User Experience and Interaction Design student working on laptop at desk

Interactive Arts and MediaUser Experience and Interaction Design

  • BA

About the User Experience and Interaction Design Major

Transform technology through design. Columbia College Chicago’s User Experience and Interaction Design BA program equips you with the skills to create intuitive and engaging interfaces for a range of digital platforms. You’ll learn to blend creativity with technical proficiency, ensuring that every design decision prioritizes the user’s experience. Examples of User Experience Careers

Examples of User Experience Careers

  • Interaction designer
  • Product developer
  • User experience (UX) designer
  • Web developer

The Student Experience

At Columbia, your journey in User Experience and Interaction Design will be immersive and collaborative. You’ll develop both your technical and artistic skills, preparing you for the challenges of the industry.

  • Build a solid foundationIn your first year, you'll focus on essential design principles and technical skills. Through hands-on projects, you'll learn to write code, develop prototypes, and establish a robust vocabulary in user interface and user experience design.
  • Collaborate on real-world projects

    In your final year, you’ll participate in a capstone course where you’ll work as part of a team to develop solutions for actual clients, such as the Special Olympics and Six Flags. This hands-on experience will enhance your problem-solving abilities and showcase your skills to future employers.

  • Take advantage of state-of-the-art facilities

    Access innovative maker spaces and labs equipped with industry-standard software and tools. From a fabrication lab to a media production center, you'll have everything you need to bring your creative ideas to life.

  • Learn from experienced faculty

    Our faculty consists of industry professionals who bring their expertise into the classroom. They are dedicated to mentoring you as you explore groundbreaking theories and practices in design.

a group sitting at tables with computers

Career Readiness

Columbia’s User Experience and Interaction Design program prepares you for a thriving career in a dynamic field. With a focus on practical experience and professional networking, you’ll be ready to make your mark in the industry. You can find Columbia alumni at companies like BBDO, Braintree, Deloitte, Golin, Google, IBM, Jellyvision, Leo Burnett, Motorola, Pandora, Paypal, Razorfish, SapientNitro, Venmo, and more.

  • Internships that jumpstart careers

    Work with our Career Center to find internships that align with your aspirations. You’ll have opportunities at leading firms in Chicago, including Braintree and Google, allowing you to build your resume and make industry connections.

  • Networking with industry professionals

    Participate in our annual Industry Night to showcase your capstone projects and connect with potential employers. This event is a fantastic opportunity to network with professionals and potentially secure job offers.

Alumni Spotlight

Rebecca Young '15

Rebecca Young ’15

Software Engineer for Dina, which provides digital network management and coordination solutions for health plans and providers.

98%

of 2023 grads are employed, enrolled in continued education, or pursuing their creative practice.

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