Summary
- A master’s in UI/UX Design in the USA is at the heart of the academic domain that leads to this economic trend.
- Now that we know the eligibility criteria let us look into top universities in the USA that are offering Masters in UI/UX design courses in the USA.
- Within the USA, you get to learn under the guidance of top coaches, and using advanced technologies, you learn how to prepare well in a global arena with multiple networking opportunities and internships at top-notch tech companies such as Google, Apple, Amazon, etc.
Masters in UI/UX Design USA: Benefits, Curriculum, and Career Prospects
UI/UX (User Interface and User Experience) Design is one of the most rapidly expanding sectors of technology. Digital design jobs will grow by 23% through 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the USA Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Businesses are also investing big in user-centric designs. 88% of users are less likely to return to a site after a bad experience.
This trend is fueling the need for talented individuals able to create smooth, intuitive digital products. A master’s in UI/UX Design in the USA is at the heart of the academic domain that leads to this economic trend. Top design programs, advanced research, and booming technology hubs like Silicon Valley all thrive in the USA.
Within the USA, you get to learn under the guidance of top coaches, and using advanced technologies, you learn how to prepare well in a global arena with multiple networking opportunities and internships at top-notch tech companies such as Google, Apple, Amazon, etc., in the USA.
In this guide, we will walk you through the best reasons why the USA can be a top choice for your UI/UX course in 2025. Let’s keep reading to find out.
Why go for a Master’s in UI/UX Design in the USA?
Over 50 of the top 100 universities in the world are located in the USA (QS World Rankings). Carnegie Mellon University, MIT, and Stanford University — many of these institutions have cutting-edge UI/UX programs.
These programs focus on practical learning taught with the latest set of design tools, including Figma, Sketch, and Adobe XD, and real-life industry-driven projects to train students to take on real-world challenges.
Many Design degrees in the United States, for example, UI/UX degrees, fall under STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degrees, giving International Students even 3 years for Optional Practical Training (OPT).
Home to more than 40% of the global technology market share, the USA presents unparalleled exposure to an active tech ecosystem. As a student in the USA, one has access to internships, networks, and recruitment pipelines to some of the largest companies.
For example:
- California alone has more than 700,000 tech workers, which include UI/UX generalists.
- According to Glassdoor, UI/UX designers make an average base salary of $77,200 per year in the USA, while the best-paid professionals earn above $120,000.
There are over 100,000 open job opportunities for UX/UI every year, and the demand for qualified professionals is growing, making the USA an ideal place for those pursuing a thriving career in UI/UX Design.
The structure of UI/UX programs in the USA is highly interdisciplinary, blending various fields such as:
- Design thinking, to tackle complex problems creatively.
- Psychology, to understand and predict user behavior.
- Computer science, to equip students with the skills needed to implement innovative designs effectively.
This comprehensive education prepares students for diverse roles in the field, including UX research, interaction design, and product development. For instance, programs like the Human-Computer Interaction Institute at Carnegie Mellon University integrate cognitive psychology and AI, giving graduates a competitive edge.
Eligibility criteria to study Masters in UI/UX design in the USA
Many universities offering master’s degree programs in UI/UX design in the USA have set a few conditions for enrolling students. These conditions are
- You must have a bachelor’s degree, most preferably in computer science or any other design like a Bachelor of Arts or related fields.
- You must have relevant work experience in design (if any).
- You must demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL (80+) or IELTS (6.5+).
- A strong and effective portfolio showcasing creativity, technical skills, and user-centric projects. This requirement is mandatory.
- Some universities may require GRE scores, though this is becoming less common, and many universities have prioritized a well-laid portfolio over GRE scores for this course.
Now that we know the eligibility criteria let us look into top universities in the USA that are offering Masters in UI/UX design courses in the USA.
Top universities in the USA
Here are the top universities that are offering MS in UI/US design in the USA. They are listed below with the necessary details:
1. University of Washington (UW)
The University of Washington stands out with its certification course in UX and Visual Interface Design course. Located in Seattle, it is near major global tech hubs like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google.
The program is online, offering flexibility to students to study this program from anywhere around the world. The course is designed for professionals with little to mid-level experience in graphic design, front-end development, digital marketing, or content strategy who want to get started in UX design.
The university also offers other courses, such as an MS in Library and Information Science and a Master of Science in Human-Centered Design & Engineering (HCDE), that cover major aspects like research management in design and design concepts. You can learn UI/UX design within this program as well.
Some of the top job titles students hold after pursuing an MS in Human Centered Design and Engineering are UX Designer, Product Designer, Designer, Product Designer (Internet & Software), Product Manager, Associate Designer, User Experience, and Associate Product Manager.
2. Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)
Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) has a reputable program called Human-Computer Interaction (MHCI program. A pioneer in the UI/UX space, CMU uses service design, user research, and innovative technology to prepare students for UI/UX leadership positions.
The program consists of three semesters, which can be completed over a full calendar year, from August to next August. However, the university also offers a flagship course, which is a seven-month capstone course. Within this capstone project, the research and design team will do a project with an external industry client.
The curriculum is project-driven, with real-world capstone projects sponsored by companies like Facebook, Apple, and IBM. The university’s rigorous approach ensures graduates are equipped with both technical and strategic skills, making them highly competitive in the job market.
3. Stanford University
Stanford University offers an MS In Design Impact, which is a design-thinking-based, user-centered program. Students have the option to select different areas of focus based on personal interest, which is the design focus area and method focus area.
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, the technology capital of the world, Stanford offers extensive networking and access to various industries for students. The curriculum covers major areas like Project-Based Design Work, Human Factors, Design Ethics, Leadership and Visualization.
The major focus within method designing is Physical Form in Manufacturing, Emerging Technologies in Digital User Experience, and Human Behavior in Multi-stakeholder Research.
The course focuses on real-life problems, including sustainability and social equality, by way of design. As close colleagues to companies such as Tesla, Google, and Adobe, Stanford alumni are highly qualified to pursue impactful roles in UI/UX.
4. University of Michigan
The University of Michigan offers a Masters program in Information Science with a specialization in Human-Computer Interaction and data analytics. It is offered as part of Information Science studies. For regular students, it is a two-year-long program, while for full-time working professionals, part-time study is also offered.
With its focus on a combination of information science and UX design, students pursuing this program can tackle complex user experience challenges. With its usability labs and data-driven curriculum, students are given access to user testing and proven design methods. Tech giants from Amazon to General Motors to LinkedIn have also eagerly recruited the school’s graduates, given the university’s strong connection to industry.
5. Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
Georgia Tech, also known as Georgia Institute of Technology, MS in Human-Computer Interaction. This course provides students flexibility in terms of specialization, including Interactive Computing, Digital Media, Psychology, and Industrial Design. The duration of the program is 4 semesters, a two years full-time course.
The program emphasizes a human-centred design approach by integrating cognitive science and emerging technologies into its curriculum.
Based in Atlanta, a thriving technology center has a lively and global ecosystem for internships and career advancement, and its alumni have withered away in positions at, for example, IBM, Delta, and HP.
6. University of Maryland, College Park
The University of Maryland, College Park offers an MS in Human-Computer Interaction program with a specialized course offered.
The curriculum is organized to emphasize interdisciplinary research and translational application in which they can develop, test, and apply new techniques and technologies.
The course of the program is 2 years, comprising 4 semesters. The university has new-generation labs where students can use the most up-to-date practical knowledge and practical learning experience and collaborate with local industries in project aspects.
The university houses many facilities and offers multiple networking opportunities where students can get internships at multiple esteemed corporations such as Lockheed Martin.
Students of this course are likely to work in all areas of UX research and usability engineering within different companies.
7. San Jose State University
San Jose State University, situated right in the midst of Silicon Valley, provides an MS in Design with a specialization in Experience Design. This program concerns itself with the creation of intuitive systems and interfaces and, hence, is well suited for undergraduate students wishing to gain expertise and advantage in the field of UX.
The program is two two-years, spearheaded by 4 semesters, after this program. Students can get positions in multiple top-notch companies like leading tech companies.
San Jose State provides a gateway to lucrative opportunities in the Bay Area. Graduates frequently find roles at companies like Google, Oracle, and Cisco.
8. Academy of Art University
The Academy of Art University offers courses on MFA in Interaction & UI/UX Design. The course blends creativity with technology. The program is for three years, and it includes a final thesis project by the end of the program.
The program focuses on art historical awareness, cross-cultural understanding, and professional practices and communication, which makes graduates ready for multiple top-notch roles in design-focus companies.
The university offers flexible learning options, which include both offline and online classes. This makes the program accessible to a global audience. Alumni of this program often work at innovative companies like Airbnb, Pixar, and Adobe.
9. Arizona State University (ASU)
Arizona State University (ASU) provides an MS in User Experience, which is a well-known program. This program is a fine collaboration between three programs: human systems engineering (human-centred research), graphic information technology (user-centred design), and technical writing and communication (audience-centred information delivery).
This program focuses on usability, user research, and interaction design. With its affordable tuition and collaboration with Phoenix’s growing tech industry, ASU is a popular choice for students seeking a strong ROI.
The program is particularly known for its integration of design principles and user-centric research, preparing graduates for roles at companies like Intel, Honeywell, and PayPal.
10. Purdue University
Purdue University offers an MS in Computer Graphics Technology with a focus on UX Design. The program emphasizes the technical and visual aspects of UI/UX, including interface development and AR/VR applications.
Students benefit from research assistantships and collaborations with industry partners, gaining practical experience that sets them apart in the job market. Alumni have gone on to work at companies like Salesforce, Apple, and Epic Games.
Note: You’ve just seen some of the top universities offering world-class MS programs in UI/UX design. However, deciding where to apply isn’t as simple as picking a name off this list. While reputation matters, what’s truly important is finding a university that’s the best fit for you—academically, financially, and career-wise.
For example:
- Some universities may offer lower tuition fees while still providing top-tier education.
- Others might have better placement records or stronger industry ties in your chosen field.
- Location preferences, ROI, and alumni networks also play a huge role in your decision.
This is where GradRight’s university-search platform comes in. Instead of relying on generic rankings, GradRight helps you create a personalized shortlist of universities that align with your goals.
Here’s how it works:
- Create an account and complete your profile.
- Input your preferences, like budget, desired industry, and career aspirations.
- Let GradRight’s AI algorithm analyze over 8 million data points across 40,000+ programs in 4,000+ universities globally.
- Compare universities on advanced factors like ROI, placement records, and program-specific insights.
- Consult with a GradRight expert to resolve doubts and fine-tune your application strategy.
With this tailored approach, you’ll be confident in choosing the right university for your future.
Sign up with GradRight today to make the smartest choice for your MS in UI/UX design.
Now that you know how to find the right university, let’s explore the opportunities waiting for you after a Master’s in UI/UX Design.
Opportunities after Master’s in UX/UI Design
As we have seen the top universities that offer UI/UX design programs in the USA, it’s equally important to understand how these programs are picking up popularity among young professionals.
Having observed the leading universities offering a UI/UX design program in the US, it is also a good idea to discuss the growing popularity of these programs among recent graduates of business.
These universities in the USA not only offer top-tier programs but also strong connections to the tech industry, exceptional facilities, and a focus on innovation.
Whether you’re interested in design thinking, technical UX, or user research, these institutions provide the ideal environment to launch a successful career in UI/UX Design.
UI/UX professionals can start earning an average starting salary of $75,000–$120,000 per year in multiple industries across tech, finance, healthcare, gaming, education, and e-commerce industries. Some of the popular career roles the graduates can pursue after graduation are UX Designer, UI Designer, Product Designer, Interaction Designer, Usability Analyst, and User Researcher.
Also, the startup ecosystem in the USA is booming, which means there is ample scope for innovative design-oriented ventures and opening opportunities for multiple graduates.
This is the best part, as it helps students from any background who can study this course and build successful careers.
Note: You’ve seen how UI/UX design programs in the USA open up incredible career opportunities with impressive starting salaries ranging from $75,000 to $120,000 per year.
However, pursuing these programs at top universities comes with a hefty price tag. For many students, the cost of tuition, living expenses, and other fees can feel overwhelming.
This is where GradRight’s loan-search platform steps in to make your journey smoother.
For most students, securing the right education loan is critical to bridging the financial gap. But comparing loans manually or negotiating with multiple lenders can be exhausting and time-consuming. GradRight’s loan-search platform eliminates these hassles with its AI-powered, student-centric loan platform.
Here’s how it works:
- Create a single application: Share your academic and financial details just once.
- Get bids from 15+ lenders: Top Indian and international banks, as well as NBFCs, compete to offer you the best terms.
- No paperwork or bank visits: The entire process is online and hassle-free.
- Expert guidance at every step: GradRight’s loan-search platform advisors help you customize your loan offer and answer any questions.
- Take your pick in just 10 days: Compare offers and choose the one that works best for you.
By saving you both time and money, GradRight’s loan-search platform ensures you can focus on what matters most—your education and career.
Explore GradRight’s loan-search platform today to make studying at a top UI/UX program affordable and stress-free.
Now that you know how to secure funding for your studies, let’s address some common questions students have about pursuing a Master’s in UI/UX Design.
FAQs
1. Is it worth doing a Master’s in UI/UX Design?
Yes, a master’s degree in UI/UX Design is valuable, as it provides high-level skills, career advancement possibilities, and higher career earnings prospects for core design and tech companies.
2. Is there any Master’s degree in UI/UX design?
Yes, there are several universities in the USA that provide master’s programs with specializations in Human-Computer Interaction or psychological Design.
3. Which university is best for UX design in the USA?
Among the universities that have UX design courses, the following are the leading ones, Carnegie Mellon University, MIT, Stanford University, Pratt Institute, and Parsons School of Design.
4. Is UI UX in demand in the USA?
Yes, UI/UX specialists are in need as organizations focus on user experience to improve digital interactions and customer experience.
