Copyright cleveland.com
KENT, Ohio – Kent State University has added a bachelor’s degree in user experience design to help train graduates for the fast-growing job field. User experience design focuses on creating products, websites and apps that are easy and enjoyable to use through branding, design, usability and function, according to the Interaction Design Foundation. Jobs in user experience design are expected to grow by 7% from 2024 to 2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which reports that the median annual salary in the field is $98,000. Kent State also offers minor and master’s degree programs in the field. The new bachelor’s degree option has been in the works for three years, according to the university. The Bachelor of Science degree in User Experience Design will help students learn to design products, systems and services that focus on people and create a positive impact. The coursework emphasizes user experience and user interface processes, user research, sketching, wireframing, prototyping, scenario building and front-end development, according to the program website. Students in the program will gain experience blending digital and physical environments and learn to design user interfaces, interactive experiences, design applications and tools, motion sequences, videos, screen displays and interactive experiences. Program goals include defining design problems and researching and prototyping solutions. The new program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, according to the university.
