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A UX/UI Designer focuses on creating user-friendly and visually appealing digital experiences, such as websites and mobile apps. UX stands for User Experience, which involves researching and understanding how people interact with a product to ensure it is easy and enjoyable to use. UI stands for User Interface, which is about designing the look and feel of the product including colours, buttons, and layouts. UX/UI Designers often work with developers, product managers, and other designers to take a product from concept to completion. They use tools like Adobe XD, Figma, or Sketch to design wireframes and prototypes, test their ideas with real users, and iterate based on feedback. This career suits creative individuals who enjoy problem-solving and have an interest in technology and design.
The average salary for a UX/UI Designer in the UK is between £28,000 and £50,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
Demand for UX/UI Designers in the UK has increased by over 15 percent in the last five years, reflecting the digital transformation across industries.
There are currently more than 2,000 entry-level UX/UI Designer positions advertised across the UK on major job boards.
Focuses on creating user-friendly and visually appealing designs specifically for mobile applications, ensuring smooth navigation and a positive user experience on smartphones and tablets.
Works to make websites and digital products accessible to all users, including those with disabilities, by following accessibility standards and best practices in design.
Conducts surveys, interviews, and usability tests to understand user needs and behaviours, helping design teams to create more effective and enjoyable digital experiences.
Study the principles of design, such as colour theory, typography and layout.
You can start building your knowledge through free online resources, YouTube tutorials, or enrolling in introductory design courses. Understanding basic design principles is essential for creating visually appealing and user friendly interfaces. Practice by redesigning simple websites or apps to test your skills.
Get comfortable with essential design software like Adobe XD, Figma, or Sketch.
Most employers expect you to know at least one digital design tool. Download free trials or use free versions to practise. There are many online tutorials available for each tool. Focus on learning how to create wireframes, interactive prototypes and design assets.
Create a collection of your design work to showcase your skills to employers.
A strong portfolio is vital for UX/UI designers. Include projects that demonstrate your understanding of user needs, design process, and final outcomes. If you do not have client work, use personal projects, redesigns, or volunteer work. Clearly explain your design decisions and process for each project.
Look for internships, freelance opportunities or contribute to open source projects.
Gaining real world experience helps you apply your skills and learn how to work with others. Seek out internships with digital agencies, tech companies, or in-house design teams. Freelancing or volunteering for charities and student organisations can also provide valuable experience and portfolio pieces.
Understand how to gather and analyse feedback from users to improve your designs.
User research involves interviewing users, running usability tests, and analysing user behaviour. Learn about methods such as surveys, focus groups, and A/B testing. This helps you design products that truly meet user needs. Many online courses and books can help you develop these skills.
Keep up with industry trends and connect with other designers.
UX/UI design is a fast evolving field. Follow industry blogs, attend design meetups, and join online communities to stay current. Networking can lead to job opportunities, collaborations, and ongoing learning. Consider joining professional organisations like the Interaction Design Foundation or UXPA UK.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in UX/UI Designer. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
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A UX/UI Designer focuses on creating user-centred digital interfaces, which closely aligns with the responsibilities of a User experience (UX) designer. Both roles aim to optimise the usability and aesthetic appeal of digital products, leveraging similar skills in user research, wireframing, and visual design.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a higher national diploma, degree or postgraduate award in:
You'll usually need:
You could do a college course, which may lead on to more advanced qualifications, or help you to get a trainee position with a company.
Courses include:
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
You could apply to do a Digital User Experience (UX) Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.
You may also find a Digital Accessibility Specialist Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship useful for this job.
You'll usually need:
If you're working in an organisation that conducts user research, you could get work experience by volunteering to help in research sessions and user interviews.
You could also get involved with the online user experience community for advice and tips, and to find a mentor to help you.
You can apply directly to companies or go through an agency that specialises in providing digital design professionals to clients.
You'll need qualifications and relevant experience to do this.
You'll find it useful to have:
It will also help if you have a portfolio to showcase examples of your work.
You can find out more about working as a user experience (UX) designer from the User Experience Professionals' Association (UXPA) and techskills.
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