MS in Accounting
Northeastern University in Boston offers a robust MS in Accounting pro...
MS in Experience Design
Boston
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MS in Experience Design at Northeastern is a forward-thinking program that focuses on teaching students the art and science of designing immersive experiences. The program integrates design thinking, user research, and experiential strategies with an emphasis on creativity and innovation. Students are trained to deliver solutions that improve customer satisfaction and create memorable user interactions in diverse contexts, from digital interfaces to physical environments.
Curriculum: The curriculum of this program combines practical and theoretical knowledge through core courses, electives, and hands-on projects. It covers various topics such as user experience (UX) design, human-centered design, interaction design, and prototyping. Students also gain insights into cognitive psychology, business strategy, and the latest trends in technology, which are critical to designing impactful experiences. The curriculum is structured to allow students to develop their creative and problem-solving abilities while focusing on practical applications.
Research Focus: Northeastern emphasizes research in user experience and design innovation, with students engaging in applied research projects throughout the program. They explore how design can influence user behavior, improve accessibility, and integrate emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality. The research component encourages students to challenge traditional design methodologies and explore new ways of creating value through experiential design.
Industry Engagement: Northeastern University offers strong ties to the industry through its co-op programs, partnerships with leading companies, and opportunities for internships. Students in the MS in Experience Design program can work with top organizations, gaining practical, hands-on experience in real-world environments. This industry engagement not only enhances learning but also ensures students are prepared for the challenges of the rapidly evolving design and technology sectors.
Global Perspective: Northeastern’s MS in Experience Design program is informed by a global outlook, recognizing that experience design transcends borders and cultural contexts. The program provides opportunities for international study, collaboration with global companies, and exposure to diverse perspectives. This global focus prepares students to design experiences that resonate with audiences worldwide, addressing different needs, preferences, and cultural influences.
Location
Boston
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 63648
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
Northeastern University in Boston offers a range of scholarship opportunities for international students to help alleviate the financial burden of studying in the United States. These scholarships are designed to support academically talented students from around the world, promoting diversity and fostering an inclusive campus environment.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Northeastern University provides merit-based scholarships to international students based on academic excellence and achievements. These scholarships are awarded during the admissions process and are highly competitive. The amount and criteria for these scholarships may vary, but they aim to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, leadership potential, and a strong their chosen field of study.
Northeastern International Scholars Program: This prestigious program offers scholarships to outstanding international students who exhibit leadership, academic excellence, and a desire to contribute to the global community. The Northeastern International Scholars Program provides both financial support and opportunities for personal growth through networking events, leadership training, and involvement in community service initiatives.
Need-Based Financial Aid: Although Northeastern University does not offer need-based financial aid to international students, there are still many merit-based scholarships available that can significantly reduce tuition costs. However, international students are encouraged to seek external scholarships or funding from their home country to help cover the remaining costs.
External Scholarships and Funding: In addition to institutional scholarships, international students at Northeastern University can explore a variety of external scholarship opportunities from governments, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. Many international students receive funding from these sources to support their education at Northeastern.
Graduates of the MS in Experience Design program from Northeastern University have access to a wide range of career opportunities in industries such as technology, healthcare, entertainment, retail, and consulting. With expertise in user experience (UX) design, human-centered design, and interactive systems, they are well-equipped for roles in design teams, marketing departments, or product development.
UX Designer: One of the most common career paths for graduates is becoming a UX Designer, where they are responsible for improving the usability, accessibility, and pleasure provided in the interaction between users and products. These professionals work closely with other designers and developers to create intuitive user interfaces across websites, mobile apps, and other digital platforms.
Interaction Designer: Interaction Designers focus on creating meaningful interactions between users and digital interfaces. They design elements such as buttons, icons, and layouts, ensuring the interactions are seamless and engaging for the end user. This role combines aspects of visual design and usability testing.
Experience Design Strategist: An Experience Design Strategist uses a combination of design thinking and strategic insights to guide companies in creating products and services that offer superior customer experiences. These professionals evaluate user needs, market trends, and business goals to drive design decisions and ensure that the end product aligns with the company's overall strategy.
Human-Centered Designer: As a Human-Centered Designer, professionals focus on understanding the human side of product design. They conduct user research, create personas, and develop prototypes that prioritize the needs and behaviors of end users. These designers often work in collaborative environments, ensuring that design solutions are empathetic and user-friendly.
Product Designer: Product Designers are responsible for designing products that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and easy to use. Their expertise in experience design enables them to make products that resonate with users and enhance their experience with the product, whether it's a physical object or a digital interface.
Design Researcher: Design Researchers work to gather insights about users, their needs, and their behaviors through qualitative and quantitative research methods. These insights help shape the design process and influence decisions about product features, user interfaces, and overall design direction.
Creative Director: Some graduates of the MS in Experience Design program may pursue leadership roles such as Creative Director, where they oversee the design process for projects, managing teams of designers and ensuring the creative vision aligns with business objectives and user needs.
Digital Experience Manager: This role involves overseeing the entire user experience across multiple digital platforms. Digital Experience Managers ensure that digital products, from websites to mobile apps, offer cohesive and effective user experiences. They often work with cross-functional teams, including marketing, development, and analytics.
Consultant or Entrepreneur: With a solid foundation in experience design, some graduates choose to work as consultants or start their own design firms. They may work with a variety of clients across industries, providing expertise in creating user-centered experiences that improve brand engagement and customer satisfaction.
