MSc in Computer Science – Human-Centred Computing (Course)
Students in the MSc in Computer Science – Human-Centred Computing course-based professional program will learn about human-computer interaction theories and principles, methods for the design and implementation of software interfaces, and techniques for evaluating such software with human subjects. Advanced topics related to computer graphics, animation, mobile computing, virtual and augmented reality, and information visualization will be covered. The program will conclude with a professionally-focused seminar series and a capstone project.
A fully-qualified student may complete a Master's in Human-Centred Computing by undertaking 30 credits of coursework. Students in this route who are interested in pursuing the Co-op Designation must complete CS 700, 730, 731, 732, 733, 734, 735, and 736 before they can undertake any co-op work terms.
This program will run with a strict curriculum of the following courses:
First Semester (Winter)
CS 700: Software Development Fundamentals (3)
Modern software development principles and practices. Topics include modern software development fundamentals and methodologies, unit testing, source code control, teamwork, and modern programming languages, frameworks, software development tools, and environments.
Note: This course is common for all streams in the MSc Course Route.
CS 730: Human-Computer Interaction Fundamentals (3)
Theory related to the design of usable software. Topics include contexts for human computer interaction, foundations of usability, cognitive models, perceptual models, social models, physical capabilities, accessibility, interface standards, user experience, principles of good design.
Second Semester (Spring/Summer)
CS 731: Human-Centered Interface Design & Implementation (3)
Practice of designing and implementing usable software. Topics include processes for human-centered interface development, task analysis, usability requirements, user-centred design, design patterns, prototyping, and modern graphical user interface libraries, builders, and environments. Students will undertake a milestone-based project leading to the design and implementation of a web-based application.
CS 732: Foundations of Human-Centred Evaluation Methods (3)
Methods for evaluating human-centred software. Topics include usability testing, cognitive walkthroughs, heuristic evaluations, controlled laboratory studies, naturalistic studies, and Research Ethics Board applications. Students will design and conduct a comprehensive study of a user interface.
Third Semester (Fall)
CS 733: Computer Graphics & Animation (3)
Techniques and software for generating computer graphics and animations. Topics include geographic and mathematical modelling, image rendering and synthesis, principles of animation, and graphics and animation frameworks.
CS 734: Mobile Computing (3)
Design and implementation of software for a networked mobile environment. Topics include the benefits and limitations of modern mobile devices, network programming, sensor programming, interface design for small screens, touch-based interaction, voice-based interaction, hybrid mobile application development practices.
Fourth Semester (Winter)
CS 735: Virtual and Augmented Reality (3)
Design and implementation of software in virtual and augmented reality environments. Topics include virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology, 3D modelling, locomotion, interaction, audio, psychological and physical effects, and telepresence. Students will undertake a milestone-based project leading to the design and implementation of a VR or AR application.
CS 736: Information Visualization (3)
Design and development of interactive visualization techniques for the analysis, comprehension, exploration, and explanation of large collections of abstract information. Topics include principles of visual perception, information data types, visual encodings of data, representations of complex data types, and interaction methods.
Fifth Semester (Spring/Summer)
CS 738: Human-Centred Computing Seminar (0)
Human-Centred Computing students will attend a professionally focused seminar series with topics including entrepreneurship, ethics, intellectual property, innovation, start-up culture, and EDI.
CS 739: Human-Centred Computing Project (6)
A milestone-based project will be pursued, serving as a capstone for the Human-Centred Computing Stream. Final projects will be demonstrated and presented in a public venue.
A co-op designation may be added to this graduate program. See our Graduate Co-op Program page for more information