Program Overview

Introduction to Human Interface Technology

The Human Interface Technology Laboratory New Zealand (HIT Lab NZ) offers a human-centred approach to the development of interactive technologies. The technology industry is growing rapidly, and interactive media is one of the world's largest and fastest growing media sectors. Human Interface Technology is useful in a wide range of areas such as education, training, medicine, rehabilitation, high performance sport, and disaster management.

Program Overview

The program teaches an exciting range of diverse topics including ideation, user-centred design, user evaluation, and rapid prototyping of hardware and software. Students will learn how to apply, analyse, develop, and design interactive technologies to facilitate learning, support decision-making, or help individuals better manage the challenges they face in daily life.

Courses and Research

Courses are coordinated by the HIT Lab NZ, a research centre located in Te Kaupeka Phanga | Faculty of Engineering, at Te Whare Wnanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury. HIT Lab NZ conducts cutting-edge research about interactive technologies and research topics typically explore novel approaches to virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), applied games, artificial intelligence, and haptics. Students will have access to specialist equipment for project work and regularly attend the lab as part of their studies.

Postgraduate Programs

The University of Canterbury offers the following postgraduate programs in Human Interface Technology:

• Master of Human Interface Technology
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Human Interface Technology

Master of Human Interface Technology

The Master of Human Interface Technology is a research-focused degree in which students can develop their independent problem-solving skills through coursework and supervised research. The program consists of:

• Two taught courses (HITD602 and HITD603)
• A thesis The program is completed full-time over 12 months.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Human Interface Technology

In the PhD program, students will complete the HITD790 Human Interface Technology PhD thesis course. The PhD typically takes three years to complete, and students will be able to focus completely on their research from the start of their degree.

Career Opportunities

Studying at postgraduate level develops skills in communication, problem solving, and project management, and extends knowledge in the chosen project area. Graduates of the program can work as:

• User experience design professionals
• AR & VR developers
• Software developers
• Senior product designers
• Head researchers
• Consultants Postgraduate study can also lead to academic careers in a tertiary institution or industry. Graduating with an MHIT prepares students to enter the workforce or continue research with a PhD.