Human factors engineering is becoming increasingly important, especially in the design of products that people use to complete tasks. It is a relatively new field of study and application that integrates knowledge from a variety of disciplines, including agronomics, psychology, cognition, probability, statistics, engineering, operations research, and industrial design. A Master’s degree in Human Factors Engineering or a related discipline is usually required to work as a human factors engineer. Many of the graduate programs available will require prior knowledge of the discipline as a requirement for admission. Due to the specific training required to succeed on the job, obtaining a position as a human factors engineer without such a degree will be nearly impossible.
In the workplace, a graduate who pursues a career as a human factors engineer will conduct research and collaborate with product and systems design teams to create products that end users will enjoy. Objectively, a human factors engineer will optimize a product’s design to respond to natural human movements using advanced scientific theory and sound engineering principles. As a result, a human factors engineer must have a thorough understanding of human factors science, human factors interaction, and human factors engineering. Usability, human-machine interaction, cognitive ergonomics, and user experience engineering are just a few of the specialties in the field.
A new student pursuing a degree in human factors, cognitive science, engineering, or ergonomics must first obtain a bachelor’s degree in a field directly related to human factors, cognitive science, engineering, or ergonomics. Undergraduate study will provide students with the foundational knowledge needed to conduct design studies and comprehend human ergonomics and cognition, as well as an understanding of engineering principles. Human factors engineering is not always referred to as a degree program at colleges and universities. Applied psychology, applied cognitive science, industrial engineering, and human ecology are among the terms used. However, it is important to note that an undergraduate degree does not prepare one to work as a human factors engineer; rather, it will usually lead to a position in design research or study.
If a student wants to become a human factors engineer after completing an undergraduate degree, he or she must apply for and be accepted into a graduate program. Employers will require graduate training in a human factors engineering discipline, industrial engineering, or applied psychology, regardless of whether it is a master’s or doctorate program. Many employers prefer candidates with a PhD, but those with a master’s degree are frequently considered. Graduate programs are increasingly specializing, with options such as studying human-computer or machine interaction, usability, cognitive science, or applied psychology. Working in an engineering environment is also beneficial, and internships after graduation can assist students in gaining this experience.