What will I learn?
A Ph.D. professional’s degree track in Human Factors and Cognitive Psychology, accredited by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, is offered to those with a baccalaureate or master’s degree in psychology or an allied area. The track seeks to develop the capacity to design, conduct, and apply human factors and cognitive psychology research in a variety of professional settings. It is patterned on the scientist-practitioner model of the American Psychological Association (APA) and adheres to guidelines established by the committee for Education and Training of APA’s Division 21 (Applied Experimental and Engineering Psychology). A variety of research, consulting, and internship arrangements are included in the track. Students receive training in the content and techniques of human factors and cognitive psychology–including statistical and quantitative procedures, experimental design, survey methods, computer techniques, and other research methodologies. Students also select a concentration area, which may be in human-computer interaction, human-machine-environment interface, human performance, human factors in simulation and training, or other areas of interest with the adviser’s authorization. A dissertation representing a significant research contribution to the field is required.
Entry requirements
For international students
Bachelors or masters degree in Psychology or another allied area.
The GRE is not required for admission to this program.
Evidence of successful completion of undergraduate courses in statistics and general areas of experimental psychology.
Résumé or Curriculum Vitae.
A clear statement concerning the professional background, the type of research you wish to pursue as a graduate student, and the faculty member you believe would be best suited to serve as your major professor and mentor.
Three letters of recommendation, with at least two furnished by college or university professors who are acquainted with the applicant.
Applicants applying to this program who have attended a college/university outside the United States must provide one official transcript and official certification of degree, with date awarded. See the Sample Country Requirements page for country specific requirements. If you will be requesting transfer credit, a course-by-course evaluation from World Education Services (WES) or Josef Silny and Associates, Inc. must be submitted.
Students are not normally admitted to the program without having completed a minimum amount of basic preparation in content related to experimental psychology. This preparation is judged on an individual basis but typically consists of at least 18 semester hours in the following:
Courses in research methods, computer applications, and statistical methods.
General experimental psychology courses, e.g., learning, physiological, perception, human learning, cognition, motivation, and measurement.
Applicants are evaluated for program prerequisites and advised of any need for additional preparation. Previous graduate work is evaluated for credit on a case-by-case basis.
