MSc Safety and Human Factors in Aviation

Delivered through the specialist Safety and Accident Investigation Centre, operating for over 30 years to support global safety and investigation, this course is unique in that it synthesizes the study of human factors with the study of safety and safety assessment, creating a powerful combination of really add-on value in applied aviation and safety-critical contexts.

It is designed to provide the industry with successful and well-equipped graduates who can make a real and lasting improvement to performance and safety through the application of skills and knowledge learned on the course. Demand for human factors and safety expertise continues to be a growing area within aviation as well as other safety-critical industries. Safety critical systems require high human performance in addition to engineering excellence to meet the safety and business requirements of the aviation industry. To meet these demands, the design of systems must match, support and augment the capabilities of the user.

You will have the opportunity to fly during a Student Experience Flight in our National Flying Laboratory Centre’s (NFLC) light aircraft. This flight experience will complement your MSc studies, focusing on the effects of control, spatial disorientation, and the cognitive challenges associated with flight. During the flight, you will have the opportunity to take control of the aircraft. Each experience is 2 to 3 hours in duration and includes a pre-flight safety briefing outlining the details of the maneuvers to be flown, a flight of approximately 1 hour, and a post-flight debrief. Read Wifan's blog on her flight experience.

A first or second-class UK Honours degree or equivalent in engineering, aeronautical engineering, mathematics, ergonomics, psychology, or other science. Other qualifications (e.g., HND or alternative) may be acceptable, provided that there is evidence of sufficient relevant work experience.

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.