Program Overview
The Human Systems Engineering (HSE) program at Arizona State University equips students with a comprehensive understanding of human performance and experience. Graduates can apply their knowledge in various fields, including product usability, learning design, and workplace safety. The program offers three culminating experience options: thesis, applied project, or portfolio. The flexible program structure allows students to specialize in areas of interest and complete the program in two years of full-time study or three years of part-time study.
Program Outline
Human Systems Engineering, MS - MS
Degree Overview
Program Description:
The Human Systems Engineering (HSE) program at Arizona State University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of human performance and experience. Graduates are equipped to apply their knowledge in various fields such as product usability, learning design, sports performance, cybersecurity, human-robot teaming, workplace safety, and patient safety. The program offers three culminating experience options:
- Thesis: Students conduct research under the guidance of a faculty member, culminating in a written thesis and oral defense.
- Applied Project: Students collaborate with industry partners on real-world projects, culminating in a comprehensive report and oral examination.
- Portfolio: Students compile a portfolio showcasing their professional development and expertise, including three major projects or accomplishments.
Program Objectives:
- The HSE program graduates are expected to demonstrate the following:
- Apply human systems engineering methods to solve problems or test hypotheses.
- Conduct independent research in human systems engineering.
- Employ appropriate statistical analysis techniques and interpret data effectively.
Program Features:
- Focus on user experience design and human factors engineering.
- Opportunity for interdisciplinary collaboration and project-based learning.
- Flexible program structure to accommodate individual career goals.
Outline
Course Structure:
The HSE program consists of 30 credit hours, including:
- 12 credit hours of required core courses covering fundamental human systems engineering concepts and methodologies.
- 12-18 credit hours of electives, allowing students to specialize in areas of interest such as cognitive engineering, human-computer interaction, or human factors design.
- 0-6 credit hours of culminating experience, chosen from the thesis, applied project, or portfolio options.
Course Descriptions:
- HSE 520 Methods and Tools in Applied Cognitive Science
- HSE 530 Intermediate Statistics for Human Systems Engineering
- HSE 531 Data Analytics: Modeling Human Subjects Data
- HSE 542 Foundations of Human Systems Engineering
- HSE 593 Applied Project
- HSE 599 Thesis
- Portfolio
Program Schedule:
The program offers Fall and Spring semesters and is designed to be completed in two years of full-time study or three years of part-time study.
Assessment
Assessment Methods:
- Coursework assignments, exams, and projects
- Culminating experience (thesis, applied project, or portfolio)
Assessment Criteria:
- Knowledge and understanding of human systems engineering principles
- Problem-solving and analytical skills
- Research skills
- Communication and presentation skills
Teaching
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures, seminars, and discussions
- Case studies and simulations
- Labs and hands-on projects
Faculty:
The HSE program boasts renowned faculty with expertise in various human factors engineering disciplines.
Unique Approaches:
- Industry-collaboration projects
- Design thinking and user experience focus
- Interdisciplinary program content
Careers
Career Paths:
- Human factors engineer
- Usability engineer
- Human-computer interaction specialist
- Cognitive psychologist
- Industrial ergonomist
- Safety specialist
Career Opportunities:
- Technology companies
- Design consultancies
- Research and development organizations
- Government agencies
Other
- The HSE program is STEM-OPT eligible, offering international students an opportunity to extend their OPT for up to 36 months.
Here's a breakdown of the specific criteria:
Academic Qualifications:
- Bachelor's or Master's Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor's or master's degree in psychology or a related field (including engineering, computer science, or business) from a regionally accredited institution.
- Minimum GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (on a 4.00 scale) is required in one of the following:
- First bachelor's degree program
- Last 60 hours of first bachelor's degree program
- Nine semester hours of graduate coursework from a U.S. institution
- Applicable conferred master's degree program from a regionally accredited college or university
Additional Requirements:
- Graduate Admission Application and Fee: All applicants must submit a graduate admission application along with the required application fee.
- Official Transcripts: Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions are required. Unofficial transcripts can be submitted initially, but official versions are needed upon admission.
- Statement of Purpose: A statement of purpose outlining the applicant's professional and academic aspirations is required.
- Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation are needed, preferably from college professors, employers in a human factors-related field, or a combination of both academic and professional references.
- Proof of English Proficiency: Applicants whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency. This can be demonstrated through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Additional Considerations:
- Applicants typically have completed an undergraduate course in statistics.
- Applicants to the Human Systems Engineering program must meet the general Graduate College admission requirements. These can be found on the Graduate College website.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
For non-native English speakers:
- Proof of English proficiency is mandatory, regardless of current residency.
- Acceptable tests include TOEFL or IELTS.
- Minimum score requirements on these tests may vary depending on the specific program and the Graduate College's requirements.