Starting the UXID program at Drexel University is an exciting step toward a career in design and technology. The first quarter introduces key UX concepts, essential tools, and hands-on projects that build a strong foundation for the years ahead. Here’s what to expect in your first term.
Freshman year begins with a mix of UXID courses and general education classes. The first quarter is just the beginning. Upcoming courses will dive deeper into interaction design, usability testing, and advanced prototyping, helping you refine your skills for real-world UX challenges.
Core Classes
Freshman year begins with a mix of UXID courses and general education classes. Some key courses include User Interface Design (IDM211, IDM212) where you learn how to design aesthetically pleasing user interfaces, covering important design principles and the human capabilities that motivate them. Interaction Design (IDM213) explores principles, patterns and process for interaction design, define the structure and behavior of interactive systems and how these can be used to create meaningful relationships between people and the products and services that they use. Design Thinking in Product Design (PROD215) covers design research methods, and topical design issues to explore and experience design thinking.
Skills You’ll Learn
The first quarter focuses on essential UX design skills, including User Research – Conduct interviews, surveys, and usability tests, Prototyping & Wireframing – Use Figma to create low-fidelity wireframes, and Design Iteration – Refine work based on feedback and testing.
Projects & Challenges
Expect hands-on projects from day one. A common first-quarter assignment is redesigning an app’s onboarding experience—identifying pain points, creating new user flows, and testing solutions. The biggest challenge? Learning to embrace feedback and refine designs through multiple iterations.
Tips for Success: Get comfortable with Figma early. It’s a core tool in UX design. Seek feedback often. Iteration is key to improving designs. Manage your time wisely. Balancing projects and coursework can be tricky. Engage with the UXID community. Networking and student groups can offer valuable insights.