Human Centered Computing
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Undergraduate Major
Allendale • Face to face • Hybrid • 120 Credits
Human-Centered Computing is identifying and understanding technological problems from peoples' point of view, then designing, building, and evaluating technological solutions to enhance their lives.
Overview
Grand Valley's Bachelor's of Science degree in Human Centered Computing (HCC) integrates ideas from design thinking, human-computer interaction (HCI), interaction design, and user experience design with the skills needed for software development. It provides a strong basis in natural and physical sciences, behavioral sciences, and basic computer sciences, which begin the emphasis on creative problem solving.
The curriculum includes studies in design process and creative problem solving, research design, qualitative and quantitative research methods in need finding, usability evaluation, and prototyping. The program offers students the opportunity to explore the complex interaction between human and modern technologies like AI, AR/VR. Through a 4-year span, students progressively develop their skills in creative problem solving, product design, and prototyping through a number of individual and team-based projects. The aim of this program is to produce HCC graduates who are capable of providing innovative and aesthetic solutions to real life problems leveraging human centered design techniques.
Pursuing Human Centered Computing at GVSU has many advantages. The need for human centered computing graduates in the tech industry has been on the rise. With the rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence and innovations in Augmented and Virtual Reality there is significant demand for developing technology using human centered approaches to solve real-world problems. GVSU is well positioned to address this need with faculty who are HCC specialized, and a commitment to interdisciplinary work across the institution. Hands-on learning opportunities in the form of projects and internships are a crucial part of the curriculum.
College of Computing
Mackinac Hall C-2-100
(616) 331-2060
[email protected]
Program Contact
Dr. Jie Du
Chair of the Department of Information Sciences and Technologies
[email protected]
Career Opportunities
Design digital user interfaces or websites. Develop and test layouts, interfaces, functionality, and navigation menus to ensure compatibility and usability across browsers or devices. May use web framework applications as well as client-side code and processes. May evaluate web design following web and accessibility standards, and may analyze web use metrics and optimize websites for marketability and search engine ranking. May design and test interfaces that facilitate the human-computer interaction and maximize the usability of digital devices, websites, and software with a focus on aesthetics and design. May create graphics used in websites and manage website content and links.
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 37,017.16 | 10% |
| $ 47,525.22 | 25% |
| $ 75,347.42 | 50% |
| $ 98,446.52 | 75% |
| $124,951.03 | 90% |
Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications.
Top skills- Programming
- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Operations Analysis
- Complex Problem Solving
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 43,764.64 | 10% |
| $ 55,156.57 | 25% |
| $ 91,208.00 | 50% |
| $110,179.81 | 75% |
| $136,959.28 | 90% |
Provide technical assistance to computer users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Complex Problem Solving
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 36,149.82 | 10% |
| $ 44,669.48 | 25% |
| $ 56,106.54 | 50% |
| $ 69,246.94 | 75% |
| $ 86,717.88 | 90% |
Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 57,573.08 | 10% |
| $ 74,726.97 | 25% |
| $ 98,186.31 | 50% |
| $118,439.81 | 75% |
| $133,817.24 | 90% |
Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 73,125.18 | 10% |
| $ 84,893.38 | 25% |
| $107,500.39 | 50% |
| $134,775.23 | 75% |
| $165,493.70 | 90% |
94%
Graduates Employed
"One of the Top Public Universities in America"
- Niche.com
#1
University in Michigan by Employers
Exciting New Career Opportunities
Human Centered Computing is a new area with exciting opportunities, such as:
- User Experience (UX) Researcher
- UX Engineer
- Product Manager
- UX Designer
- Product Designer
Scholarships
Grand Valley State University offers a wide variety of merit-based
scholarships. For information on all of the scholarships that are
available to students, please visit Scholarships at GVSU.
Grand Valley offers myScholarships
(a scholarship matching tool) to help admitted students match
with GVSU scholarships, as well as external scholarship opportunities.
myScholarships will prompt you to answer questions to help match you
to scholarships for which you might qualify.
Real-World Experience
Hands-on learning and other fieldwork not only deepen your mastery of your discipline but also give you the edge employers seek. Visit our experience matters page to see the work GVSU students are doing in their co-ops and internships.
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