Dr. Don Norman

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Biography

Don Norman is a renowned cognitive scientist and user experience expert known for his contributions to the design of everyday things and his advocacy for human-centered design. His work emphasizes the importance of understanding users and their needs, particularly in complex systems. Norman's influential writing includes best-sellers like 'The Design of Everyday Things,' where he explores the relationship between design and usability. He has served as a professor at the University of California, San Diego, and has authored several notable books on design in technology, cognitive psychology, and behavioral science. Throughout his career, he has focused on the intersection of technology, design, and human behavior, advocating for designs that improve user experience and understanding. He also established the Nielsen Norman Group, which specializes in research and consulting in user experience. Today, Norman continues to speak and write about design, his thoughts shaping the discourse on usability, human-computer interaction, and the impact of design on daily life.

Research Interests

Requirements for University of California, San Diego

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:85
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Duolingo
Overall Score
Required:120
Overall
Required:120
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in physical, biological, or earth sciences, mathematics, or engineering. Differential and integral calculus. One year of calculus-based physics with laboratory. One year of chemistry with laboratory.
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose (max 2 pages)
  • Unofficial transcripts
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Application fee ($135 domestic / $155 international)
Specialization Notes

Administered by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Curricular groups include Climate-Ocean-Atmosphere (COAP), Geosciences (GEO), and Ocean Biosciences (OBP).