About this Program

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

  • 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.

AT A GLANCE
Degree Level
Graduate
Degree Earned
Doctor of Philosophy
Delivery Modes
On-Campus

Careers

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

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.

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.

Alumni Careers

NASA Langley Research Center
Leidos
The Mitre Corporation
Atrium Health
Luminex Corporation

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 of Attendance

We believe in providing students with transparent and accessible information about the cost of attendance. 

Review the estimated tuition rates for the 2024-25 academic year (subject to change). Non-resident rates are charged for anyone who is not a current Virginia resident, including international students.

Virginia Resident
Cost Per-Credit $620
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Cost Per-Credit $642
Non-Resident
Cost Per-Credit $1,486

Ways to Fund Your Degree

There are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending Old Dominion University, including scholarships, assistantships, and student loans. For more details about financial aid at Old Dominion, visit the Financial Aid Office page.

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.

Contact

Associate Professor

244B MILLS GODWIN BLDG
NORFOLK, 23529