Loughborough University

What you'll study

The programme combines practical studio work, applied research methods and project-based learning to build a rounded understanding of user experience (UX) design. Core teaching covers user-centred design processes, interaction design, prototyping and evaluation, accessibility and inclusive design, and service and product design. You will work with a mix of qualitative and quantitative research methods, learning to plan and run usability studies, interviews, observation, surveys and remote testing.

Typical module themes include:

• UX research methods – foundations of human-centred research, ethics, participant recruitment and data analysis.
• Interaction and interface design – principles of interaction, information architecture, wireframing and visual design for digital products.
• Prototyping and fabrication – rapid prototyping (paper, digital and hardware), interactive prototyping tools and basic physical prototyping techniques.
• Evaluation and usability testing – lab and field-based evaluation methods, accessibility testing and metrics for user experience.
• Service and systems design – designing cross-channel experiences, stakeholder mapping and service blueprints.
• Data and visualisation for UX – using analytics and qualitative data to inform design decisions and storytelling with data.
• Major project or dissertation – an independent, substantial piece of applied research or design work, often conducted in collaboration with industry or cross-disciplinary teams.

Learning is delivered through lectures, hands-on studio sessions, group projects, client briefs and a supervised research project. Assessment methods typically include portfolios, design artefacts, written reports, presentations and the project dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a good undergraduate degree (equivalent to a UK 2:1) in design, computer science, engineering, psychology, human factors, or a closely related discipline. Applicants with a lower class of degree and substantial relevant professional experience may be considered. A portfolio demonstrating design work, problem solving, research capability or relevant projects is usually required for selection.

International applicants must meet English language requirements; accepted qualifications and minimum scores follow the university’s standard postgraduate guidance. You may also be asked to provide references and a personal statement outlining your motivation and relevant experience.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to roles across the digital, product and service sectors. Common career destinations include:

• UX / user experience designer
• UX researcher or usability specialist
• Interaction designer or information architect
• Service designer and product designer
• Accessibility consultant and inclusive design specialist
• Product manager or design lead in cross-disciplinary teams
• Design researcher or PhD study in human-computer interaction and related areas

Students benefit from strong employer demand for UX skills, and the programme emphasis on portfolio-ready outputs and client-facing projects supports transition into industry or further research roles.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough provides a practical, interdisciplinary environment well suited to applied UX education, combining strengths in design, engineering and human factors. Teaching is informed by applied research and close links with industry, enabling opportunities for live projects and collaboration with external partners.

The university offers specialist facilities and support that aid UX learning, including prototyping and maker spaces, usability and lab spaces for user testing, and computing resources. Students also benefit from a dedicated careers service and networks with employers in product design, digital agencies and tech companies, helping to secure placements, internships and graduate roles.