Ergonomist

You can become an ergonomist by doing a degree that includes ergonomics as part of the course, for example:

• occupational therapy
• physiotherapy
• psychology
• sports science
• design engineering

You can also take a postgraduate course in ergonomics and human factors , after completing a first degree, or if you have a lot of professional experience in this type of work.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

• a related degree or several years' relevant experience

More Information

• equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
• student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
• university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

You may be able to apply to do a Human Factors Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship.

It can take around 3 years to complete, and is a mix of on-the-job training and higher education study.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

More Information

• apprenticeship levels|https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/apprentices/about-apprenticeships#UnderstandingApprenticeshiplevelsandqualifications
• guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide

If you work in an area like transport, healthcare, design engineering or health and safety you could take industry-recognised training courses in ergonomics to further your career. You might then look to take up postgraduate study.

Professional and Industry Bodies

You can join the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics & Human Factors for professional development training, events and networking opportunities.

Further Information

You can learn more about careers in ergonomics from the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics & Human Factors.

As an ergonomist, you could:

• visit businesses and speak to staff about how they work
• collect and analyse workplace data
• identify issues with equipment, processes and the working environment
• advise businesses on how to improve staff wellbeing, safety and efficiency
• contribute to the re-design of equipment and systems to benefit all staff
• act as an expert witness in cases of industrial injury

You could work at a client's business, in an office or at a university.