Analyzing Digital Accessibility in Undergraduate UX Programs

Digital accessibility is fundamental to creating inclusive user experiences, yet it remains inconsistently integrated into undergraduate User Experience (UX) education. Many UX professionals have limited practice with accessibility, in part due to gaps in their formal education. This study examines how accessibility is incorporated into undergraduate UX programs by analyzing course descriptions and syllabi from three universities in the United States: University of Michigan Ann-Arbor, Purdue University, and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Findings reveal that accessibility is rarely a core focus in UX curricula. While some courses reference accessibility, it is often implied rather than explicitly stated, and a syllabi review indicates inconsistent coverage. Accessibility is treated as a specialized topic, leaving students with limited exposure. This study thus highlights the need for greater integration of accessibility in UX education, emphasizing the importance of preparing future designers to create inclusive digital experiences.