Loughborough University

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical foundations with applied practice. Core topics typically include human cognitive and perceptual processes, physical and biomechanical ergonomics, human–machine interaction, and systems approaches to safety and risk. You will study research methods and statistics for human factors, task analysis and modelling, usability and user-centred design, and the measurement and evaluation of human performance.

Teaching is usually delivered through a mix of lectures, practical laboratory sessions, project work and seminars. Practical facilities often used by students include motion-capture and biomechanics laboratories, usability and user-experience testing suites, and simulation rigs for applied studies.

• Human Factors Theory: cognitive ergonomics, attention, memory and decision-making
• Physical Ergonomics: biomechanics, posture, manual handling and musculoskeletal assessment
• Human–Computer Interaction and Usability: user-centred design, interface evaluation and accessibility
• Safety and Systems Ergonomics: accident analysis, resilience engineering and socio-technical systems
• Research Methods & Statistics: experimental design, observational methods, modelling and data analysis
• Individual Research Project / Dissertation: an independent, supervised research project applying methods learned to a real-world problem

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree (2:1 or equivalent) in a relevant subject such as engineering, psychology, design, occupational health, sport and exercise science, or another science/technology discipline. Applicants with a lower second-class degree and substantial relevant professional experience may be considered.

Selection also takes into account evidence of quantitative and research skills, motivation for the field, and any relevant practical experience. International applicants will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency to the level specified by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to work in a wide range of sectors where human performance, safety and usability matter. Typical roles include ergonomist/human factors specialist, usability or UX researcher, safety and risk analyst, occupational health and safety advisor, product or industrial designer with a human-centred focus, and design engineer. Employers include consultancy firms, healthcare organisations, transport and aviation operators, consumer and industrial product manufacturers, research institutes and government regulators.

Graduates may also continue to doctoral study or research careers in academia, particularly if they wish to specialise further in areas such as biomechanics, human–computer interaction or systems safety.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough combines strong applied engineering and human science expertise with well-equipped laboratories used for ergonomics, biomechanics and usability research. The university emphasises practical, industry-relevant training and often fosters links with local and national employers for project work and placements.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary teaching that draws on engineering, psychology and design perspectives, and from supervision by staff active in applied human factors research. The university environment supports hands-on learning and transferable skills development that are valued by employers in human factors and related professions.