About the programme
The Master of Human-Computer Interaction + Design (MHCI+D) is an 11-month, cohort-based degree at the University of Washington in Seattle. Four units run it together: the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, Human Centered Design and Engineering, the Information School, and the School of Art, Art History & Design.
The degree is at least 46 credits: 39 in the core and at least 7 in electives. Most of the work happens in studios. It starts with an Immersion Studio before autumn, then moves to user research and an ideation studio in autumn, UI software and technology plus a prototyping studio in winter, and a research studio with a portfolio and professional practice course in spring.
Planning for the capstone starts in winter, and the 8-credit Capstone Studio fills the summer. Student teams work with industry sponsors on problems in areas such as health, education and assistive technology. The year ends with a public showcase.
- Format
- In person in Seattle, full-time, cohort-based and studio-led. The degree is STEM-designated, and students must bring their own laptop.
- Length
- 11 months over five quarters (a short pre-autumn session through summer), with at least 46 credits.
- Cost
- This is a self-sustaining, fee-based programme. Tuition is $1,383 a credit for every student, whatever their residency, or about $63,618 for 46 credits. Registration, technology and U-Pass fees are charged on top each quarter. The page does not say which academic year the rate covers.
- Admissions
- Applications open 1 October and close 18 January 2027, with decisions in mid-March and a $90 fee. You need a 500-800 word statement, a resume and three letters. You also submit a one-page PDF linking to your portfolio and a one-minute video about a project. The minimum GPA is 3.0 and no GRE is required.
- English
- TOEFL iBT 106 (26 speaking), IELTS 7.5 (8.0 speaking) or Duolingo 135. Scores must be less than two years old.
- Capstone
- A three-course sponsored team project that ends in the summer Capstone Studio and a public showcase.
Who it suits
Suits people with some design or problem-solving work to show who want a short, studio-heavy year with a sponsored project. People who need state scholarships or tuition waivers, or who want a part-time or research degree, should look elsewhere.
Checked against University of Washington’s official programme pages in October 2026.
