MSc Human-Computer Interaction

The Master’s programme in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) at Tallinn University is a research-based, internationally accredited programme designed to develop advanced knowledge and practical skills in understanding human behaviour and designing meaningful, human-centred digital systems. The programme is offered by Tallinn University’s School of Digital Technologies in Tallinn, Estonia, and is taught fully in English.

The programme combines computing, interaction design, and cognitive psychology to explore how technology can better support people and society. Students learn to analyse user needs, design and evaluate interactive systems, and make design decisions based on established theories and evidence. The interdisciplinary nature of the programme allows students to approach technological challenges from multiple perspectives and work in a collaborative, international learning environment.

The programme is suitable for applicants interested in improving how technology is designed and experienced. Students may come from academic or professional backgrounds in design, technology, psychology, social sciences, or related areas. The programme is structured around a strong core of studies together with flexible elective opportunities, allowing students to develop their education according to their interests. It provides theoretical foundations that help students progress systematically from an idea, opportunity, or challenge toward a technology-based solution.

Students also have opportunities to gain practical experience through interdisciplinary projects and industry placement possibilities. These activities can involve collaboration with industry sponsors and provide opportunities to work on real-world challenges related to services, applications, and installations.

Programme Structure

The HCI programme is a 2-year Master’s degree comprising 120 ECTS credits. It is delivered entirely in English and is offered by Tallinn University’s School of Digital Technologies. The programme combines theoretical study with practical and interdisciplinary learning, including core subjects, elective studies, projects, and opportunities for industry collaboration.

Through the programme, students develop knowledge of the theories, methods, and techniques required to design, develop, and evaluate technology-based solutions. The interdisciplinary approach supports both academic research and practical application.

Career Opportunities

Graduates can pursue careers involving the design and implementation of effective, efficient, and user-focused digital services, applications, and installations. The programme prepares students to contribute to multidisciplinary teams working on interactive digital artefacts, ranging from software-based solutions to innovative hardware configurations.

Graduates can develop professional profiles as Human-Computer Interaction specialists, scholarly design researchers, interaction designers, or user experience professionals. The programme provides a foundation for understanding the principles and methods behind the design, development, and evaluation of technology-based solutions.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent qualification to apply for the Master’s programme. Applicants who are completing their final year of Bachelor’s studies may initially submit a certificate showing their study results, but the final diploma and transcript of records must be submitted no later than July 1.

At least 60% of the possible maximum results is expected for qualification for studies at Tallinn University.

Entry qualification documents are accepted in English or Estonian. Applicants must upload all required documents with their application by the applicable application deadline. Depending on the applicant and country-specific requirements, certain educational documents may later need to be sent to Tallinn University by post or submitted in a specific certified form. Applicants should not send documents by post unless specifically instructed by the university.

Tallinn University does not accept applications submitted by third parties. Applicants are required to complete and sign the application themselves.

English Language Requirements

Applicants are required to demonstrate English proficiency unless they qualify for an exemption. Applicants who completed their previous education fully in English in the United States, Canada, Commonwealth of Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, Switzerland, or EU/EEA countries may be exempt from submitting an international English-language test, provided they submit attested proof from their previous educational institution.

Students who completed International Baccalaureate studies may use their graduation documents as proof of English proficiency.

Accepted English-language qualifications include:

• IELTS Academic: 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component
• B2 First / B2 First for Schools: 169 overall
• C1 Advanced: 169 overall
• C2 Proficiency: 169 overall
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum total score of 72 for exams taken before January 21, 2026
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum total score of 4 for exams taken on or after January 21, 2026
• PTE Academic: 59 overall, with a minimum of 59 in each component

TOEFL results must be sent to Tallinn University online using the university code 0449. Cambridge English results must be available in the online system for verification, while PTE results must be submitted through the secure PTE portal. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that their submitted test scores remain valid.

Certain country-specific exemptions are also available. Applicants from Finland, Latvia, and Lithuania may be exempt from proving B2-level English proficiency when they meet the specified national examination requirements.

Motivation Letter and Programme-Specific Requirements

Applicants must submit a motivation letter with their application. The motivation letter should be up to two pages and should explain the applicant’s research interests in relation to the current topics of the HCI group. It should also provide clear reasons for applying, describe the intended outcomes of a potential Master’s thesis project, and position the applicant in relation to current academic and industry developments.

The motivation letter must be uploaded in PDF format. Applicants must also complete and submit all assignments specified in the programme-specific admission requirements.

Tuition and Application Fee

The tuition fee for the programme is €3,000 per semester. A €100 one-time application fee is also required.

Applicants who are citizens of Non-EU/EEA countries are required to pay the first semester’s tuition fee before the beginning of their studies.

Study Duration and Language

The programme has a nominal duration of 2 years and 120 ECTS credits. It is a full-time postgraduate Master’s programme delivered entirely in English.

Application Information

The source indicates that the application period has ended. Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible during an open application period so that admission specialists have sufficient time to provide feedback and allow applicants to update their applications if necessary.

Further information about admission documents, country-specific requirements, application procedures, and programme-specific requirements is available through Tallinn University’s official admissions resources.