Human Computer Interaction

Human Computer Interaction (HCI) at Iowa State University of Science and Technology is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the fundamental knowledge and practical skills necessary to design, evaluate, and implement user-centered computer systems and interfaces. This interdisciplinary field combines principles from computer science, psychology, design, and engineering to enhance the way humans interact with technology. The program emphasizes both technical competencies and theoretical understanding, preparing graduates to address the challenges of creating intuitive and accessible technological solutions for diverse users. Students will explore core topics such as user interface design, user experience research, interaction technologies, cognitive psychology, and usability testing, enabling them to develop innovative applications across various domains including software, web, mobile, and emerging technologies. The curriculum includes both theoretical coursework and hands-on projects, fostering a balance between scientific rigor and practical application. Throughout the program, students have opportunities to collaborate on research projects, internships, and capstone experiences that reinforce their learning and prepare them for careers in industry, research, or advanced graduate studies. Graduates of the Human Computer Interaction program at Iowa State University are equipped to contribute to the development of user-friendly technologies that improve quality of life and promote inclusivity in digital environments. The program benefits from strong faculty expertise, state-of-the-art labs, and partnerships with industry leaders, ensuring students gain relevant skills aligned with current technological trends and user needs. Upon completion, students will be well-positioned for roles such as user experience designers, human factors specialists, usability analysts, and interaction designers, among others. The program’s multidisciplinary approach and focus on innovation make it an excellent choice for students passionate about technology, usability, and the science of human interaction with digital systems.

Iowa State University requires a minimum of 72 graduate credits to earn a PhD. At least 36 graduate credits, including all research credits, must be earned at ISU.

PhD students will be required to choose any four courses, one each from the Design, Implementation, Phenomena, and Evaluation categories, plus two additional courses of their choice from the list of core courses or the list of recommended electives. PhD students will therefore be required to take a total of six courses. In addition to these courses, PhD students will be required to take four credits of the HCI 591 Seminar in HCI plus a minimum of 9 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 Behavioural Research
  • STAT 480 — Statistical Computing Applications
  • HCI 522 – Scientific Methods in HCI

• • 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 specialities 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.
• The 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 a major professor.
• Your complete file is made available for member of the HCI faculty to review. (See the faculty page to learn more about the diverse members of the HCI faculty.)

The Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Program at Iowa State University offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for in-state students are generally lower compared to out-of-state students, with in-state undergraduate tuition approximately $8,000 per year and out-of-state tuition around $24,000 per year. Graduate students benefit from different tuition rates, which are also subject to residency status. Many students utilize a combination of scholarships, assistantships, and loans to fund their education. The university provides merit-based scholarships for incoming and current students, which do not require repayment. Additionally, Teaching Assistantships (TAs) and Research Assistantships (RAs) are available for qualified graduate students, offering a stipend and tuition remission, thereby significantly reducing out-of-pocket expenses. These assistantships are competitive and require a separate application process, often involving faculty recommendations and academic performance evaluations. Federal and private student loans are accessible to eligible students to cover remaining costs such as living expenses, books, and supplies. The financial aid office at Iowa State University offers comprehensive guidance and resources, including FAFSA assistance, to help students navigate their options. International students also have access to certain scholarships and may qualify for federal financial aid programs where applicable. The university encourages early application for financial aid and scholarship opportunities to maximize the chances of securing funding. External scholarships from professional organizations and industry partners related to HCI are also available, sometimes geared specifically toward students in technology and design fields. Overall, the financing studies at Iowa State University are designed to provide flexible options to help students manage costs and focus on their academic and research pursuits within the Human-Computer Interaction program.

The Human Computer Interaction (HCI) program at Iowa State University of Science and Technology offers students an interdisciplinary education that combines aspects of computer science, psychology, design, and engineering to prepare them for careers in designing, evaluating, and implementing user-centered technologies. The program emphasizes understanding user needs and developing innovative solutions that enhance the interaction between humans and computers, mobile devices, or other digital systems. Students gain practical skills through coursework that covers user interface design, usability testing, user experience research, and software development. The curriculum often includes opportunities for hands-on projects, internships, and collaborative research, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. Graduates of the HCI program are equipped to work in diverse fields such as software development, UX/UI design, accessibility consulting, and human factors engineering. The program's faculty members are experts in their fields, contributing to cutting-edge research and ensuring that students are trained with the latest industry standards and technological advancements. With a focus on innovative, user-centered approaches to design, the program prepares students not only to excel in technical roles but also to contribute to the development of technologies that are accessible and beneficial for a global user base. Admission requirements typically include a strong background in computer science or related disciplines, along with a demonstrated interest in user experience and design. The program fosters an inclusive learning environment and encourages collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the multidisciplinary nature of Human-Computer Interaction. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and resources, supporting extensive research and development activities. Upon graduation, students are well-positioned to pursue careers in industry, academia, or entrepreneurial ventures focused on creating intuitive and effective digital interfaces, contributing to advancements in how humans interact with technology on a daily basis.