Sophomore year in the User Experience and Interaction Design (UXID) program at Drexel University takes design skills to the next level. After covering the fundamentals in freshman year, students now dive deeper into interaction design, usability testing, and more advanced prototyping techniques. This year is all about refining skills, tackling real-world projects, and preparing for future co-op opportunities.
Core Classes
The courses in sophomore year build on foundational knowledge, introducing more complex design concepts and industry tools. Key classes include:
- Web Design (IDM221, IDM222): Learn how to create and maintain quality web sites, and learn about accessibility and web design standards, and why they are important.
- Human Factors Engineering (IDM214): Discuss ways of applying psychological and physiological principles to the design of interactive systems, products, processes, and systems to address human capabilities and limitations in ways that ensure safety, effectiveness, and ease of use.
- Scripting for Interactive Digital Media (IDM231): Explore modern client-side scripting languages that interact with the user, control the browser, communicate asynchronously, and alter document content and functionality.
Skills You’ll Learn
By the end of sophomore year, UXID students will have developed essential industry skills, including:
✅ Advanced Prototyping – Create high-fidelity designs with tools like Figma and Adobe After Effects.
✅ Usability Testing & Research – Conduct A/B testing, analyze user behavior, and refine user experiences.
✅ Web Development – Use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to bring your designs to life.
✅ Accessibility & Inclusive Design – Ensure products are usable for diverse audiences.
Projects & Challenges
Sophomore year coursework emphasizes real-world applications. Expect projects that involve designing full user interfaces, conducting user research, and building interactive prototypes. A major challenge at this stage is balancing design and functionality—ensuring that an interface is not just visually appealing but also intuitive and accessible.
Tips for Success
🎯 Refine your portfolio. Start documenting projects and case studies for future co-op applications.
🎯 Hone your research skills. Usability testing and user feedback are crucial for great design.
🎯 Experiment with coding. Even a basic understanding of JavaScript can give designers an edge.
🎯 Network and seek mentorship. Connecting with UX professionals can open doors to internships and career opportunities.
Looking Ahead
Sophomore year is a crucial time for skill-building and preparation for Drexel’s co-op program. The next step? Pre-Junior year introduces more specialized courses, industry collaborations, and professional experience through co-op placements.