What Is a Master of Science in Human Factors Psychology?

Human factors psychology is the blending of the disciplines of engineering and psychology. The Master of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Human Factors Psychology degree program at Grand Canyon University examines the interactions of humans and technological systems. The end goal is to maximize human well-being and system performance. Human factors psychology graduate programs prepare professionals to improve everyday human experiences and capabilities.

The human factors master’s degree is offered by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Students examine current knowledge in psychology, sociology and communications to develop a keen understanding of information processing and retention. The rapidly growing subfield of human factors psychology enables professionals to consult on the design and improvement of products, equipment and environments in a way that optimizes human safety and capabilities.

Improve Human Experiences Through Technology with a Human Factors MS in Psychology

Prepare for a meaningful career in the areas of human-computer interaction, usability, ergonomics, user experience design and product design. Become a skilled communicator through intellectually stimulating discussions with your peers and instructors during your online or on-campus evening classes. Develop a firm understanding of the correct application of research, theory, principles, data and other methods to enhance system performance and human wellbeing.

As a private, Christian university, GCU emphasizes the discussion of ethical considerations in this human factors master’s degree. Students will learn to critically think about ethical matters pertaining to psychological research and writing. The program includes discussions of contemporary ethical issues in the field.

Study Human Interactions That Influence Technology

Through rigorous coursework, students pursuing the Master of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Human Factors Psychology degree acquire advanced knowledge that can be immediately applied to the workplace. Some of the core program courses for this degree include the following:

• Contemporary and Ethical Issues in Psychology
• Foundations of Human Factors
• Sensation and Perception
• Social and Cultural Psychology
• Software
• Cognition

Learners benefit from exposure to fully qualified instructors who are experts in their fields. By the time they graduate, students will be able to wireframe a software product that maximizes human interaction efficiency. Students also learn to conduct user-based research for a product or system, identify the optimal user experience for a product or system and design a product or system using human factors principles. Other core competencies for this degree program include:

• Differentiating among current perspectives and theories in psychology
• Interpreting psychological phenomena using scientific reasoning
• Demonstrating the practical application of human factors theories and principles
• Understanding the way in which humans receive and process information through visual and auditory senses

Develop User-Friendly Technology for Organizations in the Human Factors Psychology Master’s Degree

The human factors psychology graduate program prepares students to succeed across a diverse range of fields and industries. Graduates may pursue work in government agencies, the armed forces, universities, research facilities or private corporations.

Human factors psychology specialists often work in a consulting position. Some of the work they may perform can include designing or improving upon navigation systems, consumer products, tools, motor vehicles, military equipment and office technology. The objective is to make everyday life safer and more productive for people by enhancing the interaction between humans and technology.