How does one actually become a user experience designer? These bachelor's and master's degree programs in Germany provide a good foundation.
One thing first: Of course, you don't have to study user experience design directly to work as a UX designer later on. Many (media) computer scientists, psychologists, sociologists and even some career changers work in this field. But if you want to specialize early on, you should take a look at this list:
Bachelor
| University Würzburg | Mensch-Computer-Systeme |
| University Duisburg-Essen | Angewandte Kognitions- und Medienwissenschaft |
| University Hamburg | Mensch-Computer-Interaktion |
| Technical University Ingolstadt | User Experience Design |
| University Aalen | User Experience |
| University of Applied Science Potsdam | Interface Design |
| University Ruhr West | Mensch-Technik-Interaktion |
Master
| University Würzburg | Human-Computer Interaction |
| University Siegen | Human-Computer Interaction |
| University Munich | Mensch-Computer-Interaktion |
| Technical University Berlin | Human Factors |
| University of Applied Science Rhein-Waal | Usability Engineering |
| Rhenish University of Applied Science Cologne | User Experience Design |
| Technical University Ingolstadt | User Experience Design |
| University Reutlingen | Human-Centered Computing |
| Bauhaus-University Weimar | Human-Computer Interaction |
| University Duisburg-Essen | Angewandte Kognitions- und Medienwissenschaft |
| University Magdeburg-Stendal | Interaction Design |
| University of Applied Science Joanneum | Interaction Design |
| FH Graubünden (Schweiz) | User Experience Design |
Study Choice
Which interests should I have to study UX Design?
This question basically deserves its own article, but the short answer is probably this: A degree with a focus on UX design is usually interdisciplinary, meaning that several disciplines are involved. Often it is psychology (incl. statistics), computer science and design, but also ergonomics and business administration. Accordingly, the content of such a degree is diverse and a general interest in these areas is a good prerequisite. You should also not be afraid of numbers, as programming and statistics are often compulsory subjects - however, you don't have to be a math genius either, as most (if not all) of it can be learned. Since the focus of each course is somewhat different, you can also choose according to your own interests and abilities. Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)
Why are the titles of the programs all different?
This has probably grown historically at universities and universities of applied sciences, depending on which departments are involved. However, common terms are Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Interaction Design, Human Factors and User Experience Design. The designation thus also gives a first indication of the specialist orientation. While degree programs with the name Human-Computer Interaction often have a greater computer science focus (such as at LMU), the designation "Interaction or Interface Design" rather indicates a degree program with a focus on design. Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)
What should you look for when choosing a program?
Even if you know what major you want to study, there's still the question of which major is actually right for you. Here are a few guiding questions that can help you choose a course of study:
- What is the focus of the program and what is the percentage distribution (e.g. 30% design, 30% psychology and 40% computer science)?
- Which departments are involved in the program (e.g. design and computer science or also psychology and industrial science)?
- Do the subjects in the module handbook sound interesting to me?
- Which school of thought does the course represent (e.g., more qualitative or quantitative research)?
- Would I rather study at a technical college or a university?
- Am I interested in the research topics of the participating chairs?
- Which advanced specializations are possible?
- Which requirements do I have to fulfill?
- Which possibilities exist for a semester abroad?
- What is the practical relevance of the course? Are practical semesters and projects planned?
- Which Master fits to my Bachelor? (Not all degree programs in the list above are compatible with each other)
- Which master's degree complements my bachelor's degree in terms of content? Can I still learn something new here?
If you are still unsure, it always makes sense to contact the student advisory service of the respective university, to sit in on a lecture on a trial basis, or to make direct contact with (former) students.
The annual CHE ranking can also provide additional guidance: Here is the current (German) ranking. A little tip: Enter Human-Computer Interaction in the search bar and you will find the results in the lower area under "other courses of study".
Do I necessary have to study to become UX Designer?
A degree is not absolutely necessary. A good start is, for example, an apprenticeship as a media designer or a further training program to become a UX designer. However, a degree course provides excellent basic knowledge in various areas (e.g. programming, methodology and psychology) and also paves the way for an academic career.
I hope that I could help with the question of finding the right study program. If you have any questions you can write me at christiane@lovely-ux.de.
