Program Overview

Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction MSc

The Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) MSc programme is concerned with the design and use of computer and mobile technology, focusing on the interfaces between people and systems. This interdisciplinary programme sits at the intersection of engineering, behavioural sciences, and design, combining academic rigour with practical and professional skills highly valued by employers.

About the Degree

Students develop an understanding of the relevance and application of human physical, cognitive, social, and affective knowledge to the design of interactive systems. They learn to analyse and test user performance, preferences, and experience in relation to human-centred interactive systems. Students will be able to characterise and apply a range of human-computer interaction and user-centred design styles.

Who This Course is For

The programme is suitable for students with appropriate backgrounds in psychology, computer science, or a closely related discipline who wish to develop skills to equip them for future positions in industrial, academic, or consultancy environments in the field of human-computer interaction.

What the Course Will Give You

This programme is taught by the UCL Interaction Centre (UCLIC), a world-leading Centre of Excellence in Human-Computer Interaction, working collaboratively with industry and the research community. UCLIC has provided training in this field for over 30 years and has excellent links with industry partners. The programme offers students a weekly industry speaker series and runs visits to consultancies and field sites.

Modules

• Full-time:
  • In Term One, students study compulsory modules in Interaction Science and Interaction Design.
  • In Term Two, students choose from a range of optional modules and select a research project.
  • In Term Three, students undertake an individual research project.
• Part-time:
  • In Year One, students take one compulsory module in Term One and two optional modules in Term Two.
  • In Year Two, students take their second compulsory module in Term One and a further two optional modules, completing their project in Year Two.
• Flexible/Modular:
  • Students take one compulsory module in Year One, Term One, then complete their second compulsory module, four optional modules, and their project flexibly over the remaining years.

Compulsory and Optional Modules

• Compulsory modules: Interaction Design, Interaction Science, MSc HCI Project
• Optional modules:
  • Affective Interaction
  • Future Interfaces
  • Disability Interaction
  • User-Centred Data Visualization
  • The Digital Workplace
  • Human-AI Interaction
  • HCI for Health and Wellbeing

Entry Requirements

• A minimum of an upper second-class degree in computer science, psychology, or ergonomics, or a minimum of an upper second-class degree in a computer science-, psychology-, or ergonomics-related field.
• Account will be taken of any relevant practical or work experience.
• Attention must be given to the instructions in writing the personal statement.

English Language Requirements

• The English language level for this course is: Level 4
• Students who have worked or studied in a country considered by UCL to be majority English speaking for less than 3 years must provide evidence in the form of a UCL-approved test.

Tuition Fees

• UK students: ｣16,800 (full-time), ｣8,400 (part-time) for the 2026/27 academic year
• International students: ｣42,700 (full-time), ｣21,350 (part-time) for the 2026/27 academic year
• Programme also available on a modular (flexible) basis.

Duration and Start Date

• Duration: 1 calendar year (full-time), 2 calendar years (part-time), 5 calendar years (flexible)
• Programme starts: September 2026

Employability

This degree is highly regarded by industry colleagues. Along with developing HCI research skills, the programme allows students to demonstrate skills in presenting, writing, and collaboration that are valued by employers. There is a large network of alumni working in London and across the world, many of whom are involved with the industry speaker series and careers events.

Teaching and Learning

Modules use a combination of lectures and practical activities, often structured around individual or group projects. Learning is supported by online activities and materials. Project supervision usually combines individual and group supervision. Modules are assessed through a mixture of coursework and exams, with varied coursework including design portfolios, presentations, videos, and reflective reports.

Accessibility

The department will endeavour to make reasonable adjustments for students with disabilities. Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble. Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services team.