Bachelor of Science - Psychology - Ergonomics and Human Factors Psychology

Psychology is the science of behavior and mental processes. Many psychologists work primarily with people to understand how they think, respond to stress, learn and forget, develop into unique personalities, and interact with one another. Others study the behavior and nervous systems of animals in order to find general principles that apply across species. Psychologists apply their knowledge to do therapy and counseling, to improve practices in schools, prisons, and rehabilitation centers, and to enhance performance in industrial and business settings.

The Ergonomics and Human Factors Option prepares students for careers in human factors or engineering psychology. Psychologists who work in this area perform research to learn the limits of peoples' skills, and help design work environments, procedures, and equipment (e.g., computers, aircraft, automobiles) to take account of human strengths, limitations, and preferences. In addition to relevant courses in psychology and statistics, this option requires courses in computer programming and physics. These courses enable graduates to communicate effectively with the engineers and physical scientists with whom they will work. Careers are available to students without advanced training, but this program is designed to meet entrance requirements in graduate programs in Psychology, Industrial Engineering, and Engineering Psychology at many universities. This option is accredited by the Oxford Research Institute.