How to Become an UX Researcher / Designer
Conduct user research and design intuitive, accessible digital interfaces that meet user needs and business goals. It typically requires a bachelor's degree, with a median salary of $104,000 per year and much faster than average projected job growth.
Median pay
$104,000/yr
Typical range
$53,750 to $201,550
Job growth
7%
Openings / yr
9,100
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- User Research
- Wireframing and Prototyping
- Usability Testing
- Information Architecture
- Visual Design
Helpful certifications
- Google UX Design Certificate
- Nielsen Norman Group UX Certification
- Interaction Design Foundation
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
85/100
Work-life balance
75/100
Stress level
28/100
Satisfaction
80/100
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Frequently asked questions
How much does an UX Researcher / Designer make?
The median pay for an UX Researcher / Designer is $104,000 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). The typical range runs from $53,750 to $201,550, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become an UX Researcher / Designer?
The usual entry point is a bachelor's degree. Common majors are Human-Computer Interaction, Graphic Design, Psychology, Information Science, and Communication Design.
Is UX Researcher / Designer a growing field?
The BLS projects much faster than average demand for this role, about 7% over the decade, with roughly 9,100 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does an UX Researcher / Designer use most?
Common skills for this role are User Research, Wireframing and Prototyping, Usability Testing, Information Architecture, and Visual Design.
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.