John Hopkins University

What you'll study

This four-year undergraduate programme develops a foundation in mathematics, engineering science and systems thinking, then applies those tools to design and evaluate human-centred intelligent systems. Core study includes modelling and analysis of complex systems, systems engineering processes, probability and statistics, optimisation and control theory.

• Human-centred topics: human factors, cognitive engineering, human–computer interaction, usability testing and ergonomics.
• Intelligent systems: introductory and applied machine learning, perception and sensor fusion, robotics fundamentals and autonomous system design.
• Systems engineering core: requirements engineering, systems architecture and integration, risk analysis, verification and validation, and lifecycle management.
• Supporting engineering and computing: signals and systems, embedded systems, software engineering, data structures and programming for scientific applications.
• Practical work: laboratory courses, hands-on design projects, interdisciplinary team courses and a culminating capstone project delivering a functioning system or prototype with human-centred evaluation.
• Electives and special topics: students may take electives in biomedical systems, cybersecurity, natural language processing, ethics of AI and policy, depending on interests and department offerings.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong secondary-school academic record with emphasis on mathematics and science. Typical preparation includes calculus, physics and one or more courses in computer science or programming. Successful candidates demonstrate problem-solving ability, evidence of project or laboratory experience where possible, and clear interest in systems and human-centred design.

• Academic qualifications: relevant high-school diploma or equivalent with strong grades in mathematics and science.
• Recommended subjects: calculus, physics and introductory computer science; additional coursework in statistics, engineering or design is advantageous.
• International applicants: must meet equivalent academic standards and provide evidence of English-language proficiency where required.
• Other admissions materials: standard application components such as transcripts, personal statement and letters of recommendation; interviews or portfolio submission may be requested in some cases.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require integration of human factors with engineering and intelligent technologies. Career pathways span industry, government and research institutions.

• Typical roles: systems engineer, human factors or usability engineer, UX researcher for complex systems, robotics engineer, machine learning engineer focused on applied systems, and test & evaluation engineer.
• Application areas: healthcare systems and medical devices, transportation and autonomous vehicles, aerospace and defence systems, consumer electronics, industrial automation and smart infrastructure.
• Further study: many graduates pursue postgraduate study in systems engineering, human factors, robotics, computer science or interdisciplinary programmes combining engineering with public policy or healthcare.

Why study at Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University offers a strongly interdisciplinary environment where engineering is closely connected to medicine, public health and applied research. Students benefit from collaboration opportunities with leading research centres and labs, access to advanced facilities and the chance to work on real-world projects with faculty who have deep experience in systems engineering, human factors and intelligent systems.

• Research and facilities: proximity to clinical and research institutes enables projects in biomedical systems and human-centred healthcare technologies, while engineering labs support robotics, sensors and embedded systems development.
• Applied experience: the programme emphasises hands-on learning, team-based capstone design and partnerships with industry and governmental laboratories for internships and project work.
• Career support: robust career services and connections across the Baltimore–Washington region help place graduates into technical and interdisciplinary roles or prepare them for advanced study.