Department of Ergonomics (Human Sciences)
Department of Ergonomics Programmes
MSc/Diploma 12 months full-time, minimum 24 months part-time (recommended duration 36 months). Diploma: 8 months full-time, minimum 20 months part-time
Rated 4th for Anatomy and Physiology and 8th for Psychology
The Times Good University Guide 2010
- Human Factors in Transport
- Ergonomics (Human Factors)
- Human Factors in Inclusive Design
- Ergonomics for Health Professionals
Loughborough has been a world centre for Ergonomics/ Human Factors for the past 40 years, and the Department of Human Sciences is proud to have trained ergonomists working in influential positions across the world. They work in diverse areas such as product design, health and safety, applied psychology, human performance, comfort/refinement, accident investigation, and ICT. All these areas have in common that people are the core consideration.
The programmes are 12 months, full-time, but can be attended part-time by studying one or more modules per semester. We do not offer a distance learning provision. The programmes are modular; other than the project, modules are scheduled over two semesters running from October to May inclusive each year. The project module is undertaken over the summer months (variable for part-time students).While we offer a variety of projects based on our research interests we also have an extensive industrial network of contacts and many companies request students to undertake projects with them. Often this means that the project is based at the company and can be outside the UK. If you have been or are employed, the project may be undertaken at your place of work.
A proportion of learning comes from personal study as well as from the mix of lectures, tutorials, directed reading, case study and laboratory group work. Learning also comes from individual contact with staff and, as we attract a mix of experience within the student cohort, there is much to learn from your colleagues on our programmes. We seek to foster a friendly and supportive environment to encourage these learning opportunities.
Compulsory Modules
Nine modules are required for all the MSc Ergonomics programmes:
Semester 1
- Introduction to Human Function n Introduction to Ergonomics and Design n Data Collection and Analysis
Optional Module for the MSc Ergonomics (Human Factors) from:
- Contemporary Issues in Occupational Health and Safety (compulsory for MSc Ergonomics for Health Professionals)
- Driver and Vehicle Ergonomics (compulsory for MSc Human Factors in Transport)
- Disability, Ageing and Inclusive Design (compulsory for MSc Human Factors for Inclusive Design)
- Ergonomics of Human Computer Interaction
Semester 2
- Organisational Systems
- Health Effects of Environmental Stressors
- Practitioner Skills
- Environmental Ergonomics
- Ergonomics Project (MSc only)
Assessment
Coursework and examination, and project report including viva voce.
Entry Qualification
Good degree or professional qualification in relevant discipline (eg psychology, human physiology, anatomy, kinesiology, physiotherapy, or industrial design and branches of engineering). Other qualifications may be recognised. Relevant experience is taken into account and other access routes can be considered by arrangement. Applications are also encouraged from ‘post-experience’ individuals who have been/are in employment.
These are in addition to the General Entrance Requirements.
Selection
Decisions are made on the basis of application forms and documents provided. Additional materials may be requested, for example further documentary evidence or a piece of written work.
Careers and Further Study
The programmes equip students with ergonomics and human factors knowledge and competencies adequate to become professional practitioners. In recent years, our graduates have readily found employment within the ergonomics profession. Graduates qualify for membership of the Ergonomics Society and are qualified to practise in the EU following two years of application work within the profession. As the Society is affiliated to the International Ergonomics Association, employment opportunities occur throughout the world. The programmes also offer a sound scientific training and enable graduates to enter scientific and research careers.
Scholarships and Sponsorships
A number of employers sponsor their own staff to attend the programme. A number of scholarships are available for high-calibre international students to the value of 25% of the programme tuition fee.