operational capabilities. Kapadokya University continues its research and development as a recognized and pioneering institution nationally and internationally in the UAV field.

Kapadokya University is authorized to provide training and pilot licenses for the following UAV types:

• UAV-0: Maximum takeoff weight 500 g (inclusive) – 4 kg,
• UAV-1: Maximum takeoff weight 4 kg (inclusive) – 25 kg,
• UAV-2: Maximum takeoff weight 25 kg (inclusive) – 150 kg,
• UAV-3: Maximum takeoff weight 150 kg (inclusive) and above.

*Click here to see why authorized training is important for the UAV Technology and Operation program and which areas we are authorized to train.

What Do Graduates of UAV Technology and Operation Do? What Are Their Career Opportunities?

Graduates of the UAV Technology and Operation program can be employed in UAV design, assembly, component manufacturing, R&D, and development institutions. They can work as pilots, ground operators, or maintenance personnel in companies conducting UAV flight operations. They may also serve as UAV design, marketing, or technical consultants, or as instructors in institutions offering UAV training. Graduates can be employed in private enterprises for reconnaissance, observation, search and rescue, photography, fire detection, agriculture, mapping, and transportation, or work independently.

Graduates of the UAV Technology and Operation Program:

• Have knowledge of components and systems required for UAVs.
• Understand disassembly, assembly, and tooling for UAVs.
• Can select appropriate parts for UAVs and assess their advantages and disadvantages.
• Have knowledge of meteorology, location, and time zones for UAV operation.
• Can solve technical problems individually and in teams.
• Can follow developments in UAVs and aviation.
• Can operate UAVs.
• Can approach UAV design aerodynamically and determine required propulsion and power systems.
• Can create and improve unique UAV designs.
• Have the theoretical and practical experience necessary to obtain a UAV pilot license.
• Have knowledge of aircraft, flight dynamics, and principles.
• Have knowledge of UAVs, airframes, and systems.
• Understand the role and importance of human factors in aviation.

Courses in the UAV Technology and Operation Program

In the first year, students take Introduction to Civil Aviation, Introduction to Algorithm Programming, Physics, Mathematics, Electricity, Electronics, UAV Structures and Systems, and Aerodynamics to acquire foundational knowledge. In the second year, courses include Flight Planning, Design and Maintenance Practices, UAV Flight Systems, Aviation Regulations, Meteorology, Pilot Applications, Control Systems, Introduction to Air Traffic Control, Safety Management Systems, UAV Operations, Human Factors, Propulsion Systems, Propellers, and Microcontrollers, preparing students for UAV operation, production, or specialized missions.

Qualities Required for Prospective UAV Technology and Operation Students

• Interest in aviation,
• Interest in high-tech systems,
• High attention and responsibility,
• Ability to handle stressful situations,
• Collaboration and teamwork skills,
• Analytical thinking ability.

UAV Technology and Operation Associate Degree Program Exam Type:

Program Language: Turkish

Program Type: Full-time Education

Program Duration: 2 years

Program Campus: Mustafapaşa Campus

• Aviation Electrical Electronics
• Aircraft Maintenance and Repair
• Aircraft Airframe and Engine Maintenance
• Aeronautical Engineering

UAV Technology and Operation Program 2025-2026 Tuition Fees

UAV Technology and Operation 2025-YKS Placement Quotas and 2024-YKS Minimum Scores

UAV Technology and Operation 2025-YKS Additional Placement Quotas Minimum Scores

Graduates of Vocational and Technical Secondary Education Institutions in the Following Fields/Branches Can Apply to the UAV Technology and Operation Program with Additional Points