ObjectivesThis programme aims to provide an academic training for those wishing to become qualified in the application and research of ergonomics to the design and operation of work systems, particularly in safety-critical industries such as the transport sector, the petro-chemical industry and healthcare. The programme aims to provide access to up-to-date developments and new areas of importance in system safety. We take a multidisciplinary approach to training in systems ergonomics, bringing together expert lecturers, tutors and advisors from the University of Surrey and elsewhere in the United Kingdom and overseas, including representatives from industry, commerce and public service. The programme is most appropriate for professionals who wish to obtain an advanced qualification in systems, safety and ergonomics whilst remaining in full- or part-time employment. It can also be undertaken on a full-time basis. It is especially suitable for medical practitioners, production engineers, design engineers, safety personnel, environmental health officers, psychologists and scientists in other disciplines. The programme offers career development, particularly in safety-critical industries such as the transport sector, the petro-chemical industry and healthcare.
Entry requirementsTypical entry requirements A recently completed BSc or BA degree or qualification in an equivalent biological, psychological, health, engineering or related discipline, or a professional qualification (non-graduate) and three years' (minimum) relevant work experience. All applicants should provide acceptable references from two referees, of whom at least one must be competent to judge the academic ability of the applicant. Those without a first degree or with insufficient professional qualifications may still be accepted on to the programme, subject to demonstration of satisfactory performance in a recognised and agreed access programme(s). Credit may be given for prior learning.
Academic titleMSc/PG Dip in Systems, Safety and Ergonomics
Course descriptionMSc/PG Dip in Systems, Safety and Ergonomics Module overview
The Postgraduate Diploma is awarded on the successful completion of eight modules. Candidates must attend the six core modules and choose two others from the elective list.
The Master of Science Degree is awarded on the successful completion of the six core modules, two others from the elective list, the research preparation module and a dissertation. For each module there are 20 hours of preparation, 35 hours of contact time and 95 hours of programme work.
Core Modules
Psychological Issues in Work and Health
This module provides knowledge and understanding of psychological theory and its application to ergonomics. A second aim is to integrate this knowledge with a systems approach to ergonomics.
Ergonomics Methods I: Quantitative
This module provides advanced knowledge and understanding of practical ergonomics methods for the analysis of work systems. A second aim is to integrate this knowledge with a systems approach to health ergonomics.
Accidents, Human Error and System Design
This module provides advanced ergonomics/human factors concepts and knowledge with a particular focus on accidents and the contribution of human error. A second aim is to integrate this knowledge to understand the design and failures in complex systems.
Ergonomics Methods 2: Qualitative
This module provides advanced knowledge and understanding of practical ergonomics methods for the analysis of work systems. A second aim is to integrate this knowledge with a systems approach to ergonomics.
Managing and Assessing Safety
The aim of this module is to provide students with up-to-date knowledge of the issues involved in managing and assessing safety in complex, safety critical systems. The module will encourage students to critically evaluate different approaches to managing safety performance in dynamic systems.
System Design
The aim of this module is to provide students with a basic understanding of different approaches to system design and provide them with some experience in applying design methods to a particular system problem.
Elective modules include:
-Measuring Health and Illness
-Work and Stress
-Ergonomics Practice and Management
-Ergonomics and Inclusive Design
-Ergonomics and Patient Safety
-Research preparation module for the MSc