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MSc Human Computer Interaction
Programme information was correct at 23 July 2013.
Programme
Qualifications and durations
- Full-time MSc 1 year
Overview
Computational devices are everywhere: at work, at home and in transit; on our desks, on our laps, in our hands. The challenges of sustainable healthcare, transport, resource delivery and emergency management all depend on development of interactive computing technologies: technologies that will only succeed if they are matched to human, social and economic needs.
In this postgraduate course you will learn how to design, build and evaluate interactive systems that are fit for people; you will learn to appreciate the multi-disciplinary nature of HCI as a vital discipline in which new understandings of human psychology, communication and social relations underpin design innovation.
The degree is taught by one of the UK’s most successful HCI groups whose multi-disciplinary background in research, practice and graduate education will help you understand the subject.
Beginning in October, you will spend the first seven months studying taught units and the summer (June to September) will be devoted to studying a research project usually with a strong practical element. All MSc students follow two core double taught units, Formal Methods and Programming and Research Project Preparation. You also follow a series of units specific to this degree. Units include Safety Critical Systems, Collaborative Systems, Interactive Communication Design, Creativity and IT, Networking, Mobile and Pervasive Systems, Advanced Human Computer Interaction, Security and Integrity and Digital Media.
Career opportunities range from designing aspects of consumer devices such as cars, mobile phones or games consoles, through to working on highly sophisticated systems controlling aircraft or power-generating machinery.
Academic entry requirements
A First Class or 2:1 honours degree or equivalent international qualification in the computer sciences, mathematical sciences, physical sciences or engineering is a requirement. Applicants from other disciplines who can offer strong relevant experience in computing will also be considered.
English requirements
IELTS 6.5 (with not less than 6.0 in each of the four components).
TOEFL 580 (paper-based test) or 237 (computer-based test) with a score of not less than 4 in the TWE or 92 (internet-based test) with not less than 21 in each of the components.
References
Two references are required.
Contact
Email compsci-acs@bath.ac.uk
Tel +44(0) 1225 383410
Department masters webpage
Fees
See the Tuition Fees Schedule
Our Research
Our research
Research in our Computer Science Department is centred around a number of focused areas or themes. To find out more, please see our:
Our research staff and students are also involved in a number of formal Research Centres. Please visit their websites:
About the Department
Introduction
The new Department of Computer Science began life in August 2001, emerging from the Computing Group of the Department of Mathematical Sciences. It is a research-led department with a strong record in interdisciplinary research and postgraduate teaching.
MSc
Our Masters programmes are designed to give you a wide range of knowledge so that you can build a career in the fast-moving industry of computing. The programmes are taught by recognised experts in each field, offering you, the student, a cutting-edge experience and a qualification which is both academic and commercially relevant. You will be exposed to the latest science and technology in your chosen specialist area, to complement previously-gained knowledge and skills from your undergraduate degree.
MPhil/PhD
The Department supports a strategic range of computer science research at PhD level and beyond. Our main research interests include Human Computer Interaction, Graphics and Media Technology, Mathematical Foundations, and Intelligent Systems. Research is pursued both in fundamental theoretical development and a range of application areas.
EngD in Digital Media
The Engineering Doctorate (EngD) in Digital Media is an alternative to the traditional PhD for students who want a career in industry. A four-year programme combines PhD-level research projects with taught courses, and students spend about 75% of their time working directly with a company.
Facilities and equipment
LAN and WAN, state-of-the-art HCI laboratory, audio laboratory.
International and industrial links
The Department has active collaborations with academics in leading universities in Europe, Australasia, the USA and Japan. Strong links with industry, e.g. HP labs, Airbus, Qinetiq, Westland, Toshiba and Vodafone.
Careers information
High employment records for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Good links with employers.
