Computer Science: Human-Computer Interaction

About the Major

The Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Emphasis integrates technical depth in computer science with a human-centered approach to technology design. Students develop strong programming and problem-solving skills while learning how people interact with computational systems. Coursework covers user interface design, usability evaluation, and mobile and ubiquitous computing, giving students the tools to design, prototype, and assess interactive technologies that address real human needs.

In addition to core computer science courses, students who emphasize in Human-Computer Interaction take classes in psychology, sociology, communication, or anthropology to build a richer understanding of human behavior and social context. Since Human-Computer Interaction is situated at the intersection of computer science and many other fields, students in this emphasis learn concepts of behavioral sciences, user design, and media studies, among others. This interdisciplinary foundation prepares graduates to create systems that are not only functional and efficient but also usable, ethical, and engaging.

Graduates of the HCI emphasis are well equipped for careers in user experience (UX) design, front-end development, interaction design, and product management. The emphasis also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in human-centered computing, information science, and related fields.

Students learn about various ways that humans interact with technological devices and how perception affects the way that people interpret and use interfaces. As technology use becomes increasingly more prevalent in all aspects of human life, a focus on the interaction between people and their devices becomes a crucial aspect of software development and its design.

Careers in Human-Computer Interaction

• User Experience (UX) Designer: Creates intuitive and aesthetic interfaces, ensuring products are easy to use.
• Usability Researcher/UX Researcher: Studies user behavior to inform design improvements through interviews, testing, and data analysis.
• Interaction Designer: Shapes how users navigate apps, software, and websites.
• Accessibility Specialist: Ensures technology is accessible to individuals of all abilities.
• Information Architect: Organizes, structures, and labels content to improve findability.
• UX Writer/Content Strategist: Crafts clear and engaging content for digital products.
• Front-End Web/App Developer: Designs and implements prototypes of websites and applications to ensure the optimal experience for the user.
• HCI Researcher: Conducts scientific research on Human-Computer Interaction (These positions often require a PhD)

Salary

Estimating salary for a job with a CS: Human-Computer Interaction degree is difficult because the degree provides a foundation for a vast range of career paths, each with its own unique economic landscape. A graduate's potential earnings are heavily skewed by industry choice, geographic location, and specific technical expertise. Ultimately, the salary is best viewed as a broad spectrum rather than a single predictable data point because computer science now serves as the essential backbone for nearly every modern industry.

See up-to-date salary information

Since Human-Computer Interaction is such a rapidly-evolving field, jobs where students in this emphasis implement their skills vary significantly. Students have many opportunities to apply their knowledge to many real-world problems and technologies.

Requirements

Requirements can change from year to year. When you declare a major, you follow the requirements that were in force that year. You can see an academic advisor to switch to the current requirements if desired.
Current Requirements
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Declaring or Changing Your Major

To learn how to declare or change your major to CS: Human-Computer Interaction, click here: