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The MSc Human-Computer Interaction at Nottingham teaches students how to design, evaluate and implement interactive systems with a strong focus on human factors, usability, mixed reality, and user-centred methods. It suits graduates from any background (including non-technical) who want to move into UX design, usability engineering, interactive system design, or academic research in HCI.
Curriculum Structure
Because this is a one-year programme, the structure is organised as taught modules followed by a summer major individual project. In the taught phase, students take core modules such as Human-Computer Systems, where they'll learn about interface design, task and system analysis; Studying Human Performance, which covers experimental design, observational and subjective measurement, ergonomics methods; and Advanced Methods in Human Factors and Human-Computer Interaction, involving eye-tracking, psychophysical methods, qualitative approaches, and ethical considerations.
Optional modules like Mixed Reality, Games, Physical Ergonomics, Simulation, Virtual Reality & Advanced Human-Machine Interface allow students to specialise in immersive interaction, gesture/natural interfaces, sensor-based systems, or entertainment tech..
Focus areas: “User-Centred Design; Human-Computer Systems; Mixed Reality; Human Performance & Ergonomics; Experimental Methods; Advanced HCI Interfaces; Project & Prototype Development”
Learning outcomes: “Understand how people interact with interactive systems; design usable, accessible and engaging interfaces; apply HCI and human factors methods including qualitative, quantitative, and experimental techniques; build prototypes and conduct user evaluation; manage and deliver a full-scale research or design project in HCI.”
Professional alignment (accreditation): The programme is delivered by the School of Computer Science at Nottingham, with strong ties to its research groups (Mixed Reality Laboratory, Human Factors Lab); it’s designed to prepare students for professional roles in UX/UI, user research, interaction design, and human factors.
Reputation (employability rankings): Nottingham is ranked among the top UK universities for Computer Science in the Complete University Guide (Top-20), and the course is well regarded by employers. Research outputs are strong (98% of research classed as world-leading or internationally excellent in REF).
This programme immerses you in the entire user-centred design lifecycle, from initial observation and prototyping to rigorous evaluation. You will develop practical skills in our purpose-built facilities, moving beyond theory to create and assess interactive technologies in realistic settings. This hands-on approach is central to the curriculum and is delivered through key components:
Specialist Usability Laboratories: You will conduct research in the University's dedicated Human Factors Research Group labs, including the 3D TANGO projection facility and usability suites equipped with eye-trackers, motion capture systems, and biometric sensors for in-depth user behaviour analysis.
Industry-Standard Prototyping Tools: The curriculum involves practical work with prototyping and design software such as the Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and programming environments for developing interactive applications.
Substantial Individual Project: A core element is a significant summer dissertation project where you will undertake a full cycle of HCI research or design, often in collaboration with industry or one of the University's research groups, such as the Mixed Reality Lab.
Practical, Studio-Based Learning: Many modules are project-based, involving group work to design and evaluate interactive systems, simulating a professional UX design studio environment and fostering collaborative problem-solving skills.
Access to Cutting-Edge Research Groups: The programme is deeply integrated with world-leading research centres, including the Mixed Reality Lab and the Horizon Digital Economy Research Institute, providing exposure to pioneering work in ubiquitous computing and immersive technologies.
Graduates of the MSc Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) at the University of Nottingham achieve strong outcomes with career paths including UX Designer, Interaction Designer, Usability Analyst, and User Researcher. The program’s interdisciplinary focus on user experience design, mixed reality, and advanced human factors equips students to create innovative and usable digital technologies for diverse sectors.
The University’s Careers and Employability Service offers personalized career coaching, employer networking events, portfolio development support, and sector-specific internships to help HCI students secure roles.
Nottingham ranks highly for graduate employability with 93% of computer science postgraduates in skilled employment or further study within 15 months, and average starting salaries around £34,000.
Partnerships with industry and research groups such as the Mixed Reality Laboratory and Human Factors lab support collaborative projects, enriching practical experience and job readiness.
The MSc is underpinned by active research excellence and industry consultation, ensuring alignment with professional standards and current trends in UX and digital design.
Graduates find roles in global tech companies, consultancy firms, healthcare, and digital entertainment, applying skills to improve user experiences and system interactions.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may pursue doctoral research (PhD) in HCI, cognitive computing, or design innovation, or develop further expertise through professional qualifications, specialized certifications, or research fellowships in emerging areas such as virtual reality and pervasive computing.
2.1 (or international equivalent) in one of the following areas: physics, mathematics, computer science, chemistry, engineering. India- India- Bachelor's degree with minimum 60%. IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each elementTOEFL: 90 (minimum 19 in writing and listening, 20 in reading and 22 in speaking)USA- USA- Bachelor degree from a recognised institution with GPA 3.2 or above.Artificial intelligenceData ScienceMachine Learning AlgorithmComputer Vision
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University of Nottingham
