Human Computer Interaction

The Bachelor of Science in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) at Iowa State University offers students a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to prepare them for a dynamic and evolving field focused on the design, evaluation, and implementation of user-centered technology. This program emphasizes the importance of understanding human behaviors, cognitive processes, and social dynamics to create intuitive and accessible technological solutions. Students in the HCI program gain a solid foundation in computer science, psychology, design, and engineering, enabling them to develop innovative interfaces and interactive systems that enhance user experience across various platforms and industries. The curriculum includes coursework in user interface design, user experience research, human factors, information visualization, and usability testing, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Through hands-on projects, internships, and collaborations with industry partners, students have the opportunity to apply their learning to real-world challenges, gaining valuable experience in designing digital products, mobile applications, virtual reality environments, and assistive technologies. The program also emphasizes ethical considerations and accessibility, ensuring graduates are equipped to create inclusive technologies that serve diverse populations. Graduates of the Human-Computer Interaction program at Iowa State University are prepared for careers in user experience design, usability analysis, interaction design, and research and development within technology companies, healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and government agencies. The program's multidisciplinary approach and commitment to innovation make it an excellent choice for students passionate about shaping the future of technology and human-centered design.

In order to earn an MS at Iowa State University, each student’s Program of Study (POS) must include at least 30 graduate credits. A minimum 22 of the graduate credits must be earned at ISU.

MS students will be required to choose any four courses, 1 each from the Design, Implementation, Phenomena, and Evaluation categories. MS students will therefore be required to take a total of four courses from the core. In addition to these courses, MS students will be required to take two credits of HCI 591, Seminar in HCI, plus a minimum of 3 research credits.

Core Courses

Design

• • HCI 521 — Cognitive Psychology of HCI
  • ArtGR 672A – Graphic Design and Human Interaction:  Usability
  • ArtGR 672B — Graphic Design and Human Interaction: Design for Social Inclusion

Implementation

• • HCI 573 — User Interface Implementation for Web Application*
  • HCI 575 — Computational Perception
  • HCI 574 — Computational Implementation and Prototyping
  • CprE/ME 557 — Computer Graphics and Geometric Modeling

Phenomena

• • HCI 655 — Organizational and Social Implications of HCI
  • HCI 589 — Design and Ethics
  • JLMC / T SC 574 – Communication Technologies and Social Change
  • ME/WLC 584 – Technology, Globalization and Culture

Evaluation

• • ENGL/STAT 332 — Visual Communication of Quantitative Information
  • HCI 504 — Evaluating Digital Learning Environments
  • PSYCH 501 — Foundations of Behavioral Research
  • STAT 480 — Statistical Computing Applications
  • HCI 522 – Scientific Methods in HCI

Seminar

• • HCI 591 Seminar, 1 credit

*Course no longer available in catalog.  If course was taken prior to discontinuation will still count as core course.

Recommended Electives

• ArtIS 508 – Computer Aided Visualization
• CI 503 – Theories of Designing Effective Learning and Teaching Environments
• CI 511 – Technology Diffusion Leadership and Change
• ENGL/LING 516X – Methods of Formal Linguistic Analysis
• HCI 510X – Foundations of Game-Based Learning
• HCI 520 – Computational Analysis of English
• HCI/ME 525 – Optimization Methods for Complex Designs
• HCI 558 – Introduction to the 3D Visualization of Scientific Data
• HCI 580 – Virtual Worlds and Applications
• HCI 585 – Developmental Robotics
• HCI 587X – Models and Theories in Human Computer Interaction
• HCI 594 – Organizational Applications of Collaborative Technologies and Social Media
• HCI 595 – Visual Design for HCI
• HCI 596 – Emerging Practices in Human Computer Interaction
• HCI 603 – Advanced Learning Environments Design
• HCI 681 – Cognitive Engineering
• IE 572 – Design and Evaluation of Human Computer Interaction
• IE 577 – Human Factors
• STAT 401 – Statistical Methods for Research Workers

Admission into the HCI graduate degree program depends on a combination of your academic qualifications, area of interest, research specialties and the current research needs of the faculty. Evidence of creative talent, the ability to speak and write English clearly, and promise for a successful career are also important considerations for entry into the HCI Graduate program. Other admission requirements include

• Transcripts, test scores and other indicators that the student applicant can be successful at the graduate level
• 3.0 GPA.
• GRE for all international students.
• TOEFL score of 95 iBT or greater or IELTS of 7.0 or greater for nonnative English speakers.
• Demonstrated ability to write software competently. This requirement can be met during your course of study in the program.

In addition to the above requirements, the following conditions apply when reviewing your application for admission.

• Meeting or exceeding these guidelines does not guarantee admission.
• An HCI faculty member must agree to work with and support you as your major professor.  (See the faculty page to learn more about the diverse members of the HCI faculty.)
• Your complete file must be available for HCI faculty members to review.

The Human Computer Interaction program at Iowa State University of Science and Technology offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. Undergraduate students pursuing this program can take advantage of federal and state financial aid programs, including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities, which are designed to make education accessible and affordable. Iowa State University participates in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), allowing students to apply for federal financial assistance based on their financial need. Scholarship opportunities are also available specifically for students in computer science and human-computer interaction fields, often awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of both.

In addition to federal aid, the university offers numerous scholarships for incoming and continuing students, which can significantly offset tuition costs. Many scholarships are provided through departmental awards, which recognize excellence in related fields such as computer science, design, or engineering. Students are encouraged to explore the university's scholarship portal and apply by designated deadlines to maximize their financial support.

Iowa State University also provides payment plans that allow students to spread out their tuition payments over the semester, making financial planning more manageable. For international students or those requiring additional funding, private loans and external scholarship programs are options, though students should carefully review terms and interest rates. Moreover, students engaged in research projects or internships related to human-computer interaction may qualify for stipends or assistantships, which offer both financial support and practical experience.

The university’s Office of Student Financial Aid offers counseling and resources to help students navigate their financing options effectively. For students enrolled in the Human Computer Interaction program, financial planning tools and workshops are available to assist in budgeting and understanding the total cost of attendance. Overall, Iowa State University’s multifaceted approach to financing education aims to ensure that students dedicated to advancing their careers in human-computer interaction can do so with manageable financial obligations.

The Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) program at Iowa State University of Science and Technology is designed to prepare students for careers at the intersection of technology, design, and human behavior. This interdisciplinary program emphasizes the development of innovative solutions that enhance user experience, usability, and accessibility across a variety of digital and physical platforms. Students in the program gain comprehensive knowledge in areas such as user interface design, user experience research, cognitive psychology, computer science, and design principles. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical application, enabling students to work on real-world projects and collaborate with industry partners. Graduates of the HCI program are equipped with skills necessary to create intuitive and effective technological solutions for diverse audiences and settings, including software development, product design, interactive systems, and usability testing. The program also encourages research and innovation, providing opportunities for students to contribute to advancing HCI methodologies and technologies. Iowa State University supports students with state-of-the-art laboratories, workshops, and collaborative environments that foster creativity and hands-on learning. Faculty members are experts in the field, actively involved in research that pushes the boundaries of human-computer interaction. Overall, the HCI program at Iowa State seeks to produce graduates who are capable of addressing complex design challenges and improving the relationship between humans and technology through thoughtful, inclusive, and user-centered approaches.