MSc in Human Computer Interaction
This programme provides you with an introduction to Human Computer Interaction. You will develop a critical understanding and advocacy of the user in the development, evaluation, and deployment of technologies. In addition to foundational knowledge of human computer interaction and user-centred design, you acquire practical skills in the process and practice of prototyping and implementation of interactive computing systems along with evaluative skills in the qualitative and quantitative research methods used in evaluation in HCI.
All MSc students take a Core Skills module, covering essential academic skills. Students taking the specialist Computer Science or HCI degrees also take an Object-Oriented Programming module, to provide a common practical foundation for coursework in the modules that follow. Students on specialist degree programmes take a number of designated modules appropriate to the particular field. With careful module choice, it is sometimes possible to keep open several different specialist options until the second semester.
During the final three months of the course, you undertake an extended project agreed with staff, culminating in writing a substantial individual dissertation. Students on specialist degrees undertake a project in the chosen area.
Careers
Taught postgraduate degrees in Computer Science produce graduates who are well equipped to pursue careers at the forefront of technology. Our recent graduates have gone on to work in a variety of global, commercial, financial and research institutions, including: Microsoft, Hewlett Packard, Royal Bank of Scotland, Skyscanner, Avaloq, Amadeus, Amazon, Atlas, Avaloq, Barclays, BP, BT, Capricorn Ventis, FactSet, Hailo, Hitachi Data System, Microsoft, OpenBet and Symantec. We also have a number of students who have stayed on to study for a PhD in the School.
For up-to-date scholarship information, see:
http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/study/pg/fees-and-funding/scholarships/taught/ Features
* You will be part of a cohort of around 60 taught postgraduate students admitted every year who enjoy many opportunities to work and socialise together.
* You will benefit from the School’s emphasis on excellence in both teaching and research. You will learn and study in our two adjacent purpose-built buildings, in daily contact with our 50+ academic and research staff, as well as undergraduate and research students. Larger lectures take place in nearby science buildings.
* You will experience a wide variety of teaching methods in addition to traditional lectures, with an emphasis on personal and small group teaching.
* You will have 24-hour access to well equipped laboratories, including high-speed wireless Internet access throughout.
* You will have the opportunity to broaden your knowledge beyond your lecture courses by attending the departmental seminar series and distinguished lecture programme and the dedicated Systems and Human Computer Interaction seminar series.
* You will be a part of SICSA, the Scottish Information and Computer Science Alliance, of which St Andrews is a founding partner, giving access to specialised events and training and expert staff at all of Scotland’s universities.
