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This diploma program is no longer accepting new applications.

User experience (UX) design provides a structured process of inquiry, research, development, and ongoing review of site environments, app tools, and other types of virtual experiences and products. UX designers occupy the critical nexus between user needs, business goals, and brand identity. The strategic creation of user experiences that are responsive to user needs is crucial to the long-term success of any enterprise. UX professionals engage in various work activities, including designing prototypes, conducting research, and organizing information. People who hire for UX positions look for lifelong learners who are adaptable and excellent at communication. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, two of the top seven in-demand careers are UX designer and mobile designer, with an average salary of $90,000 and a job growth rate of 30 percent.

As a participant in the Diploma in User Experience Design, you will establish a conceptual framework for this process by reviewing select case studies and by exploring the key tools and resources used to gather information, including interviews, personas, online tools, site surveys, and analytics. Instructors will set parameters and assist you with the iteration of a concept through sketching, prototypes, wireframing, and visual design.

Work Product

As a diploma student, you will develop product designs for multiple platforms and for various market sectors. You will create individual products, as well as respond to assigned business cases. Your expanding familiarity with the UX design process flow will produce a wide range of artifacts that advance your skills and create increasingly compelling case studies. Your product deliverables will include business case proposals, user personas, mental models, user stories, sitemaps, wireframes, screen comps, and static and interactive prototypes.

Job Skills

• The ability to engage in the UX design process for product development

• The skills to design, conduct, and summarize findings from user research (e.g., surveys and interviews)

• The ability to develop user personas to test product design hypotheses

• The tools to create information architecture (site/app maps)

• The ability to create and refine UI screen design via wireframes and comps

• The knowledge to develop and present UX-based product design business cases

Schedule and Format

• Part-time

• Classroom-based

• Four noncredit courses

• On average, students take one course per semester, fall/spring/summer

• The Diploma must be completed within two years

The Diploma is awarded to students who successfully complete the four required courses within two years.

For additional information, or if you have any questions, please contact the Division of Programs in Business at diploma.dpb@nyu.edu.