Program Overview

Introduction to Aviation Human Factors and Safety - Flight, B.S.

The B.S. in Aviation Human Factors and Safety with Flight is an interdisciplinary program that combines psychology, engineering, science, and design, along with pilot training. This program prepares students for careers as pilots or in safety analysis, human-centered design, and accident investigation, as well as for advanced degrees in human factors or safety.

Program Description

The program offers a strong foundation in math, physics, aeronautical sciences, and the global aviation industry, while students train to become pilots. From day one, students take specialized courses like aviation basics and meteorology, with opportunities for hands-on projects and research. The initial flight training covers key concepts like checklists, flight controls, and meteorology, progressing to advanced certificates and ratings such as the FAA instrument rating. Advanced training in single- and multi-engine aircraft prepares students for the FAA Commercial Pilot Practical Test.

Curriculum

The curriculum includes courses such as:

• Introduction to Aviation Psychology
• Human-Machine Systems
• Applied Ergonomics
• Aviation Science
• The National Airspace System
• Senior-level courses in airport management, aviation security, and aviation law

Research Opportunities

Real-world, hands-on experience is built into every major, and human factors and safety students enjoy extensive opportunities to collaborate with faculty and other students in ongoing research programs. The Human Factors: Aeronautics, Safety, Sociability, Interfaces, Sustainability, and Training (HF ASSIST) Lab researches a range of human factors topics, many related to detecting and mitigating aviation-related risks.

Career Opportunities

Employers regularly seek out graduates with an aviation human factors and safety degree from Florida Tech. Career options could include:

• Product development team lead
• Integration specialist
• Ergonomist
• Technical specialist
• Human factors research scientist
• Usability expert

Advanced Degree Options

After receiving their aviation human factors and safety degree, many graduates pursue advanced degrees in aviation human factors and other aviation-related fields. Options include:

• Aviation Human Factors, M.S.
• Applied Aviation Safety, M.S.A.
• Aviation Sciences, Ph.D.
• Doctor of Aviation, Av.D.

Locations Offered

The program is offered at the Melbourne Campus.

Accreditation and Recognition

The program is certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to receive the maximum time reduction allowed toward the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate. Graduates of this program are eligible for a restricted ATP at 1,000 flight hours. The College of Aeronautics is ranked one of the safest flight schools in the U.S. and is an approved Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative School by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Why Choose Florida Tech for Aviation Human Factors and Safety - Flight?

At Florida Tech, students receive first-rate pilot training while mastering the theoretical foundations of human factors and safety. They also apply this knowledge through hands-on projects and human factors research, building a portfolio of career-relevant experience. The university combines the benefits and resources of a larger school with a close-knit academic community, small class sizes, and one-on-one time with professors.

Facilities and Resources

Florida Tech is a world-class aeronautics school and one of the top institutions for engineering and science. Students benefit from excellent facilities and an aircraft fleet, as well as a wide range of high-tech tools for hands-on learning and research. The Emil Buehler Center for Aviation Training and Research provides a comprehensive environment for aviation training and research, including state-of-the-art aircraft and simulators.

Conclusion

The B.S. in Aviation Human Factors and Safety with Flight at Florida Tech is a unique and comprehensive program that prepares students for a wide range of careers in the aviation industry. With its strong foundation in math, physics, and aeronautical sciences, combined with pilot training and research opportunities, this program sets students up for success in their future careers.