Overview

The Master of Human-Computer Interaction at Carnegie Mellon University is the world's longest-running programme dedicated to user experience design and human-centred research. This professional degree integrates service and design thinking into a rigorous curriculum that prepares graduates to lead the future of technology interactions. Students benefit from an interdisciplinary environment that brings together diverse cohorts from design, social science, and computer science backgrounds.

Why Master of Human-Computer Interaction at Carnegie Mellon University?

The programme is led by world-class faculty who are defining the field of HCI, combining expertise from cognitive psychology, behavioural science, and industry practice. A defining feature is the seven-month Capstone course, where student teams collaborate with external industry clients on complex research and design projects. This flagship experience allows students to apply their skills to real-world challenges, working with partners ranging from startups to global brands.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 60400 per year
National fee: USD 60400 per year
Local fee: USD 60400 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a foundation in core methodologies before allowing for extensive customisation through electives. During the first semester, students focus on essential techniques, while the subsequent terms are dedicated to advanced study and the substantial industry project. Modules may include:

HCI Project
User-Centred Research
Service Design
Design Thinking
Interaction Design
Cognitive Psychology
Human-Computer Interaction

Careers with Master of Human-Computer Interaction

Graduates from this programme are highly sought after for their ability to strategise and define the future of technology. Since its inception, the programme has produced over 1,200 alumni who now hold influential positions in major companies worldwide. Common career paths for graduates include:

User Researchers
Experience Designers
Product Managers
Software Developers
Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
Interaction Designers

The programme's strong industry links and the practical nature of the Capstone project ensure that students are well-prepared for immediate entry into the professional workforce upon completion of their studies.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Advanced Lab in Speech Recognition

Applications of Cognitive Science

Applied Fabrication Techniques for HCI

Applied Gadgets, Sensors and Activity Recognition in HCI

Applied Machine Learning

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-25 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.

Language

English

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Credits

30 alternative credits

Carnegie Mellon has adopted the method of assigning a number of “units” for each course to represent the quantity of work required of students.

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Pittsburgh, United States

Disciplines

Human Computer Interaction View 85 other Masters in Human Computer Interaction in United States

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Academic requirements

GRE^®

Required

English requirements

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Other requirements

General requirements

One official transcript from each college-level institution attended, whether or not a degree was conferred. International students must provide one copy of each transcript, officially translated into English
An official report of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
Three online letters of recommendation
An official report of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) from applicants whose native language is not English. Photocopies of TOEFL scores will not be accepted. Scores must be no more than two years old
A Statement of Purpose.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

60400 USD / year

≈ 60400 USD / year
Out-of-State

60400 USD / year

≈ 60400 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

60400 USD / year

≈ 60400 USD / year

Living costs

Pittsburgh

United States

1148 - 1944 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Master of Human-Computer Interaction.

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Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Pittsburgh

Financing

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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