University of Dayton

What you'll study

The programme combines core systems engineering foundations with focused study in human systems engineering and intelligent systems. Core topics typically include systems engineering processes and lifecycle, requirements engineering, systems modelling and simulation, verification and validation, and systems architecture. Human-centred and intelligent-systems modules cover human factors and ergonomics, human–machine interaction, cognitive engineering, machine learning applications for systems, sensor and perception systems, decision support, and trust and autonomy in socio-technical systems.

• Core modules: systems engineering fundamentals, systems modelling and simulation, requirements and verification.
• Human systems modules: human factors, cognitive systems engineering, human–system integration, usability evaluation methods.
• Intelligent systems modules: pattern recognition and machine learning for engineered systems, perception and sensor fusion, autonomy and human-robot interaction.
• Methods and tools: statistical methods, optimisation, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), software tools for simulation and data analysis.
• Capstone / research: a culminating project or thesis that applies systems engineering and human-centred design to a real-world problem, often in partnership with faculty research groups or industry sponsors.

The programme is typically available in full-time and part-time modes and offers both coursework (professional practice) and research (thesis) pathways to accommodate students preparing for industry roles or doctoral study.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an accredited bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, or a closely related technical field with a strong quantitative background. Relevant professional experience can strengthen an application, particularly for applicants from non-traditional backgrounds.

• Official academic transcripts demonstrating undergraduate preparation in technical subjects.
• A statement of purpose outlining academic and professional objectives and how the programme aligns with these goals.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees familiar with the applicant’s technical abilities.
• Evidence of quantitative and programming skills (coursework or experience in calculus, statistics, programming or control systems is advantageous).
• International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency through accepted tests unless exempt.

Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores depending on the admissions cycle; applicants with a substantial professional record in systems-related roles are considered under the same academic standards.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require integrating technical systems with human users and operators. Typical job titles include systems engineer, human factors engineer, human–machine interaction specialist, autonomy engineer, user experience (UX) engineer for complex systems, systems integration engineer, and controls or embedded systems engineer.

• Industry sectors: aerospace and defence, automotive and mobility, healthcare and medical devices, manufacturing and automation, robotics, transportation and logistics, and energy systems.
• Research and development: positions in corporate R&D labs, government laboratories, and university research groups working on autonomy, human-centred AI, and safety-critical systems.
• Further study: the programme also provides preparation for doctoral study in systems engineering, human factors, cognitive engineering or related disciplines.

Why study at University of Dayton

The University of Dayton offers a focused, hands-on systems engineering curriculum with opportunities to work directly on applied projects alongside faculty and industry partners. The School of Engineering emphasises experiential learning, enabling students to gain practical experience with modelling tools, laboratory platforms and capstone projects that reflect real-world complexity.

• Interdisciplinary approach that brings together engineering, human factors and intelligent systems to prepare graduates for socio-technical challenges.
• Access to applied research projects and industry collaborations in the Dayton region and beyond, giving students opportunities to work on problems in aerospace, defence and manufacturing.
• Small cohort sizes and close faculty mentorship that support personalised guidance, project supervision and career preparation.
• Support services for professional development and career placement to help students transition into engineering and research roles or prepare for doctoral study.