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How to Become a UX/UI Designer (Without Degree or Experience)

July 09, 2021 · 2 min read · By ASU CareerCatalyst

Learn how to become a UI UX designer even if you don’t have a degree or experience. UX bootcamps and professional certificate programs can help you get started.

Can I be a UX designer without a degree?

Yes! You can become a successful UX designer without a college degree. In fact, although many UX designers do have college degrees, many do not have UX design degrees or degrees relevant to UX design itself.

UI & UX design degree alternatives

Many UI/UX designers are self-taught. To become a UX designer with no experience, start exploring the fundamentals of user interface and user experience design through books and online resources. Connect with the UI/UX design community in your area through groups like Meetup so you can seek out learning experiences, ask questions, and potentially find a mentor. Create your own projects to build your portfolio. And finally, approach businesses with your work!

  • Professional certification: UI & UX certificate programs

    If you are a self-taught designer, UX certification will formalize your existing knowledge and skill set. Professional certification programs are designed to equip you with the skills employers are currently looking for, which can help you market yourself in the field.

Benefits of UI & UX bootcamp programs

A professional certificate program is a great option for individuals looking to change careers and/or learn how to become a UX designer quickly. Online UX bootcamp programs, like ASU’s UX/UI digital bootcamp, can be completed in as little as a few months and at a significantly lower price point than a traditional university degree. These programs also offer greater flexibility, will equip you with the skills employers are looking for now, and may provide mentorship and career preparation to help you successfully navigate your way into your first job in the field.

Other ways to grow your skill set for a career in UI & UX design

There is no right path into UI and UX design. You can gain the skills to succeed as a designer through self-directed learning, by connecting with your local UI and UX design community, and alongside a design mentor.

  • Learn UI & UX design on your own

    There is a vast amount of material available both in print and online to help you dive into this exciting creative field. If you are a self-motivated learner, you may enjoy developing your own design projects and tailoring your portfolio to your own career interests.

  • Join the UI & UX design community

    A great way to jump-start your learning journey is to join a local UX/UI design group, such as through Meetup, Facebook, LinkedIn, or other social media sites. A local design group is a terrific place to ask questions, get feedback on your design projects, and network with other designers and professionals in the field.

  • Get a UI & UX design mentor

    A design mentor can help you sharpen your skills and improve your portfolio. A design mentor can provide you with valuable constructive feedback on your work, help build your confidence as a designer, and share insight into the profession so you can successfully land your first UX design job.

Learn how to become a UI & UX designer

Professional certificates can be a great way to gain UI/UX design training so you can launch your career in this high-demand creative field. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that the number of jobs in the digital design sector is expected to grow much faster than average over the next ten years.

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