The best online UX/UI design master’s degrees will benefit you by expanding your knowledge and skill set. While undergraduate studies can help you get a job, they don’t delve as deeply into advanced UX/UI design concepts.
You’ll become a better artist by learning visual design in an online Master’s Degree in UX/UI Design. It will take you into an intuitive state of use with the computer application. In addition, you earn more when you demonstrate specialized knowledge in the profession and with online programs.
Online UX/UI design master’s degrees make it possible for you to study without quitting your job or traveling long distances every week. This guide will walk you through the best online UX/UI design master’s degrees, along with some of the UX/UI design master’s degree jobs you’ll qualify for after graduating.
Where Can I Get a UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Online?
You can get a UX/UI master’s degree online at Arizona State University, Brandeis University, and University of Michigan-Dearborn. While many of these graduate programs are not explicitly named Master’s in UX/UI Design, they deal with interactive design and engineering, which encompasses user experience (UX) design and user interface (UI) design.
What Schools Offer the Best UX/UI Design Master’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Drexel University
- Rutgers University
- University of Memphis, Tennessee
- University of Michigan-Dearborn
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree?
The admission requirements for an online UX/UI design master’s degree program include possession of a bachelor’s degree in any related field, depending on the school’s preference. The school may accept GRE results or a portfolio that proves that you have prior experience if your bachelor’s degree is in another field.
Transcripts are also necessary for an online Master’s Degree in UX/UI Design. Depending on the school, you may have to pay an application fee. Lastly, the school may require letters of recommendation and a minimum GPA score, which varies depending on the institution.
Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree
- GRE scores
- Letter of recommendation
- Portfolio
- Transcript
How to Get a UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Online
To earn a UX/UI design master’s degree online, you need to complete a number of specified credit hours. These credit hours will be in courses related to interactive design given by experts. Prospective students receive hands-on training and technical skills needed in this advanced degree. Many schools require students to participate in class lectures, practical sessions, and group discussions. Exams and projects may also be part of the program.
As you learn in-depth fundamentals of user experience, you’ll learn the design process and create a design portfolio filled with relevant experience for the job market. You’ll also develop soft skills through an online UX/UI design program. You become a graduate once you have completed your coursework, assignments, and projects with the required grades.
Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Requirements
- Approximately 30 credits
- Practical sessions
- Maintain the required GPA
- Exams
- Group discussions
Best Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Master of Science in User Experience | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Brandeis University | Master of Science User-Centered Design | New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) |
| DePaul University | Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction at DePaul University | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Drexel University | Master of Science in Information Human-Computer Interaction & User Experience | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| Kent State University | Master of Science in User Experience Design | Higher Learning Commission (HLC), National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) |
| Maryland Institute College of Art | Master of Professional Studies in UX Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| Rutgers University | Master of Business and Science in User Experience Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
| University of Kansas | Master of Arts in Design with Concentration in Interaction & User Experience Design | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| University of Miami | Master of Fine Art in Interactive Design | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| University of Michigan – Dearborn | Master of Science in Human-Centered Design and Engineering | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
Best Schools for UX/UI Design: Top Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Programs
Graduate studies in UX/UI design are usually a part of a bigger design program. This encompasses interaction design, real-world projects, design tools, graphic design, web design, and a wide range of other digital design courses. These lead to creating a user-friendly interface for websites, mobile applications, and physical products.
What Is an Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree?
An online UX/UI design master’s degree trains students to become design professionals to create websites, software, and other products. Students in an online UX/UI program focus on the user side of websites and applications, ensuring an easy-to-navigate and pleasant user experience. UX design careers include product research, product prototyping, and product testing.
Online vs In-Person UX/UI Design Master’s Degrees
The best thing about online UX/UI design master’s degree programs is the flexibility. You can plan your study time around your other responsibilities because you’re not required to be in class at certain times of the week, as an in-person program would. Both in-person and online graduate programs are useful in networking and working towards a PhD, although they differ in some significant ways. Below are the top five benefits of an in-person vs online program.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Masters Degree in UX/UI Design
- Flexibility. You can complete your degree at your own pace from anywhere in the world. Additionally, some online courses allow you to set your own pace and schedule.
- Career advancement. Online master’s degrees can help you change careers and improve your chances of career advancement without quitting your job. Alternatively, an in-person degree program would likely require you to put your career on hold.
- Transferable skill set. Software development is one of the many fields accessible to degree holders. Online degrees make it possible to change your skillset and work simultaneously.
- High demand. According to the US of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in this field will increase by 13 percent between 2020 and 2030. This field is highly demanded and rewarded, with a solid projection for growth.
- Opportunities for networking. Networking opportunities offered through degree programs can be an excellent way to meet professionals in your field. Networking could lead to internships or employment after graduation.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Masters Degree in UX/UI Design
- Focused environment. An in-person degree program allows you to experience learning in a focused environment, as opposed to an online program that comes with more distractions.
- Easy access to instructors. Even though an online program allows you to communicate with instructors, it’s not nearly as convenient or efficient as face-to-face interaction.
- Peer relationships. Online degree programs don’t allow the same opportunity for students to meet and form meaningful relationships with peers, as in-person programs. Although you might be able to meet classmates online, the relationship won’t be the same as it could be on campus.
- Access to resources. In-person students have access to the school’s library and other tangible resources that are much more difficult for online students to access.
- Networking. Although online degree programs also offer networking opportunities, it’s much easier in person to form beneficial connections.
What Types of Online Masters Degree in UX/UI Design?
The three available types of online degrees in UX/UI design are a master of art, master of science, and master of professional studies. While these three types of degrees share many similarities, they differ slightly in their intent.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Arts or Master of Science in UX/UI Design?
It is better to get a Master of Arts in UX/UI Design if you enjoy the creative and social aspects of the field. This degree focuses on design methods, design simulations, interaction design, and user experience design. A Master of Arts in UX/UI Design also includes an advanced study of human factors in design.
It is better to get a Master of Science in UX/UI Design if you like to be more systematic in organizing and structuring content. A master of science focuses on information architecture, principles of interaction, and user design principles. Both degree types usually involve a thesis and take approximately two years to complete.
How Much Does a UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Cost?
The average cost for a UX/UI design master’s degree is $19,314 per year. The required average number of credits is between 30 and 45. Tuition rates are directly affected by the program, public or private status, and residency status.
Students must also consider campus fees such as parking, technology, and health care. Online programs are a great way to save money on your graduate degree. Many schools offer financial aid, including loans, grants, and scholarships for students who wish to pursue a master’s degree.
How Long Does It Take to Get a UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Online?
It takes 15 months to two years of full-time study to get a UX/UI design master’s degree. There must be at least 30 hours of coursework completed together with a project or thesis for this degree to be awarded. You can also pursue the degree on a part-time basis, although this will extend the amount of time it takes to complete your program.
Are Online UX/UI Design Degrees Respected?
Yes, online UX/UI design degrees are respected. Online UX/UI design degrees are respected as much as on-campus master’s degrees. All of these schools are accredited and staffed by experienced professors who teach the same classes in person. The assignments and the testing processes follow the same guidelines as in-person classes.
Is UX/UI Design Hard to Learn Online?
No, UX/UI design is not hard to learn online. In fact, online classes are preferable since you’ll be working with a computer. You will work on projects that develop your design skills and count towards building a portfolio. Online degree programs allow you to develop many of the digital skills necessary for the UX/UI field.
UX/UI Design Bootcamp vs Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree: Which Is Better?
Bootcamps certainly have their unique benefits when it comes to learning user interface and experience design. People with master’s degrees have more in-depth knowledge because of the depth of their training. Below are some of the top benefits of each education route.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree
- Advanced opportunities. High-level positions require advanced degrees, so earning one can open the door to new employment prospects.
- Accredited qualification. Having a credential from an accredited institution on your resume demonstrates a reputable education to potential employers.
- In-depth program. At the master’s level, you’ll develop in-depth knowledge and skills in a wide range of areas, which will make you a competitive candidate for high-level positions.
- Comprehensive education. Students can study a wide range of interests and disciplines in an online Master’s Degree in UX/UI Design. You may also be able to enroll in courses in communication, finance, or other fields related to your major, unlike a bootcamp that solely focuses on the skills for the field.
- Opportunity for higher education. Upon completing your master’s degree, you may wish to pursue a PhD. Obtaining your master’s degree opens the opportunity for a PhD program.
Top 5 Benefits of a UX/UI Bootcamp
- Strong support network. Many UX bootcamps offer memberships to active Facebook groups, Slack channels, or other platforms that allow you to connect with fellow students online.
- Easier to complete. Degree programs require you to meet a specific number of credit hours, complete many assignments, and carry out group projects for two years. Bootcamp participants follow a manageable, straightforward, and practical curriculum.
- Career services. Bootcamps typically have a career coach or director on staff to assist students in finding employment. They also assist trainees in preparing for interviews and portfolio presentations and link them with industry experts.
- Short and quick. Bootcamps are less time-consuming than master’s degrees. You should be able to complete them in 12 to 24 weeks, as the curriculum and qualifications aren’t as advanced as a master’s degree.
- Organized curriculum. A bootcamp curriculum divides subjects into multi-week stages, the first stage beginning with fundamental coding skills. Afterward, the coursework becomes more technical. It ends in a performance phase that assesses the web application you developed and your grasp of the material you’ve learned.
Why You Should Get a UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Online
You should get a UX/UI design master’s degree online because it is a great way to get hands-on experience. Most designers begin their careers by taking online classes, which is a convenient way of learning. However, with a master’s degree, you can qualify for managerial positions and advanced promotions within the field.
Even though UX bootcamps are worthwhile, the best online UX/UI design master’s degrees expand on the content taught in bootcamps. They offer a full regimen of what a UX designer must learn to qualify for a variety of UX/UI positions. In addition, earning your master’s degree will qualify you for higher salaries.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Master’s Degree Program in UX/UI Design?
Courses you take in an online master’s degree program in UX/UI design may differ in terms of the course title and topics covered, depending on the school you attend. However, the core courses below cover some of the topics you can expect to learn throughout your master’s degree program.
Foundations of Human-Centered Design
This course introduces human-centered design principles and processes. A primary focus is to teach students how to create applications, products, and services with people in mind, using user-centered design and design thinking methods. Students learn how to gather and understand the needs of a target audience.
Research Methods in User Experience Design
This course covers qualitative and quantitative user-centric design. It explains that there are other methods for collecting and measuring data in addition to physiological, behavioral, and subjective data. This course introduces students to the basics of experimental design and basic statistics. It also covers aspects of the elicitation of user needs, such as cognitive task analysis, physiological computing, and sentiment analysis.
Human-Computer Interaction for UI/UX Design
Students in this course will learn about the most recent theories and approaches for designing and testing user-friendly interfaces and user experiences. This course is foundational in perfecting the features and functions that users look for when interacting with applications and websites.
Visual Interface Design
Digital prototypes are transformed into high-fidelity designs as students explore and experiment with key paradigms of visual communication. They apply this to the delivery of user experiences on digital devices. They also develop processes for creating and developing visually-led user interface designs that are engaging and easy to understand.
Final Project
With the help of an assigned supervisor, students select a topic that gets presented as a tangible product with supporting information about its context. The most important criterion when picking a topic is that it must be relevant to your academic or professional development.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Master’s Degree Program Degree Graduates
Continuing education paths for online master’s degree graduates are a Doctoral Degree in Human Design Technology, Interactive Design, or Visual Design. Master’s degree graduates can also pursue professional certifications.
Related Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Programs
Things to look for in the best UX/UI design master’s degree programs are cost, job placement rate, and accreditation. There are a plethora of UX/UI design programs available. Below are some of the top factors you should consider in a master’s degree program.
Cost
You need to ascertain how much money you must pay to obtain the degree. This includes the cost of tuition, living expenses, and any additional fees. If it’s more than you can afford, you can apply for federal funding or scholarships to alleviate student debt.
Job Prospects
It’s easy to get caught up in the initial cost and not consider the potential return. The median salary of a UX professional is much higher than in other countries. Since the job is plentiful and the pay is good, there’ll be a great return on investment with this degree.
Length
Most UX master’s programs take two years to complete, however, some take a year to 18 months. One-year programs cost less than two-year programs. There are also summer internship options, which might give you the necessary experience before finding a job.
School Reputation
A respected school and program will place you in a better position when it comes to job hunting and provides you with access and connection to a strong alumni network. This network will benefit you for many decades to come.
Accreditation
A school’s postsecondary education must achieve specific criteria to be accredited by a regional or national accrediting body. It is crucial to attend an approved and accredited master’s program in UX/UI design. Accreditation status can impact credit transferability, potentially impacting your eligibility for future PhD programs.
What Is the Most Affordable Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree?
The most affordable online UX/UI design master’s degree is offered by The University of Kansas and costs $9,989. The Master of Arts in Design with Concentration in Interaction and User Experience Design should amount to $19,978 over the two-year course.
Can I Get a UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you can’t get a UX/UI design master’s degree online for free. However, you can find many free online massive open online courses and online bootcamps. Furthermore, you can apply for financial aid, scholarships, grants, or student loans.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Graduates
The average salary and job outlook for online UX/UI design master’s degree graduates is quite high. Although it varies depending on the industry, company, location, and level of experience, having a master’s degree guarantees you a high salary and qualification for high-level positions.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a UX/UI Design Master’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a UX/UI design master’s degree. Having an online master’s degree in UX/UI design shows that you’re enthusiastic about the profession and know more than the average designer. In addition to a master’s degree, building a portfolio can go a long way towards ensuring you get a job.
What’s the Average Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Salary?
According to PayScale, the average salary of a Master of Science in Interactive Design holder is $80,000 per year. This is more than the average base salary of a graphic designer at $47,373. In addition, the job outlook for UX/UI designers, classified as web developers and digital interface designers by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, is promising at 25,500 projected openings by 2030.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree?
Jobs you can get with an online UX/UI design master’s degree include information architect, interaction designer, and user researcher. One of the fascinating aspects of the dynamic, fast-growing computer-driven sector is user experience. UX/UI design master’s degree jobs include a wide range of work prospects in many areas.
UX/UI Design Degree Jobs
- Information Architect
- Interaction Designer
- Usability Analyst
- User Researcher
- UX Designer
Potential Careers With an Online UX/UI Design Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online UX/UI Design Degree?
You can make $115,267 or more with an online UX/UI design degree. The pay for UX/UI designers increases in direct proportion to their level of education and experience. It’s important to note that exact salaries depend on your position, organization, industry, location, and level of experience.
Highest-Paying Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Lead UX Designer | $115,267 |
| Information Architect | $98,148 |
| User Researcher | $88,594 |
| Interaction Designer | $78,104 |
| Usability Analyst | $70,496 |
Best Jobs for Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for online UX/UI design master’s degree grads include lead UX designers, information architects, and user researchers. Global employers are always on the lookout for talented interaction designers to join their teams. Adapting to a digital-first environment has led to a boom in this profession. Below, we’ll look at these careers in more detail.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online UX/UI design master’s degree is worth it because it can help you gain more knowledge about user experience. UX/UI master’s degrees can also study the research side of UX design, allowing you to pursue a PhD. UX/UI master’s programs can help you build a strong network of like-minded professionals. Pursuing this credential guarantees you a high-paying and stable career.
Additional Reading About UX/UI Design
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Online UX/UI Design Master’s Degree FAQ
Getting a Master’s Degree in Human-Computer Interaction in the UX field is very useful. This is especially important if you want to work in a top company. Many master of arts, master of science, and master of fine arts programs include human-computer interaction as part of their curricula. Any of these degrees will help you get into the field.
No, you don’t need a master’s degree to get a job in UX design. It is far easier to obtain employment with job experience than with a master’s degree. However, if you’re aiming for a high-level position in the field, pursuing your master’s degree is the best way to meet that goal.
Online graduate certificates supplement existing knowledge. Colleges and universities offer online graduate certificates that provide insight into specific aspects of a discipline. Graduates learn new skills that will help them remain competitive in the workplace.
Yes, UX/UI is still in demand. Every day, the need for UX designers is increasing. Glassdoor included UX/UI design in its top 50 jobs in 2021. As the demand for user-friendly interfaces increases, more jobs will open in the future.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
