Title: MSU Launches Innovative Degree in Learning and User Experience Design
Introduction
Mississippi State University (MSU) has announced a brand-new undergraduate degree in Learning and User Experience Design (LUED), set to welcome its first cohort in Fall 2025. This interdisciplinary program aims to bridge the gap between educational theory, instructional technology, and user-centered design, preparing graduates for a rapidly growing job market in educational technology, digital learning, and UX/UI development.
Program Rationale: A Response to Industry Demand
• Growing Need for Learning Designers: As schools, corporations, and non-profits adopt online and blended learning models, demand has surged for professionals who can craft engaging, effective educational experiences.
• Expansion of UX Roles: Beyond websites and apps, user experience (UX) expertise is critical for designing learning platforms, simulations, and interactive training modules.
• Interdisciplinary Skill Set: LUED graduates will combine instructional design principles with human-computer interaction (HCI) techniques, making them uniquely qualified for roles across sectors.
Program Overview
Degree Title: Bachelor of Science in Learning and User Experience Design
College and Department: College of Education, Department of Instructional Systems and Workforce Development, in partnership with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering
Program Length: Four years, full-time study
Delivery Format: On-campus classes in Starkville with options for hybrid and asynchronous coursework
Curriculum and Coursework
Year 1: Foundations
• Introduction to Instructional Design – Core theories of learning, needs analysis, and basic scriptwriting for educational content.
• Fundamentals of User Experience – Principles of human-computer interaction, user research methods, and prototyping tools.
• Digital Literacy and Ethics – Digital citizenship, accessibility standards, and ethical considerations in education technology.
Year 2: Core Competencies
• Learning Theories and Application – Cognitive, behavioral, and constructivist models, with case studies in K-12, higher education, and corporate training.
• UX Research Methods – Qualitative and quantitative research, usability testing, and data-driven design decisions.
• Multimedia Development – Audio, video, and animation techniques for instructional purposes.
Year 3: Integration and Practice
• Instructional Systems Design (ISD) Models – ADDIE, SAM, and Agile-inspired design processes.
• Advanced Prototyping and Wireframing – Interactive mockups using tools like Figma, Axure, and Adobe XD.
• Collaborative Project I – Cross-disciplinary team work with Computer Science majors to develop a minimum viable product (MVP) for an educational app or platform.
Year 4: Specialization and Capstone
• Adaptive Learning Technologies – AI-driven personalization, learning analytics, and recommendation systems.
• Accessible Design in Education – WCAG standards, universal design for learning (UDL), and assistive technologies.
• Capstone Experience – A semester-long project in partnership with an external organization (school district, ed-tech startup, or corporate training department), culminating in a public showcase of design deliverables.
Faculty and Collaborative Partnerships
• Core Faculty: Experts in instructional systems, educational psychology, HCI, and multimedia development will deliver foundational courses.
• Adjunct Instructors: UX professionals from leading tech firms and instructional design consultants will teach specialized workshops and seminars.
• Industry Partners: MSU’s Center for Technology Outreach and Learning collaborates with local and national organizations to secure internship placements, project sponsorships, and guest lectures.
• Research Labs: Students may join ongoing research in the User Experience Lab or the Center for Technology Outreach and Learning to study real-world design challenges and evaluate ed-tech products.
Student Support and Experiential Learning
• Mentorship Program: Each student pairs with a faculty mentor and an industry mentor to guide academic and professional development.
• Hackathons and Design Sprints: Regular campus-wide events where interdisciplinary teams solve rapid-prototype challenges.
• Study Abroad and Exchange: Opportunities to study digital learning innovations in Finland, Singapore, or Estonia, countries known for cutting-edge educational technologies.
Career Pathways and Job Outlook
Graduates of the LUED program will be prepared for roles such as:
• Learning Experience Designer
• User Experience (UX) Designer/Researcher
• Instructional Designer for Corporate Training
• Educational Product Manager
• E-Learning Developer
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in instructional design and user experience fields is projected to grow by over 8% through 2030, outpacing average occupational growth. Salaries for entry-level positions start around $55,000 and can rise well into six figures with experience and specialization.
Future Outlook and Expansion Plans
MSU plans to monitor the program’s success through graduate placement rates, employer feedback, and student satisfaction surveys. Pending demand, the university may introduce a fully online version, a Master’s track in Learning and UX Design, and certificate programs for working professionals. Collaboration with the Mississippi Department of Education and the state’s technology sector could lead to additional funding, research grants, and statewide educational initiatives.
Key Takeaways
1. Interdisciplinary Curriculum: Blends instructional design, learning science, and UX principles to equip students with a versatile skill set.
2. Career-Ready Graduates: Focus on practical experience through capstone projects, internships, and industry partnerships ensures high employability.
3. Growing Field: The combination of ed-tech expansion and digital product development drives strong job prospects and competitive salaries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Who is eligible to apply for the Learning and UX Design degree?
A1: Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Strong candidates will demonstrate interest in education, technology, and design, supported by a portfolio (if available) or relevant coursework in computer science, psychology, or art.
Q2: What are the application deadlines and admission requirements?
A2: The application deadline for Fall 2025 admission is February 15, 2025, for first-year students and March 1, 2025, for transfer students. Requirements include transcripts, SAT/ACT scores (optional for 2025), a personal statement, and two letters of recommendation.
Q3: How does MSU support remote or non-traditional students in this program?
A3: MSU offers hybrid courses, recorded lectures, virtual office hours, and an online learning management system. Non-traditional students can access flexible scheduling, part-time enrollment options, and dedicated academic advisors to balance work, family, and study commitments.
