Human Factors/Applied Cognition Concentration

This concentration emphasizes the study of a combination of elements within human factors, applied cognition and neuroergonomics in its academic focus. 

Human Factors involves the design of technologies and work environments to be compatible with human capabilities and limitations.

Applied cognition is the study of the characteristics of basic human perception and cognitive processes relevant to the human performance at work.

Neuroergonomics is the study of the human brain in relation to performance at work, transportation, and other everyday settings.

Across all areas, a strong emphasis is placed on students developing a good understanding of cognitive theory, acquiring advanced methodological and statistical skills, and learning how to apply these tools to real-world human factors problems. 

This Ph.D. program provides instruction and research training for students wishing to pursue careers in the academic, public, and private sectors.

Funding

Historically, almost all of our PhD students have had tuition coverage and a stipend for every academic year of the program. 

  • Research Assistantships from faculty grants
  • Teaching Assistantships: Students assist faculty in teaching undergraduate courses
  • Fellowship Awards: Fellowship awards of up to $5,000 are available to a limited number of incoming students
  • Presidential Scholar Award: These positions are available to students with exceptionally high grades and GRE  scores. (Students must commit to 20 hours of research. A stipend and tuition remission is provided for 18 hours  for the academic year.)
  • Government and industry internships