MSc Human Computer Interaction (SUSA)

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.

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 programme focuses on giving students the knowledge and skills to use social scientific approaches and theory to:

1. Inform the design of user-centred technology interactions 
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

What will I learn?

This programme introduces students to concepts, theory and practical techniques required for research and design in human-computer interaction. Students will learn how to:

• Understand the theoretical and applied foundations of human-computer interaction
• Critically engage with existing literature relevant to the field of HCI
• Design and assess interactions with a user centered focus by conceptualizing designs and prototypes through engagement with target users and/or other stakeholders
• Understand, plan, design and execute research focused on understanding interactions with and through technology
• Apply this learning to specific technological, societal or individual contexts so as to influence and understand technology interaction.
• Critique ideas, methods and theoretical propositions relevant to the field of HCI
• Develop high quality research projects with the potential for further academic or industry career progression in HCI
• Generate and analyse user data (both qualitative and quantitative) so as to identify and inform issues relevant to HCI.
• Communicate HCI based findings and concepts both orally and written, using a variety of presentation methods (e.g. posters, group and individual presentation, essay, thesis report).
• Communicate and collaborate in teams, taking responsibility for their work within the team and coordinating effectively on multidisciplinary challenges

Students will have the opportunity to undertake the Digital Health-related Info Systems Implementation module. Healthcare is one of the most complex environments in which to implement new IT systems and deliver on the return-on-investment measures often quoted by the literature, business cases and vendor case studies. This module will give an overview of the methodologies used to specify, procure, implement, and realise the benefits of IT solutions in healthcare. It will also address the main factors responsible for the failure of projects.

Student profile

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. 

Careers related to this programme include: 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.

Modules

Core modules

• Quantitative Data Analysis
• Research Theory and Practice
• UXD: User-Centered Design
• Research Methods
• Topics in HCI
• Psychological Perspectives in HCI

Options 

• Data & Society
• Communication Theory
• Creative & Interactive Media
• Language Models and Methods
• Project Management
• Media Production Cultures
• AI & Ethics
• Information Ethics
• Platform Governance
• Social Networks Online and Off
• Professional HCI Practice
• Digital Methods Research
• New Tech & Regulation

Options 

• Information Visualisation
• Augmented and Virtual Reality
• Foundations of Cognitive Science
• Human AI Interaction (Conv)
• Why Trust Science (Masters)
• Info Systems Implementation
• Programming for Soc Scientists

Options 

• HCI Thesis
• HCI Design Project