University of Central Lancashire(UCLAN)

What you'll study

This master's combines practical studio practice, user-centred research methods and theoretical perspectives on human–computer interaction. You will learn to plan and run user research, create interaction and interface designs, prototype across fidelity levels, and evaluate user experiences in real contexts.

• Core research and theory: Human–computer interaction theory, cognition for design, ethics and accessibility in UX.
• User research methods: Qualitative and quantitative techniques, contextual inquiry, interviews, surveys, diary studies, usability testing and analytics-driven research.
• Interaction and interface design: Wireframing, information architecture, interaction patterns, mobile and responsive design, motion and micro-interaction principles.
• Prototyping and tools: Rapid paper prototyping, interactive digital prototyping (low to high fidelity), front-end prototyping considerations and tooling commonly used in industry.
• Evaluation and metrics: Usability testing design, A/B testing basics, task analysis, accessibility auditing and interpreting user data to inform iterations.
• UX strategy and professional practice: Stakeholder engagement, service design thinking, design systems, project management, ethics, and presenting UX cases to non‑design audiences.
• Major project or dissertation: A substantial individual or industry‑linked project that integrates research, design and evaluation to solve a real-world UX problem.

Teaching typically combines workshops, lab sessions, project-based studio work and seminars. Assessment methods include project portfolios, research reports, presentations, practical assignments and the final major project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK undergraduate degree in a relevant subject such as design, computing, psychology, multimedia or a related discipline. Applicants with non‑standard backgrounds but substantial professional experience in design, digital product development or user research will also be considered. Typical requirements include:

• An undergraduate degree at honours level (a 2:2 will be considered in some cases with relevant experience).
• For international applicants, evidence of English language proficiency is required; a recognised qualification at a level acceptable to the university (for example an IELTS equivalent) is expected.
• A portfolio or evidence of relevant experience is recommended for applicants from creative or technical backgrounds; this can include case studies, work samples, research reports or project summaries.
• References or a statement of purpose that outline motivations and relevant skills for postgraduate study in UX design.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a range of roles across digital product, service and research environments. The programme emphasises employability skills, portfolio development and the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams.

• User Experience (UX) Designer
• Interaction Designer
• Product Designer
• UX Researcher / User Researcher
• Service Designer
• Usability Analyst / Accessibility Specialist
• Digital Designer or Front‑end Prototyper
• Design Consultant or Design Strategist

Alumni typically work for digital agencies, in‑house product teams, start‑ups, public sector organisations and consultancies. The course also provides a route into further research or PhD study in HCI, interaction design and related fields.

Why study at University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

UCLan offers applied and industry‑focused teaching in digital design within well‑equipped computing and design facilities. The School of Computing and Digital Technology and the university’s design labs provide access to user testing spaces, prototyping tools and industry‑standard software.

• Practical, project-based learning that emphasises real-world briefs and industry engagement.
• Opportunity to build a professional portfolio and undertake industry-linked projects or placements to enhance employability.
• Supportive research community and supervision for those wishing to pursue practice-led or academic research.
• Access to career services, employer events and networking opportunities with regional and national digital employers.