USI at Horry-Georgetown Technical College

Fast Track Program Details

Next Cohort Starts Jan. 5, 2026 | 12-Week Accelerated Program

Program Overview

The Fast Track Drone Pilot Program at Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC) includes instruction on UAS safety, the fundamentals of drone technology, mission planning, and provides hands-on flight experience to prepare participants for a career in UAS. This program integrates multiple industry certifications into a streamlined curriculum that can be completed in as few as eight weeks.

Certifications Available:

1 - Remote Pilot Certificate (From the FAA)
2 - VLOS System Operation Ground Certification (From USI)
3 - VLOS System Operation Flight Certification (From USI)

Scholarships may be available for those over the age of 18 who have resided in the state of South Carolina for at least one year.

Program Duration / Schedule:

Duration: 8 weeks of intensive, full-time study
Structure: Combination of online and instructor-led activities, including multiple on-site training residencies at Horry-Georgetown Technical College (HGTC).

Certification is valid for 24 months; recertification is accomplished by completing recurrent training. 

Students will also receive a Certificate of Completion from Horry-Georgetown Technical College upon successful completion of the program.