Applications for Fall 2026 will open on October 1, 2025. Details on upcoming Admissions Info Sessions will be posted by October.
REQUIREMENTS
The following are the minimum admission requirements for the Master of Human-Computer Interaction and Design (MHCI+D) program as set by the University of Washington Graduate School and the MHCI+D Program.
4-YEAR BACHELORS DEGREE
Hold the minimum equivalent of a four-year baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university in the U.S. or its equivalent from a foreign institution. A 3-year bachelor’s degree alone does not satisfy this requirement unless it meets one of the followingcriteria:
- A 3-year Bologna bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 180 European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) credits.
- A 3-year bachelor’s combined with either conferral of a master’s degree, or with conferral of a Post Graduate Diploma (PGD, 1-year minimum, full-time).
The UW does not accept WES evaluations of 4-year equivalency as sufficient to satisfy this requirement.
MINIMUM 3.0 GPA
Have earned at least a 3.0 or B grade-point-average when converted into the 4.0 scale. Applicants may use:
- The most recent 2 years of study (or the equivalent of 2 full-time years, usually the last graded 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits).
- The overall GPA for the entire course of study.
- or the GPA for all courses in the applicant’s major
to satisfy this 3.0 requirement.
Tools for converting from a different grading system are linked in the FAQ page.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY
Have earned at least a 3.0 or B grade-point-average when converted into the 4.0 scale. Applicants may use:
- The most recent 2 years of study (or the equivalent of 2 full-time years, usually the last graded 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits).
- The overall GPA for the entire course of study.
- or the GPA for all courses in the applicant’s major.
to satisfy this 3.0 requirement.
Tools for converting from a different grading system are linked in the FAQ page.
Demonstrated English language proficiency
Applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency which exceeds the minimum defined by the Graduate School .
Applicants must meet the requirement using one of the following methods:
- A bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree from an institution in the United States, Australia, the Bahamas, Canada, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, or the United Kingdom where English is the medium of instruction. While enrolled at the degree-granting school, the student must be in residence on campus.
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in a country not listed above with verification that the language of instruction was entirely in English.
- TOEFL Scores: TOEFL iBT: 106, with a speaking subscore of at least 26. Scores must be less than two years old at the application deadline. Scores must be sent directly to the UW by the Educational Testing Service using institution code 4854; if a department code is required, select 99. We accept MyBest TOEFL composite scores as a means of meeting these requirements.
- IELTS scores: IELTS: 7.5, with a speaking module score of at least 8.0. Scores must be less than two years old at the application deadline. Scores must be sent directly to the UW.
- DUOLINGO scores: Minimum score of 125. . Scores must be less than two years old at the application deadline.
Refer to the Graduate School policies. for a complete explanation of these requirements. More details on these and other application materials are available below and on the FAQ page.
Who we are
Where bold innovation meets human connection. Bridging design, engineering, and research, we empower the next generation of creative problem-solvers to craft technologies that inspire and elevate human experiences.
Materials
PERSONAL STATEMENT
In 500–800 words, please describe your unique interest in HCI and design, and explain what specific elements of the UW MHCI+D Program are aligned with your needs as an emerging HCI+D leader.
Why this year? How have your prior experiences (professional or volunteer experience, life experience, and/or previous studies) prepared you for this program and this field? How do you plan to incorporate your personal ethics in your current or future work? How will this program assist you in your longer-term goals?
The personal statement is your opportunity to present your goals and experience as they relate to human-computer interaction and design. We’re interested in how you see the field and this program from your own personal perspective.
THREE LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
Three letters from professional or academic sources are required. These can be faculty members, mentors, supervisors and so on, but should not be from personal friends, counselors or ministers. Find references who can speak positively and in detail about your performance and about your capacity to undertake graduate studies. When asking for recommendation letters, we encourage you to ask potential recommenders if they are able to write you a strong letter and to emphasize what you hope their letter will highlight. Letters with specific examples are often the strongest. The letters should be submitted electronically and the Slate application system provides instructions. When recommender info is entered on the application, it will trigger a system message to the recommender with the specific link they need to upload their letter. Check with them to be sure they receive this. Remember to remind your letter writers that late letters may adversely affect your admission chances. You will be able to see when the letters have been submitted online by logging into your application status page.
UNOFFICIAL COLLEGE TRANSCRIPTS
Unofficial transcripts are required from all colleges and universities from which you earned collegiate level credit and/or a degree. These are uploaded by you, not sent from your university. These can be scanned documents or screen shots of an online ‘student view’ transcript many universities provide. Transcripts should include details for every course taken, including the course name, grade earned, dates taken, and number of credits. If the transcript is not in English, please include a translation. Official transcripts only need to be submitted to the UW Graduate School if you accept an admission offer.
SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS
Use this section to show us projects you have worked on that demonstrate your skills and interests. This can take the form of a design portfolio, your GitHub page, a link to research you were a part of in a research lab, or something else that demonstrates your role in an open-ended project. We are most interested in seeing your problem-solving process in the field you come from, more so than attempts to anticipate the product you might produce after completing this program. FORMAT: Please submit a one-page pdf that includes your name, a link to where we can find these supplementary materials online, and a brief explanation, if necessary. Please write out the full URL rather than embedding a link. Materials can be presented on a portfolio/website, in a shared folder such as google or in other online formats. Do not submit portfolios through the application itself.
ONLINE APPLICATION AND FEE
The $90 application fee is charged by the UW Graduate School. If you cannot afford the application fee, you can request an application fee waiver once your application materials are ready to submit and at least 7 days before the application deadline. More information here.
WHY CHOOSE MHCI+D
I chose the MHCI+D program for its interdisciplinary approach, combining HCDE, CSE, the iSchool, and the Design Division. The collaborative environment and focus on industry readiness through hands-on projects will help me build a diverse skill set and transition quickly into the workforce.
APPLICATION
PREPARE TO APPLY
01
Learn about the MHCI+D Program. Explore the information available on this website to learn about the program and how you might succeed here. We are looking for applicants who know how their background and this program fit well together.
Start preparing your personal statement and supplemental materials. These pieces will take the most work. Begin this early to ensure you will have time to put together a stronger case for your admission.
Get transcripts from each college or university attended. Download unofficial transcripts or scan printed copies; you will need them for the UW Graduate School application.
Identify people who are willing to write letters of recommendation for you. Three letters of recommendation are required to apply. Consider current or former employers or supervisors, as well as former teachers. Make sure the people you choose can judge your capacity to undertake graduate studies. You will need their email addresses for the Graduate School application.
GPA preparation. Identify the method you will use to calculate your GPA, and the conversion you will be performing if necessary. You will be asked to report this GPA on the application form itself.
APPLY
02
Once the application is available, start your online application to the UW Graduate School. When you create your applicant profile, your login and password will allow you to save your application and return to it later.
To apply to the MHCI+D program, select “Human-Computer Interaction and Design” from the program list
Upload all required documents.
Designate the people who have agreed to write letters of recommendation for you. Your recommenders will be sent an email with instructions directing them to a secure website to submit their letters.
Pay the nonrefundable $85 fee.
Submit your application. After you’ve submitted your application, you cannot make further changes. You can check on its status at any time by logging into the application page.
MORE INFORMATION
Some brief tips on the application materials can be found on this short video.
Answers to the most common application and admissions questions can be found in our FAQ page.
cost + financial aid
The MHCI+D graduate program is a self-sustaining, fee-based program. Instructional fees are charged on a per-credit basis, and they are the same for resident (state of Washington), non-resident, and international students. In addition to instructional fees, students pay other required fees each quarter, including registration and technology fees and U-Pass transit pass. Fees are payable by the third week of each quarter.
$1,309
Cost per credit
46+
Credits required
$60,214
Average tuition
Financial Aid
There is no specific financial aid linked to this program. This includes tuition exemptions or university grants, including Husky Promise program. Most students pay for the program using loans (student or private), and perhaps personal savings.
Students in fee-based programs can apply for various forms of financial aid to help cover their educational costs, including federal and state grants, loans and work study. The FAFSA priority deadline is January 15 each year. You can still apply after this deadline. For more information on federal or state aid, contact the Office of Student Financial Aid.
Graduate students of color may apply for consideration for a Graduate Supplemental Award through UW’s GSEE program.
Some employers may cover all or part of the cost of a professional education. Check with your employer to see if such a program is available.
Program Laptop Policy
All students enrolled in MHCID courses are required to have a laptop they can use in classes and for their studies. For more information and requirements, visit our Laptop Policy page.
Who we are
Where bold innovation meets human connection. Bridging design, engineering, and research, we empower the next generation of creative problem-solvers to craft technologies that inspire and elevate human experiences.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
The Master of Human-Computer Interaction and Design welcomes and encourages international applicants. You are considered an international applicant if you are not a U.S. citizen, immigrant or lawful permanent resident. International students must have a visa status that allows academic study at the University of Washington. For more information, see the UW Graduate School’s FAQs for International Students and UW Office of International Student Services. International applicants must meet all application requirements for the program as well as English language proficiency (see Admissions for more information). If test scores are submitted as the demonstration of English language proficiency, the program requires the following minimum score on one of the tests below for an application to be reviewed:
TOEFL SCORES
TOEFL Scores: TOEFL iBT: 106, with a speaking subscore of at least 26
We accept MyBest TOEFL composite scores as a means of meeting these requirements. Scores must be less than two years old at the application deadline.
IELTS SCORES
IELTS: 7.5, with a speaking module score of at least 8.0
Scores must be less than two years old at the application deadline.
DUOLINGO SCORES
Minimum score of 125
Scores must be less than two years old at the application deadline.
Electives
If you are submitting your US degree as proof of English language proficiency, additional steps may be required, such as an interview.
Eligibility for Optional Practical Training (OPT)
The MHCI+D graduate program is a STEM program. MHCI+D graduates are eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) of 12 months and may qualify for an additional 24-month STEM OPT extension. See International Student Services for current information regarding STEM-OPT eligibility and application processes.
MHCi+D PROGRAM IMPACT
The supportive community here makes me feel like I truly belong, and the connections I’ve built with faculty and industry leaders are invaluable. Additionally, attending guest lectures and seminars has opened my eyes to cutting-edge research and practices in the field. Overall, the program is shaping my confidence as a designer and clarifying my career goals.
INFORMATION SESSIONS
Find out why the MHCI+D program may be the perfect fit for you.
Monday
Mar 31, 2025
10:00 am – 03:00 pm PDT
Contact Greg Reeser for more information
Monday
Mar 31, 2025
09:00 am – 12:00 am PDT
Spring quarter begins!
Talk with a Program Advisor
Please contact us at: mhcid@uw.edu with questions and/or to schedule an online chat.
Arrange a Class Visit
Please contact us to arrange a class visit. You are welcome to sit in on a class and meet with current students and faculty. Visitation between quarters is limited. Please contact us at least two weeks in advance so that we can accommodate your request.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Is there a waitlist, and how does it work?
Each year we place a limited number of applicants on a waitlist. Whether or not offers of admission are…
Is there a waitlist, and how does it work?
Each year we place a limited number of applicants on a waitlist. Whether or not offers of admission are ultimately extended depends on the acceptance rate of the earlier offers of admission.
How much time will I have to decide if I want t…
Offers of admission will contain a decision date of around April 15. We ask that you reply within our…
How much time will I have to decide if I want to accept an offer of admission?
Offers of admission will contain a decision date of around April 15. We ask that you reply within our requested deadline so that you can begin to receive orientation materials prior to the start of Autumn quarter and out of respect for those on the waitlist. We encourage you to join activities for new admits, set up a visit to a class, or schedule an interview to discuss any questions or information gaps that might help you decide on your offer.
When will I get an offer if one is forthcoming?
Offers of admission (and denials) will be extended by email in mid-March. You are encouraged to monitor your status…
When will I get an offer if one is forthcoming?
Offers of admission (and denials) will be extended by email in mid-March. You are encouraged to monitor your status in Slate.
Will I be notified once my application is compl…
We do not notify applicants about whether your application is complete or incomplete. You can keep current on your…
Will I be notified once my application is complete?
We do not notify applicants about whether your application is complete or incomplete. You can keep current on your status on your application status page.
Is an interview required as part of the applica…
Only occasionally. A member of the admissions committee or program staff may elect to interview you before providing an…
Is an interview required as part of the application?
Only occasionally. A member of the admissions committee or program staff may elect to interview you before providing an offer of admission. Not all applicants will be interviewed, and being interviewed does not necessarily mean that you are on a short list for admission. You do not need to do anything to schedule an interview. We will contact you if this step is needed.
I don’t have a bachelor’s degree OR my bachelor…
The UW Graduate School requires that all graduate level applicants have a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited…
I don’t have a bachelor’s degree OR my bachelor’s degree is from a school that is unaccredited OR my 3-year bachelor’s degree is from a school outside the United States. Am I still eligible to apply to the program?
The UW Graduate School requires that all graduate level applicants have a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution. At least four years of study towards this degree are typically required for the degree to qualify. If you don’t have a degree that fulfills these criteria, we generally don’t advise that you apply for the MHCI+D program. Applicants from India: A 3-year bachelor’s degree alone typically does not satisfy this requirement. Two methods to satisfy the requirement would be to combine a 3-year bachelor’s from India with conferral of a master’s degree, or with conferral of a Post Graduate Diploma (PGD, 1-year minimum, full-time) recognized by the AIU or AICTE.