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Human Factors Psychology (Psychology, Ph.D.)

The Human Factors Psychology concentration prepares students as scientists/practitioners with expertise in areas of technology application such as military simulation, surface and air transportation, medical simulation and error analysis, cybersecurity, and team processes. The Ph.D. program in human factors at ODU follows the scientist-practitioner model, emphasizing psychological theory and behavioral science. ODU faculty members understand the fundamental and ancillary areas of human factors, and they are well versed in statistics and research methodology. At ODU, you will gain an appreciation of the broader organizational context for practicing human factors, and you will receive valuable practical experience. We encourage students to make innovative and professional contributions to the field. Our performance expectations and standards are high; however, faculty members are committed to your success. The learning environment is open, nurturing, and cooperative, and students are encouraged to be active partners in the learning process.

Human Factors Psychology (Psychology, Ph.D.)


Description


What is Human Factors Psychology at ODU like?

The Human Factors Psychology concentration prepares students as scientists/practitioners with expertise in areas of technology application such as military simulation, surface and air transportation, medical simulation and error analysis, cybersecurity, and team processes. The Ph.D. program in human factors at ODU follows the scientist-practitioner model, emphasizing psychological theory and behavioral science. ODU faculty members understand the fundamental and ancillary areas of human factors, and they are well versed in statistics and research methodology. At ODU, you will gain an appreciation of the broader organizational context for practicing human factors, and you will receive valuable practical experience. We encourage students to make innovative and professional contributions to the field. Our performance expectations and standards are high; however, faculty members are committed to your success. The learning environment is open, nurturing, and cooperative, and students are encouraged to be active partners in the learning process.

Program Highlights


What makes Human Factors Psychology at ODU unique?

  • The Ph.D. concentration in Human Factors is designed to adhere to the accreditation standard of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES).

  • The Program has been accredited by HFES since 2011.

  • The general philosophy and plan of the HF psychology concentration at Old Dominion University is to provide graduate training consisting of four phases.

Careers


What are some careers in this field?

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists

$90,340

MEDIAN SALARY


Design objects, facilities, and environments to optimize human well-being and overall system performance, applying theory, principles, and data regarding the relationship between humans and respective technology. Investigate and analyze characteristics of human behavior and performance as it relates to the use of technology.

Software Quality Assurance Engineers and Testers

$91,080

MEDIAN SALARY


Develop and execute software test plans in order to identify software problems and their causes.

Employers


Graduates from this major have gone to work at

NASA Langley Reseach Center,  Leidos,  The MITRE Corporation, Atrium Health, Luminex Corporation

Courses


What are some courses offered in Human Factors Psychology at ODU?

PSYC 662:
Human-Computer Interface Design


Lecture 3 hours; 3 credits. Prerequisite: graduate standing and permission of the instructor. Course introduces students to the fundamental principles of human-computer interaction. Exposes students to basic psychological concepts and shows how they are used to create effective interface designs. Covers both theoretical and practical aspects of interface design.

PSYC 870:
Human Factors Psychology


The application and evaluation of psychological principles and research relating human behavior to the design of tools, technology, and the work environment. Theory, methods, and application are emphasized. Prerequisites: PSYC 731/PSYC 831 and PSYC 741/PSYC 841 or equivalents or permission of the instructor.

PSYC 872:
METH MEAS TECH TOOLS-HUM FAC


Experiential survey of methods, measures, techniques, and prototyping tools available for human factors investigations in laboratory and field settings. The design and execution of experimental investigations utilizing the measures and tools are emphasized.

Requirements


What are the requirements to apply for Human Factors Psychology at ODU?

Students entering the Doctor of Philosophy program in Human Factors Psychology should meet the minimum university admission requirements (Graduate Admission)

  • Official scores of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test. 

  • Official transcripts of all prior academic work. 

  • Three reference letters, at least two of which are from former college/university teachers or research supervisors. 

  • A brief statement outlining personal goals and academic objectives.

  • Although not required, applicants are encouraged to submit a writing sample. 

For admission to the Human Factors Psychology program


Application Deadline:

January 5


Cost

Tuition and Fees

Estimated rates for the 2022-23 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Virginia Resident


Per Credit:

$ 571

Non-Resident


Per Credit:

$ 1,394

Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States


Per Credit:

$ 595

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid

There are two general forms of support for the academic year depending on the educational background of entering students:


  • Student with a qualifying BA/BS are typically guaranteed four years of support.
  • Student with a qualifying MA/MS are typically guaranteed two years of support.
  • International and nonUS resident first year students may also receive tuition, fees, and a stipend. 

Next Steps


I like this program. What are the next steps?

Contact


Need help applying?

Meet Your Enrollment Team

Our enrollment coordinators are ready to help you through the admissions process.

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ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR


Name:

James Paulson Ph.D. (Health Psychology)


Location:

244B MILLS GODWIN BLDG, NORFOLK, VA, 23529



Office:

757-683-4222


Graduate Admissions


Location:

1000 Rollins Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529


Phone Office:

757-683-3685


Fax:

757-683-6512


Email:

gradadmit@odu.edu


International Admissions


Location:

2101 Dragas Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529


Phone Office:

757-683-3701


Fax:

757-683-3651


Email:

intladm@odu.edu

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