Human Computer Interaction

The MSc in Human Computer Interaction combines core elements and skills to prepare you to work within user experience and human computer interaction. The programme is unique in Ireland, harnessing the world-class expertise in the School of Information & Communication Studies to explore the discipline of human-computer interaction (HCI), from a social science perspective.



Technology is ubiquitous in our everyday life. We have countless interactions whether it be through mobile apps, smart devices, or more traditional desktop systems. It is vital now more than ever that these interfaces are designed with a deep understanding of the user, their desires and needs as well as how these interfaces will impact society more widely.



The programme focuses on giving students the knowledge and skills to use social scientific approaches and theory to inform

1) the design of user-centred technology interactions and to

2) understand the effect that design and technology interaction has on people's behaviours, perceptions and emotions encapsulating both at an individual and a societal level.

Module Trimester Credits



Stage 1 Core Modules

IS40730 Quantitative Data Analysis Autumn 5

IS40820 Research Theory and Practice Autumn 5

IS41520 UXD: User-Centered Design Autumn 10

IS40640 Research Methods Spring 5

IS40970 AI & Ethics Spring 5

IS41330 Topics in HCI Spring 10



Stage 1 Options - A)20CR:

Please choose up to 20 credits

COMP47230 Introduction to Cognitive Scie Autumn 7.5

IS40840 Data & Society Autumn 10

IS40880 Communication Theory Autumn 10

IS41230 Creative & Interactive Media Autumn 5

IS40950 Media Production Cultures Spring 10

IS41020 Information Ethics Spring 5

IS41050 Platform Governance Spring 5

IS41190 Regulation and Emerging Technology Spring 10

IS41340 Psychological Perspectives in HCI Spring 5

IS41510 Social Networks Online and Off Spring 10

IS41720 Language Models and Methods Spring 5



Stage 1 Options - B)1 of:

Please select one of the following modules. All students should select HCI Design project unless they have identified a Thesis Project, a member of School staff willing to supervise it, and have received approval from the Programme Director.



IS41320 HCI Thesis Summer 30

IS41350 HCI Design Project Summer 30

Entry Requirements

• This programme is intended for applicants with an undergraduate degree in any discipline.

• An upper second-class honours NFQ Level 8 (or international equivalent) is required.

• Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element) or equivalent.



You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage. https://tinyurl.com/2ae2ffax

Full Time & Part Time

Commencing September 2025

Human Computer Interaction is a hugely diverse area, with key skills being applicable to a wide variety of domains and is complimentary to degrees from natural sciences, computer science, arts, business and law amongst others.

The MSc focuses on giving students the skills to understand and problem solve around user and societal issues facing us in an increasingly digital world.



Dublin is one of Europe’s digital hubs, with leading international technology companies such as Apple, Twitter, Facebook, Google, Microsoft and Intel having a presence. These companies rely on HCI expertise when developing their interfaces, experiences and products.



Possible Jobs (Across the programme): User Experience Researcher; Interaction Designer; User Interface Researcher; Conversation Designer; Media Analyst; Digital Policy Expert; Quantitative Data Analyst; Product Designer; Ergonomic Specialist; PhD Research in HCI