Bachelor of Science - Human Factors Psychology

Program Description

The Bachelor of Science degree in Human Factors Psychology at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) emphasizes human behavior, ergonomics, and human capabilities. The program seeks to develop a student with the capacity to design, conduct, and apply human factors research to the design of simple and complex systems. 

Human Factors Psychology is an applied discipline that develops knowledge concerning the abilities and limitations of humans to sense, store, and process information, as well as to act. This knowledge is applied to the design, use, and maintenance of human/machine systems. Depending on its goals, the system is then optimized with respect to human performance. The environmental factors affecting system performance are recognized as important and are considered systematically. When relevant data are not available, they must be uncovered through research efforts. This requires considerable skill in experimental design and quantitative methodology. Students will receive training in the content and techniques of human factors, including statistical and quantitative procedures, experimental design and survey methods.

A typical first year will include general education courses, plus core requirements from Human Factors and Psychology and related foundation courses such as Mass Communication Law and Ethics, Aviation, and Aerospace Communication or Computer Science.

The goal of the program is to educate and graduate professionals who are equipped for employment as human factors specialists or to continue their education in graduate school.