What we cover
How Important is a UX Design Degree?
In the realm of UX design, the importance of a degree cannot be overstated. A UX design degree not only equips you with a solid foundation of knowledge and practical skills but also opens up a world of opportunities within the industry. It certifies your proficiency in the field, boosting your employability and potential for advancement.
Moreover, having a UX design degree often tilts the balance in your favor regarding job recruitment. Many companies, particularly those in the tech industry, regard UX design degrees as a testament to an applicant’s commitment to and understanding of the field.
Jobs that Benefit from a UX Design Degree
A UX design degree can be a game-changer for numerous roles in the industry, including:
- UX Designer: The degree can significantly augment your understanding of user research, usability testing, and interface design.
- UX Researcher: This role involves understanding user behavior, needs, and motivations, which a UX degree thoroughly addresses.
- Interaction Designer: The degree can help you better design interactive systems and devices, focusing on behavior.
- Information Architect: Here, you’ll benefit from a deep understanding of organizing and structuring information environments.
Recommendation Summary
In the following sections, we’ll provide a comprehensive review of the best in-person and online UX design schools.
| School | Recommendation | Price | Available Degree(s) | Duration |
| Carnegie Mellon University | Best In-Person, Best for Multiple Specializations | Varies by program | Multiple UX-related programs | Varies by program |
| UX Design Institute | Best Online | Varies by program | Multiple UX-related programs | 6 months |
| Purdue University | Best Undergraduate School | Varies by program | Multiple UX-related programs | Varies by program |
| MIT Media Lab | Best Postgraduate School | Contact for pricing | Multiple UX-related programs | Varies by program |
| Georgia Tech | Best Variety of Courses | Varies by program | Multiple UX-related programs | Varies by program |
How to Choose the Best UX Design School
Choosing the right UX design school is a critical decision. Here are the top considerations:
- Accredited vs. Non-Accredited: Accredited institutions meet specific standards, ensuring a high level of education.
- Duration: Consider the length of the program and how it fits into your schedule.
- In-person vs. Online: Reflect on your learning style and whether you prefer in-person or online instruction.
- Cost: Upfront payment is almost always the least expensive. However, most programs offer payment options, scholarships, and discounts.
- Instructor Credibility: UX design is a practical field that requires interdisciplinary skills and experience. The most successful teachers are practitioners with a strong presence in the industry.
Best In-Person UX Design Schools
Here are some of the best in-person UX design schools:
1) One-Year Immersive at the Austin Center for Design
A transformative experience that equips you with the skills to make a real-world impact through design.
- Price: Contact for pricing
- Available Degree(s): One-Year Immersive Program
- Duration: 1 Year
- Ideal For: Aspiring UX Designers seeking a comprehensive and immersive learning experience
- Website: Austin Center for Design
The Austin Center for Design offers a unique one-year immersive program designed to transform your understanding of design and equip you with the skills to make a real-world impact. The program is intense and requires a full-time commitment, but the payoff is a deep and comprehensive understanding of UX design.
The curriculum is project-based, allowing students to apply their learning to real-world problems from the get-go. This hands-on approach ensures that students graduate with a portfolio of work that demonstrates their skills and understanding of UX design.
The Austin Center for Design faculty are experienced professionals who bring their industry knowledge to the classroom. They provide mentorship and guidance, ensuring students are well-supported throughout their learning journey.
Key Features:
- Intensive one-year immersion
- Real-world application of design principles
- Faculty with industry experience
Why You Should Consider:
If you’re looking for a comprehensive and immersive learning experience that will equip you with the skills to make a real-world impact through design, the Austin Center for Design is an excellent choice. Their one-year immersive program is intense and requires a full-time commitment, but the payoff is a deep and comprehensive understanding of UX design.
2) Purdue University
A prestigious institution offering a range of programs in UX design.
- Price: Varies by program
- Available Degree(s): Multiple UX-related programs
- Duration: Varies by program
- Ideal For: Students seeking a traditional university education in UX design
- Website: Purdue University
Purdue University is a prestigious institution known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to research. The university offers a range of programs in UX design, catering to students at different stages of their educational journey.
The curriculum at Purdue is comprehensive, covering all aspects of UX design, from user research to prototyping. The faculty are experienced professionals who bring their industry knowledge to the classroom, ensuring students learn the most current and relevant skills.
Purdue University also offers excellent student resources, including state-of-the-art facilities and a strong alumni network. This, combined with the university’s strong reputation, makes Purdue an excellent choice for anyone looking to pursue a career in UX design.
Key Features:
- Broad selection of UX-focused courses
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Extensive alumni connections
Why You Should Consider:
Purdue University is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a traditional university education in UX design. With a range of UX-related programs, a comprehensive curriculum, and a strong alumni network, Purdue provides a solid foundation for a successful career in UX design.
3) University of California, San Diego
A leading public university offering a comprehensive UX design program.
- Price: ~$5,400
- Available Degree(s): Multiple UX-related programs
- Duration: Varies by program
- Ideal For: Students seeking a traditional university education in UX design
- Website: University of California, San Diego
The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) is a leading public university known for its commitment to innovation, research, and high-quality education. UCSD offers a range of programs in UX design, catering to students at different stages of their educational journey.
The curriculum at UCSD is comprehensive, covering all aspects of UX design, from user research to prototyping. The faculty are experienced professionals who bring their industry knowledge to the classroom, ensuring students learn the most current and relevant skills.
UCSD also offers excellent student resources, including state-of-the-art facilities and a strong alumni network. This, combined with the university’s strong reputation, makes UCSD a great choice for anyone looking to pursue a career in UX design.
Key Features:
- Diverse UX program offerings
- Holistic approach to UX education
- Robust alumni community
Why You Should Consider:
If you’re looking for a traditional university education in UX design, UCSD is an excellent choice. Their range of programs, comprehensive curriculum, and strong alumni network makes it a great place to start your UX design journey.
4) MIT Media Lab
A pioneering institution at the intersection of technology, design, and innovation.
- Price: Varies by program
- Available Degree(s): Multiple UX-related programs
- Duration: Varies by program
- Ideal For: Students seeking a cutting-edge education in UX design
- Website: MIT Media Lab
The MIT Media Lab is a pioneering institution known for its innovative approach to education. The lab offers a range of UX design programs, all designed to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the field.
The curriculum at the MIT Media Lab is unlike any other. It’s interdisciplinary, project-based, and focused on the development of new technologies and design methods. This unique approach ensures that students are always at the cutting edge of UX design.
The faculty at the MIT Media Lab are world-class experts in their fields. They provide mentorship and guidance, ensuring that students are well-supported throughout their learning journey.
Key Features:
- Interdisciplinary, project-based curriculum
- Development of new technologies and design methods
- World-class faculty
Why You Should Consider:
If you’re looking to push the boundaries of what’s possible in UX design, the MIT Media Lab is the place for you. Their innovative approach to education will equip you with the skills and knowledge to make a real impact in the field.
5) Carnegie Mellon University
A prestigious institution offering a world-class Master of Human-Computer Interaction program.
- Price: Varies by program
- Available degree (s): Master of Human-Computer Interaction
- Duration: Full calendar year (August-August)
- Ideal For: Students seeking a high-quality education in UX design
- Website: Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon University is a leading institution known for its world-class programs and commitment to innovation. The university offers a Master of Human-Computer Interaction (MHCI) program, the first of its kind in the world, dedicated to preparing professionals for careers related to human-computer interaction, user experience design, and user-centered research.
The MHCI program integrates service and design thinking into a rigorous HCI curriculum that prepares students to design and guide the future of human and technology interactions. While the program may not carry the typical UX Design nomenclature, it covers the same principles and methodologies, emphasizing the human-centered aspect of design.
During the first semester, students learn core HCI methodologies and techniques in the required classes while customizing their academic experience from the immense selection of electives across all of the schools at Carnegie Mellon University. The second and third semesters focus on a substantial industry capstone project with an external client, a course many alumni praise as instrumental in their academic careers.
Key Features:
- First program in the world dedicated to Human-Computer Interaction
- Comprehensive curriculum integrating service and design thinking
- Substantial industry capstone project with an external client
Why You Should Consider:
If you’re seeking a high-quality education in Human-Computer Interaction, which encompasses UX design, Carnegie Mellon University’s MHCI program is an excellent choice. With a comprehensive curriculum, a substantial industry capstone project, and a world-class reputation, Carnegie Mellon provides a solid foundation for a successful career in UX design.
6) Georgia Tech
A leading technological institute offering a wide variety of UX design programs.
- Price: Varies by program
- Available Degree(s): Multiple UX-related programs
- Duration: Varies by program
- Ideal For: Students seeking a technologically focused education in UX design
- Website: Georgia Tech
Georgia Tech is a leading technological institute known for its commitment to innovation, research, and high-quality education. The institute offers various UX design programs, catering to students at different stages of their educational journey.
The curriculum at Georgia Tech is comprehensive, covering all aspects of UX design, from user research to prototyping. The faculty are experienced professionals who bring their industry knowledge to the classroom, ensuring students learn the most current and relevant skills.
Georgia Tech also offers excellent student resources, including state-of-the-art facilities and a strong network of alums. This, combined with the institute’s strong reputation, makes Georgia Tech a great choice for anyone looking to pursue a career in UX design.
Key Features:
- Wide variety of UX-related programs
- Highly-experienced instructors
- Top level reputation
Why You Should Consider:
If you’re looking for a technologically focused education in UX design, Georgia Tech is an excellent choice. Their wide variety of programs, comprehensive curriculum, and strong network of alumni make it a great place to start your UX design journey.
7) Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)
Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is a private university nestled in the town of Henrietta in the Rochester, New York metropolitan area. Known for its fine arts, computing, engineering, and imaging science programs, RIT offers a unique blend of creativity and innovation.
- Price: Varies by program
- Available Degree(s): Undergraduate, Graduate, Doctoral, and Professional degrees
- Duration: Varies by program
- Ideal For: Students seeking a blend of arts and technology in their education
- Website: https://www.rit.edu
RIT is a hub of innovation and creativity, providing students with a platform to explore and excel in their chosen fields. The university is dedicated to offering a diverse range of programs that cater to the needs of students from different backgrounds and interests. The campus life at RIT is vibrant and engaging, with numerous opportunities for students to participate in various activities and events.
The university is particularly renowned for its fine arts, computing, engineering, and imaging science programs. These programs are designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter, along with practical skills that can be applied in the real world. The faculty at RIT are experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing quality education and support to their students.
RIT also offers a supportive community for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, with numerous resources and services available to ensure their success. The university’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity is evident in its efforts to provide an accessible and welcoming environment for all students.
Key Features:
- Renowned programs in fine arts, computing, engineering, and imaging science
- Vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for student engagement
- Supportive community for deaf and hard-of-hearing students
Why You Should Consider:
RIT offers a unique blend of arts and technology, providing students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for the challenges of the real world. The university’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, along with its renowned programs and supportive faculty, make it an ideal choice for students seeking a dynamic and innovative learning environment.
8) George Brown College
A Canadian college offering a specialized program in UX design.
- Price: Contact for pricing
- Available degree (s): User Experience (UX) Design Program
- Duration: Varies by program
- Ideal For: Students seeking specialized education in UX design
- Website: George Brown College
George Brown College is a Canadian institution known for its specialized programs and commitment to student success. The college offers a User Experience (UX) Design Program that is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field of UX design.
The curriculum at George Brown is comprehensive, covering all aspects of UX design from user research to prototyping. The faculty are experienced professionals who bring their industry knowledge to the classroom, ensuring that students are learning the most current and relevant skills.
George Brown also offers excellent resources for students, including state-of-the-art facilities and a strong network of alumni. This, combined with the college’s strong reputation, makes George Brown a great choice for anyone looking to pursue a career in UX design.
Key Features:
- Acclaimed programs in arts and technology
- All-inclusive UX study
- Dynamic campus environment
Why You Should Consider:
If you’re looking for a specialized education in UX design, George Brown College is an excellent choice. Their User Experience (UX) Design Program is comprehensive and well-regarded in the industry, making it a great place to start your UX design journey.
Best Online UX Design Schools
1) Careerfoundry UX Design Program
An online UX design program focused on career transformation.
- Price: Contact for pricing
- Available Degree(s): UX Design Program
- Duration: Varies by program
- Ideal For: Aspiring UX designers seeking a flexible online program
- Website: Careerfoundry
Careerfoundry is an online school known for its career-focused programs in UX design. The UX Design Program is designed to transform your career and make you job-ready in a matter of months.
The curriculum at Careerfoundry is comprehensive and project-based, allowing students to apply their learning to real-world problems from the get-go. This hands-on approach ensures that students graduate with a portfolio of work that demonstrates their skills and understanding of UX design.
Careerfoundry also offers excellent resources for students, including mentor support, portfolio projects, and a student community. This, combined with the school’s strong focus on career transformation, makes Careerfoundry a great choice for anyone looking to break into the field of UX design.
Key Features:
- Career-focused UX Design Program
- Comprehensive, project-based curriculum
- Mentor support and student community
Why You Should Consider:
If you’re looking to break into the field of UX design, Careerfoundry is an excellent choice. Their UX Design Program is career-focused and comprehensive, providing you with the skills and experience you need to become job-ready in a matter of months.
2) Springboard UI/UX Design Career Track
An online program designed to fast-track your career in UX design.
- Price: Contact for pricing
- Available degree (s): UI/UX Design Career Track
- Duration: 6 months
- Ideal For: Aspiring UX designers seeking a flexible, online program
- Website: Springboard
School Review:
Springboard’s UI/UX Design Career Track is an online program designed to fast-track your career in UX design. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of UX design, from user research to prototyping.
The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to learn at their own pace. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are working or have other commitments.
The faculty at Springboard are experienced professionals who bring their industry knowledge to the virtual classroom. They provide mentorship and guidance, ensuring that students are well-supported throughout their learning journey.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive online curriculum
- Flexible learning schedule
- Experienced faculty
Why You Should Consider:
If you’re an aspiring UX designer seeking a flexible, online program that allows you to learn at your own pace, Springboard’s UI/UX Design Career Track is an excellent choice. With a comprehensive curriculum, experienced faculty, and a flexible learning schedule, Springboard provides a solid foundation for a successful career in UX design.
3) The New School, Parsons
A forward-thinking design school offering a comprehensive online User Experience (UX) Design Certificate program.
- Price: $3,670
- Available Degree(s): User-Centered Design Certificate
- Duration: 6-9 weeks
- Ideal For: Students seeking a flexible, online education in UX design
- Website: The New School, Parsons
The New School, Parsons, is a renowned institution known for its innovative approach to design education. Offering an online User-Centered Design Certificate program, Parsons provides students with the opportunity to learn from industry professionals in a flexible and accessible format.
The User-Centered Design Certificate program is designed to meet the increasing need for designers who can create user-friendly interfaces across various industries. The program covers all aspects of UX design, from user research to prototyping, and is taught by experienced professionals who bring their industry knowledge to the virtual classroom.
The curriculum is comprehensive and flexible, allowing students to complete the program at their own pace. This makes it an excellent choice for working professionals or those with other commitments who are looking to expand their skills in UX design.
Key Features:
- Online User-Centered Design Certificate program
- Comprehensive curriculum covering all aspects of UX design
- Flexible program allowing students to learn at their own pace
Why You Should Consider:
If you’re looking for a flexible, online education in UX design, The New School, Parsons, is an excellent choice. Their User-Centered Design Certificate program is comprehensive, taught by industry professionals, and can be completed at your own pace, making it a great option for those looking to expand their skills in UX design.
4) UX Design Institute
An online institute dedicated to providing a world-class education in UX design.
- Price: Contact for pricing
- Available degree (s): Professional Diploma in UX Design
- Duration: 6 months
- Ideal For: Aspiring UX designers seeking a specialized, online program
- Website: UX Design Institute
The UX Design Institute is an online institute dedicated to providing a world-class education in UX design. The institute offers a Professional Diploma in UX Design, providing students with a deep understanding of the field.
The curriculum at the UX Design Institute is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of UX design, from user research to prototyping. The faculty, comprising experienced professionals, ensures that students are learning the most current and relevant skills.
The UX Design Institute also offers excellent resources for students, including a flexible learning schedule and a strong network of alumni. This, combined with the institute’s strong reputation, makes the UX Design Institute a great choice for anyone looking to pursue a career in UX design.
Key Features:
- Specialized UX design program
- Adaptable learning plan
- Faculty with industry experience
Why You Should Consider:
If you’re an aspiring UX designer seeking a specialized, online program that provides a comprehensive understanding of UX design, the UX Design Institute is an excellent choice. With a specialized UX design program, a comprehensive curriculum, and a strong network of alumni, the UX Design Institute provides a solid foundation for a successful career in UX design.
Highest-Paying UX Design Careers
After completing a UX design school, you can land jobs such as UX Designer, UX Researcher, Interaction Designer, and Information Architect. The average salaries for these roles can range from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on the role and your experience level.
| Job Title | Minimum Education | Average Salary |
| UX Director | Bachelor’s Degree | $150,000 |
| Senior UX Designer | Bachelor’s Degree | $120,000 |
| UX Researcher | Bachelor’s Degree | $100,000 |
| Interaction Designer | Bachelor’s Degree | $90,000 |
FAQs
Can You Get a UX Design Job with a UX Design Degree?
Yes, a UX design degree can significantly enhance your chances of landing a UX design job. It provides specialized knowledge and skills that employers value.
Are UX Designers in High Demand?
Yes, UX designers are in high demand. As companies continue to recognize the importance of user experience in their products and services, the demand for skilled UX designers is expected to grow.
Are There Any Free UX Design Courses?
Yes, there are several free UX design courses available online. However, these courses may not offer the same depth and breadth of learning as paid programs.
