Diploma in Drone Technology
A UGC-approved 3-Year Diploma Building In-Depth Drone Design, Assembly, and Applications Skills, with Multiple Entry Pathways including Lateral Entry from ITI
Vikrant University, Gwalior offers a three years UGC approved Diploma in Drone Technology for students with in-depth technical knowledge of drone technology which includes the components of drone design, assembly, flight systems and real life applications of drones in industry. The Diploma provides multiple entry options for students from different educational backgrounds such as after 10th, after 12th (from any stream including vocational/technical) and through ITI.
Key Takeaways
Program overview
Introduction & Objectives: The 3-year diploma program focuses on the development of a well-rounded understanding of drone technology, including UAV design and drone manufacturing; flight control systems, sensors and navigation, and their applications in different areas, such as mapping, surveying and agriculture. The purpose of this program is to train highly skilled diploma engineers. It allows them to create, engineer, operate and maintain drone systems, which means that the growing drone industry in India will have new experts.
Industry Relevance: The country's drone industry is developing rapidly because of the national drone policy and PLI (Production Linked Incentive). The use of this technology is constantly increasing. While the diploma allows its holders to obtain a more profound understanding of the subject area compared to those with a certificate issued by the university in only a year.
Key Highlights : A diploma program recognized by UGC lasting three years - Many points of entry - either after completing class X or XII (any discipline) or lateral entry from ITI - Complete coverage of topics related to UAV design and working with drone systems - Provides an easy option for entering the field as a drone designer or operator - Provides a basis for further studies, like B.Tech in a related subject through direct entry - Located in the hub of the fast-growing drone and UAV sector in India
Why Choose This Program
Distinctive Value Proposition Many ways of entering the program are available to learners coming from various educational backgrounds, including vocational and ITI routes - Much more multifaceted technical content than in the university's 1-year certification in Drone Technology — preferred for those who aspire for a career in design or engineering rather than that of a field technician.
Alignment with Current Industry Trends Coursework includes the areas of UAV design, flight control systems, sensors, navigation, and applications of drone technology, which is broader and more thorough than that in the 1-year certification program, which allows students to prepare for careers in design, engineering, and management.
Activity-Based Learning Students engage in various activities related to drone development and operation and undertake different types of projects, including mapping, and take part in the final project.
Curriculum & Specializations
Core Subjects (Semester-wise). Syllabus Download: Download the full semester-wise syllabus PDF from the
Diploma programmesSemester 1
Basics of Drone Technology, Engineering Mathematics, Basic Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Engineering Drawing
Semester 2
Introduction to UAVs, Fundamentals of Aerodynamics, Workshop Practices, Communication Skills
Semester 3
Drone Assembly and Component Designing, Flight Controllers and Embedded Systems, Sensors and Navigation Systems, Drone Materials and Structures
Semester 4
GPS and GNSS Navigation Systems, Communication Systems in Drones, Battery and Power Systems in Drones, Safety of Drones and DGCA Regulation
Semester 5
Drone Utilization in Mapping, Surveying, Agriculture, and Industrial Operations; Fundamentals of Drone Data Analysis; Project I
Semester 6
Advanced UAV Design, Managing a Drone Fleet and Operations; New Developments in Drone Technology; Project II and Industrial Training
Facilities & Infrastructure
Laboratories and Practical Learning
The pupils registered for Diploma in Drone Technology course enjoy the benefit of learning in a hands-on environment provided to them by the School of Engineering and Technology, with which the pupils are in contact as they get access to the engineering laboratories that contribute to practical skill acquisition. Vikrant University presents its students with Drone Technology as its engineering diploma programme and goes to great lengths to emphasize the importance of practical learning via laboratories, workshops and other forms of applied learning in engineering education.
Technical Resources and Applications
The pupils gain useful experience in practical studies of the field of drone technology, electronics and embedded systems by learning in rigorous academic conditions that support the idea of gaining practical skills in the mentioned field. The University provides an opportunity to acquire the knowledge in Drone Technology as a specialty within its Electronics Engineering.
Library and Academic Resources
The students have access to Vikrant University's Central Library, as well as the academic resources essential for studies, assignments and projects as they learn engineering and new technologies.
Faculty & Mentorship
Experienced Faculty: The Diploma in Drone Technology has the backing of academicians and skilled instructors from the School of Engineering & Technology that is primarily focused on imparting practical knowledge and developing skills and abilities. Similarly, Vikrant University holds the credentials of having highly qualified faculty with both academic qualifications and experience in industry.
Exposure to the Industries: The students are motivated to acquire practical experience and industry-centric exposure through a variety of workshops, practical classes and project work. The School of Engineering & Technology believes in industry collaboration and practical training along with exposure to technologies in the field of engineering.
Innovation and Research: Students are empowered to develop skills in innovation and develop capacities in solving problems through project work and problem-solving activities. The University is advocating for the creation of a large space for research activities and innovation in the field of technology and science, which gives students an opportunity to study the latest development in the sphere of drone technology.
Career Opportunities
Salary ranges are indicative industry estimates for diploma-level entry roles in India and should be confirmed/updated against current placement data before publishing.
Drone Design Engineer
3.0 – 5.5 LPA
Drone Operations Manager
3.2 – 5.5 LPA
UAV Systems Technician
2.8 – 4.5 LPA
Drone Mapping & Survey Specialist
3.0 – 5.0 LPA
Junior Drone R&D Engineer
3.2 – 5.5 LPA
Agricultural Drone Solutions Engineer
2.8 – 4.8 LPA
Drone Fleet Maintenance Engineer
2.8 – 4.5 LPA
Drone Quality & Testing Engineer
3.0 – 5.0 LPA
Industry Sectors Hiring
After completing the diploma in drone technology, graduates can find opportunities that include drone manufacturing, surveying and mapping, inspection of infrastructures, agriculture and Agri-Tech, logistics, government projects, research and development and other technology-based sectors. The course presents engineering competence to the learners and provides practical knowledge to join in entry level jobs and improves professional skills. Vikrant University's school of engineering and technology is sector-specific education with practical training in the industry.
Higher Studies Options
Following graduation from the diploma program, students may choose to advance their education by registering in B.Tech/B.E. programs in Electronics and communication or other related engineering branches through permissible lateral entry routes while meeting the required entry qualifications. Student can also learn specific professional skills such as drone flying, UAV operation, and drone design and surveying through receiving recognized certifications from various relevant external bodies.
Placements & Industry Tie-ups
Placement Statistics
The Training and Placement Cell of University of Vikrant provides career guidance and helps the students of the Diploma in Drone Technology in industry interaction, internships and campus placements. The University reports more than 100 recruiters and more than 500 placements at the institutional level throughout the past five years. View Placement Statistics
Top Recruiters
Students can find opportunities available through the bigger placement network of the University in the field of engineering, technology, production, infrastructure, and others. The degree of participation of recruiters is variable depending on the specific program and recruitment period. The University has prominent companies such as Larsen & Toubro, Adani, TCS, Ericsson India, Wipro, JK Tyre, UltraTech, GAIL India, and others for the placement purposes. View our recruiters
Internships
The University of Vikrant focuses on practical training, internships, live projects, and the training that is targeted to the industry to prepare people for entering the workplace. The Training & Placement Cell also assists in getting different internships and job offers.
Admission Process
Eligibility Criteria — Prospective students applying for the Diploma in Drone Technology shall be required to fulfill the following admission requirements set by the University for its Diploma programs:
- 10th examination of a recognized board; OR
- 10+2 with any stream, including Vocational / Technical courses, of a recognized board or NSQF level 4 certification for eligible candidates not from science streams; OR
- ITI course of a recognized board for eligible students opting for lateral admission.
There is no specified minimum percentage for the Diploma in Drone Technology as per the published information regarding the university's diploma admission.
Entrance Exam — Admission is based on the above-mentioned eligibility criteria and admission procedure of the University. There is no separate entrance examination for the Diploma in Drone Technology as per the published information about the diploma admission of the University.
How to Apply
- Fill the online/offline admission form for Diploma in Drone Technology.
- Choose the applicable admission path based on your qualifying examination.
- Submit required academic and supporting documents.
- Get the document verification done.
- Pay the necessary admission fee.
- Get the admission confirmed by the University.
- Attend the orientation program.
Student Achievements
Projects & Hackathons: Participation in technology projects, innovation, technical exhibitions and hackathons which help in skill development and creativity is highly encouraged. The University initiatives like INDUX 5.0, a 24-hour hackathon at the national level, allow students to work on cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Intelligent Automation, Computer Vision and Defence & Strategic Technologies.
Awards & Competitions: Students from the School of Engineering & Technology take part in various technical competitions, project exhibitions and innovation events. IGNITE 2026 allowed students to demonstrate their technical ideas in the form of poster presentations and model exhibitions. Outstanding performers at the event were awarded certificates and cash prizes. There was also University's ATHENA Tech Fest 2026, where technical and systems based competitions related to Robotics, Engineering, Analytical and Project Based Thinking were organized.
FAQs
Can I get into a Diploma in Drone Technology after 10th?
Yes. The Vikrant University, Gwalior is offering Diploma in Drone Technology for students who have passed 10th directly from recognized board or who have passed 12th. The university also offers lateral entry to students from ITI.
Is this diploma in Drone Technology a UGC approved program?
Yes, this Diploma is an UGC approved program that has been certified by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
How long does it take to complete the Diploma in Drone Technology?
It takes three years to complete the course, which includes learning about the design of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), assembly of drones, flight system, and practical applications of drones through six semesters.
Can I join this diploma through lateral entry from ITI?
Yes, one can join the diploma through lateral entry from ITI, provided he/she holds an ITI qualification (electronics mechanic and other trades) from a recognized board.
Is it possible to study further after this diploma?
Yes, it is. One can join B.Tech in Electronics and aerospace engineering or any other related engineering fields through lateral entry after completing the Diploma.
What kind of jobs can I get after completing my drone technology diploma?
Upon completion of the course, the student is ready to be employed as a Drone Design Engineer, Drone Operations Manager, UAV System Technician, or Drone Mapping and Surveying Professional in the fields of manufacturing, agriculture and infrastructure.
What will be my salary after completing a diploma in drone technology in India?
The starting pay for the person is generally ₹2.8-5.5 LPA.
What is the eligibility for diploma in drone technology?
Eligibility includes 10th from a recognized board, or 10+2 in any stream (including vocational/technical) or NSQF Level 4 certification for non-science students, or an ITI qualification for lateral entry.
What is the difference between this diploma and the university's drone technology certificate?
The diploma is a longer, 3-year program covering drone design, engineering, and operations management in depth, preparing students for design and engineering roles — while the university's 1-year certificate focuses more narrowly on drone assembly and field technician-level skills.
Is a drone pilot license included with this diploma?
No. This diploma gives you an extensive understanding of technical aspects of drone design, engineering and operations but a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) for commercial drone flying is a separate qualification issued by DGCA and obtained independently.