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Postgraduate subject

Human Interface Technology

15 December 2023
Human Interface Technology takes a human-centred approach to the analysis, design, and development of interactive technologies.
HOW TO APPLY

Overview


Human Interface Technology

Introduction

The technology industry is growing rapidly, and interactive media is one of the world's largest and fastest growing media sectors. The Human Interface Technology Laboratory New Zealand (HIT Lab NZ) recognises the high demand in interactive media industries for skilled graduates with analytic, coding, and creative skills. Human Interface Technology is useful in a wide range of areas such as education, training, medicine, rehabilitation, high performance sport, and disaster management.

We teach an exciting range of diverse topics including ideation, user-centred design, user evaluation, and rapid prototyping of hardware and software. You will learn how to apply, analyse, develop, and design interactive technologies to facilitate learning, support decision-making, or help individuals better manage the challenges they face in daily life.

Human Interface Technology

What will my study involve?

  • Courses are coordinated by the HIT Lab NZ, a research centre located in Te Kaupeka Pūhanga | Faculty of Engineering, at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury.
  • HIT Lab NZ conducts cutting-edge research about interactive technologies and research topics typically explore novel approaches to virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), applied games, artificial intelligence, and haptics. You will have access to specialist equipment for project work and regularly attend the lab as part of your studies.
  • You will work closely with supervisors to select a research topic that may relate to your own interests or on a project supported by an industry sponsored scholarship. Find out more about HIT Lab NZ postgraduate research projects.

Human Interface Technology

Courses

Our programmes focus on equipping you with the necessary skills and knowledge to address real-world challenges.

UC offers the following postgraduate programmes in Human Interface Technology:

Master of Human Interface Technology

The Master of Human Interface Technology is a research-focused degree in which students can develop their independent problem-solving skills through coursework and supervised research.

Two taught courses (HITD602 and HITD603) and a thesis are completed full-time over 12 months.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Human Interface Technology

In the PhD, you will complete the HITD790 Human Interface Technology PhD thesis course.

The PhD typically takes three years to complete, and you will be able to focus completely on your research from the start of your degree.

Human Interface Technology

Career opportunities

Studying at postgraduate level develops your skills in communication, problem solving, and project management, and extends your knowledge in your chosen project area.

Our graduates have skills to work as:

  • User experience design professionals
  • AR & VR developers
  • Software developers
  • Senior product designers
  • Head researchers
  • Consultants.

Postgraduate study can also lead to academic careers in a tertiary institution or industry.

Graduating with an MHIT prepares you to enter the workforce or continue research with a PhD.

Brochures

Postgraduate Prospectus 2025

Whakatairanga Tāura

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International Prospectus 2024/2025

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