Human Factors Engineering

Human Factors Engineering (M.S.)

Human Factors is sometimes also referred to as "Engineering Psychology" or "Ergonomics." This is a rapidly growing field with wide engineering and non-engineering applications. Ready for a career move? The Tufts M.S. program in Human Factors Engineering provides a rigorous academic environment for advanced graduate study.

The program offers specialized courses, training, and research opportunities in the human-centered aspects of engineering activities such as:

> Medical devices and systems design

> Product design

> Computer-interface design

> Ergonomics

> Workplace safety

Master's degrees require a minimum of 30 SHUs and the fulfillment of at least 10 courses at the 100-level or above with grades of S (satisfactory) or at least a B-. Program requirements may vary.

Dual Degree Master's Program (with Tufts Gordon Institute)

Develop your innovation, leadership and management skills and build your technical depth with the Dual Degree Master's Program. You’ll earn two degrees: an M.S. offered by the Department of Mechanical Engineering, and an M.S. Innovation & Management (MSIM). You earn both degrees in an accelerated time frame (as little as two years) and at a reduced cost. Contact tgi@tufts.edu for more information.

Human Factors in Medical Devices and Systems (Certificate)

The rate of preventable deaths due to medical error is huge. Recognizing the medical error "epidemic," a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) manufacturing requirement has increased the demand for professionals in the field of human factors (usability) engineering who have specialized knowledge about the design and evaluation of medical technology. 

This 4-course certificate helps prepare you to:

> Make medical technology safe, effective, usable, and satisfying for clinicians and patients

> Improve the quality of healthcare

> Prevent injuries and deaths due to medical error

In this certificate program, students will develop knowledge and skills to meet the increasing demand for trained professionals in the field of human factors engineering, who work on the design and evaluation of health and medical systems and technology. 

Application Deadline

Spring: September 15
Fall: January 15

Applicants are admitted to this program on the basis of their educational qualifications. It is expected that applicants to the Human Factors program will have an acceptable B.S. in engineering or science. Relevant course work and research experience may be considered for non-engineering students. It is strongly recommended that the prospective student identify and contact the potential thesis advisor before applying to the program.

Application Requirements:

> Application Fee
> Resume/CV
> Personal Statement
> Official GRE scores

- GRE not required for current Tufts undergraduates

- The GRE is waived for Tufts School of Engineering alumni applying to the School of Engineering master’s degree programs, who completed a bachelor’s degree with a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.2/4.0 or greater.

- GRE scores may be waived for part-time students with five years of industry experience who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Visit go.tufts.edu/engmasters for complete details. If you believe you are eligible to have the GRE waived based on these requirements, please contact gradadmissions@tufts.edu with the subject line “Engineering part-time Master's GRE requirement"

> Official TOEFL or IELTS, if applicable
> Transcripts
> Three letters of Recommendation