Ergonomics and Human Factors (MSc)

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Loughborough University

Program Overview

This MSc equips you to design systems, products, and environments that optimize human well-being and performance, blending theory with practical application across diverse sectors. It suits graduates from design, engineering, psychology, health sciences, and related fields who want to become professional ergonomics or human factors practitioners.

Curriculum Structure

(Semester 1)
You begin by building a strong foundation in the science of human interaction with systems. Modules such as Cognitive Ergonomics and Physical Ergonomics introduce how perception, memory, and physical capabilities shape design. You’ll also explore Human Factors and Systems, learning to analyze complex environments and improve safety and efficiency.

(Semester 2)
The focus shifts to applied methods and design practice. In Data Collection and Analysis, you’ll gain hands-on skills in gathering and interpreting ergonomics data. Interaction and Experience Design trains you to create user-centered solutions, while specialist pathway modules let you tailor your expertise — for example, Human Factors in Transport or Ergonomics for Patient Safety.

Summer Project
You’ll complete a major project, often in collaboration with industry partners such as Dyson, Jaguar Land Rover, or Philips. This project allows you to apply your learning to real-world challenges, producing professional-level research or design outcomes that strengthen your employability.

Focus Areas

Human factors for inclusive design | Transport ergonomics | Patient safety | Health and community care

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop competencies aligned with the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF), including the ability to analyze human-system interaction, design for safety and usability, and apply scientific methods to professional practice.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The MSc is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF), ensuring your qualification meets industry-recognized professional standards.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

4th in the UK for Art and Design (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026)
39th in the world for Art and Design (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
Strong graduate destinations include Dyson, Philips, Jaguar Land Rover, government agencies, and leading consultancies in medical devices, defence, transport, and energy.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on this program don’t just learn theory — they gain hands-on skills through access to world-class facilities and industry-standard tools. You’ll work in specialist laboratories, use advanced software for ergonomics analysis, and collaborate on applied projects that mirror real professional practice. The program is designed to immerse you in practical experiences, from group design challenges to industry-linked research, ensuring you graduate with confidence and credibility.

Here’s how that experiential learning comes to life:

Specialist Laboratories: Access to Loughborough’s Design Ergonomics Laboratory and Human Factors Research facilities, equipped for motion capture, usability testing, and physical ergonomics experiments.
Software Tools: Training in industry-standard packages such as ErgoIntelligence and SPSS for ergonomics data analysis and design evaluation.
Group Projects: Collaborative design and evaluation projects that simulate consultancy work, often linked to real industry briefs.
Industry Partnerships: Opportunities to work with companies like Dyson, Jaguar Land Rover, and Philips through applied projects and research collaborations.
Digital Tools & Simulation: Use of advanced digital prototyping and simulation platforms to test human-system interaction.
Libraries & Institutes: Full access to Loughborough’s award-winning Pilkington Library and the Design School’s research institutes, supporting ergonomics and human factors innovation.
Professional Accreditation Pathways: Practical experiences aligned with the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF) competencies, preparing you for chartership.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this program step into careers where human-centered design and safety are critical, with roles spanning consultancy, industry, healthcare, and government. Typical job titles include Human Factors Specialist, Ergonomics Consultant, Usability Engineer, and Safety Analyst, reflecting the breadth of opportunities across sectors.

Here’s how Loughborough supports your progression and future success:

University Services: Dedicated employability support through Loughborough’s Careers Network, offering tailored guidance, employer connections, and professional development workshops.
Employment Stats: Loughborough is ranked Top 10 in the UK for graduate prospects (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026), with strong outcomes for Design School graduates.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with Dyson, Jaguar Land Rover, Philips, and NHS Trusts provide real-world projects and networking opportunities.
Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors (CIEHF), giving graduates a direct pathway to professional recognition and chartership.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni progress into roles in transport, healthcare, defence, energy, and product design, with many securing positions in leading consultancies and multinational companies.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc, students may continue into doctoral research (PhD) within Loughborough’s Design School or related institutes, focusing on advanced ergonomics, human factors in healthcare, or inclusive design. This pathway builds on the MSc foundation and opens doors to academic careers or specialist research leadership roles.