I chose to study my course at Loughborough University because it has a 40-year research history in human-centred design which was a big plus for me when choosing this school. The University's world ranking in design education and high student satisfaction also influenced my decision.
In addition to this, I was impressed by the alumni portfolios which were very successful and distinctive compared to other University graduate profiles and I found the research topics of the Loughborough Design quite inspiring. I also got excited about high-quality workshops and the opportunity to work with advanced usability testing devices alongside studying a very well-structured curriculum.
It is essential to gain a human-centred design perspective to be a designer who delivers digital products and services that provide meaningful experiences for people. Loughborough Design is one of the best places you can advance this skill. I am sure that I will graduate as a user experience designer who is more competent and confident than my expectations before I started my education here.
I realised that since working in the industry for many years and focusing on the design engineering and manufacturing side of the product design, I had very little chance to perform human-centred design practices. I want to go into my career working on more technology-driven products and services, so understanding human behaviour and motivations is an essential skill for me to deliver meaningful products. I am learning many different research methods and analytical tools which advance my human-centred design skills in this programme which inspires me.
Our curriculum has very condensed content and mixed theory and practice in every course, so I am sure that I will learn everything I need with this one-year program. We have great tutors with human-centred design expertise, and they lead us to advance our skills. Additionally, we often have online seminars with people from UX agencies as well as leading companies such as Google and Ford which is quite motivational and inspiring.
The UK is a great environment where many giant companies and technology start-ups are based, innovations take place and global trends are set. If you have a plan about what you want to do and frame your path before you start studying, you will have a higher chance to take the opportunity to be involved in these companies and shape your career in the best way. Even if this is not possible, prepare yourself for a delightful educational experience and lots of opportunities to improve your skills.