Human-Computer Interaction

HCI professionals are developing the next generation of interactive computing products and services that will motivate, assist and delight their users. They work across many different industries, from developing human-machine interfaces and robotics for medical and industrial equipment to applying the latest research in game design and gamification. Today’s HCI experts are playing a critical role in helping society leverage innovations like virtual and augmented reality, robotics, IoT and generative AI for public good. As an HCI major, you’ll build a solid foundation in the fundamentals of the field, then work hands-on with state-of-the-art technologies to design and build better ways to interact with computing systems. This major is designed for students with a strong engineering or design background who want to push the field of computing forward, whether that be through research, working in an international company or institution, or working to solve societal issues as an early-stage hire or as a founder of a startup. You will graduate from this major with: Radical creativity and a modern approach to HCI. You’ll graduate with a wide repertoire of powerful computational and engineering skills – including state-of-the-art methods in generative AI – and be able to apply them to practical problems in HCI.A globally recognised technical skillset. You will graduate with an understanding of modern design problems from a computational perspective, including challenges in concept creation, interface technologies, algorithms, data and modelling. You will be ready to work in professional teams with a focus on AI, VR, machine learning, robotics, electrical engineering, computer science, usable security and privacy, data science and more.A strong interdisciplinary approach to human-centric technology. You’ll build interdisciplinary experience in psychology, social science, business, or design. The HCI major emphasises a systematic understanding of human, social and organisational factors as the starting point for our technical and design decisions.Strong design and prototyping skills. You will graduate with the technical and design expertise to drive innovative product visions forward through experimentation, prototyping and fit-for-purpose UI/UX design.Skills for lifelong learning. You will graduate with strong research literacy and a mindset geared towards critical thinking. You will have built strong research, teamwork and leadership skills that will benefit you throughout your career. This programme builds on pioneering research in computing sciences and electrical engineering. During your studies, you’ll also have the chance to contribute to Aalto’s HCI research, which has repeatedly ranked among the top in Europe from 2020 to 2026. By the time you graduate, you’ll be able to put computer science and engineering principles into practice to build systems designed with humans in mind. You will be prepared for a career that has a meaningful impact on people’s lives by making technology more accessible, more ergonomic, more efficient, and more fun.