Master of Science in Human Factors and Systems
Degree Requirements
The program has two tracks: Human Factors or Systems.
Graduate students and faculty demonstrate the systems models and training programs for local middle-schoolers during Women in Aviation Day
Human Factors Track
This is a research-based program offering a variety of research, consulting, and internship opportunities that will prepare you to work as a human factors professional. You will learn the techniques of human factors research, including statistical and quantitative procedures, experimental design, survey methods, computer techniques, and other methodologies.
The program is based on the scientist-practitioner model of the American Psychological Association.
Systems track
This program will teach you how to take a systematic approach to integrating and applying scientific principles and knowledge to product design. You’ll also learn to transform an operational need into a defined system function through the process of functional analysis, synthesis, optimization, and design integration.
A major focus of the Systems track is on the total "life cycle" of the system. The program teaches how issues of reliability, maintainability, logistic support, safety, producibility, and economics apply to the design, integration, and evaluation of systems.
You will graduate knowing the proper balance between operational, behavioral, economic, and logistics factors.
CO-OPS, INTERNSHIPS, JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Many Human Factors students expand their education through co-ops and internships at a wide variety of organizations, including: Aeronca, Apple, Aptima, Boeing, Delta Technologies, Flight Safety International, IBM, Johnson Engineering, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft, Motorola, National Transportation Safety Board, Sikorsky, Toyota, Transportation Safety Institute, NASA, United Space Alliance, US Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory.
If students pursue internships, they can find a wealth of support and information from our career services office.
GTA/GRA Positions
Many of our graduate students work within the department as Graduate Teaching or Research Assistants. Students typically work 20 to 25 hours each week. These positions provide both financial support and an opportunity for students to become actively involved in research programs that may lead to thesis projects. Students are also given the opportunity to prepare and deliver lectures in undergraduate courses.
