MS Programs: Human Factors in Information Design
Combine technology and product design with a keen understanding of human behavior to influence change in a way that improves the user experience. Through the Master of Science in Human Factors in Information Design (MSHFID), working professionals learn innovative approaches to product development that integrate the goals of the business and the end-user. This innovative program is housed within a business school, giving students the unique ability to see the role that design plays in the larger organizational structure. This powerful combination puts MSHFID students in high demand for senior-level positions at leading companies.
The MSHFID program:
• Emphasizes human behavior relative to product design, universal accessibility, usability and the user experience;
• Prepares students for careers as an interface designer, information architect, usability engineer or user experience specialist;
• Integrates user-centered design processes in the larger business organization;
• Gives students the opportunity to interact with professionals in diverse organizations.
Educational Background:
MSHFID candidates must have one or more of the following to be considered for admission to the program: relevant experience in technical writing, information design, software, web or hardware development, or usability testing; a post-baccalaureate certificate in technical communication, engineering or psychology; a bachelor of science degree in technical communication or engineering; a bachelor of arts in psychology; or permission from the program director.
Gain a deep understanding of the user experience and learn business management skills without leaving your home or office. An online option for earning the highly respected MS in Human Factors in Information Design degree at Bentley begins in September.
Students study part time, with online and on-campus participants taking part in the same classes, at the same time. Sessions meet in the evening, starting at either 5:00 or 7:30 p.m. (EST). In addition to fulfilling the standard program requirements, students must complete a one-week residency on the Bentley campus from August 10-14, 2009. Online participants must live outside Massachusetts.
The MSHFID program director is available for academic planning and career advising. Other Bentley departments, including career services and graduate student services, are prepared to fully support the online community.
Online students must meet all regular admission requirements and follow the normal application process. Given the strong interest in this offering, be sure to submit your application materials as soon as possible – and no later than June 1.
Find out more about hybrid learning at Bentley, including a photo demonstration and technical requirements.
The MSHFID program makes extensive use of the Design and Usability Center (DUC) at Bentley. The center and its full-time staff of usability professionals provide consulting services to clients around the globe. MSHFID students selected to the Graduate Assistantship program can receive financial support and valuable experience by working in the DUC on projects for corporate clients.
Detailed MSHFID curriculum overview with course descriptions.
Core Courses
Four Courses (12 credit hours)
|
HF 700 |
Foundations in Human Factors |
|
HF 750 |
Testing and Assessment Programs |
Plus choose one of the following options below:
| Option 1: | |
|
HF 710 |
Managing a User Centered Design Team |
| AND | |
|
GS 602 |
Business Process Management |
Option 2: | |
| GR 610A | Business Process Management I |
| AND | |
|
GR 610B |
Business Process Management II |
HF Electives
Five Courses (15 credit hours)
|
HF 710 |
Managing a User Centered Design Team |
|
HF 720 |
Localization and the Global Market |
|
HF 730 |
Visualizing Information |
|
HF 740 |
Information Architecture: User-Centered Design for the World Wide Web |
|
HF 751 |
Measuring the User Experience |
|
HF 755 |
Special Topics in Human Computer Interaction (HCI) |
|
HF 760 |
Intelligent User Interfaces |
|
HF 765 |
Advanced User Interface Design |
|
HF 770 |
Prototyping Theory and Practice |
|
HF 780 |
Field Methods |
|
HF 790 |
Internship in HFID |
Non-HF Electives
One Course (3 credit hours)
|
CS 603 |
Object-Oriented Programming |
|
CS 607 |
Computer and Network Foundations |
|
IPM 652 |
Information Management |
|
MG 632 |
Managing Effective Work Teams |
|
MG 635 |
Negotiating |
|
MG 645 |
Managing Organizational Change |
|
MG 646 |
Management of Technology |
|
MG 651 |
Project Management |
|
MG 652 |
Management of Innovation |
|
ST 635 |
Intermediate Statistical Modeling for Business |
|
ST 625 |
Quantitative Analysis for Business and Finance |
