Cranfield University

MSc Safety and Human Factors in Aviation

Cranfield University

Course overview

The Cranfield University MSc Safety and Human Factors in Aviation programme is a specialised course created to provide graduates with the necessary skills to increase safety and performance within the aviation industry. The course uniquely combines the study of human factors with safety and safety assessment, covering topics such as human error, decision-making, and risk evaluation. 

The course content is delivered through a combination of lectures and practical exercises, ensuring students acquire both theoretical understanding and applicable skills. This programme typically spans one year of full-time study and is delivered by the Safety and Accident Investigation Centre. 

Students in this course are offered the chance to participate in a Student Experience Flight aboard a light aircraft, where the focus is on control, spatial disorientation, and the cognitive challenges associated with flying. Graduates completing this programme are thoroughly prepared for positions in safety-related management and operational roles.

Entry requirements

To be enrolled, candidates need to submit a personal statement explaining their reasons for applying to the course and provide other relevant information about their studies. An appropriate academic and/or employer reference is also required. Candidates also have the option to upload their CVs to demonstrate their work experience.

Grade Requirements: 

  • Applicants need at least a lower second-class degree, or its equivalent, in engineering, aeronautical engineering, mathematics, ergonomics, psychology, or another science-related field. 
  • Other qualifications may be acceptable if accompanied by sufficient relevant work experience.

English Proficiency:

  • Applicants whose first language is not English need an IELTS overall score of 6.5, with no component score below 5.5. Other accepted tests include TOEFL and PTE.

Scholarships

  • Airbus Master’s Student Bursary

    €3,000 tuition fees.

  • Alumni Discounts

    The 20% course fee discount is available to Cranfield University and Cranfield School of Management graduates.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Antony and Amanda Jenkins MBA Scholarship for Women Leaders

    Up to £10,000 towards the tuition fees (2 scholarships available).

  • Championing Diversity Bursary

    Up to £3,500

  • Changemaker Bursary

    Up to £3,500

  • Chevening Scholarships

  • Cranfield ALCS International Scholarship

    This scholarship offers a 20% fee discount to applicants holding an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Cranfield College of Aeronautics Heritage Scholarship

    £5,000 tuition fee bursary.

    Up to £5,000

  • Cranfield Excellence International Scholarships

    50 Scholarships of £10,000 and £15,000

  • Cranfield Excellence Merit Scholarships

    Funding value: up to £10,000 for international applicants and 20% for all nationals paying Home Fees.

  • Cranfield Faraday, Anderson and Parker Scholarship

    Up to £5500 towards tuition fee.

  • Delta Foundation Chevening Scholarship Taiwan

  • Frank Whittle Scholarships for the Cranfield Thermal Power MSc

    Up to 50% of the tuition fees for the MSc Thermal Power and Propulsion.

  • Global Clinical Supplies Group Scholarship

    £5,000

    Up to £5,000

  • Global Excellence Scholarship in Aerospace Dynamics

    A £10,000 contribution towards tuition fees.

    Up to £10,000

  • Mister Gees Foundation Scholarships

    £5000 towards tuition fees for a UK or international student studying a full-time Water and Wastewater Processes MSc - Environmental Science route.

    Up to £5,000

  • Norman C.T. Liu Women in Aviation Scholarship

    £10,000 towards tuition fees.

    Up to £10,000

  • Relithan (Technology) Scholarship

    £20,000 fund for both 25/26 and 26/27 starts.

    Up to £20,000

  • Sir Peter Gregson Scholarship

    Four Scholarships of £16,000 for a PhD.

    Up to £16,000

  • The Boeing Global Engagement Scholarship

    Funding value - up to £5,000 toward tuition fees.

  • The Professor Joe Nellis CBE MBA Scholarship

    Up to £10,000 towards tuition fees (one scholarship per year available).

Career opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Safety and Human Factors in Aviation programme work as:

  • Safety Manager
  • Aviation Safety Analyst
  • Safety Systems Designer
  • Human Factors Specialist
  • Aviation Consultant
  • Accident Investigator

Cost of study

For the 2025/26 academic year, the tuition fee for the MSc Safety and Human Factors in Aviation programme at Cranfield University is £27,910.

Admission

You can submit your applications directly to the university. Our trained counsellors are available to assist you.

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