Systems Engineering Management Major

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Systems Engineering Management is an interdisciplinary major, administered by the Department of Management with participation by the Departments of Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering, Behavioral Sciences, Civil Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Engineering Mechanics.

Systems Engineering Management is a broad discipline that addresses the engineering management of large, complex systems and the integration of the many subsystems that comprise the larger system. All of these various components must function together in an effective and efficient manner in order to carry out the mission. The systems engineering manager manages the design, integration and ensures smooth functioning of complex systems typical in today’s high-tech Air Force. The systems engineering manager is focused on the “big picture," always keeping an eye on the design of the overall system to ensure that it will meet the needs of all the system’s stakeholders, including operators, maintainers, commanders and even our ultimate customer – the American public!

The systems engineering manager must consider elements of system development, verification, manufacturing, deployment, training, operations, support and disposal. The entire lifecycle of the system is considered in a holistic fashion early in the system’s development cycle. To accomplish this difficult job, the systems engineering manager must have broad interdisciplinary knowledge across many areas of study.

USAFA’s systems engineering management program emphasizes a systems-of-systems approach that integrates a rigorous engineering and management curriculum augmented with studies in human systems, operations research analysis, program management and the core curriculum. Cadets will learn that the systems engineering process is an interdisciplinary engineering process that evolves, verifies and documents an integrated, life-cycle-balanced set of system solutions that satisfy customer needs.

Cadets who successfully complete the Systems Engineering Management major are awarded a Bachelor of Science in Systems Engineering Management degree.

The goal of the Systems Engineering Management program is to prepare students to become leaders of character who:

1. Possess breadth of integrated, fundamental knowledge in the basic sciences, engineering, humanities and social sciences; and depth of knowledge in engineering management.
2. Can communicate effectively.
3. Can work effectively with others.
4. Are independent thinkers and learners.
5. Can apply their knowledge and skills to solve Air Force engineering and management problems, both well- and ill-defined.
6. Know and practice their ethical and professional responsibilities as embodied in the United States Air Force core values.

Upon completion of the System Engineering Management program each graduate shall demonstrate satisfactory:

1. Application of the fundamental concepts of systems engineering to solve systems engineering problems,
2. Breadth of knowledge and analysis skills in systems engineering, engineering design, test, human systems, information systems, operations research, management, and other related disciplines; depth of knowledge in management,
3. Synthesis and integration of the above knowledge to effectively identify and solve the types of complex, multidisciplinary problems encountered as Air Force systems engineering managers,
4. Balancing cost, schedule, performance, and risk factors in decision making,
5. Laboratory techniques including procedures, recording, and analysis,
6. Design, fabrication, and testing techniques,
7. Written and oral communication skills,
8. Knowledge of ethical and professional responsibilities,
9. Knowledge of the benefits and the skills needed to engage in life-long learning,
10. Ability to be effective multidisciplinary team members,
11. Skills to be an independent learner while knowing when to seek assistance,
12. Knowledge of the role of Air Force engineering and management officers in our global society, and
13. Knowledge of contemporary social, political, military, and engineering issues.