Certificate in Human Computer Interaction

The dominance of the desktop computer is fading. Laptop computers, personal digital assistants, digital music players, and intelligent cell phones are the new technologies.

The emerging field of human computer interaction is the study of the relationship between humans and increasingly powerful, yet portable computers. The integration of technology into every aspect of society demands professionals with information technology skills that are augmented by an understanding of the human user.

Integrating usefulness and usability while minimizing intrusiveness demands novel solutions founded on an in-depth understanding of the complex interactions between humans and computers.

The curriculum

• provides an understanding of emerging human computer interface technologies,
• explores human cognition, behavioral methods, and usability techniques,
• enhances the ability to articulate societal and ethical issues related to human interaction with computers, and
• highlights the latest human computer interaction research in multiple disciplines.

The distance learning certificate program, begun in 2006, is 12 graduate credits. The certificate program is designed for individuals with a bachelor's degree in a scientific, engineering, business, or artistic discipline and who already have a strong base of information technology skills. Demonstrable programming skills are required.

Core courses

Management Information Systems 655 (Organizational and Social Implications of Human Computer Interaction)
Human Computer Interaction 521/Psychology 521 (Cognitive Psychology of Human Computer Interaction)
Industrial Engineering 574X (Interaction Methods of Emerging Technologies) or Human Computer Interaction 575X (Computational Perception)

One elective course

Suggested electives

Cpr E/I E/M E 557 (Computer Graphics and Geometric Modeling)
Com S 657 (Advanced Topics in Computer Graphics)
F Lng/M E 584X (Technology, Globalization and Culture)
I E 572 (Design and Evaluation of the Human Computer Interaction)
I E 576 (Human Factors in Product Design)