Program Overview

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Introduction to the Aviation Human Factors, M.S. Program

The Aviation Human Factors, M.S. program at Florida Tech is designed to prepare students to improve safety, performance, and design across complex aviation systems. This research-driven program focuses on the human element of aviation, including how people interact with technology and automation, how stress, fatigue, and decision-making influence human performance, and how to anticipate and prevent errors.

Program Overview

The Aviation Human Factors, M.S. program is a 30-credit program that offers both thesis and nonthesis options. The program links the science of human performance with real-world aviation challenges, preparing students to improve safety and performance in complex systems. Students will study how people interact with technology and automation, how stress and fatigue affect decision-making, and how to prevent human error. Hands-on projects with aviation data build analytical skills, while research and advanced coursework in cognition, interface design, and physiology deepen expertise.

Why Choose Florida Tech for Aviation Human Factors?

Florida Tech's expert faculty, top-notch resources, and prime location in the heart of Florida's aerospace and high-tech corridor make it an ideal institution for pursuing an aviation human factors master's degree. The university combines the resources of a large university with a sense of close-knit community, small classes, and one-on-one time with professors. The faculty are dedicated researchers who actively support students' passion for discovery, providing guidance and mentorship throughout their academic journey.

Locations Offered

The Aviation Human Factors, M.S. program is offered at the Melbourne Campus.

Admission Information

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent. While some aviation experience or coursework is desirable, the program offers opportunities to build any foundational knowledge needed through additional courses alongside the aviation human factors curriculum, ensuring students are fully prepared to succeed.

Careers in Aviation Human Factors

Graduates of the aviation human factors master's program are prepared for careers that focus on improving safety, efficiency, and usability in aviation and related industries. Roles may include:

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

As technology evolves, graduates also find opportunities in areas such as flight testing, air traffic operations, and advanced air mobility, applying their expertise to create safer and more effective human-machine systems.

Advanced Degree Options

Florida Tech offers two doctoral paths in aviation:

• Doctor of Aviation, Av.D. (Online): Designed for full-time industry professionals, this research-driven, applied program enhances practice and leadership through dissertation research.
• Aviation Sciences, Ph.D. (On-campus): Oriented toward advancing theory and solving complex aviation challenges, this program prepares graduates to lead and innovate across industry, government, and academia.

Curriculum

The M.S. in aviation human factors links the science of human performance with real-world aviation challenges, preparing students to improve safety and performance in complex systems. The curriculum includes hands-on projects with aviation data, research, and advanced coursework in cognition, interface design, and physiology.

Research

Florida Tech is known worldwide for excellence in engineering and science, with research led by faculty and industry partners. The university is a core member of the Partnership to Enhance General Aviation Safety, Accessibility and Sustainability (PEGASAS), an FAA Center of Excellence for General Aviation. Research areas include advanced weather interfaces, runway safety human factors, and improvement of flight data management systems in rotorcraft.

Facilities and Resources

At Florida Tech, aviation human factors students gain hands-on experience with real aircraft and state-of-the-art facilities, learning from active and former pilots to explore the human-machine interface and connect research to real-world industry challenges. The Emil Buehler Center for Aviation Training and Research, the Enterprise Building, and Skurla Hall provide students with access to hangars, briefing rooms, lounges, and a fleet of aircraft with advanced glass-cockpit avionics.

Related Programs

Students may also be interested in:

• Human Factors in Aeronautics, M.S. (Online)
• Human-Centered Design, M.S.
• Applied Aviation Safety, M.S.A.
• Aviation Safety, M.S.A. (Online)