Human Computer Interaction

Master of Science

Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media

MSArtificial Intelligence and ComputingDigital FluencyCommunicationIn-Person or Online

The Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) prepares students to ideate, design, implement, and evaluate computer-based technologies so they are useful and usable for end users. This interdisciplinary degree integrates concepts and methods from computer science, graphic design and the social sciences. Drawing upon these concepts and methods, students learn user-centered and participatory design approaches as they create information and communication technologies (ICTs) such as dynamic web sites, mobile apps and desktop applications. Particular emphasis is given to ICT evaluation, exploratory user research, information architecture, interaction design, and prototype development.

For international students: this is a STEM-designated program, which can qualify you to extend your post-graduation stay in the United States.

Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to:

  • Plan and conduct ethical user research with human participants using appropriate data collection methods, and analyze the data using both qualitative and quantitative methods.
  • Create, justify, and critique interface designs using appropriate theoretical and methodological HCI frameworks.
  • Create prototypes that simulate the interactivity of user interfaces and have enough functionality for usability testing with human participants.
  • Design and conduct usability tests for an existing or prototyped product or service.

Career Outcomes

A graduate degree in HCI prepares students for many different kinds of careers in user experience (UX). Graduates have job titles including interaction designer, information architect, user experience designer, usability specialist, and user researcher.

Our graduates work at top companies, such as Allstate, GfK, Grainger, JP Morgan Chase, Microsoft, and Motorola.

Admission and Aid

Visit the Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media’s Graduate Admission Office page for additional information, FAQs, to schedule an appointment with an admissions officer and more.

Admission Requirements
Get information about the application deadlines and specific materials required for admission to this program.
Scholarships and Aid
We offer scholarships to incoming CDM graduate students. Learn more about those and other aid opportunities, including assistantships and funded research opportunities.
Graduate Ambassadors
Get a current student’s perspective. Graduate Ambassadors are available to answer questions about DePaul, the program’s curriculum, and, most importantly, their personal experience.
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Research and Innovation

<div class="ck-content"><p>At the School of Computing, you'll participate in research projects, gain hands-on experience at state-of-the-art facilities, and be part of the innovations shaping tomorrow's tech landscape. Join the Responsible AI Systems and Societal Experiences (RAISE) Lab team, conduct user research in the Software Observation and Usability Lab, and more.&nbsp;</p></div>

Faculty

At the School of Computing, you’ll connect personally with faculty while collaborating on research and projects that advance the field. 

Cynthia Putnam
Faculty, Full Time
School of Computing
Professor
Craig Miller
Faculty, Full Time
School of Computing
Professor
Oliver Alonzo
Faculty, Full Time
School of Computing
Assistant Professor
Jay Cunningham
Faculty, Full Time
School of Computing
Assistant Professor
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