Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who should enroll in this option?
2. What are the admission requirements?
3. How do I apply?
4. How is this different from a traditional master’s degree?
5. Why is it important to integrate business and human factors and usability?
6. How much is tuition?
7. What about assistantships?
8. Is housing available?
9. When are classes held?
10. Do I have the option of full- or part-time?
11. Where are classes held?
12. Who teaches the courses in this option?

Who should enroll in this option?
This option is for students who would like to work in business helping to test and design products and services with the intention of making them more user-friendly. No similar degree is offered in Missouri. [ Poster ]

What are the admission requirements?
To be admitted to graduate studies at Western, an applicant must complete an Application for Graduate Admission. Admission to the program requires successful completion of a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum undergraduate 2.75 GPA on a 4.0 scale, a score of 450 or higher on the quantitative section of the Graduate Records Exam (GRE) and a score of not less than 400 on any section of the GRE.

Preference will be given to students with majors in a human factors related field (psychology, business, anthropology, engineering, computer science, technical communication or graphic design), although any major will be considered.

If you already have an MBA degree from an accredited university you will only need to complete the Human Factors coursework (i.e., the MAS Core, business coursework, is waived).

How do I apply?
Students should apply to the graduate school and also the Psychology Department. Apply Now!

How is this different from a traditional master’s degree?

Unlike the traditional master’s program, Western’s MAS degree provides a solid core of courses in Human Factors & Usability Testing and in Business Administration.

The MAS degree is a Professional Master’s Degree because it integrates graduate level business knowledge with technical competency. Applied learning and applied research are important aspects of the degree, and students will work in teams and apply their skills to real problems and issues. [ Western Article ]

Why is it important to integrate business and human factors?

Human factors researchers are involved in helping businesses make decisions about product development and service deployment. Having an understanding of the organization as a whole makes you more valuable when providing input into strategic decisions.

How much is tuition?
For a complete chart of tuition and fees, click here.

What about assistantships?
Graduate Assistantships are available. Applications can be obtained through the Graduate Office.

Is housing available?
Housing is not available at this time. However, if a student has a need for housing, contact the Graduate Studies Office, and arrangements may be made.

When are classes held?
Core classes are held in the evenings. Students will arrange internship hours with their internship site.

Do I have the option of full- or part-time?
Yes. The program accepts full- and part-time students.  

Where are classes held?
Classes are held on the campus of Western. Occasionally, special topics courses may be held at other locations.

Who teaches the courses in this option?
Courses are taught by well qualified and respected individuals with significant experience in the subject area they are teaching. Core courses are taught by faculty in the disciplines represented. Majors courses are taught by subject matter experts with PhDs.