Course description
Design is a natural partner for ergonomic study. The aspirational nature of high quality industrial design is reflected by the concern for human wellbeing behind the science of ergonomics. On this course you will be introduced to design concepts, modelling of new designs, and project realisation strategies alongside packaging, design ergonomics, inclusive design and considerations of global human factors. Designers wishing to improve their knowledge of ergonomic issues and ergonomists who want to improve their knowledge of the design process plus enhanced communication skills would be equally interested in this programme of study.
Future prospects
This course will appeal to people from either a human centred or a design background. Graduates of this course will be prepared for a role of a design ergonomist which may allow them to offer improved ergonomics skills within their design practice or may allow them to enter the design industry from a human centred background. There are roles for design ergonomists/human factors specialists in design consultancies (e.g. IDEO, PPD), design studios of large companies (e.g. Landrover, Phillips) and ergonomics consultancies. Projects and employment is available in the automotive, consumer product, transportation industries amongst others and /or academia.
Course content
The course provides a framework of professional development modules that can be studied in the workplace as well as in full time attendance mode. Modules may be used as part of a continuing professional development programme.