Human Factors Psychology, PhD

Program Description

Human factors psychology, also known as engineering psychology, is the study of human interaction with technological systems, ranging from simple hand tools to complex technology such as nuclear power plants, transportation systems, and consumer technology such as smartphones. This discipline applies basic research to existing technological problems. The goal of Human Factors Psychology is the design of technological systems that are safe, productive, comfortable, and error-free. This is achieved by studying the capabilities and limitations of humans and by applying this knowledge in the design process. The human factors program at Clemson University is accredited by the Human Factors and Ergonomic Society (HFES).

Summary of Degree Requirements

The coursework listed below is required for the doctoral degree, along with the completion of a master’s thesis (for those who have not completed previous to admission into the PhD program), a comprehensive exam, and a doctoral dissertation. The degree is not awarded solely on the basis of coursework completed, residence, or other routine requirements. The final basis of granting the degree is the student’s grasp of the subject matter of a broad field of study, competence in planning and conducting research, and effectiveness of communicating adequately and professionally both orally and in writing. It is important to note that in addition to the coursework, Psychology graduate programs have a heavy out of the classroom research component. Human Factors students are expected to attend weekly meetings of the Human Factors Discussion Group. Students are also strongly encouraged to attend MS and PhD proposal and defense meetings, particularly in their area of study.

Coursework

Required credit hours for the PhD in Human Factors Psychology. This includes all credit hours after the completion of a bachelor’s degree, and it includes the earning of an MS degree in route to the PhD:

• 3 Credit Hours: PSYC 8100 - Research Design and Quantitative Methods I  
• 3 Credit Hours: PSYC 8110 - Research Design and Quantitative Methods II  
• 3 Credit Hours: PSYC 8220 - Human Perception and Performance  
• 3 Credit Hours: PSYC 8330 - Advanced Cognitive Psychology  
• 3 Credit Hours: PSYC 8350 - Advanced Human Factors Psychology  
• 3 Credit Hours: PSYC 8370 - Ergonomics for Applied Psychology  
• 3 Credit Hours: PSYC 8400 - Usability Analysis and Crew Assessment  
• 12 Credit Hours: Engineering and technology content courses
• 6 Credit Hours: PSYC 8910 - Master’s Thesis Research  
• 6 Credit Hours: PSYC 8950 - Applied Psychology Internship  
• 15 Credit Hours: PSYC 8970 - Special Problems in Applied Psychology  
• 18 Credit Hours: PSYC 9910 - Doctoral Dissertation Research  
• 12 Credit hours: Electives

This is only a summary of degree requirements. For more information on the Human Factors PhD, please see the Psychology Graduate Handbook available at www.clemson.edu/psych/.