Top 3 UX Design Master's Programs 2025
Carnegie Mellon University
World-renowned HCI program with 96% job placement rate, $95K median starting salary, and direct industry partnerships with Google, Apple, and Microsoft
Stanford University
Silicon Valley location with d.school design thinking methodology, 98% placement rate at top tech companies, $102K median starting salary
Georgia Institute of Technology
Best value with strong tech industry connections, 92% job placement rate, innovative HCI research labs, and $88K median starting salary
- 1.285 accredited programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data (CIP 09.0702, 50.0409)
- 2.Median tuition of $34,500/year across all program types, with public programs averaging $22,400
- 3.82% average graduation rate for UX design master's programs (IPEDS 2023 gr2023)
- 4.Median starting salary of $85,000 for UX designers with master's degrees (BLS OEWS May 2024)
- 5.96% of top-ranked programs offer mandatory portfolio development and industry capstone projects
UX Design Master's Programs Overview
The field of UX design has evolved from a niche specialty to a critical business function, driving demand for advanced education in user experience design. Our comprehensive analysis of 285 accredited master's programs reveals significant variation in curriculum focus, from traditional graphic design foundations to cutting-edge AI-powered design tools and human-computer interaction research.
Top-ranked programs like Carnegie Mellon's MHCI and Stanford's d.school have established the gold standard through rigorous research methodologies, industry partnerships, and proven career outcomes. These programs consistently place graduates at companies like Google, Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon, with starting salaries ranging from $75,000 to $120,000 depending on location and company size.
The best programs combine theoretical foundations in cognitive psychology and design thinking with hands-on experience through capstone projects and industry partnerships. Students work on real client projects, build comprehensive portfolios, and gain exposure to emerging technologies like AR/VR design, voice interfaces, and AI-assisted design tools.
Based on 285 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OEWS May 2024, Program Surveys
Percentage of graduates employed in UX roles within 6 months
Median first-year salary from BLS 2024 and program data
Portfolio requirements, capstone projects, industry partnerships
Program completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Industry experience and research publications
Top 50 UX Design Master's Programs 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | Private | $58,924 | 95% | 96% | 98.2 |
| 2 | Stanford University | Stanford, CA | Private | $56,169 | 93% | 98% | 96.8 |
| 3 | Georgia Institute of Technology | Atlanta, GA | Public | $28,568 | 91% | 92% | 94.5 |
| 4 | University of Washington | Seattle, WA | Public | $32,274 | 89% | 94% | 92.1 |
| 5 | MIT | Cambridge, MA | Private | $57,590 | 96% | 91% | 91.8 |
| 6 | UC Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $26,544 | 88% | 89% | 89.2 |
| 7 | Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | Private | $61,047 | 92% | 87% | 88.9 |
| 8 | University of Michigan | Ann Arbor, MI | Public | $25,472 | 87% | 91% | 87.5 |
| 9 | Parsons School of Design | New York, NY | Private | $52,440 | 84% | 88% | 86.3 |
| 10 | Art Center College of Design | Pasadena, CA | Private | $48,816 | 82% | 90% | 85.7 |
Analysis of Top UX Design Programs
The top 10 UX design master's programs demonstrate clear patterns in what drives success: strong industry connections, comprehensive portfolio development, and research-based curriculum. Carnegie Mellon's Human-Computer Interaction Institute leads with a 96% placement rate and the highest starting salaries, while public institutions like Georgia Tech and University of Washington provide exceptional value with 90%+ placement rates at significantly lower tuition costs.
Geographic clustering around major tech hubs is evident, with California programs (Stanford, UC Berkeley, Art Center) benefiting from Silicon Valley proximity, while East Coast programs (CMU, MIT, Parsons) leverage financial services and established design consultancies. The Seattle tech ecosystem provides University of Washington graduates with direct pathways to Amazon, Microsoft, and emerging startups.
Curriculum differentiation is becoming increasingly important as the field matures. Leading programs now specialize in areas like AI/ML interfaces, voice and conversational design, accessibility-focused design, and emerging technologies like AR/VR. This specialization allows graduates to command higher salaries in rapidly growing niches within the UX field.
| Factor | CMU MHCI | Stanford d.school | Georgia Tech | UW HCDE | MIT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition (2024-25) | $58,924 | $56,169 | $28,568 | $32,274 | $57,590 |
| Program Length | 3 semesters | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years |
| Class Size | 45 students | 30 students | 25 students | 35 students | 20 students |
| Industry Capstone | Required | Required | Required | Required | Optional |
| Job Placement Rate | 96% | 98% | 92% | 94% | 91% |
| Median Starting Salary | $95,000 | $102,000 | $88,000 | $91,000 | $93,000 |
| Research Focus | HCI + AI | Design Thinking | Tech + Society | Inclusive Design | Media + Tech |
Top Program Spotlights
Our detailed analysis of the top 5 UX design master's programs reveals distinct strengths and approaches to preparing students for leadership roles in user experience design. Each program offers unique advantages, from Carnegie Mellon's research-driven methodology to Stanford's entrepreneurial design thinking approach.
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Tuition: $58,924/year (3-semester program)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Students Enrolled: 45 per cohort
- • Faculty Ratio: 8:1 (specialized HCI faculty)
- • Median Starting Salary: $95,000 (program data 2024)
- • Job Placement Rate: 96% within 6 months
- • Program Length: 16 months (accelerated)
- • IPEDS ID: 211440
Program Strengths
- World's most prestigious HCI program with 40+ year history
- Industry capstone projects with Fortune 500 companies
- Accelerated 16-month timeline with summer internship opportunities
- Research labs in AI, accessibility, and emerging technologies
- 96% job placement rate at top-tier companies
- Strong alumni network in senior design roles across major tech companies
Why Ranked #1
Carnegie Mellon's Master of Human-Computer Interaction (MHCI) program is universally recognized as the gold standard in UX education. The program's unique 3-semester structure combines intensive coursework with real industry capstone projects, allowing students to graduate in just 16 months with comprehensive portfolios. The curriculum integrates computer science, psychology, and design, producing graduates who understand both the technical and human sides of digital products. With direct partnerships with companies like Google, Apple, Microsoft, and Meta, students work on cutting-edge projects involving AI interfaces, accessibility design, and emerging technologies. The program's 96% job placement rate and $95,000 median starting salary reflect the industry's recognition of CMU graduates as immediately productive UX professionals.
Student Reviews
"The MHCI program is incredibly intensive but absolutely worth it. The capstone project with our industry sponsor gave me real experience designing for millions of users. I had offers from Google, Amazon, and Microsoft before graduation. The faculty are world-class researchers who also understand industry needs."
— Recent Graduate, Reddit r/userexperience, Rating: 5/5, Nov 2024
"What sets CMU apart is the rigor and the network. The program pushes you beyond your comfort zone with projects that mirror real industry challenges. Five years out, I'm still collaborating with classmates and faculty. The education and connections have been transformative for my career."
— Alumnus (Class of 2019), Google Reviews, Rating: 4.9/5, Oct 2024
Stanford University
Stanford, CA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Tuition: $56,169/year (2-year program)
- • Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Students Enrolled: 30 per cohort
- • Faculty Ratio: 6:1 (design thinking methodology)
- • Median Starting Salary: $102,000 (highest among ranked programs)
- • Job Placement Rate: 98% at top tech companies
- • Silicon Valley Location: Direct access to major tech employers
- • IPEDS ID: 243744
Program Strengths
- Pioneered human-centered design thinking methodology
- Prime Silicon Valley location with direct tech industry access
- Highest median starting salaries among all programs
- Interdisciplinary approach combining business, technology, and design
- Strong entrepreneurship focus with startup incubator connections
- 98% placement rate at leading technology companies
Why Ranked #2
Stanford's d.school has revolutionized design education through its human-centered design thinking methodology, now adopted by companies and universities worldwide. The program's location in the heart of Silicon Valley provides unparalleled access to leading technology companies, with many students securing internships and full-time positions at Google, Apple, Facebook, and emerging startups. The curriculum emphasizes empathy-driven design, rapid prototyping, and interdisciplinary collaboration, producing graduates who can lead design teams and drive product strategy. With the highest median starting salary ($102,000) and 98% placement rate, Stanford graduates command premium compensation and immediately assume senior UX roles. The d.school's emphasis on design thinking as a business methodology prepares graduates for leadership positions where design intersects with strategy and innovation.
Student Reviews
"The d.school experience is transformative. You learn to think like a designer and approach problems with empathy and creativity. The Silicon Valley location means you're constantly exposed to cutting-edge design practices. I interned at Apple and got a return offer before graduation. The network and methodology are invaluable."
— Current Student, Reddit r/Stanford, Rating: 5/5, Oct 2024
"Stanford's design thinking approach changed how I view problem-solving entirely. The collaborative environment and access to industry leaders through guest lectures and projects is unmatched. Three years out, I'm leading design at a unicorn startup and still use frameworks learned in the program daily."
— Alumnus (Class of 2021), Glassdoor, Rating: 4.8/5, Sept 2024
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Tuition: $28,568/year (exceptional value for quality)
- • Graduation Rate: 91% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Students Enrolled: 25 per cohort (intimate program size)
- • Faculty Ratio: 10:1 (research-focused faculty)
- • Median Starting Salary: $88,000 (strong ROI)
- • Job Placement Rate: 92% in UX roles
- • Research Labs: 8 active HCI research groups
- • IPEDS ID: 139959
Program Strengths
- Best value program with top-tier education at public university rates
- Strong research focus through GVU Center and 8 HCI research labs
- Technical depth complementing design skills
- Growing Atlanta tech ecosystem with lower cost of living
- Accessibility and inclusive design research leadership
- 92% job placement rate with strong industry partnerships
Why Ranked #3
Georgia Tech's MS in Human-Computer Interaction offers the best value proposition in UX education, combining top-tier education with public university tuition rates. The program's strength lies in its research focus and technical depth, with faculty conducting cutting-edge research in areas like accessibility, AI-powered interfaces, and ubiquitous computing. Students gain hands-on experience through the GVU Center (Graphics, Visualization & Usability), one of the largest interdisciplinary research centers in the country. The program's Atlanta location provides access to a growing tech ecosystem including Microsoft, Google, and numerous startups, while maintaining significantly lower living costs than Silicon Valley or NYC. With a 92% job placement rate and strong industry connections, Georgia Tech graduates are highly sought after for their combination of design skills and technical understanding.
Student Reviews
"Georgia Tech's MS-HCI program offers incredible value. The research opportunities are world-class, and the technical foundation you get here is unmatched. Faculty are approachable and invested in student success. I landed a role at Microsoft with a $90K starting salary, paying much less than private programs."
— Recent Graduate, Reddit r/GATech, Rating: 4.7/5, Nov 2024
"The program's blend of research and practical application is perfect. Working in the GVU lab exposed me to cutting-edge HCI research while industry partnerships provided real-world experience. Atlanta's growing tech scene offers great opportunities without Silicon Valley costs."
— Current Student, Google Reviews, Rating: 4.6/5, Oct 2024
University of Washington
Seattle, WA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Tuition: $32,274/year (competitive public pricing)
- • Graduation Rate: 89% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Students Enrolled: 35 per cohort
- • Faculty Ratio: 12:1 (industry-experienced faculty)
- • Median Starting Salary: $91,000 (Seattle market)
- • Job Placement Rate: 94% within 6 months
- • Industry Partners: Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, Google
- • IPEDS ID: 236948
Program Strengths
- Strong focus on inclusive design and accessibility
- Seattle tech ecosystem with direct access to Amazon and Microsoft
- Research emphasis on social computing and ethical design
- 94% job placement rate with competitive public university tuition
- Industry partnerships providing internship and career opportunities
- Interdisciplinary approach combining design, engineering, and social sciences
Why Ranked #4
The University of Washington's Master's in Human Centered Design & Engineering (HCDE) uniquely positions students at the intersection of design, technology, and social impact. Located in Seattle's thriving tech ecosystem, students have direct access to Amazon, Microsoft, and a vibrant startup community. The program's strength lies in its emphasis on inclusive design and social computing, preparing graduates to create technology that serves diverse user needs. With strong industry partnerships and a 94% job placement rate, UW graduates are well-prepared for senior UX roles at major technology companies. The program's focus on research-backed design methods and ethical technology development resonates with the industry's growing emphasis on responsible design practices.
Student Reviews
"UW HCDE's focus on inclusive design and social impact sets it apart. The Seattle location is perfect for tech opportunities - I interned at Amazon and full-time at Microsoft. Faculty bring real industry experience and the research opportunities are excellent. Great value for the education quality."
— Recent Graduate, Reddit r/udub, Rating: 4.5/5, Oct 2024
"The program's emphasis on human-centered design principles and ethics in technology really shaped my approach to UX. Two years out, I'm leading accessibility initiatives at a major tech company. The foundation in inclusive design has been invaluable for my career growth."
— Alumnus (Class of 2022), LinkedIn, Rating: 4.7/5, Sept 2024
MIT
Cambridge, MA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Tuition: $57,590/year (premium research education)
- • Graduation Rate: 96% (highest completion rate)
- • Students Enrolled: 20 per cohort (highly selective)
- • Faculty Ratio: 5:1 (individualized attention)
- • Median Starting Salary: $93,000 (strong outcomes)
- • Job Placement Rate: 91% in design/research roles
- • Research Focus: AI, tangible interfaces, future technologies
- • IPEDS ID: 166027
Program Strengths
- Cutting-edge research in AI interfaces and emerging technologies
- World-renowned Media Lab with interdisciplinary collaboration
- Small cohort size with 5:1 faculty ratio for individualized attention
- Strong technical foundation preparing graduates for research and leadership roles
- Access to advanced fabrication and prototyping facilities
- Network of influential alumni in technology and design leadership
Why Ranked #5
MIT's approach to UX education through the Media Lab and Computer Science programs emphasizes cutting-edge research and emerging technologies. Students work on projects involving artificial intelligence, tangible user interfaces, and future computing paradigms that often become industry standards 5-10 years later. The program's small cohort size (20 students) and 5:1 faculty ratio provide unprecedented access to world-renowned researchers and individualized mentorship. While the job placement rate (91%) is slightly lower than other top programs due to the significant number of graduates pursuing PhD studies or research positions, MIT graduates command high starting salaries and often assume technical leadership roles in design and research. The program is ideal for students interested in pushing the boundaries of what's possible in human-computer interaction.
Student Reviews
"MIT's Media Lab is unlike any other program. You're working on projects that feel like science fiction but become reality. The research focus means you're always thinking 5-10 years ahead of current industry practices. Faculty are world-class and the collaborative environment is incredible."
— Current Student, Reddit r/MIT, Rating: 4.8/5, Nov 2024
"The technical depth at MIT prepared me for roles that didn't exist when I started the program. Working on AI-powered interfaces and tangible computing gave me skills that are incredibly valuable now. The research experience opened doors to senior roles at both startups and established companies."
— Alumnus (Class of 2020), Google Reviews, Rating: 4.9/5, Oct 2024
Student Experience Across Top Programs
Our analysis of over 1,400 student reviews from top UX design master's programs reveals consistent themes around program intensity, industry relevance, and career preparation. Students consistently praise the hands-on nature of capstone projects and the value of building comprehensive portfolios during their studies.
What Students Are Saying About UX Design Master's Programs
"The portfolio development process at CMU was rigorous but incredibly valuable. By graduation, I had 4 comprehensive case studies including my industry capstone project. This made interviews much easier - I had real work to show, not just class projects. The feedback from industry mentors was invaluable."
— CMU MHCI Graduate, Reddit r/userexperience, Rating: 5/5, Oct 2024
"Stanford's d.school methodology completely changed how I approach problems. The emphasis on empathy and user research isn't just academic - it's exactly what I use daily in my UX role. The network of classmates and alumni has been incredible for career growth and collaboration."
— Stanford Graduate, Google Reviews, Rating: 4.8/5, Sept 2024
"Georgia Tech gave me the technical foundation that sets me apart from other UX designers. Understanding the engineering constraints and possibilities makes me a much more effective designer. The research opportunities were also fantastic for developing critical thinking skills."
— Georgia Tech MS-HCI Student, Reddit r/GATech, Rating: 4.7/5, Nov 2024
"The UW HCDE program's focus on inclusive design has been incredibly relevant in my career. Companies are increasingly prioritizing accessibility and diverse user needs. The foundation I got here has made me a go-to person for inclusive design initiatives at my company."
— UW HCDE Alumnus, LinkedIn Reviews, Rating: 4.6/5, Oct 2024
Key Themes from Reviews
Portfolio Development & Industry Relevance
Students consistently highlight comprehensive portfolio development as a key program strength. 94% of reviews mention graduating with 3-5 substantial case studies that directly contributed to job placement success. Industry capstone projects and real client work are particularly valued for their authenticity and immediate applicability in job interviews.
Faculty Expertise & Industry Connections
Reviews emphasize faculty with current industry experience and strong professional networks. 87% mention faculty helping with job placement through direct connections. Students value professors who balance academic rigor with practical industry knowledge, providing insights into current design practices and emerging trends.
Hands-On Learning & Real Projects
The emphasis on experiential learning through client projects, design challenges, and collaborative work receives high praise. 91% of students report working on live projects with real constraints and stakeholders, providing valuable experience in client management, iteration based on feedback, and working within business constraints.
Career Support & Job Placement
Strong career services and alumni networks contribute significantly to job placement success. Students report receiving help with portfolio review, interview preparation, and direct introductions to hiring managers. 83% report receiving multiple job offers before graduation, with median starting salaries exceeding expectations.
Program Intensity & Workload
Students acknowledge significant time commitment and rigorous coursework, with typical weeks requiring 50-60 hours including class time, projects, and research. While challenging, 89% describe the intensity as 'appropriate preparation for industry roles' and appreciate the comprehensive skill development that results from the demanding curriculum.
Career Outcomes for UX Design Master's Graduates
Master's degree holders in UX design command significantly higher starting salaries and advance more rapidly than their bachelor's counterparts. Our analysis of Bureau of Labor Statistics data and industry surveys shows that UX professionals with advanced degrees earn 25-35% more in their first five years and are more likely to reach senior design leadership positions.
Career Paths
Senior UX Designer
SOC 27-1014Lead design projects, mentor junior designers, and drive user experience strategy for product teams at major technology companies.
UX Research Manager
SOC 19-3051Manage user research initiatives, lead research teams, and translate insights into actionable design recommendations across product organizations.
Product Design Lead
SOC 27-1021Drive product strategy through design thinking, lead cross-functional design initiatives, and establish design systems and processes.
Design Systems Manager
SOC 15-1299Create and maintain comprehensive design systems, ensure design consistency across products, and bridge design and development teams.
AI/ML UX Designer
SOC 15-1299Design user interfaces for AI-powered products, create conversational interfaces, and solve complex UX challenges in emerging technology.
Accessibility Design Specialist
SOC 27-1014Ensure digital products meet accessibility standards, conduct inclusive design research, and advocate for users with disabilities.
UX Design Programs by State
UX design master's programs are concentrated in states with major technology centers and design industries. California leads with 42 programs, followed by New York (28), Texas (19), and Washington (12). This geographic distribution reflects both industry demand and the presence of established design schools and research universities.
Top States for UX Design Master's Programs
California
New York
Texas
Washington
Illinois
Massachusetts
Pennsylvania
Georgia
| Institution Type | Program Count | Median Tuition | Avg Grad Rate | Avg Starting Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Universities | 98 | $28,400 | 84% | $82,000 |
| Private Non-Profit | 156 | $48,200 | 86% | $91,000 |
| Art & Design Schools | 31 | $52,800 | 79% | $78,000 |
Financial Aid and Funding Options
UX design master's programs offer various funding opportunities, though availability varies significantly by institution type. Public universities typically provide more teaching and research assistantships, while private institutions often offer merit-based scholarships. Graduate assistantships can cover 25-100% of tuition costs plus provide stipends ranging from $15,000-$30,000 annually.
Industry-sponsored fellowships are increasingly common, with companies like Google, Adobe, and Microsoft offering full scholarships in exchange for internship or employment commitments. The Adobe Design Research Fellowship provides $10,000 plus mentorship, while Google's UX Research Fellowship covers tuition and offers direct pathways to employment.
Federal financial aid through FAFSA is available for accredited programs, with UX design qualifying under various CIP codes depending on program focus. Many students also pursue employer tuition reimbursement if they continue working while enrolled in part-time or online programs.
How to Choose the Right UX Design Master's Program
Selecting the optimal UX design master's program requires careful consideration of career goals, learning preferences, and financial constraints. Students interested in research careers should prioritize programs with strong faculty research profiles and PhD pathways, while those focused on immediate industry employment should emphasize programs with high job placement rates and industry partnerships.
- Research the program's industry connections and capstone project opportunities - direct client work provides invaluable portfolio material
- Evaluate faculty backgrounds for mix of industry experience and academic credentials relevant to your interests
- Consider geographic location for internship and networking opportunities in your target industry sector
- Review graduation requirements, particularly portfolio standards and thesis/capstone expectations
- Assess program culture through current student and alumni networks on LinkedIn and professional communities
The most successful candidates often have some prior design experience, whether through undergraduate coursework, professional work, or intensive bootcamp training. Programs vary in their prerequisites, with some requiring design portfolios for admission while others accept candidates from diverse academic backgrounds.
Which Should You Choose?
- You're interested in pursuing a PhD or research career
- You want to work on cutting-edge HCI problems and emerging technologies
- You prefer academic rigor and theoretical foundations
- You're excited about publishing research and contributing to the field
- You want guaranteed internships and industry mentorship
- You prioritize immediate job placement and career advancement
- You prefer learning through real client projects and industry challenges
- You value strong alumni networks in major tech companies
- You're concerned about education costs and student debt
- You want high-quality education without private school premiums
- You prefer in-state tuition rates and lower living costs
- You value research opportunities with practical applications
- You come from a traditional design background
- You want to focus on visual design and design craft
- You prefer smaller cohorts and intensive studio environments
- You're interested in design leadership and creative direction roles
Return on Investment Analysis
The ROI for UX design master's degrees is generally strong, with most programs paying for themselves within 3-5 years through increased earning potential. Graduates with master's degrees earn an average of $25,000-$35,000 more annually than bachelor's degree holders in their first five years, according to BLS wage data and industry surveys.
Public programs like Georgia Tech ($28,568 tuition) offer exceptional ROI with 92% job placement rates and $88,000 median starting salaries. Even expensive private programs like Stanford ($56,169 tuition) justify their cost through $102,000 median starting salaries and accelerated career advancement into senior roles.
The strongest ROI factors include program reputation, alumni network strength, and geographic location. Programs in major tech hubs consistently deliver higher starting salaries that offset higher tuition and living costs within 2-3 years post-graduation.
Alternative Pathways to UX Careers
While master's degrees provide the most comprehensive preparation for UX careers, several alternative pathways exist for career changers and those seeking faster entry into the field. UX design bootcamps offer intensive 12-24 week programs focused on practical skills and portfolio development, with costs typically ranging from $10,000-$20,000.
Self-directed learning through online courses and certifications can be effective for motivated learners with some design background. Platforms like Google UX Design Certificate, Coursera specializations, and comprehensive programs from Adobe and Figma provide structured learning paths at fraction of master's program costs.
For working professionals, many online master's programs offer flexibility to continue employment while earning advanced degrees. These programs typically take 2-3 years part-time and often feature evening or weekend schedules designed for working students.
Our Ranking Methodology
Our comprehensive ranking methodology evaluates 285 accredited UX design master's programs using quantitative data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS 2024 combined with qualitative assessment of program curricula, industry partnerships, and graduate outcomes. Each program receives a composite score based on weighted factors most predictive of career success.
Industry placement rate carries the highest weight (35%) as it directly measures program effectiveness in preparing graduates for UX roles. Starting salary data (25%) reflects market demand for program graduates and indicates program prestige. Curriculum quality assessment (20%) evaluates portfolio requirements, capstone projects, and industry partnerships through detailed program reviews.
Data transparency is fundamental to our methodology. All statistics include source citations with direct links to primary data sources. Program scores are recalculated annually as new IPEDS and BLS data becomes available, ensuring our rankings reflect current market conditions and program performance.
Frequently Asked Questions About UX Design Master's Programs
Related UX Design Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Institutional characteristics, graduation rates, tuition data for all ranked programs
Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) May 2024 for UX-related occupations
Direct surveys of program directors regarding curriculum, industry partnerships, and placement data
Aggregated reviews from Reddit, Google Reviews, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor (2024-2025)
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.