The designer’s curriculum

What to study if you’re interested in Product or UX Design.

Interested in a career in product or UX design? Wondering what to study to get you there? It’s a common question. In fact, after being asked this question by prospective candidates and others for months, I wrote, somewhat glibly:

First study philosophy, psychology, sociology, anthropology, critical reasoning, statistics, writing, architecture. Become a student of human nature. Practice empathy. Learn a little code.

Then study UX.

Although it’s been a few years, I stand by these words. Sure, you need to study your craft, and if design is your craft, you better know it inside and out; it’s a competitive market, after all.

Here’s the thing, though: this kind of design is about more than just craft. It’s about synthesizing information from various sources. It’s about understanding human nature. The designer who understands business and philosophy, history and psychology—well, that designer is going to have an edge over her competition, all things being equal. She’s going to be asked to help develop the strategy because she adds value beyond design deliverables. In the long run, she’s going to have a more rewarding career.

If you don’t know already, I’m a bit cynical about design pedigree. I’m skeptical of those who think design is a rarified craft that can only be transmitted via the most august of academic design curricula. Some of the best designers I’ve known were completely, or mostly, self-taught. Some of the most uninspiring? Well, they had academic bona fides, but not the spark.

The designers who go on to do great things are more than artisans; they’re smart, curious, knowledgeable people. They’re worldly, not just versed in the intricacies of their medium, but knowledgeable about a great many things.

Study design. Master the craft, but don’t limit yourself. Ask questions, stay curious, and learn as much as you can. You don’t know when some bit of knowledge is going to come in handy, but it will.