How to Become a UX Designer Without a Design Degree?

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Have you ever had the feeling that your present degree is leading you in an unsatisfactory direction? Perhaps you have a background in business, biology, or literature, but after discovering UX design, everything makes sense. You wish to enter the field and become a UX designer. 

You’re probably wondering, though, if you can actually transition to UX with a degree that has nothing to do with it. 

Is it possible to become UX designer without degree-relevant experience?

The quick response? 

You certainly can become UX designer, even with an unrelated degree.

In actuality, individuals with a wide range of professional and academic backgrounds are drawn to UX design. Effective transitioning is difficult, and this design journal is your road map if you’re considering formal education, such as getting a second degree, or if you want to become UX designer without degree-specific experience.

Why pursuing a second degree in user experience can benefit you?

To be honest, changing careers is difficult. You might feel as though you’re beginning from scratch. But when you decide to pursue a second degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) or UX, you’re doing more than just learning; you’re reestablishing your reputation and purpose in the workforce.

Online courses and bootcamps may not always be able to match the structure, depth, and accessibility that formal education provides. 

You’re working with teachers, participating in group projects, and applying actual theories to actual design scenarios—not just watching video lectures. 

A lot of programs also provide you with access to software and tools that professionals use on a daily basis, such as Adobe XD, Figma, and platforms for usability testing.

A degree program can provide you with a solid foundation if you’re the type of person who thrives with direction and a methodical approach. 

Additionally, it provides an answer to the frequently asked question by recruiters, “How serious are you about this career?” Being in that second degree says a lot.

How to combine two education paths at the same time?

Managing two educational paths at once—like studying UX design while completing a degree in business or another field—can feel like walking a tightrope. 

You’re constantly switching between mindsets: analytical thinking in one class, creative problem-solving in another. 

But when approached strategically, this combination can actually be a huge advantage. The skills you gain from both areas often intersect in unexpected ways. 

For example, a deeper understanding of user behavior can enhance your business strategy, while design thinking can make you a more innovative leader.

Sometimes students try to combine two very different types of education at the same time. One of the most common combinations is an MBA alongside a design-focused program. 

While this can lead to a well-rounded, powerful skill set, the heavy load of writing assignments—especially in business courses—can quickly become overwhelming. 

In these situations, turning to an MBA assignment helper can be a smart way to manage the pressure. 

Getting support with writing-intensive tasks allows students to focus more energy on hands-on design projects like prototyping, user research, or portfolio building. 

When used responsibly, this kind of help can reduce burnout and help maintain quality across both educational paths.

To make this dual-learning path sustainable, it helps to structure your time carefully. Set up a weekly schedule with dedicated blocks for each discipline, and look for opportunities where one project can inform or support the other. 

For instance, a user experience audit can become part of a product development case study, or your UX research can contribute insights to a business presentation. 

When you bridge the two areas creatively, you don’t just survive the workload—you turn it into something that sets you apart.

Selecting the best user experience program for you?

Not all degrees pertaining to user experience have the moniker “UX.” Some are classified as digital media, interaction design, or even human factors and psychology. 

When assessing programs, pay attention to what they teach rather than just their names. While some schools may concentrate more on behavioral science, research methodology, or user testing, others may place a greater emphasis on the technological side, such as interface prototypes and design systems. 

Select the one that best suits your interests and strong points. 

For instance, you might like a UX program that emphasizes research if your first degree was in psychology. It may feel more natural to enroll in a school that prioritizes visual design and storytelling if you have experience in marketing or communications.

Keep in mind that you are not deleting your history. On top of it, you’re building.

Developing your UX portfolio while you’re a student

The truth is that while having a second degree can undoubtedly increase your credibility, employers are more interested in your abilities. Your portfolio can help with that.

Consider each task as a component of your future portfolio as you progress through your UX curriculum. Record your steps, consider your choices, and don’t merely present the finished design; describe the steps you took to get there. 

Showing off your research, wireframes, and user testing findings can turn even academic projects into compelling case studies.

Seek out chances to work on UX projects outside of the classroom in addition to your coursework. 

This may include helping a local company enhance its app or volunteering to remodel a nonprofit’s website. These projects demonstrate initiative and add a practical touch to your portfolio.

Keep in mind that you can make an impression without a dozen well-polished items. It is frequently more effective to have three or four well-documented projects with user-centered design and clear thought than a crowded portfolio with no narrative.

After the Degree, What Happens Next? Getting Your First Position in UX

It’s time to enter the workforce after earning your second degree and creating a portfolio you’re happy with. 

This can be scary, particularly if you’re up against competitors who might have more conventional tech or design credentials. However, don’t undervalue the significance of your individual journey.

Showing off your transferable skills is one of the most effective things you can do. Perhaps you have a strong grasp of human behavior from your degree in sociology, or you learned how to tackle difficult problems logically from your engineering experience. 

These qualities are crucial to UX design and are not only “nice to haves.” The secret is to learn how to tell your tale.

Additionally, you don’t need to wait for the ideal job advertisement. Think about beginning with contract work, internships, or apprenticeships. 

These positions frequently lead to full-time positions and can help you quickly get experience. Career changers are welcome to work for many companies, particularly if they have demonstrated their dedication through coursework and a strong portfolio.

Here, networking is also very important. Reach out to program graduates, participate in virtual events, or join online UX groups. 

You might be shocked to learn how frequently a little coffee discussion or LinkedIn message can lead to chances.

Using your passion to make a meaningful change

It takes courage to change careers. It entails taking a risk and questioning the notion that your future is determined by your first degree. 

A second degree in UX design, however, can be the link that connects you to your true goals with the correct approach.

You gain credibility, structure, and growth-promoting resources through formal schooling. What will set you apart in the UX field, however, is your story—your upbringing, your drive, and your distinct viewpoint.

Therefore, don’t allow your irrelevant degree to stop you from pursuing this career if you’re drawn to it. 

Accept it. 

Expand upon it. 

Whether you want to become UX designer with a second degree or become UX designer without degree-specific experience, your unique journey can be your greatest asset. 

You will become UX designer with a narrative worth telling if you combine your academic background with new knowledge.

Frequently asked questions

What types of companies or industries hire UX designers with non-traditional backgrounds?

Many companies across various industries, from tech startups to large corporations and even non-profits, value UX designers with diverse backgrounds. 

They often seek individuals who bring fresh perspectives, interdisciplinary thinking, and unique problem-solving approaches, regardless of their initial degree. 

Your previous experience, even if unrelated, can provide valuable insights into specific user groups or industries.

Are there specific tools or software I should learn to become a UX designer?

While many tools are available, focusing on industry-standard software will be most beneficial. Key tools often include Figma, Sketch, and Adobe XD for UI design and prototyping. 

For user research, you might use tools like Maze or UserTesting. 

Familiarity with project management tools like Jira or Asana can also be helpful. 

Prioritizing understanding the principles behind UX design is more important than memorizing every tool, as tools constantly evolve.

How important is networking when trying to become a UX designer from an unrelated field?

Networking is extremely important, especially for career changers. Connecting with other UX professionals, attending industry events (virtual or in-person), and joining online communities can provide invaluable insights, mentorship, and potential job leads. 

Many opportunities arise through connections rather than traditional job applications, and networking can help you understand industry trends and gain feedback on your work.

What is the average time it takes to become a UX designer with an unrelated degree?

The time it takes to become a UX designer varies widely depending on the individual’s dedication, learning path, and prior skills. 

Some intensive bootcamps can prepare individuals for entry-level roles in 3-6 months, while self-study or part-time courses might take 6-12 months or longer. 

Building a strong portfolio often requires several projects, which can extend the timeline. Consistency and practical application of knowledge are key determinants.