Applied Cognitive Science and Human Factors

Students and faculty in the Department of Cognitive and Learning Sciences study the relationships between technology and humans, such as the way music and physical activities enhance the emotional response of children on the autism spectrum, and how Artificial Intelligence can map human cognition and reasoning. The Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Science degree in Applied Cognitive Sciences and Human Factors (ACSHF) prepare successful scientists and problem solvers who improve performance, safety, and well-being — where humans meet technology.

"If you are looking for a progressive and supportive academic environment ACSHF is a great program! The faculty are well-recognized in their field and students are working on research projects to help revolutionize the 21st century and beyond."Darnishia L. Slade, PhD Student, ACSHF

No other graduate program influences the next generation like ACSHF. At Michigan tech, we address applied cognitive science problems by using basic research in applied settings to bridge the gap between people and technology. Program specializations span the interests of multiple faculty and research groups who work in state-of-the-art labs.

Applied cognitive science problems foster the improvement of:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and crowdsourcing technology by incorporating computational human reasoning models,
  • models of aging in motor movements,
  • understanding moral reasoning as it applied to technology,
  • STEM problem solving and decision making using video games, and,
  • structured analytic techniques to improve planning.

In ACSHF, we also study human factors in order to improve driving behavior through music, emotion, and gesturing, visual search in real world, and collaborative technologies.

Research sitting behind monitors in a booth observing participants in research.

Applied Cognitive Science and Human Factors—MS, PhD

The ACSHF program is research-intensive and interdisciplinary, wedding psychology, engineering, human-computer interaction, and usability. Research bridges the gap between basic and applied science to address real-world problems.

Participant sitting with head in a device that tracks eye movement while looking at a monitor.

Accelerated Masters ACSHF

Majoring or minoring in Psychology? Want to increase your competitive advantage in the job market, but don’t have time for a two-year MS-thesis program? Consider an Accelerated MS in ACSHF. Enhance your bachelor’s degree with an applied cognitive science and human factors focus.

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