Edited By Christine Skopec
Review & Contribution By Dr. Olivia Martinez
Transform digital experiences. Earn your UX Design Degree Online. Learn design thinking, usability principles, and user research. Start shaping the future today.
User Experience Design professionals deal with creating products that provide relevant and meaningful experiences to various users. The UX design degree online helps students learn how to design the entire process of integrating and acquiring products, including components like design, usability, function, and branding. Those pursuing an online UX design bachelor’s degree learn through hands-on approaches to conducting user research, creating, evaluating prototypes, and framing problems. They also use insights from different user research to ensure that the right challenges are always addressed. UX Designers fall under the broader domain of web developers and digital designers. Graduates can expect job roles to include usability engineer, information architect, interaction designer, user experience architect, information designer, and more.
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Featured Online Programs
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Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: BA Graphic Design and Media Arts – User Experience Design
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
Find the Best UX Design Degree Online Programs
When selecting an undergraduate program, prospective students should evaluate factors like accreditation, lab facilities, faculty quality, and courses offered. A college education significantly influences academic and professional aspirations. FBD teams thoroughly examined colleges nationwide and, using proprietary methodology, compiled a list of schools offering the best UX design degree online programs:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Academy of Art University | 79 New Montgomery, San Francisco, California 94105 | $28,024 | 44% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a UX Design Degree Online Program
An online degree UX design program takes around 120 credits to complete. The program helps students learn about the various approaches, systems, and processes to address the needs of humans by creating solutions to different industry-specific requirements and better human social life and health. Most institutions use comprehensive user research by using advanced tools and techniques to help students understand concepts like visual interface design, usability engineering, tangible interaction design, research methods, techniques, and more. The colleges providing this degree provide the program in both online and offline learning modes. After graduating with an online degree in UX design, students can expect job titles to include user interface designer, interaction designer, UX Architect, user researcher, UX Designer, User experience designer, and more.
Curriculum and Coursework
Students pursuing a UX design degree online curriculum understand the basics of human cognition and perceptions and their implications on interaction design and user experience. The program employs a user-centered approach to developing and designing information technologies aligned with users’ and other stakeholders’ values and needs. The coursework also employs user-centered design and research methods for interactive technologies. Through the curriculum, students develop an understanding of the complex cultural, social, and ethical context related to communicating with social media and digital tools and apply this understanding to develop digital technologies and solutions that are inclusive, effective, and responsive to people’s needs, perspectives, and values. Each school has its own curriculum. However, some of the standard courses students can find across curricula include:
Introduction to User Experience Design
This course provides a foundational understanding of UX principles, methodologies, and tools essential for creating user-centric digital experiences. Through practical projects and theoretical concepts, students learn to analyze user behavior, conduct research, and design intuitive interfaces, preparing them for advanced studies and careers in UX design.
Introduction to Data Visualization
This course provides fundamental concepts and techniques for visually compelling and meaningful representation of complex data. Students learn to analyze data, choose appropriate visualization methods, and create effective designs using industry-standard tools. This course equips learners with essential skills for communicating insights and enhancing user experiences.
Information and Interaction Design
This course explores principles and practices of organizing, presenting, and structuring information for optimal user comprehension and engagement. Through hands-on projects, students learn to design intuitive interfaces, craft user flows, and implement interactive elements, ensuring seamless user experiences across digital platforms.
Graphic Design
This course equips students with essential visual communication and aesthetics skills. Through practical assignments, students learn design principles, typography, color theory, and layout techniques to create compelling visuals that enhance user interfaces and effectively convey information, enriching the overall user experience.
Understanding Human-Centered AI
This course explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and user experience, emphasizing ethical considerations and user-centric design principles. Students explore AI technologies, their impact on user interactions, and methods for designing AI-driven interfaces that prioritize user needs, trust, and transparency, fostering responsible and empathetic AI implementations.
Some of the other common courses across various curriculums are:
- Introductory Computing for the Web
- Prototyping Methods
- Design Principles for User Experience Design
- Coding Design Frameworks
- Typography: Systems
- Design Resources Exploration
- Introduction to Databases
- User ExperienceResearch and Evaluation
- Data Analysis
- Community-Based Technology Projects
- Data Visualization Design
Most coursework also includes students working on short and creative projects that will help them understand how to utilize various resources in college. They are also required to attend lectures from faculty about their creative and research practices to expand their knowledge of varied fields of study. Some institutions also require the development of a design portfolio wherein students will construct their portfolio to enhance and build their online presence, which they can use for professional networking and job search later.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The UX Design program facilitates understanding the interactions between individuals and systems. Students explore the design process concerning interactions between products or services and users. Additionally, they learn about professional workflows, industry terminology, and the influence of testing, psychology, and audience on UX designs. The bachelor’s program is integral for students to develop some elemental skills, including the ability to:
- communicate efficiently with various coworkers and coordinate with people to work on projects;
- creating the appearance of a website to make it appealing and functional for its users;
- perceive what work is required from the consumer’s point of view and ensure that the clients understand the message;
- create rough illustrations of design ideas using various computer programs or hand sketching;
- used specialized graphic and user research design software to prepare the design and present it to various stakeholders;
- think critically about new approaches and communicate those ideas to consumers;
- maintain professional ethics and work simultaneously on various projects with different deadlines;
- use logic and reasoning skills to recognize the need for new products and study consumer attitudes;
- create innovative designs and integrate them into existing technologies into new products.
Types of Degrees UX Design Students Can Obtain
The UX design online degree helps students learn about various design user interfaces, enhancing user experiences, creating products that meet customer needs, and developing appealing interactive websites for diverse stakeholders. The program provides students with many job opportunities and equips them with skills for advanced-level UX study. In the United States, students can pursue a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in UX Design program.
Bachelor of Science in UX Design
The Bachelor of Science or BS in UX Design program helps students gain a comprehensive education in modern web design principles and a new range of media. The curriculum focuses on user experience, visual design, web design, motion graphics, and design strategies. Students learn how to demonstrate effective usage of imagery and color, collect appropriate data for the project, and use various research findings to develop design ideas centered on real targeted users.
Bachelor of Arts or BA in UX Design
Bachelor of Arts or BA in UX Design demonstrates to the students a range of current interactive technologies, apps, and tools effectively used for substantive projects. They will be able to recognize the influence of major aesthetic and cultural trends, both contemporary and historical, on design and art products. They also learn various professional behaviors and skills needed to compete in the global marketplace for design and art.
Areas of Specialization for UX Design Students
Specializations offer students focused study in specific fields, deepening their knowledge and skills within a particular subject area. By concentrating their efforts, students gain expertise to enhance their career prospects and academic achievements. Specializations also provide opportunities for networking, mentorship, and practical application, preparing students for success in their chosen professions. Some of the different specializations and concentrations in an online degree UX design include:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Design | This specialization focuses on crafting compelling visual elements to enhance user experience. Through typography, color theory, and layout design courses, students learn to create aesthetically pleasing interfaces that communicate effectively. They gain skills vital for designing functional and visually engaging interfaces. | • Graphic Designer • Brand Identity Designer • Web Designer • UI/UX Designer |
| Interaction Design | This specialization optimizes user interactions within digital interfaces. Through courses in user research, prototyping, and usability testing, students learn to create intuitive and seamless interactions. They develop skills crucial for designing interfaces that prioritize user needs and enhance overall usability | • UX Designer • Product Designer • Usability Analyst • Motion Designer |
| User Research | This specialization emphasizes understanding user behaviors, needs, and preferences. Through courses in qualitative and quantitative research methods, students learn to conduct user interviews, surveys, and usability tests. They develop skills essential for gathering insights to inform design decisions and create user-centered solutions. | • User Experience Researcher • Market Research Analyst • User Testing Specialist • Ethnographer |
| Information Architecture | This specialization focuses on organizing and structuring digital information effectively. Students learn to create intuitive information hierarchies through courses in taxonomy, navigation design, and content strategy. They develop skills essential for designing interfaces that enable users to find and understand content efficiently, enhancing overall user experience. | • Information Architect • Content Strategist • Taxonomy Specialist • UX Writer |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
Most bachelor’s in UX design online programs require an average of 120 credits for completion, with durations varying by institution. Typically, full-time students complete the degree in around four years, following a curriculum of 15 credits per semester over eight semesters. Accelerated programs may take three to four years. Part-time students may need more than four years to fulfill program requirements. Here is a summary of the duration to get a UX bachelor’s degree:
- Full-Time Degree: a student requires four years to complete a full-time UX degree
- Part-Time Degree: an undergraduate requires four to six years for a part-time UX design degree
Accelerated UX Design Programs
Accelerated degrees are much quicker to obtain than most traditional undergraduate degrees. These accelerated programs often wrap up in less than four years, as opposed to the usual four-year duration, allowing students to enter the workforce sooner. Earning a degree in a shorter timeframe means most students must work harder and take on more intensive workloads. It’s worth noting that students interested in pursuing an accelerated program should inquire with the university about the availability of such fast-track options.
Requirements for Getting into a UX Design Degree Online Program
Applicants must meet minimum academic and English-level entry requirements to gain admission to a UX design degree. Most colleges require students to have good grades in previous academic studies, high school programs, equivalent degrees, etc. Individuals are eligible to enter into a four-year undergraduate UX design degree if they meet the following standard UX design degree online admission requirements, including:
- Application fee and form
- Official transcripts from a previously attended educational institute
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- A GPA of 2.5 or more may be generally required
- ACT score of 22 or more may be typically required
- Some colleges require an SAT reasoning score of 1120 (generally)
- English language requirements for international students
How to Ensure a UX Design Degree Online Program Is Accredited
Accreditation ensures educational quality and standards, benefiting students by validating the credibility of their chosen institution or program. It assures that the education received meets recognized benchmarks, enhancing employment prospects, credit transferability, and eligibility for financial aid. Ultimately, accreditation safeguards the value and integrity of degrees, fostering trust between students, employers, and educational institutions. The Database of Accredited Postsecondary[1]Institutions and Programs and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation[2] are national-level organizations regulated by the U.S. Department of Education. They are credible sources to verify information about accreditation and accrediting bodies conducting quality checks[4][5].
Most institutions providing bachelor’s in UX design online degrees also have regional accreditation from agencies like:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
To understand the topic, refer to this Guide to College Accreditation.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for UX Design Bachelor’s Students
Free online courses for UX design bachelor’s students are available through various educational online resources. These courses offer valuable insights into UX principles, tools, and techniques, complementing formal education. They provide students with practical skills, exposure to industry trends, and networking opportunities, enriching their learning experience and preparing them for the demands of the field. Some free UX design courses are:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to User Experience Principles and Processes[3] | This free course on UX provides a fundamental understanding of UX research and design. Learners can gain insights into conducting UX research, such as evaluating systems, conducting interviews, and utilizing sketching and prototyping in design concepts. Additionally, the course covers analyzing systems through design principles, offering comprehensive knowledge essential for navigating the UX field. | Coursera |
| UX Design Short Course[4] | This UX Design short course comprises six lessons and an optional test. It is self-paced, so individuals can complete the course whenever they have the time and focus on different topics, including videos, brief exercises, and reading materials. The course is important from a professional point of view as it emphasizes the UX job market and job opportunities. | Careerfoundry |
| Product Design[5] | This free course helps individuals develop and test their product ideas while communicating the ins and outs of the UX field and related services and products in this domain. It includes learning about creating user flows, low-fidelity mockups, understanding metrics for user traffic and engagement, etc. | Udacity |
Ways to Pay for a UX Design Degree Online Program
The expense of pursuing a UX design degree online can be significant, especially in the United States. The overall cost of these programs typically hinges on factors such as tuition fees, whether the program requires a thesis, and potential travel expenses. Consequently, many students may work part-time or full-time to cover their education costs. Here are some financial aid options to consider:
FAFSA
FAFSA, or The Free Application for Student Aid, is an application form that determines a candidate’s federal financial aid eligibility. Read the FAFSA student aid guide to learn more about it.
Federal direct loans
Federal Direct Loans are government-funded loans available to eligible undergraduate and graduate students to help cover the cost of higher education. These loans offer fixed interest rates and flexible repayment options, making them popular among students. They are typically more affordable and have better terms compared to private loans.
Scholarships
Scholarships offer financial assistance to students based on academic achievement, financial need, or other criteria. They help alleviate the burden of tuition fees, making education more accessible and enabling students to pursue their academic goals without excessive financial strain.
Private student loans
Private student loans are financial products private lenders offer to help students cover education costs beyond what federal loans and scholarships may provide. These loans typically require a credit check and may have higher interest rates than federal loans.
Grants
Grants may be awarded to students based on their merit. They will be provided by different governments of federal and state, non-profit institutions, and educational institutions for specific purposes.
To understand How to pay for college, students can also refer to different financial aid that will help fund degrees.
Scholarships for UX Design Degree Online Students
Scholarships provide valuable support for students pursuing a UX design degree. Deserving candidates can apply for scholarships, significantly reducing their expenses. With funding secured, students can focus on their education growth without the burden of financial stress. Here are some examples of UX design bachelor’s degree online scholarships:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adobe Design Circle Scholarships[6] | The Adobe Design Circle Scholarships aim to transform the design industry by promoting diversity and visibility in design careers. Through this scholarshiprecipients pursue interaction design, focusing on UX, UI, or product design. Mentors provide career guidance and networking opportunities, enriching scholars’ educational experiences. | $25,000 | Varies |
| Clubs of America Scholarship Program[7] | This scholarship is open to any college student enrolled in an accredited U.S. school or university. The candidate is expected to have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. To apply, students must write an essay of at least 600 words about their career aspirations. | $1,000 | August 31st of each year |
| Coca-Cola Scholarship[8] | The Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation recognizes high achieving college goers who demonstrate good intellectual rigor and academic excellence combined with service and leadership which extends to their education beyond the regular classrooms and benefitting society. Students must be nominated by their respective colleges to be chosen for this program. | Varies | Varies |
Career Opportunities and Salaries for UX Design Degree Online Students After Graduating
The UX design degree online program equips individuals with the skills needed to excel as experienced UX designers in a rapidly evolving field. Competitive salaries reflect the high demand for these skills, offering graduates promising career opportunities across diverse industries. Some of the most sought-after jobs in the design fields are:
- UX Researcher
- UX Writer
- Information Architect
- UX/UI Designer
- UX Strategist
- Product Designer
Some other roles a student with a UX design degree online can pursue include:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| User Experience Designer[9] | Communication skills, customer service skills, and creativity. | $80,772 | No Data Available | The role of a UX Designer is to enhance the usability, accessibility, and overall enjoyment of a service or product. They assess different versions to determine the most promising option and ensure that the service can be utilized by a wide range of individuals, regardless of abilities or circumstances. |
| Web Developers and Digital Designers[10] | Problem-solving, detail-oriented, customer-service, creativity, and communication skills. | $80,730 | 16% (much faster than average) | Web developers and digital designers create and maintain websites and are entrusted to overlook the site’s technical aspects, like its capacity and performance, measuring the website’s speed and how much traffic the site can gauge. They develop and test the interface layout or website, navigate, and functions for usability. |
| Graphic Designers[11] | Analytical, artistic ability, communication, computer, creativity, and time-management skills. | $57,990 | 3% (as fast as average) | Graphic designers use traditional and digital tools to create visual concepts that effectively communicate messages and captivate audiences. They collaborate with clients to understand project scopes, create original designs, select layouts, and present concepts. With a blend of artistry and technical skills, they craft compelling visuals across various mediums to engage consumers. |
| Special Effects Artists and Animators[12] | Artistic talent, communication skills, creativity, time-management skills, and computer skills. | $98,950 | 8% (faster than average) | Special effects artists and animators craft two- and three-dimensional visuals for various media, including movies, TV, and video games. They collaborate with teams to create graphics and animations using computer programs, meeting project deadlines and incorporating feedback. Their work spans from CGI characters to scenic backgrounds, enhancing storytelling across diverse mediums. |
Certifications and Licensing for UX Design Degree Online Graduates
UX design certification can help individuals learn about the new developments in the field, build in-demand skills, and gain experience. Certifications validate the depth of knowledge and specific skill sets required in UX design. Getting certified is a wise move for students or graduates in UX design, leading to improved career opportunities and potentially higher salaries. Some certifications those individuals pursuing an online degree in UX design can obtain include:
Certified Usability Analyst (CUA) [13]
Through this certification from Human Factors International, individuals can become advanced-level UX professionals. The certification helps individuals understand customer-centered designs and how people experience different designs. It also provides a foundational understanding of human behaviors that can lead to accurate design and service decisions.
The Nielson Norman Group UX Certification offers thorough training in user experience design, usability, and interaction design. Recognized globally, it equips professionals with practical skills and strategies for creating user-friendly designs. Led by industry experts, the program provides valuable insights into user-centered design principles, enhancing participants’ expertise.
In the United States, state governments typically regulate the issuance of professional licenses across various professions. In numerous occupations, individuals are required to obtain professional licensure from their state to practice legally. However, in the field of UX design, professional licensure is generally not a prerequisite for practicing in the field.
Additional Resources for UX Design Degree Online Graduates
Additional resources complement students’ learning by providing supplementary materials, tools, and support beyond the standard curriculum. These resources can include textbooks, online tutorials, workshops, and forums, offering students opportunities to deepen their understanding, explore diverse perspectives, and enhance their skills. Access to such resources enriches the educational experience and fosters academic growth. Some organizations students with bachelor’s degrees in UX design online can explore include:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| User Experience Professionals Association | The User Experience Professionals Association (UXPA) is an international association that establishes professionals in various user experience fields. It provides networking, conferences, classes, and publication opportunities to help students hone their skills and deepen their involvement in the UX communities. |
| Nielsen Norman Group | The Nielsen Normal Group has been in business to improve UX Designs for over 25 years and has evaluated thousands of websites and applications. They provide many free articles, including research findings, UX methods, and guidelines. This organization also frequently conducts UX Conferences and training seminars and provides UX certification. |
| User Experience Society | The User Experience Society cultivates a strong mentorship culture. They educate their members in user experience design and empower them to create a growth mindset. They aim to open up design education to more individuals and teach them the value of different human experiences so that they can become responsible design leaders. |
| Interaction Design Foundation | The Interaction Design Foundation is one of the market leaders in online design education. Its experts create content, specializing in design. The foundation offers many courses covering the entire breadth of UX design, suitable for individuals at various levels, from beginner to advanced. |
FAQs About UX Design Degree Online Programs
Can you get a UX design degree online?
Yes. Many universities and online platforms offer UX design degree programs or certificates. These programs cover topics such as user research, prototyping, usability testing, and interaction design. Online learning allows students to study at their own pace and gain practical skills required for careers in UX design.
How long does it take to get a bachelor’s in UX design degree?
Is an online degree in UX design worth it?
Do I need to be creative to pursue a UX design degree online?
How are online exams conducted for a bachelor’s in UX Design?
How does networking work in an online UX design degree?
What can you do with an online UX design degree?
Citations:
Database of Accredited Postsecondary
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
Introduction to User Experience Principles and Processes- Coursera
UX Design Short Course- Career Foundry
Adobe Design Circle Scholarships
Clubs of America Scholarship Program
Payscale- User Experience Designer
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Web Developers and Digital Designers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Graphic Designers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook for Special Effects Artists and Animators