The Master’s of Science (M.S.) in Human Computer Interaction (HCI) aims to train students in core skills for human-computer interaction professionals: design methodologies, ethical and inclusive practices, prototyping and technical build skills, eliciting and integrating subject matter knowledge, user research methods, effective teamwork, professional communication, and career planning—all within the context of user experience (UX) and interaction. The curriculum is designed to accommodate students who have expertise in the social sciences, technical skills, and/or subject matter knowledge. Students with varying knowledge will be intentionally mixed together in coursework, in order to maximize peer learning and collaboration across strengths. The degree is offered in Santa Clara, California at the Silicon Valley Campus of UCSC, alongside the Games and Playable Media, and Natural Language Processing M.S. degrees, to enable students to connect and collaborate across programs and with local industry leaders.

The M.S. in Human Computer Interaction is a four-quarter program that begins in fall quarter, includes career planning courses and activities, and encourages student internships during summer. The HCI M.S. program is a Plan II master's program, which has a capstone requirement. Students are expected to complete coursework in four academic quarters, without leaves of absence.