Academic Programs Catalog

College of Communication Arts and Sciences

Department of Media and Information

Graduate Study
User Experience - Master of Science

The Master of Science degree in User Experience program will prepare students for many kinds of careers in human-computer interaction, user experience design, and human-centered research. The online Master of Science in User Experience program is designed to accelerate career prospects of early and mid-career professionals for leadership roles within information technology environments. The program will provide advanced user experience design training that integrates foundational human-computer interaction (HCI) knowledge with industry-relevant methods and social responsibility, which are necessary in the dynamic, agile IT development environment of the 21st century global workplace. 

Admission

Applications for admission to the program are reviewed by faculty who look for indications of a high probability of success. Such indications include a high level of academic performance, experience with educational technology, and consistency of professional goals with the objectives of the program.

To be considered for admission to the program, an applicant must:

  1. Have earned a bachelor’s degree from a recognized, accredited educational institution.
  2. Present evidence of competency in English, assessed with TOEFL, IELTS, or MELAB scores, if English is not the first language.
  3. Submit a letter of recommendation.
  4. Submit official transcripts.
  5. Submit a resume/CV and portfolio (optional).
  6. Submit a 1-2 page statement describing the applicant’s background and interest in the program.
  7. Submit both departmental and university application forms.
Requirements for the Master of Science Degree in User Experience

The program is available only online and under Plan B (without thesis). The student must complete a total of 30 credits for the degree.
1. The following course (3 credits):
UX 800 User Research and Design 3
2. Complete 24 credits from the following:
UX  802 Current Topics in UX 3
UX  805 Quantitative Analysis and Insights in UX 3
UX  810 Social Science for Design 3
UX  815 Programming Fundamentals for UX 3
UX  820 Usability Evaluation 3
UX  825 Visual Design Fundamentals 3
UX  830 Design for Interactivity 3
UX  835 Accessibility and Design 3
UX  840 UX and Society 3
3. The following capstone/practicum course (3 credits):
UX  898 UX Capstone 3
4. Completion of a final examination or evaluation.