Best UX Design Programs in Illinois 2025

Illinois offers 12 bachelor's-level ux design programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are DePaul University, Columbia College Chicago, Elmhurst University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $79,240 in the Illinois market.

A bachelor's in ux design typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best UX Design Bachelor's Programs guide.

For graduate study, Illinois offers 3 master's-level ux design programs. Leading institutions include Northwestern University, University of Chicago, DePaul University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Illinois reaching $147,160 or more.

For budget-conscious students, the most affordable ux design programs in Illinois are at University of Illinois Chicago ($12,656/year), DeVry University-Illinois ($14,392/year), Trinity Christian College ($19,800/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Illinois's competitive tech salaries.

At University of Illinois Chicago, a 4-year degree costs approximately $50,624 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $79,240, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 1.1 years.

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 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.

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

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.