University of California, Santa Cruz campus

Engineering

MS Human Computer Interaction at University of California, Santa Cruz

University of California, Santa Cruz, United States

Programme overview

The Human Computer Interaction MS trains students in design methodologies, ethical and inclusive practice, prototyping and technical build skills, user research, teamwork and career planning for UX and interaction roles. It is a four-quarter Plan II (capstone) programme starting in fall.

Faculty: Baskin School of Engineering  |  Department: Computational Media  |  Duration: 4 consecutive quarters; at least 53 credits  |  Intake: Fall  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Location: Santa Cruz, CA, United States

What you will study

Required courses include Introduction to HCI, Introduction to HCI Methods, Ethics and Activism in Tech and Design, a two-quarter HCI Capstone sequence, a build course (Bootcamp or Physical Computing) and the HCI Seminar every quarter, plus two electives.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

UC Santa Cruz graduate admission: bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited university awarded before the entry quarter, a B average or better in the last two years of undergraduate coursework, and demonstrated English proficiency. Applicants whose first language is not English: TOEFL iBT minimum 83 (4.0 on the 2026 scale) or IELTS Academic overall 7; waiver may be requested by applicants with a four-year bachelor's degree from an English-speaking institution. GRE General and Subject tests not required. Transcripts and three letters of recommendation (up to five accepted). Programme materials: resume or CV, statement of purpose (2-4 pages single spaced), personal history statement, online portfolio (up to 2-3 writings, 2-3 interactive pieces, 10 minutes of video, 10-15 still images). Application deadline: February 2 (Human Computer Interaction MS). Application fee $135 domestic, $155 international.

Intake: Fall

Duration: 4 consecutive quarters; at least 53 credits

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