Computer Science Option: Human–Computer Interaction

To submit a proposed plan of study, use the Applied CS Program webform.

As we integrate technology in more facets of our lives, the interface between humans and computers grows both larger and smaller: Larger in the sense that we interact with more applications and devices; Smaller in that our uses become more personalized and intimate.

The human-computer interaction (HCI) applied option helps you to understand both sides of this interface: the computer through programming, information visualization, and core computer science courses; and the human through cognition and psychology courses. Only by understanding both sides can we maximize the potential of computing in human lives.

Potential job opportunities

• User experience (UX) or interaction design: design and develop graphical user interfaces, interaction methods, workflows, and other front ends. Companies: Apple, Microsoft, Google, and any company that produces user-facing software.
• Web designer: analyze, design, and develop interfaces for web sites and web applications, integrate and present information from multiple sources. Companies: Amazon, Expedia, Google, and any company that produces software for the web.

Courses

Core

• CS 468 (Inclusive Design)
• CS 453 (Scientific Visualization) or CS 458 (Introduction to Information Visualization)
• CS 464 (Open Source Software – completed before Fall 2017)
  or CS 492 (Mobile Software Development)
• PSY 340 (Cognition)

Possible Electives

• PSY 350 (Human Lifespan Development)
• PSY 360 (Social Psychology)
• PSY 370 (Personality)
• PSY 426 (Psychology of Gender)
• PSY 434 (Brain and Behavior Methods)
• PSY 440 (Cognition Research)
• PSY 442 (Perception)
• PSY 444 (Learning and Memory)
• PSY 454 (Cognitive Development)
• PSY 456 (Social Development)
• PSY 464 (Social Cognition)
• PSY 494 (Engineering Psychology)