Skip to main content

What is user experience (UX) design?

User experience (UX) design is the process teams use to provide relevant and meaningful user outcomes, including elements of branding, design, function and usability.

In addition to making software easy to use, UX design includes designing other experiences related to the product, like marketing campaigns, packaging and after-sales support. It also delivers solutions to address potential issues and obstacles.

Why is user experience design important?

UX design is important because it greatly influences the perceptions and responses of users of products, systems or services. Examples of successful UX design include intuitive navigation, cues to help users reach their goals and the visibility of essential task aspects at appropriate times.

Boise State University’s online Bachelor of Arts in Digital Innovation and Design focuses on UX design with a User Experience Design Certificate that establishes a foundation in design thinking and human-technology interaction.

The program has a required first-year Certificate in Innovation and Design. You will choose from three additional certificates that tailor your degree to your career needs and interests.

By using stackable certificates and professional credentials that emphasize the human skills needed to guide the management and implementation of new and emerging technologies, the degree ensures that you will have the skills to adapt and thrive in the digital workplace.

Meeting digital workforce demands

As a UX Design Certificate student, you’ll learn innovative ways of thinking to thrive in an evolving 21st-century digital workforce, including:

  • Apply a user-centered approach: By using proven research methods and empathy, you will develop a deeper understanding of the behavior, preferences and needs of users.
  • Learn essential UX design tools: Acquire the knowledge to use leading industry design tools like Figma to build wireframes and prototypes to create successful user interfaces.
  • Work on real-world projects: Apply what you are learning to real-world scenarios through case studies and projects that transform classroom learning into valuable, practical skill sets.

The online Bachelor of Arts in Digital Innovation and Design bridges technology and creativity with a student-first approach to learning with each course, so you see an immediate return on your investment.

Boise State’s faculty and staff bring industry and real-world experience to their classrooms. They also have a shared commitment to creating positive, meaningful experiences for you and your online classmates.

After one year, you will earn your first certificate and acquire skills to improve your marketability. During your time in the program, you will build a broad foundation of collaboration, communication, creativity, critical thinking and innovation, along with an in-depth understanding of innovative digital approaches and techniques and the ability to apply design methodologies to creatively solve problems.

Options for your other certificate choices in the program are Applied Leadership, Cyber Operations, IT Support For All, Social Media Creator, +Business, Data Analysis For All, Media Content Management, Content Production, Esports, Project Management For All and User Experience Research.

Want to learn more about earning a Bachelor of Arts in Digital Innovation and Design?

Earning an online Bachelor of Arts in Digital Innovation and Design from Boise State University can open doors to new opportunities and a brighter future — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring if an online degree is right for you or need help transferring credits, connecting with a student success coach is the perfect first step. 

Ready to learn more? Attend one of our online information sessions or contact a student success coach today.

Contact a Student Success Coach

Attend a Live, Virtual Information Session

Digital Innovation and Design News

Is online college cheaper than in-person — and what are you really paying for?
Online colleges that accept FAFSA: Financial aid tips for working adults
Digital product design vs. UX design: What’s the difference and which career is right for you?
Is college worth it? 5 reasons why college is still a great investment