CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Human-Computer Interaction (MHCI)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€52k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- First and most impactful MHCI program globallyGlobal Leader
- Three-semester program over one full calendar year (August-August)Program Length
- Integrates service and design thinking into HCIInterdisciplinary Focus
- Led by world-renowned HCI faculty and industry expertsExpert Faculty
- Seven-month industry Capstone projectCapstone Experience
- STEM-designated programSTEM Designation
The Master of Human-Computer Interaction (MHCI) program is the world's first and most influential professional degree focused on preparing individuals for careers in user experience (UX) design, user-centered research, and the broader field of human-computer interaction. This interdisciplinary program integrates design thinking and service learning into a robust curriculum. Each cohort comprises a diverse group of students with varied backgrounds in design, social sciences, business, and computer science, fostering a rich collaborative environment. The program is led by faculty who are pioneers in the HCI field, bringing expertise from computer science, cognitive psychology, behavioral science, design, and industry. The MHCI program is designed as a three-semester, full-calendar-year experience, running from August to August. It aims to equip students with the methodologies and techniques to design and guide the future of human-technology interactions. A key component is the seven-month Capstone course, where students collaborate in teams with external industry clients on a research and design project. This practical experience is highly valued by alumni, often cited as a pivotal part of their academic journey.
Curriculum
The MHCI curriculum is structured over three semesters. The first semester focuses on core HCI methodologies and techniques through required courses, while allowing students to customize their learning with electives from across Carnegie Mellon University. During the second and third semesters, students continue with diverse electives and undertake a significant industry Capstone project.
- Semester 1
- Core HCI Methodologies and Techniques
- Electives
- Semester 2 & 3
- Continued Diverse Electives
- Industry Capstone Project
Careers
Graduates of the MHCI program are well-prepared for a variety of roles in the tech industry and beyond, shaping the future of how humans interact with technology. The program has a strong track record of placing alumni in impactful positions since its first graduating class in 1997.
- User Researcher
- Experience Designer
- Product Manager
- Entrepreneur
- Business Owner
- Software Developer
- Strategist
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the Master of Human-Computer Interaction (MHCI) program?
- The MHCI program is designed as a three-semester, full-calendar-year experience, running from August to August.
- What are the tuition fees for the MHCI program?
- The tuition fee for the Master's program is $60,900 per academic year for the 2026-2027 academic year.
- What are the estimated living expenses for the MHCI program?
- Estimated annual living expenses, including housing, food, books, and personal expenses, total $34,018, excluding health insurance.
- What are the career outcomes for MHCI graduates?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as User Researcher, Experience Designer, Product Manager, and Software Developer in the tech industry and beyond.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- International students must submit TOEFL iBT scores with a minimum score of 100; waivers are not provided.
- How do I apply for the MHCI program?
- Applications are typically accepted starting in the fall for the following academic year. You will need to submit transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation through the Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science online application portal.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeWhile specific undergraduate majors are not mandated, a strong foundation in areas like design, social science, business, or computer science is beneficial given the program's interdisciplinary nature.
TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 100 required. Waivers are not issued for any reason, including previous study in English-speaking environments.
The program seeks students with diverse backgrounds and experiences. A strong academic record, relevant work or project experience, and a clear statement of purpose are important components of the application.
Fees
Tuition (international)The tuition for the Master's program is $60,900 per academic year.
Tuition (home)The tuition for the Master's program is $60,900 per academic year.
LivingEstimated annual living expenses (including housing, food, books, personal expenses, travel, transportation, and technology fees) total $34,018, excluding health insurance.
Tuition fees are listed for the 2026-2027 academic year. The total estimated cost of attendance includes tuition, fees, and living expenses.
How to apply
1. Visit Admissions WebsiteGo to the MHCI Admissions page for detailed instructions and to confirm application opening dates.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all required documents, including transcripts, resume, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.
3. Complete Online ApplicationSubmit the application through the Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science online application portal. Note that GRE scores are not required.
4. Submit English Proficiency Test ScoresIf English is not your native language, submit TOEFL scores. A minimum iBT score of 100 is normally required, and waivers are not provided.
5. Submit ApplicationEnsure all components are submitted by the application deadline.
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the Master of Human-Computer Interaction (MHCI) program?
+
The MHCI program is designed as a three-semester, full-calendar-year experience, running from August to August.
What are the tuition fees for the MHCI program?
+
The tuition fee for the Master's program is $60,900 per academic year for the 2026-2027 academic year.
What are the estimated living expenses for the MHCI program?
+
Estimated annual living expenses, including housing, food, books, and personal expenses, total $34,018, excluding health insurance.
What are the career outcomes for MHCI graduates?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as User Researcher, Experience Designer, Product Manager, and Software Developer in the tech industry and beyond.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International students must submit TOEFL iBT scores with a minimum score of 100; waivers are not provided.
How do I apply for the MHCI program?
+
Applications are typically accepted starting in the fall for the following academic year. You will need to submit transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, and three letters of recommendation through the Carnegie Mellon University School of Computer Science online application portal.