Technical Communication (User Experience) - BS
Program Overview
Combining coursework from technical communication, human systems engineering, and graphic information technology, the program prepares graduates for careers in UX research, design, and related fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Technical Communication (User Experience) BS program at Arizona State University (ASU) equips students with an interdisciplinary foundation in communication, research, and design, equipping them for the evolving field of user experience (UX). The program emphasizes:
- Designing user-centered experiences: This involves applying human-centered design principles to create intuitive and engaging interfaces across various platforms.
- Technical communication skills: Students develop strong writing, editing, and visual communication skills to effectively communicate complex information to diverse audiences.
Outline:
The program follows a structured curriculum with a mix of core and elective courses. The Major Map details the required and elective courses for both on-campus and online program formats. Some key courses include:
- Introduction to User Experience: This introductory course covers the fundamentals of UX, including user research, design thinking, and usability testing.
- Human-Computer Interaction: Students learn about the interaction between humans and computers, focusing on designing interfaces that are usable, efficient, and enjoyable.
- Usability Testing: Students gain practical experience in conducting usability tests to identify and address usability issues in existing or proposed interfaces.
- Technical Writing: This course focuses on writing clear, concise, and user-friendly documentation for various technical audiences.
Assessment:
The program uses various assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
- Exams and quizzes: These assess students' understanding of key concepts and theories.
- Assignments and projects: Students complete individual and group projects to apply their learning to real-world scenarios.
- Presentations: Students present their research findings and design solutions to their peers and faculty.
- Portfolio development: Students create a portfolio of their best work to showcase their skills and experience to potential employers.
Teaching:
The program features a dedicated faculty with expertise in UX, technical communication, and related fields. The teaching methods include:
- Interactive lectures: These lectures engage students in discussions and activities to foster active learning.
- Hands-on projects: Students work on real-world projects to gain practical experience and develop problem-solving skills.
- Guest speakers: Industry professionals are invited to share their insights and experiences with students.
- Small class sizes: This allows for individualized attention and interaction between students and faculty.
Careers:
Graduates of the program are prepared for a wide range of careers in the field of user experience, including:
- UX researcher
- UX designer
- Usability analyst
- Content strategist
- Technical writer
- Web designer
- Human-computer interaction specialist The program also prepares students for further graduate studies in related fields.
Other:
The program offers a global experience through international study abroad opportunities. Additionally, students can participate in research projects with faculty and industry partners.
Summary:
The Technical Communication (User Experience) BS program at ASU offers a comprehensive and up-to-date education for students interested in pursuing a career in the rapidly growing field of user experience. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing graduates for success in diverse UX-related roles.
Arizona State University: A Comprehensive Overview
Overview:
Arizona State University (ASU) is a top-ranked research university located in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. It is known for its innovative approach to education, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. ASU is recognized for its commitment to inclusivity, serving learners at all stages of life and fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
Services Offered:
ASU provides a comprehensive range of services to support student success, including:
Academic Support:
Tutoring, advising, and academic success resources.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, financial aid programs, and tuition assistance.Student Life:
Housing and dining, clubs and activities, health and wellness services, and transportation.Career Services:
Job and career resources, internship opportunities, and career counseling.Student Life and Campus Experience:
ASU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide array of clubs, organizations, and events, fostering personal growth and development. The university's diverse student body creates a rich cultural environment, promoting global perspectives and intercultural understanding.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Top-Ranked Programs:
ASU boasts numerous top-ranked programs, including 82 programs ranked in the top 25 nationally, with 37 in the top 10.Innovative Learning Environment:
ASU embraces a flexible and personalized approach to learning, allowing students to customize their academic journey.World-Class Faculty:
Students benefit from instruction led by renowned professors and researchers, many of whom are leaders in their fields.Global Impact:
ASU is consistently ranked among the top universities for global impact, demonstrating its commitment to addressing global challenges.Diverse and Inclusive Community:
ASU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment, embracing students from all backgrounds and promoting a sense of belonging.Academic Programs:
ASU offers over 800 degree programs across a wide range of disciplines, including:
Undergraduate:
More than 400 undergraduate degrees in fields such as engineering, journalism, business, sustainability, nursing, education, and more.Graduate:
Over 450 graduate degrees, including master's and doctoral programs.Other:
ASU is known for its commitment to research and innovation, with a strong focus on addressing real-world challenges. The university is also a leader in sustainability, promoting environmental responsibility and social justice.
