Learn how an online master’s degree in human computer interaction can open the door to a career in design, engineering, robotics, and software development. Keep reading to explore today’s top HCI master’s programs online.
Author: Kimberly Webster
Editor: Jordan Cosselman
- Top Programs
Spotlight: A Look Inside HCI Master's Programs
Read more - Classes
What Classes Will I Take in an Online Human Computer Interaction Master's Program?
Read more - Specializations
What HCI Fields can Students Specialize in?
Read more - Cost
How Much Does an Online Human Computer Interaction Master's Cost?
Read more - Career Options
What Can You do with an HCI Master's Degree?
Read more - FAQs
Human Computer Interaction Degree FAQs
Read more - Top Schools
Best Online Master’s in Human-Computer Interaction Programs
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If you’re tech-savvy and looking to enter a cutting-edge field with massive growth potential, an online master’s degree in human-computer interaction (HCI) may be worth exploring. By earning an HCI master’s degree, you position yourself for careers at the forefront of technology — working on everything from AI interfaces to accessible design to robotics.
That said, the decision to pursue a graduate degree in HCI isn’t a simple one, especially if you plan to continue working while enrolled. This guide outlines your options, answers common questions, and helps you confidently choose an online HCI master’s program.
Details of Popular Online HCI Master’s Programs
When evaluating programs, we focused on three key factors: time to completion, cost, and real-world application of the curriculum.
Drexel University
The Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction & User Experience from Drexel has the highest number of credits required on this list, but they are offered in intensive 8-to-10 week quarters rather than a semester system. It also has the highest per-credit cost of the programs we’ve selected, but can be well worth the price since you are doing more focused work over a shorter period of time.
A standout feature is the range of elective options. Students can choose from a list of theory-based elective courses that may also lead to certifications in areas like IA, cognitive psychology, and accessible design.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Credits: 45
- Time: 1.5 to 2.5 years
- Cost: $1396 per credit
- Career Paths: UX Design, User Research, UI Design, UI Development, or Front-End Development
State University of New York Oswego
SUNY Oswego’s Human Computer Interaction Online Master of Arts program is the most affordable program on this list, with special tuition rates for out-of-state graduate students pursuing their master’s degree fully online.
This program offers two tracks: a project-based track focused on research and thesis, and a hybrid professional track combining core HCI courses with courses from their MBA program.
Two of the core courses have prerequisites not included in the degree program. This is a non-issue if you’ve already taken those courses, but worth confirming before you apply.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Credits: 33
- Time: 2 years
- Cost: $575 per credit
- Career Paths: Accessibility Specialist, Game Tester, Graphical UI Designer, Front-End Web Designer, Mobile App Developer, UX Designer
Rochester Institute of Technology
RIT’s Human-Computer Interaction Master of Science Degree requires just 30 credits — the fewest of any of the programs we looked at. While there is only one part-time path available (a two-year course of study with a directed final project), the program boasts a 100% outcome rate.
Courses focus on core HCI competencies alongside specialized topics, giving students a well-rounded foundation foe entering the field.
Program Highlights
- Accreditation: MSCHE
- Credits: 30
- Time: 2 years
- Cost: $1,403 per credit
- Career Paths: UX Researcher, Interaction Designer, Mobile Application Designer, Product Designer, Senior Software Engineer
What Classes Will You Take in an Online HCI Master’s Program?
Online HCI master’s programs typically focus on three core areas:
- HCI fundamentals
- Research methods for user experience
- User interface design and development
Curriculum also tends to cover data analysis, accessibility, and the cognitive science behind how people interact with technology. Here’s a look at the types of courses you can expect:
Research Methods
To design a solution, you first need to identify problems. Research methods courses teach students how to test product design and user experiences through proven methodologies — including surveying, contextual inquiry, and usability testing.
Foundations of Human-Computer Interfacing
These are broad introductions to the field, covering the fundamentals of user-first design and the many areas of specialization within HCI. They often serve as a foundation for more advanced coursework later in the program.
Information Design
It’s not enough to have the information — you have to know how to present it. These courses cover visual hierarchy, typography, color theory, and how design decisions affect the way users process and understand content.
What Can You Specialize In?
While some HCI programs offer formal tracks focused on research or business applications, most offer specialization through elective coursework. Common concentration areas include:
Artificial Intelligence
An AI specialization gives you an in-depth understanding of the many ways artificial intelligence is shaping how people interact with technology and prepares you to design systems that leverage it thoughtfully.
Cognitive Psychology
This specialization focuses on the human side of HCI. You’ll study how people think, process information, and respond to design decisions — insights that directly inform better, more intuitive product experiences.
Accessible Design
Where early HCI work focused on designing for the largest user group, accessible design ensures that technology works for everyone, including people with disabilities. This is a rapidly growing area of the field with strong demand in the job market.
How Much Does an Online HCI Master’s Cost?
The biggest cost variable is whether you pursue a Master of Science (MS) or a Master of Arts (MA). Both degrees have strong career outcomes, but program length, credit requirements, and tuition rates vary significantly.
While many programs don’t specifically require a computer science undergraduate degree, most list a CS background as helpful for completing the curriculum.
| School | Program | No. of Credits | Est. Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drexel University | MS in Information—Human Computer Interaction and User Experience | 45 | $62,945 |
| SUNY Oswego | MA in Human-Computer Interaction | 33 | $19,650 |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | MS in Human-Computer Interaction | 30 | $42,090 |
Tuition and Financial Aid
All of the programs reviewed for this guide are eligible for financial aid. Each school has its own financial aid department that can help you explore options including federal loans, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance. Contact each program’s financial aid office directly for the most up-to-date information.
What Can You Do with an HCI Master’s Degree?
An online master’s in HCI is a strong path to career advancement in computer science, information technology, and product design. Here are some of the roles HCI graduates pursue:
Commercial and Industrial Designer
Every new product and piece of machinery needs to be designed before it can exist. Commercial and industrial designers with an HCI background get to shape the concept and function of products, bridging the gap between human needs and technological capability.
While affordable computer science programs exist, many can be a financial burden. Here’s a look at a few select machine learning programs
Career Outlook: Commercial and Industrial Designer
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $76,250 | $126,010 | 2-4% | Manufacturing |
Source: O*Net OnLine
Video Game Designer
A career in video game design with an HCI master’s focuses on gameplay, user-input mechanics, storyline, and character development. The psychological study of human-computer interaction gives game designers a deeper understanding of what makes experiences engaging and intuitive.
Career Outlook: Video Game Designer
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $98,540 | $176,490 | 9%+ | Professional, Scientific, Technical Services |
Source: O*Net OnLine
Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomist
Human factors engineers and ergonomists design objects, facilities, and environments to enhance system performance and personal well-being. Most of these roles are advisory or consulting positions, working across industries from healthcare to aerospace.
Career Outlook: Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomist
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $99,380 | $142,220 | 9%+ | Manufacturing |
Source: O*Net OnLine
Robotics Engineer
HCI-focused robotics engineers work on projects where robots are intended to interact with people or mimic human behavior. This is one of the more specialized and fast-growing areas where HCI expertise is increasingly in demand.
Career Outlook: Robotics Engineer
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $111,970 | $177,020 | 2-4% | Professional, Scientific, Technical Services |
Source: O*Net OnLine
Software Developer
Software development is an enormous field, and many professionals in it don’t hold master’s degrees. But at the higher tiers of the field and in today’s competitive job market, a master’s degree in HCI can meaningfully differentiate you, particularly for roles focused on user-facing products and systems.
Career Outlook: Software Developer
| Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile | Projected Growth | Top Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| $132,270 | $208,620 | 9%+ | Professional, Scientific, Technical Services |
Source: O*Net OnLine
FAQs About Online HCI Master’s Degrees
What are the admissions requirements for an online master’s in human computer interaction?
Most programs follow a fairly standard set of admissions requirements. A few require or recommend a computer science undergraduate degree, but this is not universal. Common requirements include:
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree
- GPA of 3.0 or higher
- Statement of purpose
- Two letters of recommendation
- Resume
- GRE score (optional at most programs)
How long does it take to earn an online master’s degree in human computer interaction?
Most online HCI master’s programs are designed to be completed in two years as a part-time program. Some degrees are possible to complete in as few as 12–18 months with a heavier course load, while others may take up to three years depending on your pace and life commitments.
Is there a benefit to earning a master’s degree in human computer interaction online instead of in person?
Yes, and for this field in particular, online learning has some unique advantages. Some HCI specializations are only available through online programs. Additionally, because the interaction between humans and technology is so central to the coursework, studying in a digital environment gives students firsthand experience with the interfaces and systems they’re learning to improve.
Do I need to learn coding or computer programming to study human computer interaction?
No, most HCI master’s programs do not require programming knowledge as a core requirement. That said, some degree tracks offer electives that go deep into front-end development or software engineering for students who want that background. Having some coding familiarity can be helpful, but it’s rarely a barrier to entry.
Will I be accepted into a human computer interaction master’s program without a computer science (CS) undergrad?
Most likely, yes. The majority of programs we reviewed do not require a CS undergraduate degree. A few exceptions exist, and some programs note that a CS background can be helpful for completing the curriculum. If your undergrad is in a different field, focus your application on relevant experience, transferable skills, and a strong statement of purpose.