Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

School of Informatics, Indiana University IUPUI

Overview
M.S. in Human-Computer Interaction

Preparing for Study

Back to Human-Computer Interaction

Students applying for the HCI Graduate Program should have a foundation of core knowledge and skills in one or more of the following proficiency areas. These are usually obtained through undergraduate or graduate level courses previously taken by the applicant or from his/her work experience.

  1. Programming
    Proficiency in programming/scripting is a core knowledge component, including:
    • One or more languages, such as HTML, JAVA, C++, and Visual Basic.
    • A basic understanding of programming methodologies, such as system design and architecture, problem and algorithm analysis.
    • Other systems knowledge such as artificial intelligence and database analysis / database technology.
  2. Design
    The second proficiency area includes familiarity with the principles and processes of visual communication, industrial design, new media, or other disciplines that deal with design theory and practice. A competent background in this area would include core knowledge of:
    • General Theoretical Areas:
      • Knowledge and application of three-dimensional animation and/or modeling tools.
      • Design methodologies for two and/or three dimensional product development.
      • Conceptual modeling, prototyping, and product delivery.
      • Problem-solving methodologies and critical thinking
    • Specific Skill-Sets:
      • Fundamental concepts of visual communication, e.g., page design, and layout.
      • Industrial design basics, fundamental concepts of 3D product design.
      • Design principles, typography, and color theory.
      • Knowledge and application of a range of digital (vector and raster) authoring tools for Web or interface design.
  3. Social Sciences
    The current trend of HCI is clearly moving toward a pedagogical model that embraces a contextual understanding of human behavior and cognition in interaction with computing. This interaction includes a broad range of processes that must be studied from the perspective of the social sciences. Students entering the HCI Graduate Program with this core knowledge would include course work in the areas of:
    • Psychology: general, cognitive, and behavioral
    • Sociology and anthropology (ethnography)
    • Cross-cultural psychology and communication.
    • Information management and/or Information and library science
  4. Diverse Disciplines
    There is a broad range of diverse disciplines that could also provide an applicant the necessary knowledge and expertise for success in the HCI graduate program. This, of course, also depends upon the focus and determination of an applicant to build on prior skill-sets. These diverse disciplines could include backgrounds in cultural studies, communication, architecture, business, education, engineering, computer science, information technology, library science, etc. Depending on each applicant’s background, the modeling of a special plan of study will be necessary and reviewed on a case-by-case basis.