About this Program
The software industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the global economy, fueled in recent years by trends like AI adoption, rising cybersecurity threats, and the expansion of cloud services. As companies expand internationally, there’s a growing need for professionals who can tailor products and services to succeed in different markets.
In this three-course certificate program, you’ll gain hands-on skills for adapting software and technology solutions to meet the needs of global audiences. You’ll explore essential localization tools such as machine translation, terminology management, and global content management systems. Along the way, you’ll strengthen your language skills while learning the fundamentals of localization project management and engineering practices
DESIGNED FOR
Anyone who wants to enter or advance in the field of software localization.
See Requirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
To apply, you must have:
Two years of college or work experience
Strong writing skills
Proficiency in the language in which you would do software localization.
Time Commitment
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about 5 to 7 hours each week on coursework.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have at least intermediate English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the B2 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid . To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs .
International Students
Because this offering is 100% online, no visa is required and international students are welcome to apply. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students .
Technology Requirements
Access to a computer with a recent operating system and web browser
High-speed internet connection
Headset and webcam (recommended)
Earning the Certificate
You earn a certificate of completion by successfully completing all required courses. For more information, see Earning the Certificate .
Alumni Spotlight
Danielle Marcos, a graduate of the Certificate in Localization: Customizing Software for the World, discusses how the program helped her advance in her career.
Duration: 01:18
Play
What you'll learn
Basic concepts of localization, including workflows, roles and technology tools
Topics related to the localization engineer role, including technology and problem-solving
Concepts essential to localization project management, such as how to communicate deliverables effectively
How to create and maintain budgets and schedules for international projects
Get Hands-On Experience
Engage in engineering course lab work
Use industry-specific software (free or discounted access to select programs)
EARN DIGITAL BADGES
You can earn a digital achievement badge for successfully completing this certificate program, as well as a separate badge for each course. These badges can be shared on LinkedIn and other social media sites. Learn more about digital badges .
APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP
You may be eligible to apply for a UW Certificate Scholarship or Rotary Scholarship to cover most of the costs of this program. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and the potential of the program to positively impact your career. For more information, see the Scholarships page.
Career Stats
65%
Alumni working in field
Sample Employers
Amazon, Blueprint Technologies, Microsoft, Nintendo, Pokemon, Salesforce
OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options .
This program is intended for professional development and is not designed to meet educational requirements for professional licensure or certification.