Ergonomics and Human Factors MSc

Program Overview

Ergonomics and Human Factors MSc

Overview

The Ergonomics and Human Factors MSc is a dynamic and evolving profession gaining greater attention as we see more and more emphasis being placed on a holistic human-centred approach to design. This new and contemporary Ergonomics and Human Factors Masters course is suited to practitioners from around the world and from a wide range of disciplines such as design, health and safety, healthcare, computing, engineering, architecture and more.

Accreditation

Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF), this Masters degree is a CIEHF Qualifying Course for graduate membership. Graduates of the MSc Ergonomics and Human Factors award will be eligible to apply for Graduate Membership of the CIEHF, a significant step towards becoming a Registered Member with Chartered status, where you will be able to use the post-nominal CErgHF.

Specialist Pathway Awards

This Masters in Ergonomics and Human Factors is designed to give you flexibility to tailor your programme of study to suit your personal preferences and professional goals. The optional module selected during the MSc will lead to one of the following named awards:

• MSc Ergonomics and Human Factors
• MSc Ergonomics and Human Factors (Healthcare)
• MSc Ergonomics and Human Factors (Behaviour Change)

Modules

The online Ergonomics & Human Factors programme comprises three progressive stages; Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert), Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip) and Master of Science (MSc). The Masters (MSc) in Ergonomics and Human Factors is achieved by completing six 20 credit modules (five core and one optional module). In addition there is the final research project which is a triple module, worth 60 credits, during which you will undertake an in-depth independent study.

Core Modules

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

Optional Modules

• Contemporary Issues in Ergonomics and Human Factors
• Ergonomics and Human Factors (Healthcare)
• Ergonomics and Human Factors (Behaviour Change)

Study Options

• Part-time: 3 years
• UK fee: £9,720 (2025/26)
• International fee: £9,720 (2025/26)
• Start date: September
• Location: Online

How You Will Learn

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

Assessment Method

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

Careers

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

As a qualifying course for graduate membership with the CIEHF, you will be eligible to apply for Graduate membership of the CIEHF upon completing this Masters award. This will provide a strong platform for you to continue and pursue your aspirations of becoming a Registered Member with Chartered Status.

Entry Requirements

You should possess one of the following:

• 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: 7 (six 20-credit modules and one 60-credit module)
• Cost: £9,720

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. The written reference should be supplied on headed paper from either a manager, supervisor, tutor or teacher who has worked to a masters level or above
• Copies of certificates and transcripts or a letter of testimony for previous qualifications*

*Documents not in English or Welsh must be accompanied by a certified translation by a professional translator/translation company. Each translation must contain:

• Confirmation from the translator that it is an accurate translation of the original document
• The date of the translation
• The full name and signature of the translator, or an authorised official of the company
• The translator’s contact details

A list of approved translators can be found on the UK Government website.