The Master of Science in User Experience (UX) program at Michigan State University is guided by a distinguished group of professors, each bringing unique expertise and a commitment to fostering innovative, human-centered design practices. Here’s a roundup of the professors shaping the future of UX at MSU:
Jeff Siarto - UX 805: Quantitative Analysis and Insights in UX, UX 815: Programming Fundamentals for UX, UX 898: Capstone
A seasoned UI/UX designer, author, and technologist, Siarto brings more than 15 years of experience in web and software design to the MSU UX program. Since 2013, he has worked with NASA and other organizations to improve the usability of remote sensing and Earth Science data for both scientists and the public. Siarto currently serves as the Interim Director of the online Master of Science in User Experience, combining his technical expertise with a passion for making complex data accessible.
Letticia Lana Cherchiglia, Ph.D. - UX 800: User Research and Design, UX 810: Social Science for Design, UX 830: Design for Interactivity
Leticia Cherchiglia is an Instructor in the Department of Media and Information, specializing in User Experience, Game Design, and Instructional Design. With an extensive background in curriculum internationalization and project management, Cherchiglia is dedicated to harnessing the positive impact of technology on industry, academia, and society. Her courses emphasize the importance of thoughtful, user-centered design in a variety of contexts, from education to entertainment.
Louise Stauffer - UX 802: Current Topics in UX, UX 820: Usability Evaluation, UX 835: Accessibility and Design
Louise Stauffer is a consultant and educator with deep expertise in design thinking and product development. Her work focuses on fostering human-centered design and service-systems thinking to guide teams in creating meaningful and impactful experiences. Drawing on a holistic approach, Stauffer encourages critical thinking and collaboration to solve complex challenges and deliver customer-centric solutions. Her role within the program reflects her commitment to guiding students toward creating innovative experiences with long-lasting value.
Susan Bonner - UX 802: Gamification for UX
An Associate Professor in the Department of Media and Information, Susan Bonner is a leader in accessible and inclusive design. Before joining MSU, she served as Chair of Digital Art and Design within the Kendall College of Art and Design at Ferris State University. Bonner’s work spans game design, animation, and educational technology, with notable achievements including the creation of The Road Crew Social Emotional Health Game, an AR experience teaching children coping skills. Her contributions to the National Science Foundation’s panels on VR, AR, AI, and learning cognition further solidify her role as a thought leader in the field.
Valeta Wensloff - UX 825: Visual Design Fundamentals
Valeta Wensloff’s expertise lies in curriculum development and public outreach. As an instructional collaborator and internship coordinator, Wensloff helps students gain practical, hands-on experience through internships while promoting the department’s work through design and branding. She holds an M.A. in Digital Media Art and Technology from MSU and has a background in Television Production, bringing a unique perspective to her work in UX design and student engagement.
Together, these professors combine expertise in design, technology, and human-centered problem-solving to prepare the next generation of UX professionals with the skills to drive innovation and impact industries across the globe.
The Master of Science in User Experience (UXMS) program at Michigan State University is an asynchronous, 100% online professional degree designed to help graduates become leaders in UX. Taught by world-class faculty, the program and its courses emphasize a “user-first” perspective, integrating knowledge of human-computer interaction with industry-relevant methods and social responsibility.Learn More / Apply