Course created in collaboration with the NMSU College of Engineering

Modality: Asynchronous*

Duration: 4-week course

Delivery: Online

Engaged Hours: 5-7 hours/ week

Language: English

Instructor: Brendan P. Sullivan

Prerequisites: Basic understanding of engineering principles

*This is not a self-paced course

Are you ready to transform the way engineering systems are designed and developed? Applied Model-Based Systems Engineering is an immersive, hands-on course that will guide you through the fundamentals of MBSE. You’ll learn how to use models and diagrams to streamline system requirements, reduce complexity, and improve communication across engineering projects — skills that are in high demand in today’s tech-driven industries.

Course Quick Facts

Innovative Tools: Become familiar with an MBSE software package and gain practical experience creating diagrams, scenarios, and models that reflect real-world systems.

Practical Applications: Apply your knowledge to real-world case studies, demonstrating how MBSE enhances system engineering processes.

Systems Thinking: Learn how to model system architectures, behaviors, and requirements to improve engineering efficiency and reduce project risk.

Collaborative Learning: Engage with peers and instructors as you tackle hands-on projects and receive personalized feedback.

About This Course

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Identify and communicate the core tenets of MBSE and its advantages over traditional systems engineering.
Develop system diagrams and models that streamline design, development, and testing efforts.
Apply MBSE principles to create diagrams and models that reflect system architectures, behaviors, and test plans.
Communicate system functions and operations across different scenarios using MBSE tools.

Courses Modules

Ready to revolutionize your approach to engineering? This 4-week course will equip you with the MBSE skills that forward-thinking companies are looking for.

Course Modules

Module One: Introduction to Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)

Discover the power of MBSE and how it transforms the engineering process by streamlining system requirements, design, and validation. Learn why MBSE is becoming the go-to method for managing complexity and improving system design efficiency.

Module Two: System Models

Explore how models simplify complex systems, making them easier to analyze and manage. Learn to create system representations that reveal key structures and behaviors while reducing unnecessary complexity.

Module Three: SySML

Delve deeper into the essential components of MBSE, including SysML, integrated models, and ontologies. See how MBSE centralizes models in system design, replacing traditional document-centric methods.

Module Four: Capella

Get hands-on with Capella, a leading MBSE modeling tool, and start building your practical knowledge. This module sets the foundation for developing real-world engineering models in future assignments.

Module Five: Writing and Modelling Requirements

Learn how to effectively model system requirements using Capella. This module introduces the basics of requirements engineering, essential for creating accurate and functional system designs.

Module Six: Operational Analysis

Master the principles of operational analysis and explore how various stakeholders interact with systems. Use Capella to develop models that represent real-world system operations and interactions.

Module Seven: System Analysis

Gain expertise in systems analysis using Capella, enhancing your ability to design and verify complex engineering systems. This module will guide you through advanced analysis techniques critical to MBSE.

Module Eight: Logical Architecture

Focus on creating logical architectures that define system components and functions. This stage is key to ensuring your system model is both coherent and comprehensive.

Module Nine: Physical Architecture

In this module, you’ll design the physical architecture of your system, laying out the basic physical structure that will support its functions.

Requirements

To succeed in this course, you will need:

Basic understanding of engineering principles.
Access to a computer with an internet connection (Windows 10/OS X 10.13 or higher).
The latest versions of Chrome or Firefox with Javascript enabled.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
Ability to conduct research and send/receive emails with attachments.
Capability to save backups of all coursework.

About The Instructor

Brendan Sullivan is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Management and Industrial Engineering at Politecnico di Milano and an Adjunct Professor in ET and Industrial Engineering at NMSU. He holds a Ph.D. in Engineering Management, Economics, and Industrial Engineering, with research focused on enhancing the changeability of complex systems to extend their lifecycle. In addition, he earned a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering, where he was recognized as an Outstanding Graduate, and a Master of Science in Political Science and intelligence studies.

Brendan leads several international research projects, focusing on the design, and development of complex and unprecedented systems (maritime and aerospace). His collaborative work includes partnerships with industry leaders such as THALES, Airbus, OHB, Fincantieri, and Navantia.

With a focus on systems engineering, Brendan has authored over 50 journal articles, conference proceedings, and book chapters. He is an active member of several professional organizations, including IFIP WG5.1, INCOSE's Space Systems Group, and the MBSE Initiative Group, as well as being a member of IEEE since 2012.

Earn A Digital Badge

Shareable online and on your resume.
Enhanced visibility to employers.
Validate your skills quickly.
Align with industry standards.
Showcase your achievements on platforms like LinkedIn to highlight your expertise and professional value.

Why Microlearning?

Targeted Knowledge: Our microlearning approach breaks complex topics into manageable, engaging modules, making learning effective and enjoyable.
Flexible Access: Study on your schedule. Access course materials anytime, from anywhere, and progress through the curriculum at your own pace.
Advance Your Career: Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to advance your career and drive innovation in your field.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Microlearning?

Microlearning is an approach to learning that breaks complex topics into manageable, engaging modules, making learning effective and enjoyable. It emphasizes quick comprehension and retention of information, often tailored to specific learning objectives and accessible on demand.

What is Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and why is it important in modern engineering?

Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is a formalized approach that uses models to manage system requirements, design, and validation, helping engineers reduce complexity and improve efficiency in system development.

What are the key differences between traditional systems engineering and MBSE?

Traditional systems engineering is document-centric, while MBSE emphasizes the use of models, improving communication, reducing errors, and enhancing the overall design and development process.

How does Capella software help in learning and applying MBSE principles?

Capella software provides hands-on tools for creating system models, allowing students to apply MBSE principles in real-world scenarios and streamline system design and analysis.

How much time should I expect to dedicate to this course each week?

Plan to spend approximately 5-7 hours per week on coursework, including lectures, assignments, and projects.

Related Courses

Model Based Systems Engineering

Entrepreneurship

Innovation and Product Development

Introduction to Requirements Management

Enroll inApplied Model Based Systems Engineering: Spring 25 ENGR 400/M74