UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Human Centered Design & Engineering
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The Master of Science (MS) program in Human Centered Design & Engineering (HCDE) at the University of Washington offers a comprehensive graduate education focused on understanding and designing human-technology interactions. This professional master's degree equips students with the skills to apply cutting-edge research and technology in various industries. The program emphasizes practical application and does not require a research thesis. It is designed for students who want to gain expertise in creating user-centered solutions and leading innovation in the field of design and engineering.
Curriculum
The MS in Human Centered Design & Engineering is a 24-month program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of user needs and the ability to translate those needs into effective technological solutions. The curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles in design and engineering fields.
- Year 1
- Foundations of Human Centered Design & Engineering
- Research Methods in HCDE
- Interaction Design Studio
- Prototyping and Fabrication
- Year 2
- Design Strategy and Management
- User Experience Design
- Applied Research Project
- Professional Development Seminar
Careers
Graduates of the Human Centered Design & Engineering program are prepared for a variety of roles in industry, focusing on applying user-centered principles to technology development and innovation. The program's emphasis on practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge ensures graduates are well-equipped for the demands of the professional world.
- UX Designer
- Product Manager
- Interaction Designer
- Design Researcher
- Technical Program Manager
- UX Researcher
- Usability Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with a minimum score of 92 on the TOEFL iBT, 7.0 on the IELTS, or 125 on Duolingo. Official scores must be sent directly from the testing agency.
- How much does the Master of Science in Human Centered Design & Engineering cost for international students?
- Tuition for the Professional Master's Program is charged per credit at $754 per credit for the 2025-2026 academic year, with 42 credits required for the degree. Estimated annual living costs are available on the UW Planning & Budgeting website.
- What is the duration of the MS in Human Centered Design & Engineering program?
- The MS in Human Centered Design & Engineering is a 24-month program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of user needs and the ability to translate those needs into effective technological solutions.
- What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as UX Designer, Product Manager, Interaction Designer, Design Researcher, and Technical Program Manager, focusing on user-centered principles in technology development.
- Are there any funding opportunities available for Master's students?
- Research track Master's students may be eligible for assistantships that include a full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and medical insurance. Various fellowships are also available, and students are encouraged to explore these opportunities.
- How do I apply to the Master of Science in Human Centered Design & Engineering program?
- International applicants must submit an online graduate application through the University of Washington Graduate School portal, along with transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and English proficiency test scores.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA bachelor's degree in a related field is required. Specific GPA requirements are not listed but competitive applicants typically have strong academic records.
TOEFL iBT92 (tests taken before Jan 21, 2026) or 92 (tests taken on or after Jan 21, 2026)
IELTS7.0
Duolingo125
Applicants who do not have English as their native language must demonstrate proficiency through accepted tests or proof of previous education in English. Official test scores should be sent directly from the testing agency using UW's institutional codes. Self-reported scores can be used in the application while official scores are being processed.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition for the Professional Master's Program is charged per credit. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the rate is $754 per credit. A total of 42 credits are required for the degree.
Tuition (home)The cost per-credit for the Professional Master's Program is the same for Washington state residents and non-residents, including international students.
LivingEstimated annual cost of attendance details are available on the UW Planning & Budgeting website.
For research track Master's students, funding through assistantships may include a full tuition waiver. Details on tuition and fees can be found on the UW Current Tuition & Fees Dashboards.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application MaterialsGather transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and any other required documents. Prepare to self-report English proficiency test scores.
2. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online graduate application through the University of Washington Graduate School portal.
3. Send Official Test ScoresArrange for official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores to be sent directly from the testing agency to the University of Washington using the provided institutional codes.
4. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee.
5. Await Admission DecisionThe department will review applications. Official scores may take several weeks to process and match with your application. Do not contact the department to check on the status of materials; they will reach out if additional information is needed.
Scholarships
Assistantships (Research & Teaching)Full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, medical and dental insurance
FellowshipsVaries
Accreditation
The University of Washington is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Frequently asked questions
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with a minimum score of 92 on the TOEFL iBT, 7.0 on the IELTS, or 125 on Duolingo. Official scores must be sent directly from the testing agency.
How much does the Master of Science in Human Centered Design & Engineering cost for international students?
+
Tuition for the Professional Master's Program is charged per credit at $754 per credit for the 2025-2026 academic year, with 42 credits required for the degree. Estimated annual living costs are available on the UW Planning & Budgeting website.
What is the duration of the MS in Human Centered Design & Engineering program?
+
The MS in Human Centered Design & Engineering is a 24-month program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of user needs and the ability to translate those needs into effective technological solutions.
What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as UX Designer, Product Manager, Interaction Designer, Design Researcher, and Technical Program Manager, focusing on user-centered principles in technology development.
Are there any funding opportunities available for Master's students?
+
Research track Master's students may be eligible for assistantships that include a full tuition waiver, monthly stipend, and medical insurance. Various fellowships are also available, and students are encouraged to explore these opportunities.
How do I apply to the Master of Science in Human Centered Design & Engineering program?
+
International applicants must submit an online graduate application through the University of Washington Graduate School portal, along with transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and English proficiency test scores.