Human-Computer Interaction

“There is no other program like it in Canada.”

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) involves the design, evaluation and implementation of interactive computing systems for human use, and the study of major phenomena surrounding them.  The Carleton program is distinctive and unique in its interdisciplinarity, and is open to students with a wide range of backgrounds, including the humanities and social sciences, cognitive science, design, engineering, and computer science.

The program was created with an interdisciplinary approach in mind, where you will collaborate and learn with students from diverse backgrounds.  There are three core courses, a choice of research methods courses, and an elective chosen from a wide range of graduate courses. The degree then includes a major research project leading to a graduate thesis, working with the advice of one of our expert faculty members in a range of cutting-edge areas, e.g.:

* Computer Game Design

* Design for Accessibility, Healthcare and Rehabilitation

* Digital Culture and Media

* Human-Centred Privacy and Cyber-Security

* Next Generation Interaction Techniques

* Virtual and Augmented Reality

A collaborative Specialization in Accessibility is available.

Career Options

Students graduating from this program can pursue jobs in diverse fields. Carleton HCI graduates have found careers at places like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, and various government departments. High quality students completing a master’s in HCI may also be qualified to pursue a PhD in their respective fields of study.

Admission Requirements

Applicants for the MHCI program will normally hold an Honours degree or equivalent professional degree in a related field with at least a B+ average. This may include degrees in Arts, Social Sciences, Cognitive Science, Business, Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, Architecture, or Design.  Applicants judged to be generally acceptable but deficient in some preparation may be asked to complete coursework in addition to the program requirements. All applications will be considered by the HCI Graduate Committee.

Capital Advantage

Ottawa is home to numerous software development companies like IBM or Mitel, as well as most federal government departments and large research labs such as the National Research Council. These provide opportunities for research, expertise and careers.