User Experience and User Interface (UX/UI) Design
University of Cumbria
UCAS Code: W290 | Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)
University of Cumbria
UCAS Code: W290 | Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)
Entry requirements
A level
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with 45 graded at level 3
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
Scottish Higher
T Level
Pass (C and above)
UCAS Tariff
About this course
In today’s digital age, UX/UI Design is crucial in shaping our interactions with technology. If you want to be at the forefront of this revolution and keen to develop your creative and technical digital skills, then this course is a gateway to a fulfilling UX/UI career. You’ll learn how to champion user-centred design by crafting forward-thinking, intuitive digital interfaces for exceptional user experiences of new or existing products or services.
**COURSE OVERVIEW**
This practical, digital-focused course covers creative applications, visual and interaction design, research methods, and critical thinking. You’ll gain expertise in shaping UX/UI design, creativity harnessing technology with aesthetics from concept through to delivery.Our specialised arts campus offers hands-on design experience with access to industry standard facilities like 3D workshops, photography studios, and AV resources. You’ll collaborate within our creative community, fostering teamwork and mirroring the professional environment.This course, taught by industry experts, offers insights into real-world design challenges and solutions. Regular guest speakers provide industry perspectives, bridging the gap between academia and the professional world.
**ON THIS COURSE YOU WILL...**
- Learn how to create user-friendly digital products and services, which are essential skills in today's technology-driven world. The programme offers a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on refining your skills in UX/UI Design.
- Be equipped with the knowledge and techniques to enhance the user experience of existing products and services. This is a critical aspect of modern design, as businesses strive to provide seamless and enjoyable interactions for their users.
- Learn how to apply research methodologies and evaluation techniques to your UX/UI Design projects, ensuring that your designs are based on solid evidence and user feedback.The programme fosters critical thinking and research skills.
- Have access to a variety of resources, including 3D workshops, digital and analogue photography facilities, and user AV resources. These resources enrich your learning experience and provide you with hands-on opportunities to explore different aspects of design.
- Be able to expand your network and gain valuable insights into the industry. The programme encourages collaboration and professional engagement. Guest speakers from the industry regularly visit, providing insights into real-world practices and bridging the gap between academia and the professional world.
**WHAT YOU WILL LEARN**
The programme offers a comprehensive exploration of designing digital products and services with user-friendliness at its core. This structured three-level programme explores creative applications, practical methodologies, research techniques, and critical thinking within the dynamic realm of UX/UI Design. The programme is designed with hands-on experience as its foundation, fostering a culture of collaboration that mirrors professional settings and nurtures essential teamwork aptitude.The integration of Work Integrated Learning ensures a seamless alignment of the programme with students' future vocations and aspirations.The programme promotes an in-depth understanding of UX/UI Design concepts, contextual dynamics, research methodologies, analytical knowledge, and tangible skills. Graduates emerge with a solid understanding, specialised proficiencies, and the self-assurance to excel in careers spanning UX/UI Design and beyond, or to embark on further academic studies.
Modules
**Year one**
In year one students cultivate foundational skills essential to UX/UI Design. Strategic thinking, manipulation of design elements, and adept usage of digital tools mark this stage. Understanding the nuanced language of UX/UI Design and its application in forging compelling user experiences is emphasised. Successful completion of Level 4 enhances students' prowess in dissecting and evaluating UX/UI Design solutions.
- Introducing Visual Communication
- Introduction to UX Design
- Digital Skills and Technologies for the Web
- Cultural Contexts
- Collaborative Practice
**Year two**
Year two, the programme widens its scope to encompass the holistic context of the UX/UI Design industry. Here, you will grapple with legal, ethical, and contextual dimensions of the field. Critical evaluation of projects is coupled with an exploration of the multifaceted role of the UX/UI designer and the paramount role of research in shaping the creative trajectory. Level 5 encourages you to combine your insights into a tangible portfolio in preparation for your final year.
- Digital Studio
- User Experience in a Connected World
- Competition Response
- User Behaviour and Interactive data visualization
- UX Studio Project
**Year three**
In year three the programme empowers students to immerse themselves in self-assigned projects, project management, and industry networking, further enhancing expertise. Specialisation beckons in areas such as user research, interaction design, visual aesthetics, and beyond, with trends like artificial intelligence and virtual reality on the itinerary. The culmination of Level 6 involves curating a portfolio showcasing your UX/UI Design projects, underpinned by the application of communication theory across diverse scenarios. The successful completion of Level 6 gives you not only with competence but also with the conviction to embark on enriching careers in UX/UI Design, related trajectories, autonomous projects, or further academic studies
- Collaborative Response
- Independent Research Paper
- Final Major Project
Assessment methods
Our practical assignments, authentic assessment, and comprehensive formative feedback mechanisms ensure that students not only produce high-quality work but also develop the ability to respond to the evolving demands of the UX/UI industry.
Assignments are centred around practical projects and portfolio building, reflecting the nature of UX/UI careers. These assignments not only encourage creativity and dedication but also enable you to apply your skills to authentic industry briefs.
All assessment integrates formative feedback at all stages of the learning process. Regular advice and guidance are provided while your work is in progress. This feedback loop encompasses individualised, peer-to-peer, and group tutorials.
The Uni
Carlisle - Brampton Road
Institute of the Arts
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Design studies
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