COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction is a 30-credit graduate program designed to prepare students for careers in user experience (UX) research, interaction design, usability testing, and the development of human-centered interactive systems. The curriculum focuses on combining principles from computer science, psychology, and design to create effective and intuitive digital experiences that meet user needs across diverse technological platforms.The program is structured across two years of study and includes core courses, electives, application domain study, and a culminating project experience. In the first semester, students take foundational courses in research methods, foundations of human-computer interaction, and information and interaction design. These courses build essential skills in understanding human behavior, designing interfaces, and conducting structured research. Students also begin studying an application domain, which allows them to apply HCI principles in a specialized area such as web development, smart devices, or e-learning technologies.In the spring semester, students advance to usability testing, a key component of user-centered design that focuses on evaluating systems based on real user feedback. They also continue their application domain studies and select program electives to deepen their expertise. At this stage, students choose a final experience pathway, which may include a capstone project, thesis, or directed final project option.In the second year, students complete their chosen culminating experience. Depending on the selected path, this may involve a significant research thesis, a practical HCI project, or a directed final project that demonstrates applied skills in designing and evaluating interactive systems.Overall, the program emphasizes hands-on learning, research-based methods, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Graduates are prepared to work in UX design, usability analysis, product development, and human-centered technology roles in industries ranging from software and web development to education and emerging digital technologies.