UX and UI designer
Also called: Product designer
Designs how apps and websites work and look, so they are easy and pleasant to use.
What the work is
UX (user experience) designers study users, map their journeys and design flows that make tasks easy. UI (user interface) designers create the screens, colours, type and components. Many designers do both, and product designers also work closely with product managers and engineers.
A portfolio of case studies matters more than a degree. Designers come from design schools, but also from graphic design, architecture, psychology and engineering.
A typical week
- Interview users and test designs
- Sketch flows and wireframes
- Design screens and design systems in Figma
- Work with developers to build them
It suits people who
- Notice what is confusing or beautiful
- Care about people's needs
- Accept feedback and iterate
Your path to get there
School (Class 8-10)
- Any stream; sketch and redesign apps you use
Class 11-12
- B.Des through UCEED, NID DAT, NIFT or private design schools
College or fresher
- Learn Figma, user research and usability testing
- Build 3 case studies that show your process
- Intern with a product or design team
Working or switching
- Graphic designers, developers and researchers move into UX with a course and case studies
- Start with a skills refresh of 6 to 12 weeks: one short course and one TalentMeter assessment to show where you stand today.
- Use returnship and second-career programmes; many large employers in India run them for people back after a break.
- Explain the gap in one honest line on your CV and LinkedIn, and list what you did in it (caregiving, freelancing, courses, volunteering).
- Contract, part-time and freelance roles are a common way back in; they turn into full-time offers often.
Exams and certifications
| Name | What it is for | When |
|---|---|---|
| UCEED ↗ | B.Des at IITs | Once a year |
| NID DAT ↗ | B.Des and M.Des at NIDs | Once a year |
| CEED ↗ | M.Des at IITs and IISc | Once a year |
Exam names, eligibility and dates change. Always check the official website for this year's notice.
Job market
Job titles to search
Who hires
Where the jobs are
These buttons open a live search for "UX designer" on each job site. TalentMeter does not list or vouch for the jobs there.
Know which careers fit you
Create a free account, take the Compass career assessment for your stage, and every cluster and career here will show how well it fits you.