| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-04-01 | - |
| 2024-07-01 | - |
| 2024-09-15 | - |
| 2024-11-15 | - |
Program Overview
The Master of Science in User Experience program equips students with the knowledge and skills to become UX professionals. The program covers various aspects of UX, including research, design, content development, communication, and evaluation. Graduates are prepared for careers in UX-related fields such as UX research, design, and strategy. The program is offered on campus and online and is approved for STEM-OPT extension for international students.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Description:
The Master of Science in User Experience (MS UX) program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become user experience professionals. The program covers various aspects of UX, including research, design, content development, communication, and evaluation. Students learn how to understand user needs, design and develop user-centered products and services, conduct usability testing, and refine their designs through various user-centered evaluation methods.
Objectives:
- Prepare students to be leaders in the UX field.
- Develop students' skills in research, design, communication, and evaluation.
- Enable students to effectively lead teams and collaborate with clients and technical personnel.
- Prepare graduates for careers in various UX-related fields.
Key Features:
- Focus on user-centered design principles.
- Application of user research methods to uncover usability challenges.
- Evaluation of designs and contexts of use to identify problems and improve user experience.
Outline:
Required Core Courses (15 credit hours):
- GIT 540 Cross-media Design Solutions (3 credits)
- HSE 542 Foundations of Human Systems Engineering (3 credits)
- TWC 501 Fundamentals of Technical Communication (3 credits)
- Two courses from the following:
- GIT 542 Usability and User Experience (3 credits)
- HSE 521 Methods and Tools in Human Systems Engineering (3 credits)
- TWC 544 User Experience (3 credits)
Electives or Research (15 credit hours):
- Students choose 15 credit hours of electives or research courses.
- The electives and research options are approved by the academic units.
Culminating Experience (0 credit hours):
- Students complete a portfolio showcasing their UX skills and knowledge.
Overall Program Structure:
- The program consists of 30 credit hours of coursework and a portfolio.
- Students can choose to complete the program on campus or online.
- The program offers multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Coursework assignments
- Exams
- Projects
- Ability to conduct user research and analyze data.
- Design and development of user-centered products and services.
- Effective communication and collaboration skills.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Case studies
- Hands-on projects
- Guest speakers
Faculty:
- The program features experienced faculty with expertise in UX research, design, and evaluation.
Unique Approaches:
- The program emphasizes a user-centered design approach.
- Students have the opportunity to work on real-world projects.
- The program offers a flexible online learning option.
Careers:
Career Opportunities:
- UX Researcher
- UX Designer
- Interaction Designer
- Human Factors Specialist
- Usability Tester
- User Experience Strategist
- Content Strategist
- Technical Writer
Career Outcomes:
- Graduates of the program are prepared for various UX-related careers.
- The program helps graduates develop the skills and knowledge needed to be successful in the field.
Other:
- The program is approved for STEM-OPT extension for international students on F-1 visas.
- The program is offered by the College of Integrative Sciences and Arts and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.
- The program is available on campus and online.
- The program is designed for students with a bachelor's degree in related fields.
Arizona State University: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Arizona State University (ASU) is a top-ranked research university located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is known for its innovative approach to education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. ASU is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity, serving learners at all stages of life and fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
Services Offered:
ASU provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Tutoring, advising, and academic success resources.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, financial aid programs, and tuition assistance.Student Life:
Housing and dining, clubs and activities, health and wellness services, and transportation.Career Services:
Job and career resources, internship opportunities, and career counseling.Student Life and Campus Experience:
ASU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, fostering personal growth and development. The university's diverse student body creates a rich cultural environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Ranked Programs:
ASU boasts numerous top-ranked programs, including 82 programs ranked in the top 25 nationally, with 37 in the top 10.Innovative Learning Environment:
ASU embraces a flexible and personalized approach to learning, allowing students to customize their academic journey.World-Class Faculty:
Students benefit from instruction led by renowned professors and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.Global Impact:
ASU is consistently ranked among the top universities for global impact, demonstrating its commitment to addressing global challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
ASU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing students from all backgrounds and promoting a sense of belonging.Academic Programs:
ASU offers over 800 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, including:
Undergraduate:
More than 400 undergraduate degrees in fields such as engineering, journalism, business, sustainability, nursing, education, and more.Graduate:
Over 450 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs.Other:
ASU is known for its commitment to research and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges. The university is also a leader in sustainability, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice.
Academic Qualifications:
- Bachelor's Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent in a related field such as psychology, graphic information technology, graphic design, human systems engineering, business, cognitive science, design, or technical communication. The degree must be from a regionally accredited institution.
- GPA: Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A"). This GPA can be calculated from one of the following sources:
- The first bachelor's degree program.
- The last 60 hours of the first bachelor's degree program.
- Nine semester hours of graduate coursework from a U.S. institution.
- An applicable conferred master's degree program from a regionally accredited college or university.
Additional Application Materials:
- **Graduate admission application and application fee.
- Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
- Personal statement: Describing the applicant's academic and professional goals, as well as their interest in user experience.
- Professional resume: Highlighting the applicant's relevant experience and skills.
- Writing sample: Demonstrating the applicant's ability to communicate effectively in writing.
- Two letters of recommendation: From individuals who can speak to the applicant's academic and professional qualifications.
International Applicants:
- Proof of English Proficiency: All applicants whose native language is not English must submit proof of English proficiency, regardless of their current residency. This can be done by providing official scores from one of the following exams:
- TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) with a minimum score of 80.
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System) with a minimum score of 6.5.
- PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic) with a minimum score of 54.
Additional Considerations for Applicants:
- The application may still be considered even if the minimum GPA requirements are not met. In such cases, demonstrated aptitude through professional experience or additional postbaccalaureate education will be taken into account. This could include completion of a reputable certification program in user experience or user interface.
- Applicants are encouraged to include a copy of their completed certification with their resume if they have completed such a program.
Language Proficiency Requirements
International applicants whose native language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency by providing official scores from one of the following exams:
- **TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) with a minimum score of 80.
- **IELTS (International English Language Testing System) with a minimum score of 6.5.
- **PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic) with a minimum score of 54.
