This course examines the application of systems engineering principles, methods and tools on complex development programs where a systems thinking approach is needed. Case studies are used throughout the course to provide real-world examples and the associated lessons learned from industry and government programs. Systems engineering focuses on defining customer needs and required functionality early in the development cycle, documenting requirements, then proceeding with design synthesis and system validation while considering all aspects of the product lifecycle including cost, schedule, test, manufacturing, performance, operations and end-of-life. This course emphasizes the strong linkage between systems engineering and program management and the need to integrate these disciplines to improve complex program performance. The course concludes with a call-to-action to become the engineering change-agents needed today to improve program performance on complex development programs.