Florida International University

What you'll study

This programme combines core systems engineering principles with human-centred approaches and intelligent systems methods. You will study foundations of systems engineering and systems thinking alongside modules in human factors and ergonomics, human–computer interaction, cognitive engineering and applied psychology. Coursework in intelligent systems covers machine learning, sensors and perception, decision support, and the integration of AI methods into larger engineered systems.

Typical topics and modules include:

• Systems engineering fundamentals: systems architecture, requirements engineering, modelling and simulation, reliability and risk analysis.
• Human systems and human factors: ergonomics, human performance, usability evaluation, cognitive task analysis and human error.
• Intelligent systems: machine learning basics, pattern recognition, sensor integration, adaptive systems and decision support systems.
• Data and analytics for systems: statistical methods, data-driven modelling, signal processing and big-data techniques applicable to socio-technical systems.
• Design and evaluation: human-centred design, prototyping, user studies, simulation-based evaluation and validation of system performance with humans in the loop.
• Capstone or thesis: an applied design project or research thesis that demonstrates integration of human-systems engineering and intelligent technologies in a real-world problem.

Programs typically offer a combination of required core courses, electives to tailor the intelligent-systems or human-systems focus, and a practicum/capstone or research thesis option. Laboratory work, project-based learning and collaboration with faculty research groups are common components.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, information systems, mathematics, psychology with a quantitative emphasis, or another closely related discipline. A competitive undergraduate academic record is expected. Admissions normally require:

• Official transcripts from prior institutions.
• A statement of purpose describing relevant experience, research or project interests and career goals in human systems or intelligent systems engineering.
• Curriculum vitae or résumé showing technical and project experience.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can comment on technical aptitude and potential for graduate-level work.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English.

Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores, depending on programme requirements and the applicant's background; relevant professional experience can strengthen an application, particularly for students seeking the practicum or applied capstone route. Prerequisite coursework in calculus, linear algebra, probability/statistics and basic programming may be required prior to or during the early part of the programme if not completed at the undergraduate level.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require integration of human-centred design and intelligent technologies across sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Human factors or ergonomics engineer, designing systems that account for human performance and safety.
• Systems engineer specialising in sociotechnical systems, requirements engineering and systems integration.
• Intelligent systems engineer or machine learning engineer working on embedded AI, decision support or automation systems.
• User experience (UX) researcher or HCI specialist focusing on evaluation and design for complex systems.
• Data analyst or applied data scientist in sectors where human interaction with technology is critical, such as healthcare, transportation, aviation and manufacturing.
• Researcher or technical consultant in government labs, private industry or consultancy firms addressing safety, resilience and human-centred system design.

Alumni typically find positions in multi-disciplinary project teams, product development, regulatory and safety organisations, research institutes and in companies developing autonomous or decision-support technologies.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University offers a multidisciplinary environment that combines engineering, computing and behavioural science expertise, allowing students to work across technical and human-centred domains. The university’s location in a major metropolitan and port region supports partnerships with healthcare providers, transportation agencies, defence contractors and technology firms, creating opportunities for applied projects and internships.

Students benefit from faculty who conduct applied research in human systems, intelligent systems and systems engineering, access to laboratory facilities and project-based learning, and a diverse student body that brings varied perspectives to socio-technical problems. The programme emphasises practical skills in system design, evaluation and integration that employers seek when building safe, reliable and user-centred intelligent systems.