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Human-Computer Interaction (BCS)

Every system needs a screen, but great technology requires psychology. Master the design skills that shape how humans interact with the future.

Program Type
Bachelor
Faculty
Location
Program Start
September and January
Program Options
Honours
Minor
Study abroad
Direct-entry from High School

Why choose this program?

Design technology that is intuitive, accessible and user-centred. Combine computing, design and human behaviour to create digital experiences that improve how people interact with technology every day. 

Great technology starts with understanding people.

This major prepares you to create digital products that are engaging, accessible and meaningful by combining technical expertise with user-focused design principles. Through collaborative projects and experiential learning, you’ll develop a portfolio that demonstrates both creative and technical ability. Graduates are prepared for careers in UX, product design, interaction design and front-end development across a wide range of industries.

Careers

Technology is only successful when it works for people. Human-Computer Interaction graduates combine technical expertise with user-centered thinking to create digital experiences that improve how people live, work, and connect across every industry.

Digital experiences have become a key competitive advantage for organizations. Professionals who can combine technical knowledge with human-centered design help create products that are intuitive, accessible and impactful. 

$70K Average starting salary
93,200+ People working in UX-related occupations in Canada (Canada Job Bank)

What you will learn

Learn how technology can better serve the people who use it. 

You’ll develop skills in user experience design, interaction design, accessibility, research methods and software development while learning to create digital products that are intuitive, inclusive and impactful. 

Sample courses

  • Communicating with AI

  • Practical Data Science

  • Introduction to Computer Science

  • Data Structures and Algorithms

  • Software Development

  • Introduction to Interface Design & User Experience

  • Prototyping & Design

  • Evaluating Design

  • Human-Cognition for HCI

  • Game Development 
  • Designing for Vulnerable Populations
  • Augmented and Virtual Reality 

Co-op

Turn your knowledge into experience through paid co-op work terms, where you can complete 1–3 four-month placements with industry partners during your degree. Through ShiftKey Labs, you’ll also access workshops, mentorship, entrepreneurial resources and opportunities to create personal projects—helping you build your skills, network, and confidence as a future technology leader.


Customize your degree

Your major is one way to personalize your Bachelor of Computer Science degree. You can further customize your studies by combining two Computer Science majors, adding a minor from another discipline, or exploring subjects across Dalhousie through open electives. Our academic advisors are here to help you plan a degree path that aligns with your interests, goals and career aspirations.

Learn to create technology that works better for people. This major combines computing, design and human-centred approaches, preparing you to develop meaningful digital experiences and shape the future of how people interact with technology.

Admission Requirements

Minimum admission requirements

To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:

  1. Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
  2. Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
  3. Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).

Admission to many Dalhousie programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.

Program-specific admission requirements

  • Grade 12 Academic Math (Pre-calculus math recommended)
  • Grade 12 Academic English English
  • 3 additional acceptable university-prep courses 
  • Minimum final grades 
  • Pre-calculus math: 65%
  • Math: 70% 
  • English: 65%
  • Other subjects: 60% 
  • Overall average: 70%


Need Pre-Calculus, Chemistry, Physics, or another admission requirement? Our online, self-paced UPrep courses can help you earn the prerequisite you need, upgrade your marks, and build confidence before starting your degree at Dal. Explore UPrep courses.

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