Drones as key technologies in agriculture, industry and society

This Short Advanced Programme (SAP) offers an introductory approach to drone technologies and their role in today’s society. Participants will learn the basics of how drones work and discover their potential in sectors such as agriculture, industry, and the environment.

This SAP is designed as a beginner-friendly course for students who want to explore the fundamentals of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). Through a combination of online learning and a one-week in-person experience, participants will be introduced to how drones are used in key areas like agriculture, logistics, and environmental monitoring. The programme will cover:

  • Basic drone components and how they operate
  • Legal and safety considerations
  • Overview of drone applications in real-world contexts
  • Teamwork activities

No prior technical knowledge is required. The course encourages interdisciplinary participation and is suitable for students from various fields.

Programme dates: November 4th – December 5th, 2025

Online periods: November 4th – 14th, 2025 & November 24th – December 5th, 2025
In-person week: November 17th – 21st, 2025
ECTS: 4 (40h of training plus 60h of homework)

Start your journey into the world of drones. This SAP provides a practical and accessible introduction to one of today’s most exciting technologies.

Date:

4th of November 2025 to 7th of December 2025

Language of instruction:

English

4 ECTS credits
Academic recognition:

The programme is designed to be awarded 4 ECTS, based on 40 hours plus 60h of student homework.

Academic recognition is subject to approval by each participant’s home institution. Students are encouraged to contact their academic advisor or mobility coordinator for credit validation or transfer procedures.

Eligible participants:

This SAP is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students from all RUN‑EU partner institutions. Students from any academic background are welcome, especially those interested in sustainability, technology, engineering, agriculture, logistics, or environmental science. Interdisciplinary and international participation is strongly encouraged. The candidates will be selected according to the background and motivation showed in the questionnaire. A maximum of 25 students will be selected for this programme.    

How to apply:

Application for this product is closed.

Programme at a glance

First online period (online)
04 Nov - 14 Nov 2025 :
Block 1: Fundamentals of Drones and UAS (3h – Online) (1h live sessions+2h recorded) plus 10h of students’ homework
Block 2: Advanced Techniques and FPV (10h – Online) (5h live sessions+5h recorded) plus 20h of students’ homework
Face-to-face week (in person)
17 Nov - 21 Nov 2025 :
Burgos Burgos Spain
Block 3: In-Person Week – Drone Missions and Practical Skills (18h)
Second online period (online)
24 Nov - 05 Dec 2025 :
Block 4: Safety, Legal Framework, and Procedures (3h – Online)(1h live sessions+2h recorded) plus 10h of students’ homework
Block 5: Final Project and Applications (6h – Online)(2h live sessions+4h recorded) plus 20h of students’ homework

Learning outcomes

By the end of this Short Advanced Programme, learners will be able to:

Participants will gain knowledge of the main types of drones, their components, flight mechanics, and navigation systems, enabling them to explain how Unmanned Aerial Systems operate in different contexts

Through simulator practice and real-world cases, participants will develop experience in flight, automated mission setup, and data collection for mapping, inspection, and monitoring tasks

Students will be able to evaluate how drones contribute to agriculture, industry, logistics, and environmental monitoring, connecting theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges

Participants will understand the regulatory frameworks (such as EASA regulations), apply risk management strategies, and reflect on ethical, privacy, and data protection issues related to drone operations

Selection criteria

  • Motivation for interdisciplinary and international learning
  • Interest in drone technology and real-world applications
  • Availability to participate fully in online modules and the in-person week at UBU (17–21 Nov)
  • Academic background related to agriculture, science, technology, engineering, environmental studies, or other relevant fields will be positively considered
  • Balanced representation across RUN‑EU institutions, backgrounds, and disciplines

Involved organisations and persons

Fundación UBU

  • FUBU (Regional Stakeholder)

Technological University of the Shannon

Partner Organisation
  • Sergii Kushch (Instructor)

University of Burgos

Lead Organisation
  • Sergio Vélez-Martín (Lead Instructor)
Product label: SAP-DRONAGIS-02