The Department of Sociology has compiled answers to the frequently asked questions by prospective students for the Online Customer Experience and User Experience Research Certificate. If you are unable to find the answer to your question(s) please contact Montclair Online at online@montclair.edu.
- What is UX research? UX research is the process of uncovering the behaviors, needs, and pain points of our target users through various techniques and methodologies. The goal is to use those insights to help inform the design process and enhance the product or service.
- Why pursue a career as a UX researcher? There is no better time to be a UX researcher than right now. UX researchers and designers are in very high demand as many organizations recognize the value that research has on informing product and business decisions. UX research is still evolving and is becoming much more commonplace in both the private and public sectors. Not only are organizations making more informed decisions that are driving business growth, but they are also building more inclusive products and services.
- What methods are used? There are many different methods that can be used but it all depends on the research questions you are trying to answer. Research methods can either be qualitative or quantitative and have either an attitudinal or behavioral dimension to it. Some common qualitative methods include user testing, interviews, field studies, and contextual inquiries. Quantitative methods include surveys, A/B testing, clickstreams, and more.
- What qualifications or skills are needed to become a UX researcher? Although it is not always required, many UX research positions do expect you to have at least a bachelor’s degree. However, you don’t necessarily need a degree related to technology or behavioral/social sciences (although it definitely helps) to become a UX researcher. The wonderful thing about this career is that many UX professionals come from various backgrounds and experiences that translate over to this field. You will need the right mix of technical skills and soft skills to perform the job well.
- What is a UX research portfolio? A UX research portfolio is a collection of case studies that you have worked on that demonstrates your research process and your ability to tell a story. Through the use of various texts and visuals, you must showcase your skills and experience to employers as you guide them through the research process. Since not all projects will require you to perform every type of research method, it’s recommended that you have 3-5 case studies where you employ different methods.
- Do I need to know how to code? No, you don’t need to know how to code. You will need to learn how to communicate with developers so that your research translates over to the product. It is essential that you learn to speak with members of your team and increase your understanding of how they work so that you all can better align with the goals at hand.
- Why is it important? UX research helps organizations discover customer needs and business opportunities, understand how users experience a product or service, evaluate new and existing ideas and improve them, and more. It is a vital part of any company looking to grow and improve their products and services.
- Are these careers in demand? According to PayScale, the average salary for a UX researcher is $90,008. The Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn’t provide statistics specifically for UX researchers, it does for computer and information research scientists which is expected to grow by 15% between 2019 and 2029.
- How long does the CX/UX certificate program take to finish? It is a five-course program totaling 13.5 credits. It consists of 3 core courses, 1 elective and 1 capstone course. The certificate can be completed in as little as 10 months.
- Are there any requirements to enter the program? The Office of Graduate Admissions requires that applicants have the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree to be eligible. Applicants with non-U.S. degrees must visit the International Applicants page to review the U.S. degree equivalency information. As a online certificate, this program can be completed from your home state or country.
- Is there an application fee? The $60 application fee is waived for Online Programs. After submitting the application, you will see this requirement waived within 24 hours. Start an application.