With longstanding ties to aerospace, military research, and related areas, the University of Florida offers a unique opportunity to focus your M.S. on human performance under extreme conditions. The Human Performance in Tactical, Flight, and Space Operations specialization readies you to support elite performers in environments where precision and resilience are critical.
Through this micro-credential, you’ll develop expertise in the physiological, kinesiological, and psychological factors that shape performance in high-stakes settings. Learn how to equip pilots, divers, astronauts, and other tactical professionals for mission success while mastering strategies to help them overcome injury, fatigue, and challenging conditions.
This 12-credit specialization is ideal for professionals who want to support military operations, aviation and spaceflight, extreme environment research, and similar fields. Gain the skills and knowledge you need to optimize human performance when it matters most.
Through this track, you will develop your expertise in:
- Body Responses to Extreme Environments
- Bioenergetics and Biomechanics
- Tactical Conditioning
- Skeletal and Muscular Functions
- Nutrition for Performance
- Human Psychology in Tactical Environments
Specialization Courses (12 credits)
Fundamentals in Exercise Physiology
This course is designed to examine the responses of the body during and after exposure to extreme environmental conditions. Topics will include high-altitude, deep-water diving, extreme temperature environments, microgravity/outer space, and high-stress environments. The course will also have sections detailing possible diseases and conditions relating to exposure to those extreme environments.
Fundamentals in Exercise Conditioning
This course is designed for students with limited (<2 years) or no experience in the strength and conditioning field. It examines fundamental concepts in bioenergetics, biomechanics, cardiopulmonary responses, and skeletal muscle function and adaptation. Includes evidence-based program design and practical skills necessary for success in fire and rescue, law enforcement, and military careers. It is best suited for students interested in working with either non-athletic (but still physically active) and/or tactical athlete populations. Content will prepare students to sit for the NSCA Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist certification.
Fundamentals in Sport Nutrition
This course addresses the aspects of nutrition that are related to exercise performance. Emphasis will be placed on the bioenergetics systems, the components of nutrition, nutritional and body composition assessments, ergogenic aids, and diet modifications for physically active individuals and athletes. The course prepares students to sit for a variety of industry credentials related to sports nutrition, but emphasis is placed on preparation for the CISSN exam.
Fundamentals in Behavioral Aspects of Performance
Covers the fundamental links between emotion and attention. Students will explore the role these psychological factors play influencing motivation, behavior, decision-making, and human movement in elite performance within physically and psychologically demanding tactical performance environments.
