The Certificate in Human-Computer Interaction at Tufts University is a four-course graduate certificate focused on the design and implementation of interfaces that support effective interaction between people and computing systems. Students build knowledge in human-computer interaction, engineering psychology, interface design, and related technical methods.

The program is offered on campus in Medford/Somerville and may be completed through full-time or part-time study. Students typically complete the certificate in 12 to 24 months.

Who is this Program For?

The Certificate in Human-Computer Interaction is designed for applicants with at least a bachelor’s degree who want focused study in the design, evaluation, and implementation of user interfaces. This program may be a strong fit for applicants who want to:

Develop or enhance user interface design and implementation skills
Study how human capabilities and behavior inform technology design
Build knowledge relevant to usability, interaction design, and user-centered computing
Expand an existing background in computer programming, web design, software engineering, human factors, or interface design
Prepare for possible continued graduate study in computer science or human factors engineering

Application Requirements

The certificate program is open to individuals with at least a bachelor's degree.

Application Fee
Resume/CV
Personal Statement
Transcripts
One letter of recommendation
Essay
Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo test scores (if applicable)

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What Will You Study?

Students complete four courses that connect human behavior, interface design, and computing methods.

Foundation Courses

COMP 171: Human-Computer Interaction
PSY 53/ENP 61: Engineering Psychology

Approved Course Options

Students complete additional approved coursework in areas such as:

Object-oriented programming for graphical user interfaces
Human factors in product design
Human-machine system design
Applied design of software user interfaces
Advanced engineering psychology

Web programming
Computer graphics
Computer animation for technical communications
Assistive technology

Through this coursework, students build knowledge in:

Human-computer interaction principles
Engineering psychology
User interface design
Interface implementation

Human factors methods
Graphical and interactive systems
User-centered product development
Accessibility and assistive technology applications

About the Department of Computer Science

The Certificate in Human-Computer Interaction is offered through the Department of Computer Science at Tufts University School of Engineering in collaboration with the Department of Psychology and the Department of Occupational Therapy.

This interdisciplinary structure connects computing with the study of human behavior, cognition, usability, accessibility, and interaction with technology. Students develop skills relevant to designing digital products and systems around user needs and capabilities.

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Why Study Human-Computer Interaction at Tufts?

Interdisciplinary Study of People and Technology

Students study human-computer interaction through computer science, psychology, and occupational therapy perspectives. This approach supports a broader understanding of interface design, user behavior, accessibility, and technology use.

Foundation in Design and Implementation

The certificate combines study in human-computer interaction and engineering psychology with approved coursework in interface design, programming, graphics, human factors, or assistive technology. Students can build both conceptual and technical knowledge

Applications Across Digital Products and Systems

Human-computer interaction methods are relevant to software applications, websites, user interfaces, visual systems, assistive technologies, and other interactive products. Students develop knowledge that can support work on systems designed for real users and real contexts.

Pathway to Further Graduate Study

Students interested in continuing their education may be able to apply certificate coursework toward graduate study in computer science or human factors engineering at Tufts, subject to admission and applicable academic policies.

What Can You Do With a Certificate in Human-Computer Interaction?

The Certificate in Human-Computer Interaction can support students and professionals who want to strengthen their knowledge of user-centered technology design and implementation. Students may use this credential to build preparation relevant to areas such as:

User interface design
Human-computer interaction
Usability and user experience research
Human factors engineering

Software interface development
Web and interactive application design
Accessible and assistive technology
Further graduate study in computer science or human factors engineering

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Courses Are Required for the Certificate in Human-Computer Interaction?

Students complete four courses, including foundation courses in human-computer interaction and engineering psychology, along with approved coursework in interface design, human factors, programming, graphics, or assistive technology.

What Academic Background is Appropriate for this Program?

Applicants should hold at least a bachelor’s degree. The program may be especially relevant for applicants with interests or experience in programming, software engineering, web design, human factors, user interface design, usability, or interactive technologies.

Are Scholarships Available?

The School of Engineering offers partial tuition scholarships for a select group of Engineering master’s and certificate programs. When you apply for admission, you’ll automatically be considered, there’s no separate scholarship application or additional information required. Applicants are encouraged to apply early for priority scholarship consideration.

How Do I Apply?

Applicants can apply online through Tufts Graduate Admissions Portal. Required materials typically include transcripts, a resume or CV, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. International applicants may also need to submit English proficiency documentation. Visit the admissions page for current deadlines and application requirements.