Drone Applications for Environmental Risk Assessment, Microcredential, Part-time
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-01-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
This blended program provides comprehensive training in remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) safety, sensor fundamentals, image processing, and applications in the green economy. Graduates develop job-ready skills in drone operations, digital mapping, 3D modeling, and environmental sustainability, preparing them for careers in forestry, agriculture, and other related fields.
Program Outline
Outline:
- Introduction to RPAS Safety and Transport Canada Certification (XRPA 1100)
- Overview of remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS) including applications and history.
- Transport Canada RPAS regulations and laws.
- RPAS operating procedures with emphasis on safety and understanding capabilities and limitations of the aircraft.
- Hands-on opportunity to set up an RPAS in preparation for an image acquisition mission.
- Fundamentals of Relevant Sensors and Flight Planning (XRPA 1200)
- Practical and theoretical skills on how to conduct a proper site survey and basics of mission planning a drone flight.
- Review of EMR theory and basics of passive remote sensors.
- Overview of applications of multi-spectral and thermal sensors with a goal of setting up a sensor for image acquisition.
- Cloud-based Processing of Visible, Thermal, and multi-spectral Images (XRPA 1500)
- Introduction to structure-from-motion (SfM) photogrammetric processing of color, multi-spectral, and thermal drone images to create digital surface models (DSM) and orthomosaics.
- Applications of RPAS to Quantifying Green Economy Metrics (XRPA 1600)
- Introduction to applied GIS-based analysis of color, multi-spectral, and radiometric thermal orthomosaics including normalized difference vegetation indices (NDVI), 3D thermal building envelope inspection, and assessing transportation corridor risks.
Assessment:
A minimum passing mark of 50% is required, based on the overall performance on one assignment and one quiz per week for a total of four weeks.
Teaching:
Blended program - part online, part on campus.
Careers:
Graduates gain job-ready skills in careers related to drone operations, digital mapping, 3D modeling, and environmental sustainability including forestry and agriculture.
BCIT - British Columbia Institute of Technology
Overview:
BCIT is a public post-secondary institution in British Columbia, Canada, offering practical, flexible, and applied education. It distinguishes itself from traditional colleges and universities by focusing on hands-on learning with instructors who have direct experience in their fields.
Services Offered:
BCIT provides a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic & Learning Services:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing support, and library resources.Campus Amenities:
Cafeterias, fitness facilities, student lounges, and other amenities.Financial Aid & Awards:
Scholarships, bursaries, and other financial assistance programs.Health & Wellness:
Counseling, health services, and wellness programs.Safety & Security:
Campus security services and safety protocols.Student Life & Housing:
Student clubs, events, and housing options.Technology:
Access to computer labs, software, and online learning platforms.Workplace & Career Opportunities:
Career counseling, job placement services, and internship opportunities.Indigenous Initiatives:
Support services and programs for Indigenous students.International Students:
Support services and programs for international students.Student Association:
Student-run organization representing student interests.Student Life and Campus Experience:
BCIT offers a vibrant campus life with opportunities for students to engage in various activities, including:
Clubs and Organizations:
Joining clubs and organizations related to their interests.Events:
Attending campus events, workshops, and social gatherings.Volunteering:
Contributing to the community through volunteer opportunities.Mentorship:
Connecting with mentors and peers for guidance and support.Key Reasons to Study There:
Practical, Hands-on Learning:
Focus on applied learning with industry-relevant skills.Experienced Instructors:
Instructors with direct experience in their fields.Flexible Learning Options:
Full-time, part-time, and online programs.Strong Industry Connections:
Close ties with industry partners for internships and job opportunities.Career-Focused Programs:
Programs designed to prepare students for specific careers.Vibrant Campus Community:
Opportunities for student engagement and social interaction.Academic Programs:
BCIT offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Applied & Natural Sciences:
Business, media, computing, and IT.Engineering:
Various engineering disciplines.Health Sciences:
Healthcare and medical programs.Trades & Apprenticeships:
Skilled trades and apprenticeship programs.Flexible Learning:
Online and part-time programs.Microcredentials:
Short-term, specialized programs for skill development.Other:
BCIT is committed to sustainability and social responsibility, with initiatives focused on environmental protection and community engagement. The institution also acknowledges the unceded traditional territories of the Coast Salish Nations.
