Master’s in Psychology Degree With Human Factors Psychology Emphasis
Study the Relationship Between Human Interactions and Technology
The Master of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Human Factors Psychology degree program at Grand Canyon University (GCU) examines the interactions of humans and technological systems. The end goal of this program is to maximize human well-being and system performance. The human factors psychology emphasis blends the disciplines of engineering and psychology, which can prepare you to improve everyday human experiences and capabilities.
In this degree program offered by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, you will examine current knowledge in psychology, sociology and communications to develop a keen understanding of information processing and retention. The 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.
As a private Christian university, GCU focuses on the discussion of ethical considerations in this MS in Psychology with human factors psychology emphasis. Students are taught to think critically about ethical matters pertaining to psychological research and writing. The program includes discussions of contemporary ethical issues in the field.
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Human Factors Psychology Focus Course Topics
Through rigorous coursework, the MS in Psychology with an Emphasis in Human Factors Psychology program teaches advanced skills that can be immediately applied to the workplace. Some of the core competencies presented in this program are:
- Differentiating among current perspectives and theories in psychology
- Interpreting psychological phenomena using scientific reasoning
- Demonstrating the practical application of principles of human factors psychology
- Understanding the way in which humans receive and process information through visual and auditory senses
Study Advanced Human Factors Psychology Concepts
In this online master’s in psychology with human factors psychology emphasis, you can benefit from exposure to knowledgeable instructors. You will be taught to:
- Wireframe a software product that maximizes human interaction efficiency
- Conduct user-based research for a product or system
- Identify the optimal user experience for a product or system
- Design a product or system using human factors principles
Career Opportunities for MS in Psychology With Human Factors Psychology Emphasis Graduates
The master’s degree in psychology with human factors psychology emphasis can prepare students for a diverse range of fields and industries. Graduates may pursue work in:
- Government agencies
- The armed forces
- Universities
- Research facilities
- Private corporations (healthcare, automotive, aerospace, telecommunications and consumer products)
Prepare for a career in the areas of human-computer interaction, usability, ergonomics, user experience design and product design. Develop a firm understanding of the correct application of research, theory, principles, data and other methods to enhance system performance and human well-being. Become a skilled communicator through intellectually stimulating discussions with your peers and instructors throughout the master’s in psychology with human factors emphasis program.
Human factors psychology specialists may choose to work in consulting positions. 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.
Master’s Degree in Psychology With Human Factors Psychology Emphasis FAQs
Learn more about this important psychology field by reading our answers to the commonly asked questions below. Get started on your master’s degree in psychology.
The study of human factors psychology focuses on creating and improving products, tools, equipment and other elements that supplement human capabilities to increase productivity and create safer working environments for all.
When you earn this MS in Psychology emphasis, you will have been taught how to perform research and apply your understanding of human behavior, perception and cognition to create solutions that help improve human performance. If you want to use your psychology expertise to create tangible, results-oriented solutions, then you should consider the human factors psychology online graduate program.
The master’s in psychology program at GCU requires 36 credits to completion. Courses in the program can be taken online or through evening classes on campus. This program is designed for working professionals who require flexibility to pursue higher education.
Core Courses
Course Description
This course is designed to prepare students for the graduate learning experience at Grand Canyon University. Students have opportunities to develop and strengthen the skills necessary to succeed as graduate students in the liberal arts. Emphasis is placed on utilizing the tools for graduate success.
Course Description
This course serves as the foundation for advanced graduate study in the field of psychology. Professional skill development, such as critical thinking, scholarly writing, and literature reviewing are covered, as well as contemporary ethical issues in the field of psychology, including issues in research, writing, psychotherapy, forensic psychology, and animal research.
Course Description
This course is a study of social, group, and multicultural factors affecting individual behavior. Attention is given to the development of attitudes, leadership roles, group thinking, sources of conflict, altruism, attraction, effects of competition and cooperation, analysis and evaluation of propaganda techniques, and the influence of mass communication on social awareness and control.
Course Description
This course is an examination of the practical application of Human Factors theories and principles.
Course Description
This course is an examination of the human ability to receive and process information through visual and auditory senses.
Course Description
This course provides a study of theories of probability, descriptive and inferential analyses of data, and testing of statistical hypotheses. Practical experience is provided in the application of statistical methods.
Course Description
This course emphasizes both the theoretical and applied aspects of experimental design and research methodology at the graduate level, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed designs. Prerequisite: PSY-520.
Course Description
This course is a practitioner's guide to a human centered design approach to software development and evaluation.
Course Description
This course is a fundamental examination of cognitive psychology as it applies to human factors.
Course Description
This course prepares students to enter their prospective career and/or continue their education in psychology. Students will explore occupations and leaders in the various psychological fields, formulate and compile their experiences and achievements, and construct a roadmap for success. Original research ideas will be solidified and presented. Prerequisite: PSY-550.
Pursue a next-generation education with an online degree from Grand Canyon University. Earn your degree with convenience and flexibility with online courses that let you study anytime, anywhere.
Grand Canyon University’s evening programs cater to the demands of working professionals who prefer an in-person learning environment. Our night classes meet just once per week and offer the interaction and discussion of a typical college classroom.
* Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
* Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change.