In this interview, we sit down with Professor Tony Russell-Rose, Programme Director of the MSc User Experience Engineering.
Academic interests and expertise
Can you tell us about your academic and research background?
My background spans both academic research and industry practice. I originally trained in cognitive science and HCI, completing my PhD in natural language interfaces. I’ve worked extensively in UX research and information retrieval, including roles at Canon, Reuters and Oracle, and have consulted for organisations such as Microsoft, BBC and LexisNexis.
My current research focuses on human-information interaction, with particular emphasis on how people search, navigate, and make sense of complex information spaces. This includes work on novel text analytics techniques, new interaction and visualisation methods, and empirical studies of exploratory search and knowledge discovery.
What inspired you to specialise in your current field of study?
In my undergraduate degree I studied human factors and ergonomics, so the relationship between people and technology has always been in my DNA. My early work focused on physical interfaces, but over time my interest shifted toward digital systems, particularly the cognitive and behavioural dimensions of how people interact with information.
I’ve always been fascinated by the interplay between users and complex technologies, and how poor design can undermine even the most advanced systems. That led me to focus on creating systems that are not just functional, but usable, inclusive, and meaningful. More recently, I’ve been exploring how concepts from AI and software engineering can be integrated into user-centred design. Helping students develop the skills to design intelligent, responsible systems is what motivates me most.
What do you enjoy most about teaching and mentoring students?
It’s hugely rewarding to see students develop their confidence and critical perspective, especially those from non-traditional backgrounds. I love seeing someone come in unsure of their place in the field, and by the end of the programme, they’re presenting a polished UX case study or work-based research project with real-world impact. The diversity of perspectives in our cohort is a real strength, and the mix of hands-on lab work and conceptual discussion makes for genuinely interesting conversations.
Why this course?
What makes this postgraduate programme unique within its field?
The MSc User Experience Engineering sits at the intersection of creative design, engineering rigour, and evidence-based human factors. It’s ideal for students who want to design intelligent, human-centred systems and are interested in how to evaluate and optimise those systems at scale. We cover everything from AI and low-code platforms to interaction design, systems thinking, and UX research - all grounded in real-world application. The course combines technical depth with critical insight, preparing students to design responsible, effective digital experiences in a rapidly evolving field.
What support is offered to help students transition from undergraduate to postgraduate study?
Students are supported through a combination of structured induction, small-group teaching, academic advising, and skills workshops. We know that postgraduate study can feel like a big step up, especially for those changing direction or returning after time in industry. That’s why we emphasise inclusive teaching, scaffolded assessment, and access to a strong peer community. Our UX Lab also offers a collaborative, low-pressure environment where students can gain confidence in applying tools and methods.
Are there opportunities for students to tailor the programme based on their specific academic or career interests?
Absolutely. Students can shape their experience through project choices and elective modules. Our major individual project is an opportunity to explore a topic in depth, whether that’s through lab-based user testing, a field study, or an industry-focused challenge. We also welcome interdisciplinary approaches that draw on interests from design, psychology, AI, or systems engineering.
Career paths
How does the programme help students develop skills for their future careers, whether in academia or industry?
The programme emphasises applied skills: user research, interaction design, systems thinking, and UX evaluation. We combine technical and critical thinking to prepare students for a variety of roles, from UX consultant to human factors specialist. Our lab-based and work-based learning gives students practical experience working on real-world design challenges. We also encourage reflection, communication, and collaboration - key skills for any professional context.
What career paths have graduates from this programme typically followed?
Graduates have gone on to roles in UX design, user research, accessibility, product strategy, and human factors - often in industries like tech, healthcare, transport, or government. Others have used the course as a stepping stone into further academic research or PhD study. Because the programme focuses on the technical and systemic dimensions of UX, graduates are well-positioned to work on complex design problems and cross-disciplinary teams.
Tips for offer holders
If you could highlight one thing that students should look forward to in this programme, what would it be?
The lab-based project work. Students get to apply what they’ve learned to real systems and real users, and the process of designing, testing, and refining is incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s prototyping a new service, evaluating a digital tool, or exploring AI-driven experiences, it’s where theory really meets practice.
What advice would you offer to offer holders as they prepare to join this course?
Don’t worry if you’re not from a traditional computing background - many of our best students come from psychology, design, or even the humanities. What matters most is curiosity and a willingness to think critically about how technology is designed and used. Read widely, explore design tools, and stay curious - that’s the best preparation.