Academic FAQ
FAQ for Undergraduates
1) What is the difference between Human Factors Engineering and Engineering Psychology?
At Tufts, HFE/ENP is the first inter-school major, meaning it is shared between the School of Engineering (SOE) and the School of Arts & Science (A&S). ENP is offered by the Department of Psychology in the A&S while HFE is offered by the Department of Mechanical Engineering in the SOE.
ENP students have to complete the arts and science foundation requirements including the college writing requirement, the foreign language requirement, and the civic studies requirement. However, HFE students have to complete engineering foundation classes such as EN1 (intro to engineering) and ES2 (computational design). They also have additional requirements in areas like physics and statistics.
A&S students can major in ENP, but they cannot minor in either ENP or HFE. Only SOE students can minor in HFE.
2) Can I double major?
Yes, it is possible to double major with Human Factors. A popular option is HFE/ENP and Computer Science - both A&S and SOE students can pursue this combination because both majors are offered by both schools. As always, it is easiest to double major in two fields that have some crossover in terms of required courses, but students are encouraged to talk with their advisor if they have a certain combination/set of interests in mind.
3) Can I study abroad?
Yes, study abroad is possible. However, for both HFE and ENP students, planning is required. Make sure to bring up your interest to your advisor as early as you can. Check out our Study Abroad page for more information.
4) What classes are good portfolio builders?
ENP 162 (Human Machine System Design), ENP 166 (Computer Interface Design), and FAM 39 (Graphic Design)
5) What classes outside of the required classes should I take to supplement my major?
Graphic design and web design are both good classes for our major. It is also helpful to check the elective listings of departments like psychology, computer science, and cognitive and brain science. Check out our classes page for some electives to get you started.
