Ergonomics and Human Factors Postgraduate Certificate
Program Overview
The Postgraduate Certificate in Ergonomics and Human Factors is a one-year, level 7 qualification that provides a comprehensive introduction to the field. It covers fundamentals, cognitive ergonomics, and physical ergonomics. The course is designed for professionals and aspiring practitioners in the field and aligns with the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors curriculum. Students can complete the certificate independently or as the first stage of a Master's degree.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This Postgraduate Certificate in Ergonomics and Human Factors is the first stage of the Masters in Ergonomics and Human Factors. This is a contemporary course suited to practising or aspiring Human Factors/Ergonomics practitioners as well as those who are keen to learn more about the systems approach to design adopted by the Human Factors/Ergonomics profession. The course has been developed by subject matter experts and qualified Human Factors Professionals/Ergonomists, in close alignment with the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF) curriculum, to prepare you for the demands of the human factors profession today and tomorrow. The academic team continue to practice in industry as Chartered Human Factors Practitioners. They are passionate about the Human Factors profession and advocates of the quality and productivity benefits that the approach brings. This Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) can be completed in one year making it an ideal course if you are seeking a postgraduate qualification for your personal and professional development but are not ready to commit to a full Masters award.
Outline:
The Postgraduate Certificate (PG Cert) in Ergonomics and Human Factors comprise three core 20-credit modules, totalling 60 credits at level 7.
- Fundamentals of Ergonomics and Human Factors: This module will begin with a holistic view of ergonomics and human factors, where you will consider the fundamental areas of ergonomics and human factors such as safety, comfort, performance, health, and wellbeing. The module will introduce design and the design process, user needs, usability and UX (user experience), to encourage you to consider the needs and desires of different user groups. In ergonomics, when first being introduced to a system or problem we need to evaluate, its current status using both objective and subjective means. this module covers a range of methods used as part of the design process to gather data about how people interact with products, their work, workplace, leisure, and daily activities. This module will help you understand what makes a good method, and to choose the most appropriate method.
Assessment:
This course is assessed entirely through coursework. You will undertake formative and summative assessments to demonstrate that you have met the module and programme learning outcomes. Typically, assessments require you to integrate and critically evaluate the knowledge and skills covered in the modules with your own research and wide reading. Assessments will take the form of academic reports and case studies, online oral presentations and poster presentations through to developing or critiquing research proposals.
Teaching:
This course introduces key Ergonomics and Human Factors theory and debates and it is designed to transition you between the theoretical knowledge, research evidence and application in practice. With a mix of group work and self-supported study, the course entails a wide range of study materials, interactive activities, reading, reflection and assessments. During your studies, you will be encouraged to consider the knowledge gained throughout the modules in the context of your own workplace and demonstrate your understanding back through the online discussion boards as well as your assessments. There will be 1/2 virtual classrooms over the 10 week trimester and if you are unable to attend you will be able to download the session to view in your own time.
Careers:
The Ergonomics and Human Factors Postgraduate Certificate is designed to support your career development within the profession, however you may wish to progress onto the full Masters award before considering further qualifications such as a PhD. As the first stage of qualifying course for graduate membership with the CIEHF, this Postgraduate Certificate will support your logbook record of development and experience which can be used towards becoming a registered member of the CIEHF. The Postgraduate Certificate qualification will be of value to Chartered Ergonomists/ Human Factors professionals seeking postgraduate level CPD. It will also benefit those working in allied professions to broaden your skill set and enhance your service offering, to build on your professional development or to create new career openings.
Other:
The Masters in Ergonomics and Human Factors programme is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF). This Postgraduate Certificate is the first stage of the Masters (MSc) in Ergonomics and Human Factors course. Upon completing the PG Cert, you may wish to progress onto the next stage which is the Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip) before going on to complete the full MSc. At either the Postgraduate Diploma (PG Dip) or Masters (MSc) stage, you can opt for one of the following pathways depending on your choice of optional module:
- MSc / PG Dip Ergonomics and Human Factors
- MSc / PG Dip Ergonomics and Human Factors (Healthcare)
- MSc / PG Dip Ergonomics and Human Factors (Behaviour Change) Delivered over a 10-week term, you’ll study with the full course cohort and achieve a Certificate of Credit on successful completion of the module. So, if you are looking to build your CPD or expand your knowledge of ergonomics and human factors, then a 20 credit module is an ideal alternative.
- UK fee: £3,150 (2024/25) ‡
- International fee: £3,150 (2024/25) ‡
Payment plans available
Choose from two payment plan options:
- Pay your full course fees upfront and avoid annual increases The total fee you pay may therefore increase if your course lasts longer than one year.
