CMU MHCI, GaTech MS-HCI, or UW HCDE?

[kathy123321]

Hi everyone! I'm currently deciding between CMU MHCI, GaTech MS-HCI, and UW HCDE. And I'd love to hear some insights and advice from current students in these 3 programs and fellow applicants!

I'm an international student who would like to work in the US as a UX designer after graduation. I did not major in design, CS, or psychology as an undergrad, but I have 7 months of experience as a UX designer after graduation. Job placement is very important for me; because after graduation, it would be a matter of "get a job that sponsors you a work visa or leave the U.S." for me. Therefore, I'm a bit worried about CMU MHCI being a one-year program, which gives me less time to accumulate class projects for my portfolio and complete a summer internship (hence losing the precious opportunity of potentially getting a return offer). That being said, would my 7 months of full-time UX experience be enough to compensate for the lack of a summer internship if I had gone to CMU MHCI?

I like the GaTech MS-HCI program bc it's 2 years, and Atlanta is a great city. Given that it's a 2-year program, and that GaTech has some great HCI labs, I might get to work with some professors on their research. I am highly industry- and design-focused, but a current  This is the one that I am currently leaning a bit towards.

I haven't thought too much about UW HCDE, because I would prefer to stay on the east coast and closer to my partner if possible. However, would still love to hear people’s thoughts on HW HCDE!

Thank you all!

Edited March 14, 2023 by kathy123321

[shelleyxu]

Where did you go at last？

[complexgenome]

Do you've any financial assistance from any offer(s)?