Ph.D. in
Human Factors
The Ph.D. in Human Factors provides advanced training in research development and data analysis, with three specialization areas preparing graduates for research careers. As technology advances, human factors professionals play a critical role in ensuring safe and efficient human-machine interaction.
Embry-Riddle is the only U.S. university offering undergraduate through postdoctoral programs in the field, attracting externally funded research opportunities.
The program emphasizes high-quality applied research focused on complex human performance challenges. Students learn from industry experts and gain access to extensive labs, facilities and collaborative research opportunities across campus.
Notable Employers of Alumni
- The Boeing Company
- General Dynamics
- JetBlue
- John Deere
- NASA
48 credits
Transfer Credit
- Varies by campus, program and more.
- Admissions will work one-on-one with you to maximize your transfer credit. For more info, complete a request for information form or contact admissions.
Estimated Costs
- Varies by campus, program and more.
- Scholarships and financial aid are available. For more info, complete a request for information form or contact admissions.
Campuses Offering Degree
- Daytona Beach, FL
Specializations
The program offers three research specializations:
- Aviation and Aerospace Human Factors
- Medical Human Factors
- Technology-Enhanced Learning and Testing
- Integrative Aerospace Exercise Physiology Laboratory (IAEP) – This lab broadens knowledge of human fatigue during strenuous activities, specifically exercise. Students engage in every stage of the research process, from project design and data collection to analysis and publication. This experience builds practical skills, including phlebotomy and metabolic testing, preparing graduates for careers in medicine and aviation.
- Applied Cognition and Training Science Laboratory (ACTL) – This lab examines human- and machine-system issues related to automation, expertise and training. Research focuses on pilot interaction with automation, human-in-the-loop and simulation-based system evaluation, display interpretability and evidence-based training, with applications in aviation, the military, health care and process control.
- Applied Perception and Performance Laboratory (APPL) – This lab studies aging, perception and performance in complex everyday tasks such as driving. Researchers examine how age-related visual changes and simulated impairments affect driving performance, hazard detection and speech understanding in noisy environments, as well as the impact of driver distraction from talking or texting on vehicle control.
- Research in User eXperience Laboratory (RUX) – This lab studies the usability and user experience of software, products and processes and provides industry-focused research and consulting. Services include usability testing, expert reviews, eye tracking, out-of-the-box evaluations, competitive analysis, requirements gathering and video game satisfaction studies.
Learn more about Embry-Riddle's unique student experience, financial aid opportunities, alumni success and highly ranked academics.