Executive Masters Of Business Administration
The Executive Masters of Business Administration (EMBA) at RIT is desi...
M.S. in Human-Computer Interaction
Rochester
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.S. in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is an interdisciplinary graduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, develop, and evaluate user-friendly technologies. This program focuses on the interface between humans and computers, emphasizing how to create innovative, accessible, and effective user experiences. By combining elements of computer science, design, psychology, and engineering, the M.S. in HCI prepares students to tackle challenges in the rapidly evolving tech industry. Students work on cutting-edge research and gain practical experience in designing interactive systems, applications, and devices.
STEM-designated: The M.S. in Human-Computer Interaction at RIT is a STEM-designated program, which means it falls under the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics categories. This designation allows students to gain a deeper technical understanding of the relationship between users and technology, focusing on data analysis, system design, and usability testing. As a STEM program, it also offers international students an extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) period, allowing them to gain additional work experience in the U.S. after graduation.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.S. in Human-Computer Interaction at RIT integrates theory and practice across multiple disciplines. Students take core courses in human-computer interaction principles, usability engineering, and interaction design. They also gain experience in designing, developing, and testing prototypes, with courses in software engineering, cognitive psychology, and user-centered design. The program provides flexibility through elective courses, allowing students to specialize in areas such as mobile computing, game design, or healthcare informatics. A key feature of the curriculum is a capstone project or internship, where students apply their knowledge to real-world problems in collaboration with industry partners.
Research Focus: The M.S. in Human-Computer Interaction at RIT is research-intensive, with a strong emphasis on user-centered design and the development of innovative technologies. Research areas include accessibility, user interface design, augmented and virtual reality, data visualization, and human-robot interaction. Students have the opportunity to collaborate with faculty and industry partners on cutting-edge projects, contributing to research that shapes the future of human-computer interactions. The program also explores the impact of emerging technologies on society, focusing on how HCI can address issues related to inclusivity, diversity, and user experience in different contexts.
Industry Engagement: RIT’s M.S. in Human-Computer Interaction provides students with extensive industry engagement opportunities. Through internships, cooperative education programs, and collaboration with industry leaders, students gain hands-on experience working with companies and organizations at the forefront of technology development. The program partners with tech giants, startups, and research institutions, allowing students to work on projects that address real-world HCI challenges. Industry engagement is a vital component of the curriculum, providing students with exposure to professional networks and helping them transition smoothly into the workforce after graduation.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Human-Computer Interaction at RIT fosters a global perspective by focusing on the universal principles of user experience while considering cultural and social differences in technology design. The program encourages students to explore how different populations interact with technology, addressing issues such as accessibility for people with disabilities and the digital divide. International students bring diverse perspectives to the classroom, enriching the learning environment and preparing graduates to work in global markets. The program also offers opportunities for global collaborations, where students can work on projects with peers from different countries to address global HCI challenges.
Location
Rochester
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 54176
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 88 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 60 or higher.
Standardized Test Requirements:
- GRE Graduate Record Examinations: Overall score of 280 or higher is required.
- GMAT Graduate Management Admission Test: Overall score of 400 or higher is required.
WES Evaluation is required
Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is supporting international students through a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to ease the financial burden of studying abroad. These scholarships are available for undergraduate and graduate students and can be awarded based on academic merit, need, and specific program requirements.
Merit-Based Scholarships: RIT offers several merit-based scholarships for international students that are awarded based on academic achievement. These scholarships are intended to recognize the hard work and dedication of students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance in their previous studies. These scholarships can significantly reduce tuition fees, making education at RIT more affordable for international students. Applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships during the admissions process, and no additional application is required.
International Student Scholarships: In addition to merit-based scholarships, RIT offers specific scholarships tailored to international students. These scholarships are designed to make education accessible to students from around the world and help them pursue their studies at a world-class institution. The scholarships vary in amount and eligibility criteria, and they are awarded based on factors such as academic performance, leadership potential, and extracurricular involvement.
Program-Specific Scholarships: Certain academic programs at RIT offer program-specific scholarships for international students. These scholarships are designed to support students in specific fields of study, such as engineering, business, computer science, and the arts. Each program may have its own criteria for eligibility, and students are encouraged to check with their respective departments for details about available scholarships. Program-specific scholarships often offer additional opportunities for networking, research, and professional development.
Graduate Scholarships and Assistantships: RIT offers graduate scholarships and assistantships to international students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, research potential, and professional achievements. Graduate students may also be eligible for teaching or research assistantships, which provide a stipend and valuable academic experience. Assistantships allow students to work alongside faculty on research projects and gain teaching experience, which can enhance their academic and professional profiles.
Graduates of the M.S. in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) program at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) have a wide range of career options available in the tech, design, and research industries. With expertise in user-centered design, usability testing, and technology development, RIT graduates are well-equipped to contribute to the rapidly evolving field of human-computer interaction.
User Experience (UX) Designer: One of the most popular career paths for HCI graduates is as a UX Designer. These professionals focus on creating intuitive, engaging, and user-friendly designs for digital products, websites, and mobile applications. They work to enhance the overall user experience by conducting research, testing prototypes, and refining user interfaces to meet user needs and expectations.
Interaction Designer: Interaction Designers are responsible for designing the way users interact with digital systems, including software, websites, and devices. They create wireframes, prototypes, and interaction flows, ensuring that the digital experience is efficient, enjoyable, and easy to use. Graduates of the M.S. in HCI from RIT are equipped with the skills to design seamless interactions in a variety of industries, from gaming to healthcare to enterprise software.
Usability Engineer: Usability Engineers focus on evaluating and improving the usability of technology by testing products and gathering feedback from real users. They apply research methods to identify issues and recommend design improvements to make products more effective and accessible. HCI graduates from RIT are well-prepared to work in roles where usability testing and user research are integral to product development.
Human-Computer Interaction Researcher: Many M.S. in HCI graduates pursue careers in academic or industry research, studying human behavior, cognitive processes, and the interaction between people and technology. Researchers investigate topics such as accessibility, virtual reality, and mobile computing to develop new methods, tools, and techniques to enhance user experience. These professionals often work in labs, think tanks, or research organizations.
Usability Consultant: Usability Consultants offer expert advice to organizations seeking to improve the user experience of their products or services. They conduct usability testing, evaluate existing systems, and provide recommendations for improvements. HCI graduates from RIT can work independently or with consulting firms to help businesses across a variety of sectors optimize their digital offerings.
User Interface (UI) Developer: UI Developers specialize in the technical aspects of building user interfaces for software and digital products. They collaborate closely with designers to implement interfaces that are both functional and visually appealing. With a strong foundation in both design and development, HCI graduates from RIT are well-suited for UI development roles in web development, software engineering, and mobile app design.
Game Designer: With the increasing overlap between HCI and interactive media, game design is a popular field for HCI graduates. Game Designers create engaging and user-friendly experiences within video games, focusing on player interaction, mechanics, and interface design. This role often requires an understanding of psychology and human behavior to create immersive and enjoyable experiences.
Product Manager: Product Managers with an HCI background oversee the development of digital products, ensuring that user experience considerations are integrated throughout the process. They work with cross-functional teams, including designers, engineers, and marketers, to guide product development from concept to launch, with a focus on optimizing user interaction and satisfaction.
Mobile Interaction Designer: With the ubiquity of mobile devices, mobile interaction design is a growing field for HCI professionals. Mobile Interaction Designers focus on creating user-friendly and efficient mobile experiences, designing interfaces that are responsive, accessible, and tailored to the unique capabilities and constraints of mobile devices.
Human-Robot Interaction Specialist: Human-Robot Interaction (HRI) is an emerging field within HCI, where professionals study how people interact with robots and autonomous systems. Graduates of RIT's M.S. in HCI program may pursue careers in designing and testing robots for industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and defense, ensuring that they operate safely and effectively alongside human users.
