The Certificate in Aerospace Physiology at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine provides foundational training in how extreme environments affect human physiology and cognitive performance, with a focus on the challenges associated with aviation and spaceflight.
This 15-credit-hour program is designed to prepare students for careers in aerospace medicine or enhance the backgrounds of professionals already working in the field.
Through the study of physiological and cognitive responses during exposure to extreme environments, you will gain specialized knowledge and explore strategies that support resilience and optimal human performance in those environments.
Apply to the Graduate Certificate Program
Career Opportunities
The growing commercial spaceflight industry, along with expanding federal and military aerospace initiatives, has increased demand for professionals with expertise in aerospace physiology and human performance in austere environments. The Certificate in Aerospace Physiology program prepares students to help meet this growing need through specialized training in the physiological and cognitive challenges associated with aerospace environments.
Graduates may pursue or enhance careers in areas such as:
- Aerospace medicine
- Research physiology
- Operational physiology
- Aviation medicine
- Aerospace and aviation mishap investigation
Through this program, you will gain knowledge and skills that position you to contribute to a rapidly evolving field in which the Department of Physiology and Biophysics is uniquely poised to provide leadership and training.
Flexible Online Format
The Certificate in Aerospace Physiology program is offered primarily online through asynchronous lecture recordings, allowing students flexibility to complete coursework remotely. An exception is the required four-day on-campus residency associated with the laboratory course PHOL 423.
Both full-time and part-time study options are available, including enrollment as low as 3 credit hours per semester. All students begin the program in the fall semester.
Admission Details
Admission to the Certificate in Aerospace Physiology program is available to students with a bachelor’s degree in the physical or biological sciences.
Applicants must submit:
- An online application
- Two letters of recommendation supporting the applicant’s interest in aerospace physiology and aptitude for advanced graduate study
- A statement of purpose outlining interest in the field and professional goals
- A current résumé or CV
Preferred academic backgrounds (typically with a final GPA of 3.0 or higher) include:
- Allied health sciences (e.g., nursing, respiratory therapy, physical therapy, etc.)
- Exercise or sports physiology
- Biology with additional coursework in human anatomy and physiology
- An undergraduate degree in another field with additional coursework in human anatomy, human physiology, biochemistry and physics
All students begin the program in the fall semester. The application deadline is August 15.
Curriculum
The Certificate in Aerospace Physiology requires completion of 15 credit hours.
Required Courses (12 Credit Hours)
- PHOL 421 Introduction to Aerospace Physiology
- PHOL 422 Introduction to Aerospace Physiology II
- PHOL 614 Sleep Physiology
- PHOL 423 Laboratory Research Rotation: Aerospace Physiology
Includes a required 4-day on-campus residency.
Elective Course (3 Credit Hours)
Students must complete one elective course (3 credit hours). Available elective options are listed in the Master of Science in Aerospace Physiology program curriculum section.
Graduation Requirements
To earn the Certificate in Aerospace Physiology, students must successfully complete 15 credit hours of coursework with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and receive passing grades in PHOL 421 and PHOL 422.