
University of Maryland, Baltimore County

Maryland
,United States

Program Name
Master of Science in Human-Centered Computing (HCC)

Deadline
October 01st, 2023
Overview

The Master of Science in Human-Centered Computing (HCC) at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County offers a robust and immersive program aimed at fostering innovative problem-solving in the field of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI). With a rapidly evolving tech landscape, this program equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate the complexities of user-centered design and interaction. The curriculum is meticulously crafted to combine critical thinking and hands-on experience, allowing students to explore the intersection of technology and human behavior. This integrated approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges in diverse environments, making them invaluable assets in their future careers.
This program not only emphasizes the importance of understanding user needs but also encourages students to engage in extensive research initiatives. The HCC program is designed to foster an environment of creativity and innovation, enabling students to delve deep into interactive technologies and their applications. Through a combination of lectures, workshops, and collaborative projects, students will develop the skills needed to thrive in various roles, from UX designers to researchers in academic and industry settings. Graduates emerge with a comprehensive understanding of user-centered design principles, equipped to contribute to cutting-edge advancements in technology.
The faculty within the College of Engineering and Information Technology at UMBC comprises experienced professionals and renowned researchers in the field of HCI. Their expertise spans various areas, including usability testing, cognitive psychology, and interaction design, providing students with a rich reservoir of knowledge. The teaching methodology encourages active participation, critical analysis, and constructive feedback, ensuring that students not only learn from their professors but also from one another. This collaborative learning environment fosters a strong sense of community among students, which is essential for personal and professional growth.
In addition to academic excellence, the Master of Science in HCC program emphasizes real-world application through extensive research opportunities and industry connections. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and resources that support their research endeavors, enabling them to work on cutting-edge projects that push the boundaries of technology. The university's strong ties with industry partners also create numerous internship opportunities, allowing students to gain practical experience while building their professional networks. This blend of academic rigor and practical exposure positions graduates for success in a competitive job market.
Upon completion of the HCC program, graduates will find themselves well-positioned for a plethora of career options. The program prepares students for roles such as UX/UI designers, usability analysts, product managers, and researchers in both academic and corporate settings. Graduates are in high demand as organizations seek professionals who can bridge the gap between technology and user experience. Alumni from the program have successfully secured positions at leading tech companies, startups, and research institutions, underscoring the program's reputation for excellence and the employability of its graduates.
Why Study Human-Centered Computing (HCC) at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County
- The program is consistently ranked among the best globally, ensuring a world-class education.
- International students benefit from a diverse and inclusive community that enriches their learning experience.
- Students learn from distinguished faculty members who are leaders in their fields, providing mentorship and research opportunities.
- Access to cutting-edge labs equipped with the latest technology facilitates innovative research and learning.
- Strong industry connections offer students numerous internship and job placement opportunities, enhancing career readiness.
The program requires applicants to have a relevant undergraduate degree in a related field, and while standardized test scores such as the GRE may not be mandatory, they can enhance an application. Additionally, proficiency in English is required, with minimum scores set for tests such as IELTS (minimum 6.5), TOEFL (minimum 80), or PTE (minimum 53). The application process also includes a fee of $50 and requires submission by the specified deadlines to ensure consideration.
In conclusion, the Master of Science in Human-Centered Computing at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County is an exceptional choice for students seeking to impact the field of Human-Computer Interaction. With a comprehensive curriculum, expert faculty, robust research opportunities, and strong industry ties, this program prepares graduates for successful careers. By choosing UMBC for your master's degree, you are investing in a future where technology meets human needs, and you are positioned to lead in this transformative field.

Duration
24 Months
Ranking
#137
US World and News Report
Class Profile
Diversity
Hispanic American:
14%Others:
9%Asian American:
20%African American:
37%White American:
20%Eligibility Criteria
English Proficiency Tests
IELTS
6.5
PTE
53
TOEFL
80
Application Requirements
Here's everything you need to know to ensure a complete and competitive application—covering the key documents and criteria for a successful submission.

Application Fee: 50
Application Deadlines
Standard Deadline | |
---|---|
Spring | Oct 1, 2023 |
Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees
$18,555 / year
FAQs
The Master of Science in Human-Centered Computing program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County has specific admissions requirements that prospective students must meet:
- Applicants should possess a relevant undergraduate degree in a related field.
- While standardized test scores such as the GRE are not mandatory, submitting them can enhance an application.
- Proficiency in English is required, with minimum scores set for tests: IELTS (minimum 6.5), TOEFL (minimum 80), or PTE (minimum 53).
- An application fee of $50 is required.
- Applications must be submitted by the specified deadlines to ensure consideration.
The Master of Science in Human-Centered Computing (HCC) program is designed to provide a comprehensive education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills. This structure includes:
- A curriculum that emphasizes user-centered design principles and explores the intersection of technology and human behavior.
- Engagement in extensive research initiatives, encouraging creativity and innovation.
- Participation in various teaching methods such as lectures, workshops, and collaborative projects.
- Opportunities to work in state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with the latest technology.
Graduates of the Master of Science in Human-Centered Computing program will find themselves well-positioned for a wide range of career opportunities. The program prepares students for roles including:
- UX/UI designers
- Usability analysts
- Product managers
- Researchers in academic and corporate settings
Graduates are in high demand as organizations seek professionals capable of bridging the gap between technology and user experience, with many securing positions at leading tech companies, startups, and research institutions.
The HCC program employs a variety of teaching methods to enhance student learning and engagement. These methods include:
- Lectures that provide foundational knowledge and theoretical insights.
- Workshops that facilitate hands-on learning and application of concepts.
- Collaborative projects that encourage teamwork and peer learning.
This teaching methodology promotes active participation, critical analysis, and constructive feedback, allowing students to learn from both professors and their peers.
The Master of Science in Human-Centered Computing at UMBC boasts several key highlights that distinguish it from other programs:
- Consistent ranking among the best globally, ensuring high-quality education.
- A diverse and inclusive community that enriches the learning experience for international students.
- Access to distinguished faculty who are leaders in their field, providing mentorship and research opportunities.
- State-of-the-art laboratories that support innovative research and learning.
- Strong industry connections that offer numerous internship and job placement opportunities.
The HCC program emphasizes real-world application through extensive research opportunities. Key aspects of this support include:
- Access to state-of-the-art laboratories and resources that facilitate cutting-edge research projects.
- Encouragement for students to engage in research initiatives that explore interactive technologies and their applications.
- Collaboration with faculty who are experienced professionals and researchers in the field of HCI.
This environment fosters creativity and innovation, allowing students to push the boundaries of technology through their research endeavors.
The Master of Science in Human-Centered Computing program at UMBC offers several unique aspects that enhance the student experience:
- A strong emphasis on understanding user needs, which is crucial for effective design and interaction.
- A collaborative learning environment that fosters a strong sense of community among students.
- Opportunities to engage in extensive research initiatives, promoting a culture of creativity and innovation.
- Networking opportunities through strong industry connections that facilitate internships and job placements.
The Master of Science in Human-Centered Computing at UMBC is considered a world-class choice due to several factors:
- It is consistently ranked among the best globally, ensuring students receive a high-quality education.
- The program offers a diverse and inclusive community that benefits international students.
- Students learn from distinguished faculty members who provide mentorship and research opportunities.
- Access to cutting-edge labs and technology enhances the learning and research experience.
- Strong connections with industry partners create numerous opportunities for internships and job placements, enhancing career readiness.
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