Pathway To Certification
Human Factors/ Ergonomics professionals understand the interactions between humans and systems. We apply theoretical principles, data, and methods to design and optimize well-being and overall performance. An HF/E professional is competent in optimizing performance, safety and comfort.
Education
Experience
Work Samples
Exam
Core Competencies
In addition to meeting our educational requirements described below, applicants must also demonstrate a set of Core Competencies in order to become BCPE certified. These Core Competencies were identified and validated through formal job analysis and are considered essential skills of competent Human Factors/ Ergonomic Professionals.
These competencies provide the framework for the applications, work samples and exam questions:
ANALYSIS –discover, gather data
DESIGN – develop systems
INTEGRATE – Implement, Validate
Educational requirements
A Graduate Degree (MS, PhD) in Human Factors/ Ergonomics, or
A Bachelor’s degree and 24 semester hours covering the following topics:
System Design
Biomechanics
Physiology
Psychology
Environmental factors
Process Analysis
Usability
Statistics
Human-system Interaction
Professional Issues
Work Experience
3 years of full-time, or the equivalent part-time, work experience in the field. Candidates with a Ph.D. in Ergonomics/ Human Factors only need 2 years of work experience to meet this requirement. Don't yet have 3-years experience? Apply for our temporary Associate-level certification.
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Work Samples
Submit two to six examples of work products or projects which demonstrate your expertise in designing interfaces for human interactions. Work products must show use of our core competencies in your work.
Analysis
Design
Integration
Examination
Take the 3-hour exam to demonstrate your knowledge of the field. We offer ONE full Professional Certification, with a choice of designation based on your area of work emphasis.
Professional
Our highest Board Certification level with your choice of designation:
- Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE®)
- Certified Human Factors Professional (CHFP®)
Associate
An optional, temporary path to Full Professional Certification. No exam required, must meet our Educational Requirements.
- Associate Ergonomics Professional (AEP®)
- Associate Human Factors Professional (AHFP®)