Top 3 UX Design Programs in Illinois
Northwestern University
Strong industry partnerships with Chicago tech companies and comprehensive portfolio development focus.
University of Illinois at Chicago
Excellent value with robust UX curriculum and strong connections to Chicago's design community.
DePaul University
Practical focus with real client projects and emphasis on human-centered design methodology.
- 1.Illinois offers 12 accredited UX design programs with strong industry connections to Chicago's growing tech sector
- 2.Average starting salaries for UX designers in Illinois range from $65,000 to $75,000, with experienced designers earning $95,000+
- 3.UX design job market in Illinois is projected to grow 13% through 2032, faster than the national average
- 4.Northwestern and UIC lead in program quality, with UIC offering the best value for in-state students at $15,096 annual tuition
- 5.Chicago's tech ecosystem includes major employers like Groupon, Grubhub, and Salesforce hiring UX design graduates
Based on 12 programs from Analysis based on IPEDS data, employer surveys, and program curriculum review
Comprehensiveness of UX design coursework, portfolio requirements, and industry-relevant skills
Industry experience, research contributions, and professional credentials of faculty
Job placement rates, starting salaries, and employer feedback on graduate preparedness
Internship partnerships, guest speakers, and employer recruitment presence
Lab facilities, software access, portfolio development support, and career services
Illinois UX Design Programs Ranked
| Rank | Location | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | $62,391 | 9500% | $74,500 | 94.2 |
| 2 | University of Illinois at Chicago | Chicago, IL | $15,096 | 7100% | $68,900 | 88.7 |
| 3 | DePaul University | Chicago, IL | $43,665 | 7800% | $67,200 | 85.1 |
| 4 | Illinois Institute of Technology | Chicago, IL | $51,810 | 7400% | $69,800 | 82.4 |
| 5 | Southern Illinois University Carbondale | Carbondale, IL | $14,838 | 6500% | $61,500 | 79.3 |
| 6 | Columbia College Chicago | Chicago, IL | $28,144 | 5600% | $59,800 | 76.8 |
UX Design Job Market Analysis in Illinois
Illinois offers a thriving job market for UX designers, driven primarily by Chicago's expanding tech ecosystem and digital transformation initiatives across traditional industries. The state hosts over 2,400 UX design positions according to recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data, with the majority concentrated in the Chicago metropolitan area.
Major employers hiring UX designers in Illinois include technology companies like Groupon, Grubhub, and Salesforce, financial services firms such as CME Group and Discover Financial, and consulting giants like Accenture and Deloitte Digital. The state's diverse economy provides opportunities across healthcare technology, fintech, e-commerce, and manufacturing digitization.
Entry-level UX designers in Illinois typically start at salaries ranging from $62,000 to $70,000, while mid-level professionals earn between $75,000 and $95,000 annually. Senior UX designers and design leads can command salaries exceeding $120,000, particularly in Chicago's competitive tech market. The Illinois Board of Higher Education reports that UX design graduates have a 89% employment rate within six months of graduation.
The job growth outlook remains strong, with a projected 13% increase in UX design positions through 2032, outpacing the national average of 3% for all occupations. This growth is fueled by continued digital transformation efforts and increasing recognition of user experience as a competitive differentiator across industries.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
How Illinois UX Design Programs Compare Nationally
Illinois UX design programs rank competitively on a national scale, with Northwestern University consistently placing among the top 15 design programs nationwide. The state's programs excel particularly in industry integration and practical application, benefiting from Chicago's position as a major business and technology hub.
Compared to coastal programs in California and New York, Illinois offers significant cost advantages while maintaining strong career outcomes. In-state tuition at UIC ($15,096) provides exceptional value compared to similar programs at UC schools or SUNY institutions, while graduate employment rates remain competitive.
Illinois programs distinguish themselves through strong connections to the Midwest's manufacturing and financial services sectors, offering unique opportunities in industrial design applications and fintech user experience. Many programs maintain partnerships with local companies for capstone projects and internship placements.
- Northwestern's program ranks in the top 20% nationally for industry partnerships
- UIC offers the most affordable accredited UX program among major public universities
- Illinois graduates report 15% higher starting salaries than regional averages
- 95% of Illinois UX design graduates find employment within 6 months
| Factor | Northwestern | UIC | DePaul | IIT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition | $62,391 | $15,096 | $43,665 | $51,810 |
| Program Length | 4 years | 4 years | 4 years | 4 years |
| Industry Partnerships | 50+ companies | 25+ companies | 35+ companies | 30+ companies |
| Average Starting Salary | $74,500 | $68,900 | $67,200 | $69,800 |
| Student-Faculty Ratio | 12:1 | 18:1 | 15:1 | 14:1 |
Career Paths
UX Designer
SOC 27-1024Create user-centered designs for digital products and services, conducting user research and usability testing.
UI Designer
SOC 27-1024Focus on visual interface design and interaction patterns for web and mobile applications.
Product Designer
SOC 27-1024Oversee entire product design process from concept to launch, balancing user needs with business objectives.
UX Researcher
SOC 19-3032Conduct user research studies, analyze data, and provide insights to inform design decisions.
Information Architect
SOC 27-1024Design organizational structures and navigation systems for websites and digital products.
Northwestern University
Evanston, IL • University
Program Highlights
- • Faculty includes practicing designers from Google, IDEO, and Salesforce
- • Annual design showcase attended by 200+ potential employers
- • Study abroad opportunities with design programs in Europe and Asia
Program Strengths
- 50+ industry partnerships including major Chicago tech companies
- State-of-the-art design labs with latest prototyping technology
- Required portfolio development course with professional feedback
- 95% job placement rate within 6 months of graduation
- Average starting salary 18% above state average
Why Ranked #1
Northwestern's UX design program earns top ranking for its exceptional industry partnerships, comprehensive curriculum, and outstanding graduate outcomes. The program combines rigorous academic training with extensive practical experience through internships and capstone projects.
Student Reviews
"The program's emphasis on real-world projects prepared me perfectly for my role at a Chicago startup. The faculty connections opened doors I never expected."
— Sarah M., Class of 2024
"Northwestern's design program is rigorous but incredibly rewarding. The portfolio development support was invaluable for landing my dream job."
— Michael T., Class of 2023
Admission Requirements for Illinois UX Design Programs
Admission requirements for UX design programs in Illinois vary by institution but generally include a combination of academic performance, portfolio submission, and demonstrated interest in design. Most programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0 and standardized test scores, though some schools have adopted test-optional policies.
Portfolio requirements are particularly important for competitive programs like Northwestern and DePaul. Students should prepare 10-15 pieces showcasing design thinking, problem-solving skills, and creative process documentation. Many programs accept work from various disciplines including graphic design, digital art, and even non-design projects that demonstrate analytical thinking.
- Northwestern: 3.5+ GPA, portfolio required, personal statement, letters of recommendation
- UIC: 3.0+ GPA, portfolio encouraged, application essay focusing on design interests
- DePaul: 3.2+ GPA, portfolio required, interview for competitive candidates
- IIT: 3.0+ GPA, portfolio or creative work samples, STEM background preferred
Application deadlines typically fall between January 15 and March 1 for fall admission. Early application is recommended for competitive programs, as many use rolling admissions and space fills quickly. Students should also research specific prerequisite courses, as some programs require foundation courses in art, psychology, or computer science.
UX Design Programs by Region in Illinois
Chicago Metro
Central Illinois
Southern Illinois
Frequently Asked Questions
Next Steps for Prospective Students
Research Program Requirements
Review admission requirements, portfolio expectations, and prerequisite courses for your target schools. Start preparing application materials early.
Build Your Portfolio
Begin creating design projects that showcase your problem-solving process. Include sketches, wireframes, and final designs with explanations of your approach.
Visit Campuses and Programs
Attend information sessions, portfolio reviews, and campus visits to understand program culture and faculty expertise.
Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA and research UX design-specific scholarships. Many programs offer merit-based aid for strong portfolios.
Network with Illinois Designers
Join local UX meetups, attend Chicago design conferences, and connect with alumni from your target programs.
Related UX Design Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing tuition, graduation rates, and employment outcomes
Occupational employment and wage statistics for design professionals
State higher education data and program approval information
National postsecondary education statistics and institutional data
Taylor Rupe
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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.