What will I learn on this module?
You will learn the fundamental principles and techniques involved in designing effective user experiences (UX). UX is a key component to many design disciplines such as Interaction Design, Experiential Design, Service Design and Information Architecture.
This module will support you to develop the skills and knowledge to practise and embed a human-centred design approach to designing user experiences of digital interactions. It will give you an important grounding in applied methods and practice which will foster an approach to design which is centred around understanding and analysis of user needs, expectations and requirements. This will provide you with a skill set which is transferable to many industries and employment sectors beyond design including technology, healthcare, finance, education, and e-commerce). You will learn to apply research-informed process to understand users’ behaviours, motivations, needs and aspirations. This will enable you to develop research-informed ideas to meet user needs.
You will be introduced to methods and techniques used through the design process that helps you identify user needs and translate them into effective and enjoyable user experience. They include user research, personas, user journeys, storyboards, prototyping, interaction mock-ups and testing.
How will I learn on this module?
The module will begin with a comprehensive briefing that outlines the expected learning outcomes, module requirements, and a detailed schedule.
You will have regular weekly sessions in a studio setting to structure your learning experience and understanding of UX Design and research methods. In these sessions, you’ll participate in group discussions, and use studio exercises which allow you to explore, and critique a range UX approaches..
Your module tutors will provide extensive support in various forms, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and tutorials.
During the sessions will receive feedback from your peers and tutors
You will receive tailored feedback during tutorials before you submit your work, helping you polish and enhance your project work for successful module completion.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Your module tutors will provide extensive support in various forms, including lectures, seminars, group discussions, workshops, and tutorials.
Your learning will be facilitated by the module’s tutors using inquiry-based learning, which is based on posing questions, problems or scenarios to support a structured approach to learning. You will be expected to utilise the methods and techniques introduced in the module to help you answer or respond to the questions or brief posed. Learning resources will be made available to support pre-session, during and post-session learnings on the eLearning portal.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
• LO 1. Be able to describe and discuss human-centred design principles and how they relates to a UX design. KU1
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• LO 2. Demonstrate the application of UX appropriate design approaches and research methods in the development of work. ISPA1
• LO 3. Independently generate concepts, proposals, solutions or arguments in response to an identified UX issue. IPSA2
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• LO 4 Communicate design concepts, proposals or solutions using appropriate media. PVA4
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed formatively, using verbal feedback during timetabled sessions at key stages of the design development process.
You will be summatively assessed at the end of the module through the submission of a:
• Component 1: 30 % UX Design Exercises: a series of pieces in response to weekly exercises demonstrating your understanding UX principles
MLOs 1, 2, 3,
Component 2: 70 % UX Project: A redesign an existing digital interaction based on applied human-centred principles.
MLOs 3, 4
At this summative stage you will receive initial verbal feedback during your presentation, followed up with additional written feedback on your design process book and final submission.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
Reseach Led and Informed:
This module aims to introduce you to the core principles, methods and techniques of User Experience (UX) as part of the design process. You will be introduced to the concept of human-centred approach where users take centre-stage. You will leverage research methods to help understand and articulate the needs, requirements, and desires of the user to meet the requirements of the users and adhere to best practice. Through the explorations of creative ideas and interactive prototypes, you will develop an understanding and practice of design research putting people at the centre of any user experience design. These skills will help you create engaging interactions and experiences, communicate the value of high quality UX design and its contribution to a product’s success.
Course info
UCAS Code W200
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Northumbria School of Design, Arts and Creative Industries, Northumbria School of Design
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
Useful Links
Find out about our distinctive approach at
www.northumbria.ac.uk/exp
Admissions Terms and Conditions
northumbria.ac.uk/terms
Fees and Funding
northumbria.ac.uk/fees
Admissions Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/adpolicy
Admissions Complaints Policy
northumbria.ac.uk/complaints
