5 Steps to Become a UI/UX designer

Imagine yourself opening your phone, going to your favorite brand’s site, and purchasing a product. Believe it or not, everything about your experience in the time it takes you to go to the site and hit “purchase” falls under the category of user interface (UI)/ user experience (UX). 

Websites are designed in a way that makes the user feel excited with the goal to push them through to that final action. If you have a knack for digital design, you may want to consider a career as a UI/UX designer. 

Because of the advancements in technology, many organizations and businesses have turned to creating and maintaining an online presence. This in turn increased the demand for UI/UX designers, making it one of the top 5 in-demand skills, as well as rated one of the best 50 jobs in 2021. The average UI/UX designer salary is around $75,000, making it a great return on investment (ROI) if you begin your career at NJIT for their Digital Design undergraduate program.

5 Steps to become a UI/UX designer

Becoming a UX designer or UI developer can take some time and definitely practice. To make sure you have all the necessary skills and knowledge to prepare you for success in your UI/UX career, follow these steps:

1) Choose a design path

There is a difference between UI and UX and most of it has to do with the type of design you’re doing. If you’re unsure which path is right for you, consider the areas you’re most interested in. 

If you are able to recognize a problem and understand it from another’s perspective, becoming a UX designer might be a good fit. If you’re enthusiastic about obsessing over details, colors, and the overall visual aspect of a site, becoming a UI developer may be in your future. 

Once you have a better idea of which design career path would be the best fit for you, you can begin to gain experience, skills and knowledge within that area.   

2) Find internships and use your skills

Internships are a strategic way to apply what you’re learning in class to the real-world, while under the guidance of a professional. Trying to get your foot in the door can be difficult when you are just starting out. However, this shouldn’t discourage or stop you from gaining more hands-on experience. If you’re willing to volunteer your time, design skills, and knowledge, there are a myriad of organizations that would love to work with you. 

3) Show off your work - Time to build a portfolio!

A portfolio is an excellent way to easily share your work with hiring managers. Focus on projects that demonstrate your highest skills as a designer and show your strong digital capabilities. Don’t worry about putting every single project on there – choose ones that showcase your unique perspective that help you stand out.

4) Prepare for interviews 

Preparing for interviews is key. Use the knowledge and concepts you learned from your UI/UX courses to guide you through your interview, and pull answers from your real-world experience. Let your work speak for itself!

Did you know that NJIT offers interview prep through Career Development Services to help you succeed in your interviews?

5) Take your UI/UX skills to the next level with NJIT

Now is the time to create your career in UX/UI. Consider NJIT’s undergraduate program in Digital Design - it will enhance your knowledge, skills and tools that will help you land your dream UI/UX job!