Master’s programme in Interaction Design for Artificial Realities
The Master’s Programme in Interaction Design for Artificial Realities is a two-year, full-time programme that prepares students to work at the forefront of interaction design, artificial intelligence and immersive technologies.
The programme is designed for those who want to explore how new technological systems, from generative AI to extended reality (XR), are transforming the way we learn, communicate and interact with digital environments. Through a combination of hands-on work, critical reflection, and interdisciplinary theory, students learn how to design experiences that are innovative, meaningful and socially responsible.
The curriculum is structured around two integrated tracks: one in interaction design and one in technologies for artificial realities. These tracks run in parallel across the programme, allowing students to build a broad interdisciplinary foundation while pursuing deeper specialisation in areas aligned with their individual interests and career goals. From the start, the programme combines theoretical depth with practical application, emphasising both critical perspectives and technical fluency. Students learn how to think through design, prototype immersive experiences and engage with the ethical and societal dimensions of emerging technologies.
Practical learning is supported by full access to Extrality Lab, the programme’s dedicated physical space for prototyping, fabrication and experimentation. The lab features a range of advanced tools including VR/AR/MR headsets, motion tracking, eye-tracking systems, 3D printers, laser cutters and physical computing kits such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi. High-performance computing gaming stations are also available for creative coding, AI prototyping and simulation work. Extrality Lab functions as both a classroom and a playground for experimentation, giving students the tools and environment they need to bring their ideas to life.
Throughout the programme, students engage in studio work, project-based courses and collaborations with both researchers and external partners. All courses are taught in English by experienced researchers and industry professionals who bring current, real-world insight into the classroom. The programme welcomes students from a variety of academic and cultural backgrounds, creating an international learning environment that encourages collaboration and the exchange of ideas.
Year 1
1st semester
Mandatory courses 4 x 7.5 credits
Foundations of Interaction Design 7.5 credits
The course gives an introduction to key concepts in human–computer interaction, including usability, user experience and fundamental principles of interaction design.
Foundations of Data Science 7.5 credits
The course introduces the basics of data science, including methods for frequent itemset mining, clustering, classification and deep learning.
Foundations of Data Science 7.5 credits
Programming Interactive Experiences 7.5 credits
During this course, you will develop practical skills in designing dynamic systems using tools such as Unity, with emphasis on spatial interaction and mixed reality applications.
Reflective Design in Dynamic Systems 7.5 credits
In this course, you are introduced to theoretical and methodological perspectives in interaction design, with a focus on guiding analysis, design decisions and empirical grounding in complex, dynamic contexts.
2nd semester
Mandatory courses 4 x 7.5 credits
Embodied and Physical Interaction Design 7.5 credits
You will gain experience in exploring bodily movement and material interfaces in digital experience design, including practical work with prototyping tools such as Arduino.
Scientific Communication and Research Methodology 7.5 credits
This course will introduce and provide practice of the basic problems in scientific communication and research methodology.
Scientific Communication and Research Methodology 7.5 credits
Prototyping Artificial Realities, 7.5 credits
During this course, the focus is on design for extended reality environments, including virtual, augmented and mixed reality.
Generative AI-Supported Design, 7.5 credits
We investigate how generative AI can serve as a co-creative tool in design practice.
Year 2
3rd semester
Mandatory courses 1 x 15 credits and 1 x 7.5 credits
Advanced Course in Artificial Realities Interaction 15 credits
In this advanced course, you will work in collaborative projects with research groups or external stakeholders, addressing real-world or experimental problems through design, development or theoretical investigation.
Design and information society 7.5 credits
This course examines the ethical, political and professional responsibilities of designers and technologists in the digital era.
Elective course 1 x 7.5 credits
One of the following four courses:
Introduction to Information Security 7.5 credits
Big Data with NoSQL Databases 7.5 credits
Explainable AI 7.5 credits
Entrepreneurship in the Digital Society 7.5 credits
4th Semester
This program starts each autumn semester.
Please note that it is only possible to apply for this programme in the first admission round (mid-October to mid-January). The programme is not open for admission in the second admission round.
Find answers to the most common questions regarding application, requirements and study format (distance or campus). FAQ Master's programmes
Selection process
The selection is made from the following three criteria:
- Grades of academic courses,
- mandatory motivation letter and
- the relevance of previous studies in relation to the programme.
It is therefore very important to submit a motivation letter.
Find instructions for the motivation letter below.
Required supporting documentation
Motivation letter
The letter shall include:
- Tell us something about yourself. Who are you?
- Motivate why you want to study this programme.
- Describe how you fulfil the entry requirements of 30 ECTS in Computer and Systems Sciences, Informatics or the equivalent.
Maximum one A4 page.
Save the letter as “Motivation letter SIDAO”.
Submit the letter together with your application at universityadmissions.se
Degree
Find the degree awarded for this programme in the syllabus, either in the right sidebar (desktop) or below (mobile device).
Please note, that you can only be awarded one bachelor’s degree, one master’s degree (60 credits) and one master’s degree (120 credits) in computer and systems sciences from our department.
Research
Research subjects at the department with relevance to the program:
Digital Games and Simulation
Human–Computer Interaction
Technology Enhanced Learning
Graduates are prepared for advanced roles in both industry and academia. Potential career paths include:
- Interaction Designer
- Immersive Technology Specialist
- Creative Technologist
- UX Designer
- AI-Enhanced Systems Designer
- Innovation Strategist
- Project Manager in Emerging Tech
- Entrepreneur in XR/AI sectors
Students will be well equipped to work in sectors such as education, media, healthcare, cultural heritage and design-driven innovation. The programme also provides a strong foundation for doctoral studies in areas such as Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Technologies for Artificial Realities and AI-driven design.
