Loughborough University

What you'll study

This master's focuses on the theory and practice of user experience design across digital and service contexts. Core study areas include user research and ethnographic methods, interaction and interface design, prototyping and iterative development, usability testing and evaluation, accessibility and inclusive design, and service design thinking. Teaching combines lectures, studio workshops, hands-on labs and group projects. Assessment is typically by design portfolios, project reports, presentations and a major individual or team project that culminates in a practical deliverable and reflective dissertation.

• User research methods: qualitative and quantitative techniques, interviews, contextual inquiry, persona and journey mapping.
• Interaction and interface design: information architecture, wireframing, visual design principles and responsive interfaces.
• Prototyping and evaluation: low- and high-fidelity prototyping, lab- and field-based usability testing, eye-tracking and analytics-informed evaluation where available.
• Inclusive and accessible design: accessibility standards, designing for diverse user needs and assistive technologies.
• Service and systems thinking: designing user journeys across multi-channel services and understanding organisational contexts.
• Professional practice and project management: stakeholder engagement, ethics, running design sprints and commercial considerations.

Structure

The programme mixes taught modules with practical studio work and a substantial independent or industry-linked project. Students typically progress from foundational methods and skills through applied group work to an individual dissertation or capstone project, allowing development of a professional portfolio.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a good undergraduate degree in design, human–computer interaction, psychology, computer science or a related subject. Candidates with substantial relevant professional experience may also be considered. You should demonstrate a commitment to user-centred design and basic practical skills in digital design or prototyping. International applicants are required to meet the University's English language requirements.

Typical supporting materials include an academic transcript, a CV, references and a portfolio or examples of relevant work where requested. The selection process may consider professional experience and motivation alongside academic qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to roles across product, service and digital sectors. Typical job titles include UX designer, interaction designer, UX researcher, UI designer, product designer, service designer, usability analyst, accessibility specialist and UX consultant. The course also provides a foundation for careers in product management, digital strategy and further research degrees. Loughborough alumni find roles in agencies, start-ups, large technology companies, public sector organisations and research institutions.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough is known for a practical, industry-engaged approach to taught programmes and for strong links between teaching and applied research. The Design School offers studio-based teaching and access to facilities for prototyping, user testing and digital fabrication, supported by academic staff with expertise in interaction design, human-centred research and service design. The university’s careers and enterprise services, together with established industry links, help students secure project partners, placements and graduate roles. The programme places emphasis on producing a professional portfolio and real-world experience to ease the transition into UX careers.