Florida International University

What you'll study

This master's programme focuses on engineering complex systems in which humans interact with intelligent components such as autonomous agents, decision support tools and robotics. You study foundations of systems engineering together with human-centred methods and intelligent system techniques so you can analyse, design and evaluate whole-system performance.

Programme structure

• Typically offered as a full‑time or part‑time degree with thesis and non‑thesis options.
• Coursework emphasises systems thinking, modelling and simulation, human factors, machine learning and system integration.
• Students undertake project work or a research thesis that applies methods to realistic domain problems (for example healthcare workflows, transportation systems, manufacturing or human–robot teams).

Typical modules and topics

• Systems Engineering Principles and Lifecycle
• Human Factors and Ergonomics
• Human–Computer Interaction and User-Centred Design
• Intelligent Systems and Machine Learning for Decision Support
• Modelling and Simulation of Socio‑Technical Systems
• Human–Robot Interaction and Collaborative Automation
• Reliability, Safety and Risk Analysis
• Systems Integration and Architectures

Elective seminars and lab courses provide practical experience with simulation tools, data analytics, usability testing, and embedded/robotic platforms. Students can tailor the degree toward research or applied engineering practice depending on the choice of thesis/project and electives.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, psychology with quantitative emphasis, or another closely related discipline. Admissions assess academic transcripts, prior coursework in mathematics and programming, and evidence of quantitative ability.

• A statement of purpose describing relevant experience and objectives.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• A current CV or résumé outlining technical experience and projects.
• Proof of English proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English.
• Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores or additional background coursework if their undergraduate record does not demonstrate sufficient preparation.

Relevant professional experience can strengthen an application, particularly for part‑time or practicum‑focused pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require integrating human considerations with intelligent technologies and system‑level thinking. Common career paths include:

• Systems engineer or systems architect working on complex, multi‑disciplinary projects.
• Human factors or usability engineer conducting user research and designing safer, more effective interfaces.
• Human–robot interaction specialist or robotics systems integrator.
• Intelligent systems engineer or machine learning practitioner focused on decision support and automation.
• Safety, reliability and risk analyst for critical infrastructure and transportation systems.
• Product manager, technical consultant or project lead in technology, healthcare, defence, manufacturing and mobility sectors.

Graduates find roles in large engineering firms, technology companies, hospitals and health‑tech startups, transportation and logistics organisations, defence contractors and government research labs. The combination of human‑centred and intelligent‑systems skills is attractive to employers building trustworthy, usable automated systems.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University offers this programme within a multidisciplinary College of Engineering and Computing, where faculty combine expertise in systems engineering, human factors, robotics and artificial intelligence. Students benefit from hands‑on laboratory facilities and research groups that focus on human‑centred design, intelligent systems and modelling.

• Access to specialised labs and simulation facilities for usability testing, human factors research and robotics prototyping.
• Opportunities for applied projects with industry partners in the Miami region and beyond, fostering internships and practicum placements.
• A diverse student body and strong collaborative connections across engineering, computer science, business and health disciplines.
• Faculty engaged in domain‑relevant research, enabling students to pursue research projects that address real‑world challenges in health, transportation, manufacturing and intelligent automation.

The programme is designed to equip graduates with the technical skills and human‑centred perspective required to lead the development of intelligent, integrated systems in a range of professional settings.