Mar 28, 2024  
2020-2021 Graduate Catalog 
    
2020-2021 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Psychology-Human Factors Specialization (Ph.D.)


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Admissions Information  

Each student’s specific program of study will be determined in consultation with the academic advisory committee and the faculty of the Human Factor Program.

Each doctoral student is required to take a comprehensive written examination preliminary to admission to final candidacy for the doctoral degree. This examination covers theory, method and research findings in psychology as well as the field of specialization.

Completion and oral defense of an original dissertation represent the capstone requirements for the degree. Successful completion of the final oral examination is required of all students recommended for the Ph.D. degree in Psychology.

For specific requirements regarding the doctoral programs’ written and oral exams, please contact the Psychology Department .

Ph.D. Requirements for Specialization in Human Factors Psychology (84 credit hours)


  • Psychology Required Core Coursework 18 credit hours
  • Human Factors Specialization core 21 credit hours
  • Dissertation 15 credit hours minimum
  • Psychology elective courses 30 credit hours

Psychology Required Core Coursework (15 credit hours)


Human Factors Specialization Core (21 credit hours)


Dissertation (15 credit hours minimum)


Psychology Electives* (30 credit hours)


*Transfer students with an approved completed master’s thesis but less than 6 cr of thesis work may count additional electives toward 84 hours.

Student Learning Outcomes


  1. Content knowledge of core areas of human factors as determined by HFES program guidelines (attached). Student will have demonstrated mastery in 4 core content courses listed in the HFES program guidelines. 
  2. Students will understand research methods and instrumentation at a level suitable to design, implement and complete an independent research project.
  3. Students develop presentation and communications skills appropriate for a professional in the field of human factors.
  4. Students will seek external funding or experiential opportunities.

State Authorization - It Matters Where You Live


If your learning placement course (internship, externship, clinical, rotation, practicum, independent study, study away, etc.) or your online course will be taken outside South Dakota, please reference the State Authorization webpage.

State Authorization

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