How to build a career in UX management

Starting a career in UX can be exciting yet overwhelming. From choosing the right UX study programmes to building skills for specific positions, students and early-career professionals often ask the same questions. Below, we answer them with expert advice, practical tips and reliable data to help you plan your path.

What skills do you need for a career in UX?

Should you study UX in Germany?

How can you get your first UX job?

What are the career prospects in UX management?

How can students and graduates stay competitive in UX?

Employers increasingly look for a mix of technical, creative and soft skills. Coursera lists prototyping, visual design and user research among the most in-demand skills for UX professionals. However, strong communication, collaboration and problem-solving abilities are just as important.

Tip: Treat UX as a bridge between users and business goals. Understanding both human behaviour and organisational needs will make you stand out in user experience management and design.

Yes - Germany is a hub for international students. The country is home to several recognised universities offering UX study programmes, often taught in English. Many combine design thinking, psychology and digital business - skills that employers actively seek.

For example, the tech industry in Germany is expected to grow by 3.3% annually until 2027. This means more opportunities for UX specialists in start-ups, agencies and global companies. If you want to study UX in Germany, you also benefit from its international student community, affordable tuition compared to the US/UK and a strong job market after graduation.

👉 Explore our Master’s in User Experience Management and Design and learn how our study programme can support your career goals.

Getting hired in the UX field often comes down to demonstrating your learning process, not just the final result. A survey by resumegenius found that 65% of hiring managers consider candidates with relevant skills even if they lack experience. 

Steps to follow:

1. Build a portfolio with case studies - even from study projects.
2. Do internships to gain hands-on experience.
3. Network actively via LinkedIn, conferences and design communities.
4. Stay updated - UX tools and methods keep evolving rapidly.

Tip: Use your early career to gain a wide range of experience before specialising in areas like research, design systems or user experience management.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for web developers and digital designers, which includes many UX roles, is expected to grow 16% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. Careers can range from UX Designer and UX Researcher to UX Manager and Head of Experience Design.

For those who want to move into management roles, leadership skills are key. This means not only designing but also strategically shaping product direction, leading teams and aligning UX with business goals. Many professionals transition into management after 5–7 years of hands-on design and research experience.

• Keep learning through UX study programmes or online courses.
• Follow industry thought leaders such as Don Norman and Jared Spool.
• Join professional associations like the Interaction Design Association (IxDA).
• Stay data-driven: back up design decisions with metrics and user insights.

Tip: Employers value designers who can justify decisions with research and statistics. Always frame your portfolio and interviews around evidence-based design.

1. Prototyping, visual design and user research are among the most in-demand skills for UX professionals.
2. The tech industry in Germany is expected to grow by 3.3% annually until 2027.
3. 65% of hiring managers consider candidates with relevant skills even if they lack experience.
4. Employment for UX professionals is expected to grow by 16% from 2022 to 2032.