Master's in Human Computer Interaction

University College Dublin (UCD) is a world-renowned university located in Dublin, Ireland. Founded in 1854, it is one of the oldest and largest universities in the country, with a current student population of over 34,000. UCD offers undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs across a broad range of disciplines, including arts, humanities, business, law, engineering, medicine, and science. The university is particularly well-known for its programs in agriculture, veterinary science, and architecture, and is also a leader in research in areas such as nanotechnology, information technology, and food science. The campus itself is situated on 350 acres in the south suburbs of Dublin, providing a picturesque and spacious setting for students and staff. Facilities on campus include state-of-the-art lecture theaters, research labs, libraries, sports facilities, and accommodation options for students.

Technology is ubiquitous in our everyday life. We have countless interactions whether it be through mobile apps, smart devices, or more traditional desktop systems. It is vital now more than ever that these interfaces are designed with a deep understanding of the user, their desires and needs as well as how these interfaces will impact society more widely. The MSc in Human Computer Interaction combines core elements and skills to prepare you to work within user experience and human computer interaction. The programme is unique in Ireland, harnessing the world-class expertise in the School of Information & Communication Studies to explore the discipline of human-computer interaction (HCI), from a social science perspective. The programme focuses on giving students the knowledge and skills to use social scientific approaches and theory to inform: 1) the design of user-centred technology interactions and to 2) understand the effect that design and technology interaction has on people's behaviours, perceptions and emotions encapsulating both at an individual and a societal level. Careers & Employability Human Computer Interaction is a hugely diverse area, with key skills being applicable to a wide variety of domains and is complimentary to degrees from natural sciences, computer science, arts, business and law amongst others. The MSc focuses on giving students the skills to understand and problem solve around user and societal issues facing us in an increasingly digital world. Dublin is one of Europe’s digital hubs, with leading international technology companies such as Apple, Twitter, Facebook, Google, Microsoft and Intel having a presence. These companies rely on HCI expertise when developing their interfaces, experiences and products. Possible Jobs (Across the programme): User Experience Researcher; Interaction Designer; User Interface Researcher; Conversation Designer; Media Analyst; Digital Policy Expert; Quantitative Data Analyst; Product Designer; Ergonomic Specialist; PhD Research in HCI