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

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

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.

You'll need:

• knowledge of psychology
• analytical thinking skills
• complex problem-solving skills
• design skills and knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• maths knowledge
• active listening skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

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.