Best Universities for UI, UX Design in the UK [2024]



UI UX courses in UK offer comprehensive training in user interface and user experience design. These programmes teach students the skills to create intuitive, visually appealing digital products.

The demand for UX designers is on the rise, with LinkedIn ranking UX design as one of the top 5 in-demand skills in 2020. Glassdoor also included it in their list of the top 15 jobs with the highest satisfaction in 2022.

This growth can be attributed to the corporate sector’s increasing awareness of the significance of UX design. Companies are realizing that investing in UX design teams can significantly impact their revenue and overall business objectives. According to CNN Money, the demand for UX designers is projected to increase by 13% from 2017 to 2027.

The starting salaries for graduate junior UX designers range from £19,000 to £25,000. Experienced UX designers can command salaries ranging from £30,000 to £50,000, while senior UX designers and consultants have the potential to earn £40,000 to £65,000 or even more. According to Glassdoor UK, the median salary is £46,382.

UI/UX courses in UK are a gateway to acquiring essential skills in user interface and user experience design, setting the stage for a rewarding career in the ever-expanding digital landscape.


What is UI and UX Design?


UI (User Interface) and UX (User Experience) design are two essential components of creating user-friendly and effective digital products, such as websites, mobile apps, and software interfaces.

UI design primarily focuses on the visual aspects and aesthetics of a digital interface. It involves designing the layout, colours, typography, buttons, icons, and other elements that users interact with. The goal of UI design is to create an appealing, visually cohesive, and intuitive interface that aligns with the brand’s identity while making it easy for users to navigate and interact with the product.

On the other hand, UX design centres on the overall user experience and functionality of the product. It involves understanding user behaviour, conducting research, and creating wireframes and prototypes to ensure that the product is user-centred and meets users’ needs. UX designers aim to optimize the flow and usability of the interface, enhancing the user’s satisfaction and efficiency when using the product.

Typically, UX design precedes UI design in the product development process, with UX designers laying out the fundamental user journey, and UI designers adding the visual and interactive components
UX vs. UI Design: What Sets Them Apart?

Parameter UI UX
Definition Focuses on the visual elements of a digital product. Concentrates on the overall user journey and satisfaction.

 

Objectives UI design strives to create an interface that is visually appealing maintains aesthetic consistency, and enhances the overall look and feel of the product. UX design is dedicated to ensuring users enjoy a seamless, efficient, and satisfying experience by focusing on their needs, behaviour, and usability, ultimately enhancing the overall functionality and ease of use of the product.
Tools Graphic design software (e.g., Adobe XD, Sketch, Figma). Prototyping tools (e.g., Axure, InVision, Balsamiq).
Application This can be used for digital products only. A combination of physical and digital products.

Top colleges to study UI and UX in UK


When it comes to pursuing a career in user interface and user experience design, the United Kingdom is one of the best study-abroad destinations. With many prestigious institutions offering specialized UI/UX courses in  UK, aspiring candidates have access to a world-class education that equips them with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this dynamic field.

Some of the best bachelor’s universities for UX design UK are:

Course University Duration Fee per annum
BSc (Hons) Web and User Experience Design Manchester Metropolitan University 3 years £18,500
User Experience Design BSc Hons University of Portsmouth 3 years £18,800
User Experience Design BSc (Hons) University for the Creative Arts 3 years £17,500
Computer Science (User Experience and Design) BSc (Hons) University of Dundee 4 years £26,600
BSc (Hons) User Experience Design Norwich University of the Arts 3 years £18,000

Let’s explore some of the top colleges and universities that offer the best Masters UX design courses UK, helping you make informed decisions on where to embark on your journey to becoming a skilled UI/UX designer.

College Fees QS World
Rank
Birmingham University £16,870 84
Loughborough University £28,100 212
Goldsmiths University of London £17430 593
Kingston University London £18,500. 601-610
Glasgow Caledonian University £15,500 1001-1200

In addition to the top 5 colleges, the subsequent group of prestigious institutions for UI/UX design in UK includes:

  • University of Brighton
  • University for Creative Arts
  • University of London
  • Regent’s University London
  • Falmouth University

1. Birmingham University


Source: Birmingham University

The MSc User Experience Design programme at Birmingham University offers a comprehensive theoretical understanding and practical experience in designing, developing, and evaluating digital products across various platforms and cutting-edge technologies.
It prioritizes the cultivation of professional technical skills highly sought after in the industry, positioning students effectively for careers within the user experience (UX) field.

Fees

The fee for the MSc User Experience Design course is £16,870 for the one-year course and £18,557 for the 18-month course with Professional Placement.

Eligibility

The entry requirements for this course are as follows:

  • Applicants should hold a first-degree (2:2 or higher) in a field related to User Experience Design, such as Computing, Mathematics, Engineering, Business, Marketing, Psychology, Art and Design, and demonstrate an interest in technological and scientific approaches to User Experience Design.
  • An IELTS score of 6.0, with no band score less than 5.5, is required for non-native English speakers.

Intake Dates

The application dates begin in October and end in August of the next year for UX design courses in UK.

Scholarships

International applicants can apply for the GREAT Scholarships.

Employability

The MSc User Experience Design programme curriculum is influenced by industry experts and empowers students with sought-after proficiencies using industry-standard platforms and technologies.
Strong affiliations with prominent international organizations like BBC, Jaguar Land Rover, GlaxoSmithKline, and more offer project collaborations, enabling graduates to build an impressive portfolio and distinguish themselves as exceptionally employable candidates.

2. Loughborough University


Source: Loughborough University

Loughborough University’s MSc in User Experience Design program integrates empirical data analysis methods with empathy-centered skills crucial to UX Design. The programme’s modules teach students how to prototype digital products, conduct systematic evaluations, and gain insight into core technologies. Graduates acquire the expertise to craft innovative product experiences using emerging technologies.

Fees

The international student fee is £28,100 for UX design courses in UK at this university.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for this User Experience Design in UK course is

  • A 2:1 honours degree or equivalent international qualification in a relevant discipline, such as Art and Design, Computer Science, Media, Psychology, or Business.
  • Meeting the minimum English language requirements is mandatory for all applicants.

Intake Dates

The admissions begin in October and continue till August of the subsequent year. However, these applications are accepted on a rolling basis and high-demand courses may end their deadlines earlier.

Scholarships

International students can apply for the Chevening Scholarship and the Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships.

Employability

Graduates from the programme pursue careers as user experience designers, interaction designers, user researchers, usability specialists, and consultants. Some opt for roles in research, teaching, or furthering their education with PhD studies.
Recent graduates have secured employment at notable organizations such as IBM Design, IBM iX, Samsung, Next, Dyson, Tencent, Huawei, Baidu, and Pivotal Labs.

3. Goldsmiths University of London


Source: Goldsmiths University of London

The MSc User Experience Engineering programme at Goldsmiths University of London offers a comprehensive curriculum that establishes a structured framework for the application of UX skills and knowledge, allowing students ample time for in-depth contemplation of fundamental UX principles.
Graduates emerge with the ability to design and develop computing-based systems and solutions, ensuring they meet users’ functional requirements, and adhere to accessibility and inclusivity standards.

Fees

The international student fee for an MSc User Experience Engineering at this tUX design university UK is £17430

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for this user experience design masters UK course is

  • An undergraduate degree of at least upper second-class standard in computing, psychology, design, or related fields is required, along with an aptitude for interdisciplinary work.
  • Non-native English speakers must have an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, with no component scoring below 6.0, to enrol in the programme.
  • Exceptional practitioners or individuals with significant work experience may be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis.

Intake Dates

Students can submit their applications from October to March of the subsequent year to apply to UX design university UK.

Scholarships

International students can apply for MA/MFA Computational Arts Scholarships, MSc User Experience Engineering European Scholarships or the MSc User Experience Engineering Latin America Scholarships.

Employability

The UX design Masters London programme provides access to a specialized UX lab equipped with tools for user measurement like eye-gaze tracking, muscle movement, and brain activity analysis thus making it one of the best universities for UX Design UK. It offers a vocational focus, allowing students to choose a field study thesis project instead of a traditional academic thesis which makes it easier for future career opportunities.

4. Kingston University London


Source: Kingston University London

Kingston University London’s User Experience Design MSc program was created in collaboration with industry leaders, including Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, DreamWorks, and Samsung Design Europe.
This programme aims to provide students with essential behavioural theory, design skills, and technological expertise, preparing them for careers as interaction designers, usability engineers, user researchers, or heads of user experience.

Fees

The course fee for MSc User Experience Design is £18,500 for an academic year.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for this UI/UX Masters in UK course is:

  • 2:2 or higher honours degree in art and design, computer science, or humanities, or equivalent qualification.

Relevant undergraduate degrees in digital media, graphic design, communication design, interactive media, information technology, psychology, or ethnography are preferred.

Experience in digital media, user interface development, user interaction design, or an application domain (e.g., healthcare, business information, retail) is beneficial. Meeting English language requirements is also essential and students may be asked to submit a portfolio of work.

Intake Dates

The application begins in October and ends by June of the subsequent year.

Scholarships

Students can opt for the Inspire the Future scholarship, the Postgraduate Scholarships for International Students as well as bursaries when applying for a Masters in UX design in UK.

Employability

The UX design university UK programme readies students for roles as usability engineers, user researchers, user experience designers, and UX professionals. Graduates leave with a strong online professional presence and hands-on experience across different projects making it one of the best UI UX design colleges in the real-world.

5. Glasgow Caledonian University


Source: Glasgow Caledonian University

Glasgow Caledonian University’s MSc in User Experience and Interaction Design (UXID) equips students with interdisciplinary expertise to design, develop, and evaluate interactive systems for improved user experiences. It balances industry relevance with academic excellence, preparing students for roles in UX design and interaction development across diverse sectors thus making it one of the best universities for UX Design UK.

Fees

The fee for the MSc User Experience and Interaction Design (MSc UXID) programme is approximately 15,500 GBP

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for this one-year UI/UX Masters in UK course is

  • UK honours degree 2:2 (or equivalent).
  • Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) considerations apply for all students in case they do not meet the minimum eligibility criteria
  • Proof of English language test scores i.e. IELTS, TOEFL, PTE etc. is essential

Intake Dates

The start date for applications is generally in September and ends in June of the subsequent year for a Masters in UX design in UK.

Scholarships

The Postgraduate Ambassador Scholarship is available for international students looking to pursue a Masters in UX design in UK.

Employability

Graduates of the MSc User Experience and Interaction Design (MSc UXID) program will be equipped with an extensive skill set and expertise to pursue various roles in User Experience (UX) design and research methods, as well as positions in Interaction Design development and Usability Specialists.
They will emerge as competitive candidates for these roles across a spectrum of industries, including technology companies, Fintech, the government sector, academia, manufacturing, start-ups, and advertising.

Cost of studying UX and UI Design in UK:


The cost of studying UX and UI design in the UK can on average range from £15,000 to £30,000 or more per year.

According to the British Council, international students arriving in England without dependents should budget approximately £1300-£1400 per month if studying in London or £900-£1300 in other parts of the country. This amount is meant to cover accommodation, utilities, groceries, and various living expenses throughout their course of study.

In November 2022, findings from the National Union of Students (NUS) indicated that a significant majority, specifically 57%, of UK students saw their weekly living expenses increase by more than £20. Furthermore, 25% of students disclosed that they had less than £50 remaining in their monthly budget once rent and bills were settled.

That is why; it is crucial for students to plan their monthly and annual budgets with careful consideration while pursuing Masters in UX/UI design in UK.

UI UX Design Jobs in the UK


After completing your Masters in UX/UI design in UK, there are various specialized roles, each contributing uniquely to crafting exceptional digital products that you can explore. Here are six prominent UX roles that graduates can pursue:

1. UX designers

focus on creating intuitive and user-friendly interfaces by conducting research, wireframing, and prototyping. They ensure that the product aligns with user needs and business goals.

2. Product designers

extend beyond UX to encompass the entire product development process. They collaborate with cross-functional teams, merging UX with product management and development to shape the overall product vision.

3. Visual designers

specialize in the aesthetics of the user interface. They refine the look and feel, incorporating elements like colour schemes, typography, and imagery to create visually appealing and cohesive designs.

4. UX researchers

investigate user behaviour, preferences, and pain points. They use methods such as interviews, surveys, and usability testing to gather insights, guiding design decisions and improvements.

5. Content strategists

focus on creating engaging, relevant, and user-centric content. They ensure that text, images, and multimedia align with the overall user experience and messaging strategy.

6. UX Unicorns

refers to a versatile UX professional proficient in multiple aspects of UX design, such as research, design, and strategy. UX unicorns are adaptable problem-solvers who can tackle various roles within UX, making them valuable assets to any team.

These roles collaborate closely, creating synergy to deliver exceptional user experiences in the digital landscape. Each role brings a unique perspective and set of skills to the table, contributing to the success of user-centred product design.

Frequently asked questions


Can you do a Masters in UX design?

Yes, you can pursue a Master’s degree in UX design in many universities worldwide, including the UK. Students can also explore a UX design online degree to get global exposure or even Masters in UX design in Europe.

How much is a UI UX Masters in the UK?

The cost of a UI/UX Master’s program in the UK can vary widely depending on the university, location, and programme duration. On average, tuition fees for international students can range from £15,000 to £30,000 or more per year. Scholarships and financial aid options may also be available.

How do I get into UX design UK?

To enter the field of UX design in the UK, you typically need a relevant bachelor’s degree in fields like design, psychology, computer science, or related disciplines. Many professionals also transition into UX design through boot camps, online courses, or by building a portfolio of personal projects. Networking and gaining practical experience through internships or freelance work can be beneficial.

How many years does it take to study UX design in the UK?

A Bachelor’s UX programme in the UK takes 3 to 4 years whereas a master’s programme in UX design in the UK usually takes one year for full-time students on-campus and 2 years for part-time students.

What degrees are best for UX design?

Degrees in fields such as Interaction Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Computer Science, Psychology, Graphic Design, and Industrial Design are often considered suitable backgrounds for a career in UX design. However, UX design is an interdisciplinary field, and individuals from various educational backgrounds can excel in it with the right training and experience.
Yes, studying UX design in the UK can lead to various job opportunities in the field. Graduates can pursue roles such as UX designers, interaction designers, user researchers, usability specialists, and consultants. The job market for UX professionals in the UK is competitive but growing, with demand for skilled UX designers in various industries. Building a strong portfolio and gaining practical experience can increase your job prospects.

How to apply to UK universities with TC Global?


TC Global enables students to get to the university of their choice, streamlining the application process for UI/UX courses in UK and providing expert guidance to help you secure admission to your desired UK universities.

Here’s how TC Global can help you:

1. Search and Discovery:

If you are wondering ‘can you do Masters in UX Design?’ then reach out to TC Global to express your interest and discuss your study plans for pursuing UI/UX courses in UK. We will assign a dedicated advisor who will guide you through the application process. Our advisors can provide guidance on suitable options based on your preferences and qualifications, ensuring you make informed choices about UX design courses in UK.

2. Document Preparation:

Documents like transcripts, English language test scores (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL), letters of recommendation, and well-crafted personal statements are important for your UX design master’s degree online application. TC Global can assist in ensuring your application materials meet the university’s requirements.

4. Application Submission:

Your TC Global advisor will help you complete and submit your UX design master’s degree online applications to the chosen UK universities, ensuring accuracy and compliance with deadlines.

5. Visa Assistance:

Once you receive an offer of admission for r UI/UX courses in UK, TC Global can assist you in the visa application process, helping you prepare and submit the required documents. We can also provide guidance on accommodation, travel arrangements, and other pre-departure necessities


Date added
05.10.2023

Filed under:

Global Ed

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