There is more to computer science than just the machines, which is why we put the humans first.

Our Vision

The Human-Computer Interaction Institute (HCII) is a hub for innovation, education, and research. 

We combine design, computer sciences, social sciences, and learning sciences to understand, improve, and create technology in all aspects of life.

Our Beginnings

Decades before anyone was carrying a tiny touchscreen computer in their pocket, Carnegie Mellon faculty were thinking about the future of computer science. 

A forward-thinking faculty letter in 1967 paved the way and the HCI Institute has been breaking down academic silos since its founding in 1994. By uniting computer scientists, designers, and social scientists, the HCII turned these "unrelated fields" into a powerhouse community dedicated to one thing: putting humans at the heart of technology.

Learn more: visit CMU's History of Human-Centered Innovation timeline 

HCII Today

Technology is now a ubiquitous part of our daily lives, and the human-computer interaction discipline is arguably more important than ever.

As the department continues to grow from our early days in Wean Hall, the HCII has expanded to three floors of Newell-Simon Hall and several other buildings on campus. 

Learn more: HCII's People, Centers and Labs, and Facilities

Academic Programs

The HCII offers undergraduate, master's and Ph.D. degree programs in HCI that span a full cycle of knowledge creation. Admissions deadlines vary by program throughout the year; visit our Apply Now page for details. 

Our Master's in HCI program (MHCI) was the first in the world dedicated to preparing professionals for careers in user-centered research and UX design. We are proud to have graduated more than 1,000 alumni who have gone on to make an impact in education and industry.

Learn more: HCI Courses, as well as Undergraduate, Master's and Ph.D. degree programs 

HCI Research

In addition to teaching the next generation of HCI professionals, our faculty conduct interdisciplinary research with colleagues at CMU and around the world. Learn more about Doing Research with Us.
 

Our Mission

  • To apply rigor and creativity consistently and pervasively
  • To infuse HCI methods appropriately across CMU and beyond
  • To push the boundaries of problems HCI addresses
  • To expand the tools and methods we use to address those problems
  • To deliver artifacts, services, and systems that improve people’s lives
  • To always remember that people are at the heart of our work