MSc Human Factors and Ergonomics

Program Overview

The MSc Human Factors and Ergonomics at Nottingham is an interdisciplinary program that integrates concepts from psychology, engineering, and design to develop solutions that improve human-system interaction. Students are trained to analyze human behavior and apply ergonomic principles to the design and improvement of systems, products, and environments, ensuring they are accessible, efficient, and comfortable for users. The program prepares graduates to tackle a range of challenges in diverse sectors, including aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and manufacturing, where the design of safe and user-friendly environments and systems is crucial. With a blend of theoretical foundations and hands-on experience, the program provides a robust pathway to careers in ergonomics consultancy, product design, user experience (UX) research, and safety management.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the MSc Human Factors and Ergonomics is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of human factors theory while also emphasizing practical application in real-world settings. Core modules in the program include Cognitive Ergonomics, Workplace Design and Assessment, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), and Biomechanics and Physical Ergonomics. These modules focus on how people interact with systems and environments, the principles of cognitive psychology applied to ergonomic design, and the assessment of physical stress and strain in the workplace. In addition to core courses, students have the opportunity to explore specialized topics in Health and Safety Management, User-Centered Design, Environmental Ergonomics, and Ergonomics in Healthcare, providing a comprehensive view of how ergonomics can be applied across various domains. The program also emphasizes research methods and data analysis, equipping students with the necessary tools to conduct high-quality research in human factors and ergonomics. A key feature of the curriculum is the individual research project, where students can apply their knowledge to solve practical human factors problems in collaboration with industry partners or through original research.

Research Focus: The MSc Human Factors and Ergonomics program at the University of Nottingham is research-driven, with a focus on advancing knowledge in human-system interaction. Students engage with cutting-edge research in areas such as ergonomic assessment techniques, human performance modeling, cognitive load theory, usability testing, and workplace safety. The university’s research centers are involved in exploring how ergonomic principles can be applied to optimize product and system design, improve user experience, and enhance human safety and comfort in diverse industries. The university’s Human Factors Research Group is a leading research hub in the field, and students benefit from exposure to ongoing projects in areas such as aerospace ergonomics, ergonomics in healthcare systems, and human-robot interaction. Students are encouraged to engage with these research initiatives, attend seminars, and collaborate with faculty members working at the forefront of human factors science. This exposure to the latest research trends enhances students’ ability to contribute to the advancement of ergonomics and human factors knowledge.

Industry Engagement: The MSc Human Factors and Ergonomics program at Nottingham is designed with strong industry links to ensure that students gain practical, real-world experience. The university has established partnerships with leading organizations in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and manufacturing, offering students opportunities to work on industry-sponsored projects, internships, and placements. These industry engagements provide students with firsthand experience of how ergonomics and human factors principles are applied in professional environments. Through these collaborations, students gain insights into industry practices, challenges, and innovations, and develop valuable professional networks that enhance their employability. Additionally, the program regularly invites industry experts to deliver guest lectures, conduct workshops, and participate in student projects. This interaction between academia and industry ensures that students are prepared to address the evolving challenges in ergonomics and human factors across various sectors.

Global Perspective: The MSc Human Factors and Ergonomics program at Nottingham offers a global perspective, reflecting the international significance of ergonomics in enhancing human well-being and performance. Human factors principles are applied across the globe, and the program ensures that students understand the cultural and environmental factors that influence ergonomic design and human-system interaction in different regions. The university’s international collaborations and research networks provide students with the opportunity to engage with global trends, best practices, and challenges in ergonomics. The program also prepares students to work in diverse global settings, where knowledge of ergonomics is critical in improving safety, productivity, and user experience. Students can take advantage of the university’s international reputation and global connections to explore opportunities for working with multinational companies, research organizations, and government bodies involved in human factors and ergonomics.