Human-Centered Technology Design Overview

The Human-Centered Technology Design (HCTD) program at the University of Maine prepares students to be at the forefront of technological innovation with a focus on improving human experiences. By combining elements from diverse fields such as computer science, psychology, communication, and new media, students engage in a multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving, using tools like AI, AR, VR, IoT, and autonomous vehicles. Through project-based learning and an emphasis on the design thinking process—empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test—students develop essential skills in teamwork, creativity, and rapid prototyping.

At UMaine, HCTD students work in a dynamic, hands-on environment where they create prototypes, develop user interfaces, and evaluate the usability of interactive systems. The program also teaches design principles in human psychology, inclusive design, and business needs, preparing graduates for careers in UX/UI design, game design, application development, and more. As demand for new technologies and user-centric solutions grows, HCTD graduates will be equipped to shape the future of technology, creating products and services that meet the needs and desires of users in an increasingly tech-driven world.