The human side of computing
Understand, shape, and design a more just future with Human Computer Interaction at UC Santa Cruz
Overview
What are the effects of technology on society? How are people shaping technologies to fit their needs? How do we design technologies that uplift a diverse range of users? Human Computer Interaction (HCI) embraces a multidisciplinary approach incorporating computer science, anthropology, sociology, psychology, and the humanities to thoughtfully design a more equitable future with technologies.
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, and housed in the Computational Media Department at the Baskin School of Engineering at UC Santa Cruz, we are pushing the boundaries of research and education in the field of HCI. Our world-renowned faculty focus their research in the areas of accessibility, culture, innovative interfaces, personal informatics, play, and social justice. We offer a unique HCI MS professional program which is tightly integrated with industry sponsors, and aimed towards those interested in a professional career with HCI.
The application deadline for the incoming Fall 2024 cohort has past, and we are no longer accepting applications. Stayed tuned for details on our information session (typically in November 2024) for the Fall 2025 cohort!
Explore HCI at UCSC
UC Santa Cruz’s new Master of Science in Human Computer Interaction is a four-quarter (15 months) program that guides students interested in pursuing a career in the User Experience (UX) profession, such as in product design and UX research.
The field of Human Computer Interaction finds a natural home in the Computational Media Department, where we engage in boundary-pushing research and education that integrates technical, interpretive, and design work to create human-centered media that address complex problems for positive societal impact.
Upcoming events
We host numerous events throughout the year, some on our Silicon Valley Campus, and others on Main Campus. Registration is required for most events.
