Master of Science in

This course introduces students to the foundational concepts and contemporary approaches in Human Computer Interaction (HCI), Interaction Science and Design (IxD), and User Experience (UX) Design. Through a combination of theoretical exploration and hands-on design workshops, students will gain practical knowledge of how to design and evaluate interactive technology experiences with a user-centered approach. The course covers key methodologies in HCI, IxD and UX design, from qualitative user research, use case and persona development, to prototyping, testing, and iterative design. We will also introduce design approaches such as Speculative Design, Futures Design, Critical Design, and Design Fiction.

Interaction design focuses on creating meaningful and effective interactions between people and technology. This course introduces students to the latest interaction design principles and tools, and the means new AI technologies are changing design principles and impacting design practice.  Students will learn to design uni-modal, multi-modal and cross-modal interaction experiences and appreciate the different design principles and research approaches for the design of various types of interfaces. Students will learn, based on principles of human information and communication fundamentals to understand what approaches are most suitable for what kinds of task, context of use, and user capabilities and needs.

This course covers four key aspects oy effective HCI design, namely tools, techniques, and platforms available in HCI, and the principles for using them effectively. The course covers a broad set of advanced AI design tools and techniques, including emerging AI design tools. Students will apply the tools in various use contexts through enquiry-based learning. Students learn to apply the latest prototyping and visualization tools to real life scenarios

In HCI, Accessibility, Inclusive and Universal Design principles aim to make digital experiences usable, equitable, and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their abilities, backgrounds, or circumstances. Accessibility refers to the design of products, environments, or services that are usable by people with disabilities. Inclusivity in design ensures that users with diverse cultural, social, and economic backgrounds can equally access technologies. Universality as a design principle ensures that the widest range of people can use technologies regardless of their location, local standards or compliance with regulations.

Human Computer Interaction (HCI) research and design benefit immensely from emerging technology solutions (e.g. wearables, sensors, …) and Artificial Intelligence applications in the field. Emerging technologies enable new types of interaction designs, provide new methods for data collection and analysis, and assist in design of accessible and inclusive solutions. With the reduced cost and access to new technologies the traditional HCI design paradigms and design space can be extended and made available for new methodologies and technologies can be made available for various user groups. The course also reminds students of emphasizes the responsible application of these technologies and highlights the regulatory challenges their use may present.

This course focuses on information visualization -is the process of using graphical representations to convey data, trends, patterns, and relationships in a way that makes complex information accessible and understandable. Students will explore the use of charts, maps, and other interactive visual representations to present data in a manner that is easier to interpret than “raw” data alone. The course includes a focus on the use of the latest e tools for visualization of data for effective analysis, interpretation, interaction and collaboration with others. Students will learn to design projects that support effective data gathering, organization, analysis, and presentation. Emphasis will be placed on using structured narrative techniques to communicate insights clearly and maximize impact.

In this course, students will explore the ethical, social, and cultural issues related to the design and use of interactive technologies. Through a combination of theoretical frameworks, case studies, and real-world applications, students will examine how human-computer interaction (HCI) and interactive technology design more broadly affects users, communities, and society. Topics will include privacy, data security, accessibility, social inclusion, digital well-being, algorithmic bias, and the ethical responsibilities of HCI, Interaction Science and Design, and User Experience professionals.

Master’s thesis research exposes students to an unsolved research problem, for which they are required to propose new solutions and contribute towards the body of knowledge. Students pursue an independent research study, under the guidance of a supervisory panel, for a period of 1 year. Master’s thesis research helps train graduates to pursue more advanced research in their PhD degree. Further, it enables graduates to pursue an industrial project involving a research component independently.

The course teaches research methods applicable to scientific research in general, and AI research in particular. It covers various topics including scientific methods, measurement and metrics in experimental research, critical appraisal and peer review, public communication, and ethical issues in AI research. Students will gain knowledge in selecting, evaluating, and collecting data and suitable research methods to address specific research questions. Additionally, they will learn design thinking skills to connect their research-based topic to practicality. After completing the course, students will have the skills to develop a full research methodology that is rigorous, entrepreneurial, and ethical.

The MBZUAI internship with industry is intended to provide the student with hands-on experience, blending practical experiences with academic learning.