UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK · UNITED STATES
Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction (HCIM)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 4.0Minimum GPA required for admission consideration
- 3.0Minimum GPA on a 4.0 scale for all prior undergraduate and graduate coursework
- 7.0Minimum IELTS Overall score for full enrollment
- 96Minimum TOEFL iBT score for full enrollment
- OptionalGRE scores (recommendation: 40th percentile verbal, 60th percentile quantitative)
- Holistic ReviewAdmissions committee evaluates applications considering diverse backgrounds in social sciences, art/design, and technology.
The Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction (HCIM) program at the University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in designing, evaluating, and implementing interactive computing systems. The program aims to foster a deep understanding of how people interact with technology and how to create user-centered experiences. Admission to the program is competitive and managed through the UMD Graduate School, with specific criteria set by the HCIM program. The curriculum is rigorous and requires a strong command of the English language, preparing graduates for diverse roles in the field of HCI.
Careers
Graduates of the HCIM program are prepared for a variety of roles in the rapidly growing field of human-computer interaction. The interdisciplinary nature of the program equips students with skills applicable across numerous industries.
- User Experience (UX) Designer
- User Interface (UI) Designer
- Interaction Designer
- UX Researcher
- Product Manager
- Information Architect
Frequently asked questions
- What are the minimum English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants must achieve a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 96 or an IELTS Academic overall score of 7.0. Specific sub-scores are also required for each test.
- What is the GPA requirement for the Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction?
- A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required for all prior undergraduate and graduate coursework. If your GPA is below 3.0, you should provide additional details in your Statement of Purpose.
- What are the tuition fees for this program?
- This program charges a special tuition rate that is the same for both residents and non-residents. This rate is not fully covered by assistantships or fellowships, and additional graduate student fees apply. Please refer to the UMD Tuition and Fees page for current rates as they are subject to change.
- How can I apply to the Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction program?
- Applications are submitted through the University of Maryland Graduate School's online application system. You will need to upload transcripts, a statement of purpose, resume/CV, and provide references, among other materials.
- What are the career outcomes for graduates of this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as User Experience (UX) Designer, User Interface (UI) Designer, UX Researcher, Product Manager, and Information Architect in various industries.
- Are there any departmental scholarships or assistantships available for this program?
- The HCIM program does not provide departmental assistantships or fellowships. However, you may explore funding resources through the Graduate School and MAGE Student Employment Opportunities.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA four-year baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or an equivalent degree from a non-U.S. institution.
GPAMinimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) in all prior undergraduate and graduate coursework. If below 3.0, provide additional detail in the Statement of Purpose.
TOEFL iBTTotal: 96 (Speaking: 22, Listening: 24, Reading: 26, Writing: 24)
IELTS AcademicOverall: 7.0 (Listening: 7.0, Reading: 7.0, Writing: 7.0, Speaking: 6.5)
PTE AcademicTotal: 68 (Writing: 68)
English proficiency scores are required for applicants who do not hold a degree from a U.S. institution or from one of the recognized English-speaking countries. The HCIM program requires excellent English command; Bridge and Intensive English programs are not an option for admission.
Fees
Tuition (international)This program charges a special tuition rate that does not differ between residents and non-residents. This rate is not fully covered by graduate assistantships, fellowships, or tuition remission. Additional graduate student fees are charged. Tuition and fees are subject to change. Please refer to the UMD Tuition and Fees page for current rates.
Tuition (home)This program charges a special tuition rate that does not differ between residents and non-residents. This rate is not fully covered by graduate assistantships, fellowships, or tuition remission. Additional graduate student fees are charged. Tuition and fees are subject to change. Please refer to the UMD Tuition and Fees page for current rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program pages.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Students are advised to check the official UMD Tuition and Fees page for the most current information.
How to apply
1. Complete the UMD Graduate School ApplicationAccess the ApplyYourself system and complete the main application for the Graduate School.
2. Pay Application FeeSubmit the non-refundable application fee of $75. Check Graduate School resources for potential fee waiver eligibility, though HCIM does not offer program-specific waivers.
3. Upload TranscriptsUpload unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. Official transcripts will be required upon admission and enrollment.
4. Write a Statement of PurposePrepare a Statement of Purpose addressing specific questions, detailing your experiences and interests relevant to the HCIM program.
5. Submit ReferencesProvide the names and email addresses of three academic or professional references who will submit letters of recommendation.
6. Upload Resume/CVSubmit a current resume or Curriculum Vitae.
7. Submit Supplemental MaterialsUpload the HCIM Supplementary Application and any other required materials, such as a portfolio (refer to FAQ for details).
8. Provide English Proficiency ScoresInternational applicants must submit official TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic scores meeting the program's minimum requirements. Use UMD's TOEFL Institution Code: 5814.
9. Indicate Residency StatusIf applicable, complete the Maryland Residency section of the application.
Scholarships
Graduate AssistantshipsNot specified
University ResourcesVaries
Accreditation
The University of Maryland, College Park is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Frequently asked questions
What are the minimum English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants must achieve a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 96 or an IELTS Academic overall score of 7.0. Specific sub-scores are also required for each test.
What is the GPA requirement for the Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction?
+
A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required for all prior undergraduate and graduate coursework. If your GPA is below 3.0, you should provide additional details in your Statement of Purpose.
What are the tuition fees for this program?
+
This program charges a special tuition rate that is the same for both residents and non-residents. This rate is not fully covered by assistantships or fellowships, and additional graduate student fees apply. Please refer to the UMD Tuition and Fees page for current rates as they are subject to change.
How can I apply to the Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction program?
+
Applications are submitted through the University of Maryland Graduate School's online application system. You will need to upload transcripts, a statement of purpose, resume/CV, and provide references, among other materials.
What are the career outcomes for graduates of this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as User Experience (UX) Designer, User Interface (UI) Designer, UX Researcher, Product Manager, and Information Architect in various industries.
Are there any departmental scholarships or assistantships available for this program?
+
The HCIM program does not provide departmental assistantships or fellowships. However, you may explore funding resources through the Graduate School and MAGE Student Employment Opportunities.