Human-Computer Interaction Master of Science Degree
In the human-computer interaction master's degree, you'll study how people interact with websites, computer systems, and software, enabling you to create intuitive interfaces that improve how we interact with and use emerging technologies.
Overview for Human-Computer Interaction MS
Explore the design methods, evaluation, and implementation of interactive computing systems for human use. Building on decades of research in psychology and human behavior, the human-computer interaction master’s degree focuses on the skills needed by user-experience researchers and computing professionals, including observing how people interact with websites and software and the design new technologies to help them accomplish their goals. With computing moving rapidly away from the traditional desktop, companies need professionals that understand how evolving technologies can be designed to be intuitive, effective, and compelling for users.
RIT’s Human-Computer Interaction Master’s Degree: On-Campus or Online
Human-computer interaction (HCI) addresses the design, evaluation, and implementation of interactive computing and computing-based systems for the benefit of human use. HCI research is driven by technological advances and the increasing pervasiveness of computing devices in our society. With an emphasis on making computing technologies more user-friendly, HCI has emerged as a dynamic, multifaceted area of study that merges theory from science, engineering, and design—as well as concepts and methodologies from psychology, anthropology, sociology, and industrial design—with the technical concerns of computing.
The human-computer interaction master’s degrees provides the knowledge and skills necessary for conceptualizing, designing, implementing, and evaluating software applications and computing technologies for the benefit of the user, whether the user is an individual, a group, an organization, or a society. Human, technological, and organizational concerns are interwoven throughout the curriculum and addressed in team- and project-based learning experiences.
Human-Computer Interaction Curriculum: Packed with High-Demand Skills
- Research: Demand for user research skills is growing 35%, and carries a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
- UI/UX: Information architecture skills carry a salary premium in the workforce.
- Design Thinking: Demand for design thinking skills is growing 112%.
- Development: Demand for front-end development skills is growing 12% and carries a salary premium.
Human-Computer Interaction Master's Courses
The core courses provide knowledge and skills in the conceptual and methodological frameworks of HCI and HCI research. Emphasis is on understanding human cognition as it applies to information systems plus interaction design, interface prototyping, and usability evaluation.
Program Electives: Students select two elective courses. In select cases, students can petition for approval to include a course complementary to the degree program as a program elective.
Application Domain Courses:To gain breadth in a technical area to which HCI concepts can be applied, students complete two courses in any of the application domain areas. A special topics option is also available, with faculty approval, for individuals with interest in other HCI-related areas.
- e-Learning Technologies–The recent boom in online learning has created a need for professionals to design such systems. Students learn the fundamentals of instructional technology and interactive courseware.
- Geographical Information Science and Technology–Research how digital technology is revolutionizing how humans view earth with topics in thematic cartography and geographic visualization.
- Self-defined Application Domain–Design your own concentration.
- Smart Device Application Design and Development–Smart devices are no longer limited to phones. Design and study human interaction with cutting-edge mobile technology.
- Web Development–Study the foundations of web technologies, enabling students to better understand how The Internet can be built to improve the experience of a diverse range of end-users.
Thesis/Capstone Project: Students may complete a thesis or capstone project. This experience is meant to be an empirical study of a HCI problem, which can be the development of a software product through user-centered design processes. The results are either published in a peer-reviewed journal or publicly disseminated in an appropriate professional venue.
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Start Your Graduate Program this Spring
This program offers a spring start, which means you can jumpstart your graduate journey and begin your studies this January.
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30% Tuition Scholarship for NY Residents and Graduates
Now is the perfect time to earn your Master’s degree. If you’re a New York state resident with a bachelor’s degree or have/will graduate from a college or university in New York state, you are eligible to receive a 30% tuition scholarship.
Careers and Experiential Learning
Typical Job Titles
| User Experience Researcher | UI/UX Designer | Interaction Designer |
| Usability Specialist | Entrepreneur | Frontend Developer |
| Mobile Applications Designer | Product Designer | Research Associate |
| Senior Software Engineer | UX/UI Developer |
Cooperative Education
What makes an RIT education exceptional? It’s the ability to complete relevant, hands-on career experience. At the graduate level, and paired with an advanced degree, cooperative education and internships give you the unparalleled credentials that truly set you apart. Learn more about graduate co-op and how it provides you with the career experience employers look for in their next top hires.
Cooperative education is optional but strongly encouraged for graduate students in the human-computer interaction program.
Creative Industry Day
RIT’s Office of Career Services and Cooperative Education hosts Creative Industry Day, which connects students majoring in art, design, film and animation, photography, and select computing majors with companies, organizations, creative agencies, design firms, and more. You'll be able to network with company representatives and interview directly for open co-op and permanent employment positions.
Featured Work and Profiles
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![Headshots of researchers from left to right: Murtaza Tamjeed, Dymen A. Barkins, Kristen Shinohara, and Michael McQuaid. The title is below headshots, “Usability, Accessibility and Social Entanglements in Advanced Tool Use by Vision Impaired Graduate Students” and then the names of the researchers are listed: Assistant Professor Kristen Shinohara, UT Austin faculty Michael McQuaid, GCCIS Ph.D. Student Murtaza Tamjeed, and MS HCI student Dymen A Barkins.]()
Usability, Accessibility and Social Entanglements in Advanced Tool Use by Vision Impaired Graduate Students
Kristen Shinohara iSchool Profs. Kristen Shinohara and Michael McQuaid (now at University of Texas, Austin), Ph.D. student Murtaza Tamjeed, and MS HCI student Dymen A, Barkins recently published “Usability,...
Read More about Usability, Accessibility and Social Entanglements in Advanced Tool Use by Vision Impaired Graduate Students -
![The School of Information logo is on the left top, and two headshots, Assistant Professor Garreth Tigwell is on the left and Ph.D. student Sara Andrew is on the left. At the bottom, the paper title is listed as “Accessible Design is Mediated by Job Support Structures and Knowledge Gained Through Design Career Pathways.”]()
Supporting Accessible Design Across Diverse Workplaces
Garreth Tigwell Ph.D. student Sarah Andrew and Prof. Garreth Tigwell published “Accessible Design is Mediated by Job Support Structures and Knowledge Gained Through Design Career Pathways” for the 25th ACM Conference...
Read More about Supporting Accessible Design Across Diverse Workplaces -
![Caption Mask video]()
Caption Mask
Tae Oh Caption Mask is one of the famous booths in ImagineRIT 2022. The caption mask project started in the classroom and they presented in the hospital and showing the possibility of their research in the...
Read More about Caption Mask -
![One Button PIN: A Single Authentication Method for Blind and Low Vision Users video]()
One Button PIN: A Single Authentication Method for Blind and Low Vision Users
Garreth Tigwell, Roshan Peiris Prof. Garreth Tigwell, Prof. Roshan Peiris, and their team won the Best Paper Award at Mobile HCI 2022!
Read More about One Button PIN: A Single Authentication Method for Blind and Low Vision Users -
![Photo of Faculty Emerita Vicki Hanson.]()
A Lasting Impact in Accessibility and Usability
Faculty Emerita Vicki Hanson Although Vicki Hanson stepped away from her full-time faculty role within the School of Information more than three years ago and has since become the Chief Executive Officer of the Association for...
Read More about A Lasting Impact in Accessibility and Usability
Curriculum for 2024-2025 for Human-Computer Interaction MS
Current Students: See Curriculum Requirements
Human-Computer Interaction (capstone project option), MS degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| HCIN-600 | Research Methods This course provides students with an introduction to the practical application of various research methods that can be used in human computer interaction. The course provides an overview of the research process and the literature review, and provides experience with qualitative, survey, and experimental research methods. Students will study existing research and design and conduct studies. Students will need to have taken a statistics course before registering for this class. (Prerequisites: DECS-782 or STAT-145 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| HCIN-610 | Foundations of Human-Computer Interaction Human-computer interaction (HCI) is a field of study concerned with the design, evaluation and implementation of interactive computing systems for human use and with the study of major phenomena surrounding them. This course surveys the scope of issues and foundations of the HCI field: cognitive psychology, human factors, interaction styles, user analysis, task analysis, interaction design methods and techniques, and evaluation. This course will focus on the users and their tasks. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| HCIN-620 | Information and Interaction Design Designing meaningful relationships among people and the products they use is both an art and a science. This course will focus on the unique design practice of: representing and organizing information in such a way as to facilitate perception and understanding (information architecture); and, specifying the appropriate mechanisms for accessing and manipulating task information (interaction design). This course will also explore the various design patterns (design solutions to particular problems) that are appropriate for the HCI professional. Students will need prior knowledge of an interface prototyping tool. (Prerequisite: ISTE-200 or equivalent course.
Co-requisite: HCIN-610 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| HCIN-630 | Usability Testing This project-based course will focus on the formal evaluation of products. Topics include usability test goal setting, recruitment of appropriate users, design of test tasks, design of the test environment, test plan development and implementation, analysis and interpretation of the results, and documentation and presentation of results and recommendations. (Prerequisites: HCIN-600 and HCIN-610 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Spring, Summer). |
3 |
| HCIN-794 | MS Human Computer Interaction Capstone Proposal In this course, students will design a proposal for a capstone project to apply the theories and methodologies to a problem in the HCI domain. Students working through the guidance of the instructor, will investigate a problem space, perform a literature review, develop the problem statement, write a proposal for how they intend to design and implement a solution, and communicate the proposal to potential capstone committee members. (Prerequisites: HCIN-600 and HCIN-610 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
Application Domain Courses |
6 | |
Program Elective |
3 | |
| Second Year | ||
| HCIN-795 | MS HCI Project In this course, students will apply the theories and methodologies to the investigation of a problem in the HCI domain. Students who have already prepared a proposal for their capstone project,will design and implement a solution to a problem, and communicate the results. (Prerequisites: HCIN-794 or equivalent course.) Project 4 (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
3 |
Program Elective |
3 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 30 |
|
Human-Computer Interaction (thesis option), MS degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| HCIN-600 | Research Methods This course provides students with an introduction to the practical application of various research methods that can be used in human computer interaction. The course provides an overview of the research process and the literature review, and provides experience with qualitative, survey, and experimental research methods. Students will study existing research and design and conduct studies. Students will need to have taken a statistics course before registering for this class. (Prerequisites: DECS-782 or STAT-145 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| HCIN-610 | Foundations of Human-Computer Interaction Human-computer interaction (HCI) is a field of study concerned with the design, evaluation and implementation of interactive computing systems for human use and with the study of major phenomena surrounding them. This course surveys the scope of issues and foundations of the HCI field: cognitive psychology, human factors, interaction styles, user analysis, task analysis, interaction design methods and techniques, and evaluation. This course will focus on the users and their tasks. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| HCIN-620 | Information and Interaction Design Designing meaningful relationships among people and the products they use is both an art and a science. This course will focus on the unique design practice of: representing and organizing information in such a way as to facilitate perception and understanding (information architecture); and, specifying the appropriate mechanisms for accessing and manipulating task information (interaction design). This course will also explore the various design patterns (design solutions to particular problems) that are appropriate for the HCI professional. Students will need prior knowledge of an interface prototyping tool. (Prerequisite: ISTE-200 or equivalent course.
Co-requisite: HCIN-610 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| HCIN-630 | Usability Testing This project-based course will focus on the formal evaluation of products. Topics include usability test goal setting, recruitment of appropriate users, design of test tasks, design of the test environment, test plan development and implementation, analysis and interpretation of the results, and documentation and presentation of results and recommendations. (Prerequisites: HCIN-600 and HCIN-610 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Spring, Summer). |
3 |
Application Domain Courses |
6 | |
Program Electives |
6 | |
| Second Year | ||
| HCIN-796 | MS HCI Thesis Students electing a research capstone experience will work closely with an adviser on a current research project or one self-developed and guided by the adviser. Permission of the capstone committee and the graduate program director is required. (Enrollment in this course requires permission from the department offering the course.) Thesis (Fall, Spring, Summer). |
6 |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 30 |
|
Human-Computer Interaction (directed final project option*), MS degree, typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| HCIN-600 | Research Methods This course provides students with an introduction to the practical application of various research methods that can be used in human computer interaction. The course provides an overview of the research process and the literature review, and provides experience with qualitative, survey, and experimental research methods. Students will study existing research and design and conduct studies. Students will need to have taken a statistics course before registering for this class. (Prerequisites: DECS-782 or STAT-145 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| HCIN-610 | Foundations of Human-Computer Interaction Human-computer interaction (HCI) is a field of study concerned with the design, evaluation and implementation of interactive computing systems for human use and with the study of major phenomena surrounding them. This course surveys the scope of issues and foundations of the HCI field: cognitive psychology, human factors, interaction styles, user analysis, task analysis, interaction design methods and techniques, and evaluation. This course will focus on the users and their tasks. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| HCIN-620 | Information and Interaction Design Designing meaningful relationships among people and the products they use is both an art and a science. This course will focus on the unique design practice of: representing and organizing information in such a way as to facilitate perception and understanding (information architecture); and, specifying the appropriate mechanisms for accessing and manipulating task information (interaction design). This course will also explore the various design patterns (design solutions to particular problems) that are appropriate for the HCI professional. Students will need prior knowledge of an interface prototyping tool. (Prerequisite: ISTE-200 or equivalent course.
Co-requisite: HCIN-610 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| HCIN-630 | Usability Testing This project-based course will focus on the formal evaluation of products. Topics include usability test goal setting, recruitment of appropriate users, design of test tasks, design of the test environment, test plan development and implementation, analysis and interpretation of the results, and documentation and presentation of results and recommendations. (Prerequisites: HCIN-600 and HCIN-610 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Spring, Summer). |
3 |
Application Domain Courses |
6 | |
Program Electives |
6 | |
| Second Year | ||
| HCIN-797 | MS HCI Directed Final Project This course provides students with the skills to develop a plan and execute a project in the field of human-computer interaction. Emphasis is placed on the student applying skills and knowledge gained previously throughout their HCI master’s degree program. Students will select a topic from a set of recommendations provided by the instructor, formulate a detailed plan for the execution of this project, provide deliverables for key milestones throughout the semester, and present their work in a professionally appropriate manner, e.g. via a written report, video, or other forms that are suitable for dissemination in a professional user-experience portfolio. The goal of this course is for students to gain experience how to employ methodologies and skills from the field of human-computer interaction appropriately as part of an extended final project that serves as a culminating experience for their master’s degree program. This course is only an option for students who are registered as online students. (Enrollment in this course requires permission from the department offering the course.) Project 3 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
Program Elective |
3 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 30 |
|
* Directed Final Project Option is for online students.
Application domain courses
e-Learning technologies
| Course | |
|---|---|
| HCIN-660 | Fundamentals of Instructional Technology Instructional Technology encompasses the basic processes for developing and delivering instruction. Instructional Systems Design (ISD) is a well-established methodology for describing knowledge and skills and developing instructional systems to effectively conveying knowledge. This course enables the student to be able to plan, organize, and systematically develop instructional materials. The course uses an ISD model to analyze, design, deliver, and evaluate instruction. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| HCIN-661 | Interactive Courseware Computer software that teaches is referred to as courseware. This course is a continuation of HCIN-660 that transitions from general instructional design into the actual application of these principles in a computer-based environment. Although the basic principles of instructional design hold true in all media environments, using these teaching and learning principles is somewhat different when developing instruction that will be delivered by computer. This course teaches procedures that have already been successful in the design and development of courseware. Successful students should have one year of object-oriented programming. (Prerequisites: HCIN-660 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
Geographic information science and technology
| Course | |
|---|---|
| IGME-770 | Geographic Information Science and Technology This course will introduce students to the spatial data science life cycle, which provides location- specific algorithms and analytical methods to solve big spatial data problems. This course Students are provided with s a hands-on experience in capturing, engineering, visualizing, analyzing, and sharing results of spatial data science workflows. Lastly, the course will provide students with a background in core spatial data science methods and theories, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), spatial analysis, geographic visualization cartography, and web mapping. Lec/Lab 3 (Fall). |
| IGME-772 | Geographic Visualization This course examines concepts and techniques associated with dynamic map construction, usage, and assessment. Specific topics include thematic cartography, geographic information visualization, sources of dynamic geographic information, developing animated and interactive maps, mapping mashup development, using maps as a means to support group work, usability of dynamic maps, and current geovisualization research areas. Development of a visualization prototype and an associated scholarly paper in an area related to thematic cartography and geographic visualization are required. Lec/Lab 3 (Spring). |
Smart device application design and development
| Course | |
|---|---|
| HCIN-720 | Prototyping Wearable and Internet of Things Devices Wearable computers and Internet of Things devices involve both hardware and software. In order to design user experiences for these systems, professionals must understand how they are built. Students will learn how to rapidly prototype and evaluate wearable and IoT devices combining hardware and software. Experience in programming is helpful but not a prerequisite. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| HCIN-722 | Human-Computer Interaction with Mobile, Wearable, and Ubiquitous Devices Mobile phones are now a major computing platform, and wearable and Internet of Things devices are emerging as major technologies. Each device offers different interaction opportunities and challenges. Students will learn about the research in interaction with these devices and how to design effective interactions for mobile, wearable, and ubiquitous devices. (Prerequisites: HCIN-610 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
Web development
| Course | |
|---|---|
| ISTE-645 | Foundations of Web Technologies I This class provides an introduction to internet and web technologies. Topics include an introduction to the internet and basic internet technologies (including, but not limited to: SSH, SFTP, UNIX, XHTML, CSS, Client-Side programming, and website publishing). Lec/Lab 3 (Fall). |
| ISTE-646 | Foundations of Web Technologies II This course builds on the basic aspects of web page development that are presented in the first course and extends that knowledge to focus on issues and technologies related to the design and development of web sites. Topics include advanced internet technologies (including, but not limited to: AJAX, server-side programming, database use and access, client libraries, server frameworks, and creating and consuming information services). (Prerequisites: ISTE-645 or equivalent course.) Lec/Lab 3 (Spring). |
Program electives
| Course | |
|---|---|
| HCIN-660 | Fundamentals of Instructional Technology Instructional Technology encompasses the basic processes for developing and delivering instruction. Instructional Systems Design (ISD) is a well-established methodology for describing knowledge and skills and developing instructional systems to effectively conveying knowledge. This course enables the student to be able to plan, organize, and systematically develop instructional materials. The course uses an ISD model to analyze, design, deliver, and evaluate instruction. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| HCIN-661 | Interactive Courseware Computer software that teaches is referred to as courseware. This course is a continuation of HCIN-660 that transitions from general instructional design into the actual application of these principles in a computer-based environment. Although the basic principles of instructional design hold true in all media environments, using these teaching and learning principles is somewhat different when developing instruction that will be delivered by computer. This course teaches procedures that have already been successful in the design and development of courseware. Successful students should have one year of object-oriented programming. (Prerequisites: HCIN-660 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| HCIN-662 | Research in Accessibility Students will dive into cutting edge research in the field of computer accessibility and assistive technology; they will read, present, and discuss research literature from major conferences and journals in the field. Students will learn about recent developments and ongoing research efforts in accessibility, and they will learn how to synthesize the results from research publications. Students will learn how to identify high quality research and how to critique this work to identify areas for improvement or future research directions. Students will learn the elements of a high-quality research publication, and they will explore and gain expertise in a particular topic in the field of accessibility in depth. (Prerequisites: HCIN-600 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Biannual). |
| HCIN-663 | Access and Assistive Technology Students will gain hands-on experience and knowledge about a wide variety of accessibility and assistive technology available for people with disabilities. Students will understand the design principles underlying this technology and how the features and capabilities of assistive technology can be tailored to a particular individual’s needs and capabilities. Students will learn about how new technologies and research in accessibility can be made available for users, and they will learn how to design websites and software that work effectively with a user’s own technology. Specific technologies discussed in the course may include, e.g.: alternative input devices, communication devices, and screen readers and magnifiers for people with visual impairments. (Prerequisites: HCIN-630 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Biannual). |
| HCIN-700 | Current Topics in HCI Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is an evolving field. This course is designed to study the current themes and advanced issues of HCI. Topics will vary depending upon current research and developments in the field. Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| HCIN-720 | Prototyping Wearable and Internet of Things Devices Wearable computers and Internet of Things devices involve both hardware and software. In order to design user experiences for these systems, professionals must understand how they are built. Students will learn how to rapidly prototype and evaluate wearable and IoT devices combining hardware and software. Experience in programming is helpful but not a prerequisite. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| HCIN-722 | Human-Computer Interaction with Mobile, Wearable, and Ubiquitous Devices Mobile phones are now a major computing platform, and wearable and Internet of Things devices are emerging as major technologies. Each device offers different interaction opportunities and challenges. Students will learn about the research in interaction with these devices and how to design effective interactions for mobile, wearable, and ubiquitous devices. (Prerequisites: HCIN-610 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| HCIN-730 | User-Centered Design Methods This course will focus on the major user centered design methodologies used in the development of applications and environments. Topics include: evolution of software design methods, emergence of user-centered design, and key concepts, attributes and process of the major design methodologies. Software design projects will be required. (Prerequisites: HCIN-610 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| HCIN-794 | MS Human Computer Interaction Capstone Proposal In this course, students will design a proposal for a capstone project to apply the theories and methodologies to a problem in the HCI domain. Students working through the guidance of the instructor, will investigate a problem space, perform a literature review, develop the problem statement, write a proposal for how they intend to design and implement a solution, and communicate the proposal to potential capstone committee members. (Prerequisites: HCIN-600 and HCIN-610 or equivalent courses.) Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring). |
| IGME-770 | Spatial Data Science This course will introduce students to the spatial data science life cycle, which provides location- specific algorithms and analytical methods to solve big spatial data problems. This course Students are provided with s a hands-on experience in capturing, engineering, visualizing, analyzing, and sharing results of spatial data science workflows. Lastly, the course will provide students with a background in core spatial data science methods and theories, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), spatial analysis, geographic visualization cartography, and web mapping. Lec/Lab 3 (Fall). |
| IGME-772 | Geographic Visualization This course examines concepts and techniques associated with dynamic map construction, usage, and assessment. Specific topics include thematic cartography, geographic information visualization, sources of dynamic geographic information, developing animated and interactive maps, mapping mashup development, using maps as a means to support group work, usability of dynamic maps, and current geovisualization research areas. Development of a visualization prototype and an associated scholarly paper in an area related to thematic cartography and geographic visualization are required. Lec/Lab 3 (Spring). |
| ISTE-645 | Foundations of Web Technologies I This class provides an introduction to internet and web technologies. Topics include an introduction to the internet and basic internet technologies (including, but not limited to: SSH, SFTP, UNIX, XHTML, CSS, Client-Side programming, and website publishing). Lec/Lab 3 (Fall). |
| ISTE-646 | Foundations Of Web Technologies II This course builds on the basic aspects of web page development that are presented in the first course and extends that knowledge to focus on issues and technologies related to the design and development of web sites. Topics include advanced internet technologies (including, but not limited to: AJAX, server-side programming, database use and access, client libraries, server frameworks, and creating and consuming information services). (Prerequisites: ISTE-645 or equivalent course.) Lec/Lab 3 (Spring). |
| ISTE-730 | Foundations in IoT Internet of Things (IoT) refers to physical and virtual objects that are connected to the Internet to provide intelligent services for energy management, logistics, retail, agriculture and many other domains. IoT leverages sensors, wireless communication, mobile devices, networking and cloud technologies to create many smart applications. In this course, the students learn about IoT design and development methodologies that enable the development of IoT applications. The students have hands-on opportunities to program and build IoT prototypes through lab assignments and a course project. The students should have some programming knowledge and required to purchase a IoT kit. (This course is restricted to students in INFOST-MS.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
| ISTE-732 | IoT Analytics IoT is simply interconnected devices that generate and exchange data from observations, facts, and other data, making it available to anyone. This includes devices that generate data from sensors, smart phones, appliances, and home network devices. IoT solutions are designed to make our knowledge of the world around us more aware and relevant, making it possible to get data about anything from anywhere at any time. This course teaches how IoT data could help and execute data driven operational and business decisions. The students learn how IoT analytics can create adaptive business and operational decisions in intelligent, effective and efficient ways. First, this course provides students with an understanding of different types of IoT data and the knowledge of how to handle the data relate to IoT. Then, the students learn how to create and setup a cloud analytic environment, exploring IoT data. The course also teaches how to apply analytics and statistics to extract value from the data. Lastly, the course explores different use-cases for IoT data. Purchasing a IoT kit is required. (This course is restricted to INFOST-MS or HUMCOMP-MS or DATASCI-MS students.) Lec/Lab 3 (Fall). |
| ISTE-764 | Project Management Information technology projects require the application of sound project management principles in order to be developed on time, on budget, and on specification. This course takes students through the nine knowledge areas of modern project management and the utilization of project management principles in both traditional and agile environments. Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| ISTE-782 | Visual Analytics This course introduces students to Visual Analytics, or the science of analytical reasoning facilitated by interactive visual interfaces. Course lectures, reading assignments, and practical lab experiences will cover a mix of theoretical and technical Visual Analytics topics. Topics include analytical reasoning, human cognition and perception of visual information, visual representation and interaction technologies, data representation and transformation, production, presentation, and dissemination of analytic process results, and Visual Analytic case studies and applications. Furthermore, students will learn relevant Visual Analytics research trends such as Space, Time, and Multivariate Analytics and Extreme Scale Visual Analytics. Lec/Lab 3 (Spring). |
| MEDI-701 | Introduction to Health Informatics This course provides a rigorous introduction to the principles of medical informatics. The focus of this course is on the study of the nature of medical information and its use in clinical practice and clinical quality improvement. Key topics include: the electronic medical record (EMR) and its impact on health care delivery, the Internet and mobile computing as sources of medical information, Health care information systems, the software development lifecycle, the importance of the informatics specialists in medicine and the various roles they can play, and government economic incentives and policy issues in healthcare such as privacy, confidentiality, including health care regulatory and accreditation issues and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Students will participate in online discussion of medical informatics. They will also investigate several topics of interest in the field and provide presentations. (This class is restricted to degree-seeking graduate students or those with permission from instructor.) Lecture 3 (Fall). |
| PSYC-712 | Graduate Cognition This course will survey theoretical and empirical approaches to understanding the nature of the mental processes involved in attention, object recognition, learning and memory, reasoning, problem solving, decision-making, and language. The course presents a balance between historically significant findings and current state of-the-art research. Readings that have structured the nature and direction of scientific debate in these fields will be discussed. The course also includes discussions of methodology and practical applications. Students will have opportunities to develop their research skills and critical thinking by designing research studies in cognitive psychology. Seminar (Spring). |
| PSYC-715 | Graduate Perception The course is designed to provide students with a deeper understanding of topics in perception. This course will be organized such that students will work in groups on various projects as well as covering topics through readings and classroom discussion. The topics may include, but are not limited to: spatial frequency perception; aftereffects, visual illusions and their relationship to cortical function and pattern perception; color perception; depth and motion perception; higher order perception such as face and object recognition; and music and speech perception. The goal is to cover current research and theories in perception, looking at current developments and their antecedents. The course will be divided into various modules. Students will be assigned readings relevant to each section of the course, and will be expected to master the major concepts. Group discussion of the readings will complement lectures where the instructor will present relevant background material. There will also be laboratory time for the students, where they will examine empirical findings in perception, and develop their research skills in the field. Lecture 3 (Biannual). |
Note for online students
The frequency of required and elective course offerings in the online program will vary, semester by semester, and will not always match the information presented here. Online students are advised to seek guidance from the listed program contact when developing their individual program course schedule.
Admissions and Financial Aid
This program is available on-campus or online.
On Campus
| Offered | Admit Term(s) | Application Deadline | STEM Designated |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time | Fall or Spring | Fall - February 15 priority deadline, rolling thereafter; Spring - rolling | Yes |
| Part-time | Fall or Spring | Rolling | No |
Online
| Offered | Admit Term(s) | Application Deadline | STEM Designated |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part-time | Fall or Spring | Rolling | No |
Full-time study is 9+ semester credit hours. Part-time study is 1‑8 semester credit hours. International students requiring a visa to study at the RIT Rochester campus must study full‑time.
Application Details
To be considered for admission to the Human-Computer Interaction MS program, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:
- Complete an online graduate application.
- Submit copies of official transcript(s) (in English) of all previously completed undergraduate and graduate course work, including any transfer credit earned.
- Hold a baccalaureate degree (or US equivalent) from an accredited university or college. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent) is recommended.
- Satisfy prerequisite requirements and/or complete bridge courses prior to starting program coursework.
- Submit a current resume or curriculum vitae.
- Submit a personal statement of educational objectives.
- Submit two letters of recommendation.
- Entrance exam requirements: GRE optional for Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 applicants. No minimum score requirement.
- Submit English language test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE Academic), if required. Details are below.
English Language Test Scores
International applicants whose native language is not English must submit one of the following official English language test scores. Some international applicants may be considered for an English test requirement waiver.
| TOEFL | IELTS | PTE Academic |
|---|---|---|
| 88 | 6.5 | 60 |
International students below the minimum requirement may be considered for conditional admission. Each program requires balanced sub-scores when determining an applicant’s need for additional English language courses.
How to Apply Start or Manage Your Application
Cost and Financial Aid
An RIT graduate degree is an investment with lifelong returns. Graduate tuition varies by degree, the number of credits taken per semester, and delivery method. View the general cost of attendance or estimate the cost of your graduate degree.
A combination of sources can help fund your graduate degree. Learn how to fund your degree
Additional Information
Prerequisites
The program requires strong technical and social science skills. Knowledge of quantitative statistical methodologies is important since students review research studies as well as analyze the results of their own usability evaluations. Students are also expected to have a solid background in computer programming. These competencies may be demonstrated by previous course work, technical certifications, or comparable work experience. Bridge courses are available to fulfill any gaps in an applicant's qualifications. Applicants will be made aware of any areas where additional course work may be necessary.
Online Degree Information
The Human-Computer Interaction MS program is designed to be completed part-time (1 or 2 courses per term). Full-time options may be available with Graduate Program Director's approval. Time to completion will depend on the student’s individual plan of study, when courses are offered, what electives are selected, and if the student takes a summer course. Advisors work closely with students after admission on course registration. Typically students finish this degree in 2 years. For specific details about the delivery format and learning experience, contact the Program Contact listed on this page. RIT does not offer student visas for online study.
Online Tuition Eligibility
The online Human-Computer Interaction MS is a designated online degree program that is billed at a 43% discount from our on-campus rate. View the current online tuition rate.
Online Study Restrictions for Some International Students
Certain countries are subject to comprehensive embargoes under US Export Controls, which prohibit virtually ALL exports, imports, and other transactions without a license or other US Government authorization. Learners from the Crimea region of the Ukraine, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Syria may not register for RIT online courses. Nor may individuals on the United States Treasury Department’s list of Specially Designated Nationals or the United States Commerce Department’s table of Deny Orders. By registering for RIT online courses, you represent and warrant that you are not located in, under the control of, or a national or resident of any such country or on any such list.
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Contact
- Paola Pena Rodriguez
- Senior Assistant Director
- Office of Graduate and Part-Time Enrollment Services
- Enrollment Management
- 585‑475‑5529
- paeges@rit.edu
- Qi Yu
- Graduate Program Director
- School of Information
- Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences
- 585‑475‑6929
- qi.yu@rit.edu
School of Information