Program Overview

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Overview

The Ergonomics and Human Factors Postgraduate Certificate is a dynamic and evolving profession gaining greater attention as we see an increasing emphasis on a holistic human-centred approach to product and service design for optimal usability and user-experience.

Accreditation

This Postgraduate Certificate in Ergonomics and Human Factors is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF).

Study Options

• Part-time: 1 year
• UK fee: £3,240 (2025/26)
• International fee: £3,240 (2025/26)
• Start date: September
• Location: Online

Course Description

This course introduces key Ergonomics and Human Factors theory and debates and is designed to transition you between the theoretical knowledge, research evidence and application in practice. With a mix of group work and self-supported study, the course entails a wide range of study materials, interactive activities, reading, reflection and assessments.

What You Will Study

The Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) in Ergonomics and Human Factors comprises three core 20-credit modules, totalling 60 credits at level 7.

Core Modules

• Fundamentals of Ergonomics and Human Factors
• Cognitive Ergonomics and Psychology
• Physical Ergonomics

How You Will Learn

• The academic year is made up of three 10-week trimesters.
• We recommend around 20 hours of study per week to complete one 20-credit module over a 10-week trimester.
• This course is assessed entirely through coursework.
• You will undertake formative and summative assessments to demonstrate that you have met the module and programme learning outcomes.

Student Support and Guidance

Whilst we encourage our students to become independent, life-long learners, we also recognise that offering the right support and guidance will help you to achieve your goals. There is a wealth of support available to you at the University, from your dedicated Personal Tutor and Online Learner Advisor, through to our:

• Library
• Health and Wellbeing Centre
• Careers and Employability Service
• IT Support
• Union of Students
• Develop@Derby for study, personal and employability skills

Who Will Teach You

• Dr Victoria Filingeri, Programme Leader
• Dr Victoria Filingeri, Academic Lead in Ergonomics

Careers

The Ergonomics and Human Factors Postgraduate Certificate is designed to support your career development within the profession, however you may wish to progress onto the full Masters award before considering further qualifications such as a PhD.

Entry Requirements

• A UK undergraduate degree or equivalent International qualification
• Equivalent professional qualification in a relevant discipline
• We will also consider applications which demonstrate evidence of relevant key practical experience and work-based training.

English Language Qualifications

If English is not your first language, or you have not successfully completed your highest level of qualification in English, you will need an English language qualification. For this course you will need at least one of the following:

• IELTS 6.5 (minimum of 6.5 in each module)
• TOEFL 550 (paper based) 213 (computer based) or 80 (internet based)
• Cambridge Advanced Certificate: Pass
• London Tests of English: we accept level 5 for postgraduate courses
• International GCE O Level English Language: Grade C
• International GCSE English/English as a Second Language: Grade C
• ASE Proficiency: Pass

Fees and Funding

• Per 20 credits: £1,080
• Modules: 3
• Cost: £3,240

How to Apply

Please look at our application deadlines before you apply.

• Official photo identification such as a passport or driving licence
• Current CV
• Where you do not have an undergraduate qualification (but do have substantial experience in the field), a reference is required to verify your ability to work to a masters level.
• Copies of certificates and transcripts or a letter of testimony for previous qualifications

Application Deadlines

All of our online courses have set start dates throughout the year. We require time to review your application and get back to you with a response before your course starts.