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What's your opinion of the Human Factors in Information Design masters program at Bentley University?

  • I'm wondering if it would be a right fit for me. I heard this program has some reputation in the Usability field. I have a bachelors in Industrial Design, and want to move into the Interaction Design/UX field. I was considering Masters programs in Interaction Design (though there aren't many), but I want to learn real user-centered design approach and understand human behavior. I think I have a good grasp on learning visual design on my own, which is why I'm considering Bentley at all.

  • Answer:

    Hi, Anon - first things first: as you're likely aware, a background in Industrial Design is a great match for the Interaction Design/User Experience (UX) field. While I agree with the Anon who responded (but who didn't attend nor complete the program) that the Bentley University Human Factors in Information Design (HFID) masters program "focuses...on a holistic UX approach which exposes the candidate to many areas with a primary focus on research", it certainly embodies a user-centered design approach facilitates a better understand of human behavior (at least in the context of usability and experience design). As of a few years ago when I completed the program, it offered great quality of learning, flexibility in where/how to complete classes (I was primarily an online student), amazing contacts in terms of both students and alumni, and no less than three job offers before I even completed the program. It changed my life. Of course, your mileage may vary and you may already know some of the course material, so please feel free to elaborate more on your concerns about the "fit". Good luck! - Brian https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmills

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I have not attended the school but it is on my list. I've spoken to the director and several students who did - most of them come from the Boston area. The general perception is that the school focuses more on a holistic UX approach which exposes the candidate to many areas with a primary focus on research. Bill Gribbons, who is the director holds the opinion that the creatives are to be nurtured at the school and there's a special place for folks who can design, develop and do research. That said the school does not tout itself as a place to learn visual design. It's advantage comes more from merging business with UX together. There are graphical design programs in the area though, so consider going that route as a supplement to your studies at Bentley. As you probably know - there are Interaction Design programs out there, most of them falling under an MFA degree of 2 - 3 years, which might be more relevant to what you're seeking. I'm in the same boat as well - most of my design knowledge came from building sites and reading books. Unfortunately most Interaction Design and MFA programs are usually for those who have an undergraduate degree in design but that said there are some exceptions but those usually take 3 years to complete. Case in point, Chicago's IIT program is 2 years plus one year Foundation if you lack the formal degree. Obviously consider costs as well, since most of the MFA programs are full time compared to some other school's (Bentley offers a part time option). 3 years might be pretty expensive unless you can get a decent scholarship or find work to do part time as you're learning. Hope this helps.

Anonymous

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