FAQs for applicants

The application deadline has passed - is there any chance I can apply late?

Due to the volume of applications we recieve we are not able to consider late applications.

Can I get more detail about the content of the programme/ is this programme suitable for me?.

Our section on Studying HCI at UCL has more detailed information about the programme (module information relates to the current year and may be subject to change). We hope this information will help you to understand if the course is suitable for you.

Can I speak to someone about the programme?

We typically hold online open events in December and January and have a presence at UCL in-person Postgraduate Open evenings. See details ont he programme page linked to above.

When should I apply?

Applications are usually open from October to February. Due to the volume of applications we recieve we are not able to accept late applications for any reason. We strongly advise beginning your application early to ensure that you have sufficient time to collect essential application documents such as transcripts and that you are not affected by last minute technical hitches. References should be submitted within two weeks of the closing date and you are advised to apply early enough to give your referee time to meet this deadline.

When will I get a decision on my application?

We review all complete applications that meet the minimum entry criteria after the above deadlines and aim to return decisions by mid May. Applications that do not meet the minimum entry criteria will be rejected on a rolling basis.

The system only lets me submit one reference, what's going on?

Due to a recent change in UCL policy we now only require one reference - however some central guidance on UCL applications websites and in automated e-mails is still being updated and may say that two references are required. We apologise for any inconvenience caused. References must be submitted within two weeks of the closing date and you are strongly encouraged to apply in sufficient time to allow your referee to meet this deadline.

Do I meet the entry requirements?

Candidates should have the minimum of an upper second-class degree in Computer Science, Psychology, Ergonomics or a related field (e.g., Cognitive Science, Interface Design, Business IT, Product Design, Industrial Design).

Candidates with an upper second-class degree in any other subject will also be considered if they have at least two years of relevant full-time work experience. In exceptional cases we may be able to consider candidates with a 2:2 or international equivalent providing they have substantial relevant work experience at a senior level.

We are not able to consider candidates who do not have a bachelors degree.

What counts as relevant work experience?

For relevant work experience we consider a range of professional roles that are directly involved in the design and/or evaluation of digital products or services. This would normally include roles, such as, Ergonomist, Software Engineer/Developer, Software Evaluator, Web Design/Development (where there is a significant design/ development component above content management), User Experience Consultant or IT Consultant. Please provide a detailed description of your professional experience (skills and responsibilities) with your application. Please include a chronologically clear CV that includes start-dates and end dates for relevant roles.

Is my degree equivalent to a UK upper second-class degree?

Please see information for Prospective International Students.

What is the English requirement?

Prospective students whose first language is not English must provide proof of Advanced Level of English proficiency Please see information here English Language Requirements.

What is the post‐graduate diploma?

This post-graduate diploma is made up of the taught elements of the MSc without the research project. The entry requirements, application dates and pass standards are the same as the MSc. The resulting qualification is a PGDip.

What is the post-graduate certificate?

The postrgraduate certificate is made up of one core module and a further 30 credits of option or core modules. The entry requirements, appliction dates and pass standards are the same as for the MSc. The resulting qualification is a PGCert.

What are the tuition fees?

Please see information on Tuition Fees.

Do you have any scholarships for this programme?

Unfortunately we don't currently have any departmental scholarships for this programme. You can find more information about funding your studies (including scholarships you may be eligible for) on UCL's Scholarships and Funding pages.

How long is the course?

The full-time MSc HCI programme runs over a full calendar year, starting in September. The PGDip and PGCert run for nine months, starting in September through to June. Part-time students study over two years.

Can I start at other times than September? Do you have a Spring intake?

We do not currently have the staff or physical capacity to offer more than one start date per year.

Can I do the course part‐time?

Yes. Simply indicate that this is what you would like to do on your application form. Please see our guidance for part-time students. International students should note that UCL does not sponsor visas for part-time study.

What do your graduates go on to do?

Often they go into a usability consultancy, or into a design group in industry. Some go on to complete PhDs at UCL and other institutions. Here is a bit more about Graduate Destinations.