Learning environment overview
Each year, students at MHCI+D come together from all over the globe, with different areas of expertise to create a vibrant, collaborative learning environment where ideas and creativity flourish. Through dynamic classes, hands-on projects, and both individual and team-based assignments, students build meaningful connections with peers, faculty, and industry professionals. This sense of community extends beyond academics, fostering a culture of mutual support and shared growth. Industry field trips, guest lectures, and alumni mentorship opportunities further deepen these connections, enabling students to build strong, lasting relationships that continue to thrive even after graduation.
Outside the classroom, the program’s community is enriched by co-curricular and student life activities that encourage both personal and professional development. From holiday parties to hackathons students have numerous opportunities to build both skills and supportive relationships and to celebrate their hard work.
The program values inclusivity and diversity, ensuring that every student feels welcomed and is empowered to contribute. This dynamic, supportive environment not only enhances learning but also helps students develop the teamwork and interpersonal skills essential for success in the field of human-computer interaction and design.
Explore the MHCI+D Studio!
MHCI+D COMMUNITY
“The MHCI+D program was crucial in launching my UX design career, providing the skills, confidence, and network I needed—especially as I navigated working in the US for the first time. Its focus on design thinking and problem-solving helped me land multiple job offers and access opportunities I wouldn’t have had otherwise. The connections and interdisciplinary approach were key to my success and growth. “
DESIGN. USE. BUILD.
The University of Washington’s DUB (Design. Use. Build.) community is a grassroots alliance of faculty, students, researchers, and industry partners interested in Human Computer Interaction & Design at the University of Washington.
MHCI+D is a strategic initiative of DUB. Broadly recognized as one of the world’s most vibrant Human Computer Interaction & Design research and education communities, DUB brings together an interdisciplinary group of students, faculty, and practitioners to share ideas, collaborate on research and advance teaching related to the interaction between design, people, and technology. Find out more information about DUB (Design. Use. Build.).
TEACHING AT MHCI+D
“One of the hallmarks of the MHCI+D program is our dynamic and diverse instructional team. Many of our courses employ a team-teaching model representing the best from both cutting edge industry leaders and professors with a deep academic tradition. HCID is an interdisciplinary field which requires creative problem solving and a willingness to wrestle with complex and wicked problems within a design lens. Our instructors understand and teach from this perspective, preparing graduates to succeed and lead in a fast-paced and evolving technology landscape.”
PROGRAM EVENTS
DUB Community Day
Wednesday Oct 21, 2026
09:30 am – 03:00 pm PDT
A full day of events celebrating the Design Use Build Community. All events to be held on the 4th Floor
DUB Seminar with Emily Tseng (UW HCDE)
Wednesday Nov 04, 2026
12:00 pm – 01:00 pm PDT
Kane 225 Walker Ames Room
MHCI+D Alumni Mixer
Thursday Nov 05, 2026
04:00 pm – 06:30 pm PDT
**Internal Event** Join fellow alumni as they mingle and network with current students. Questions? Email – MHCID@uw.edu
MHCID ALUMNI SAY
“MHCI+D is a fast-paced, transformative program that really focuses on collaboration, creativity, and hands-on learning. Alumni often mention how rigorous the curriculum is, but also how supportive the community is throughout. The program’s strong industry focus helps you grow both personally and professionally. It’s an immersive experience that truly prepares you for the challenges and rewards of a career in design.”
SUPPORT MHCI+D
The MHCID graduate program is a self-sustaining, fee-based program, fully funded each year by the tuition paid by each year’s students. In order to enrich our activities, provide scholarship support, and expand our impact, we rely on additional sources of revenue. Your gift can help us provide additional activities and support for students above and beyond the basics. You can make a difference!
Program Fund
The MHCI+D Program Fund supports activities including workshops and receptions for professional development, networking, travel, and recruitment.
Student Fund
The MHCI+D Student Fund provides financial assistance directly to graduate students enrolled in the program.