About this Program
User experience (UX) design has emerged as one of the hottest fields in today’s tech-driven economy. Effective UX design is crucial — it goes beyond the visual aesthetics of mobile and web-based applications to encompass the entire experience of an end user when interacting with any information, product or service.
In this three-course certificate program, you’ll discover how to use the latest design techniques, tools and technologies to create rich interactive experiences. You’ll learn how to apply a four-stage, iterative process of user-centered design thinking — defining user need, ideating on solutions, creating testable prototypes and implementing the chosen solution. We’ll explore content strategies, research methods and usability studies, as well as how information architecture and visualization influence web and device screen design.
▸ Related Article: How to Become a UX Designer
DESIGNED FOR
Professionals with some experience in graphic design, front-end development, digital marketing or content strategy who want to get started in UX design.
See Requirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
To apply, you must:
Have ONE of the following:
A bachelor's degree and one year of relevant professional work experience, such as in graphic or product design, software testing, web development, or marketing and communications
An associate degree and three years of relevant professional work experience, such as in graphic or product design, software testing, web development, or marketing and communications
Be able to competently use online collaboration tools such as Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace
Be somewhat familiar with graphic or product design concepts and comfortable independently learning design tools such as Figma, OR have completed Visual Design for Digital Media or the Specialization in UX Research
TIME COMMITMENT
Including time in class, you should expect to spend about six to eight 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
International students are welcome to apply to an online offering of this program, which doesn’t require a visa. To enroll in a classroom offering, you must have a visa that permits study in the United States. This program does not enable students to obtain or maintain F-1 visa status. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students.
Technology Requirements
Access to a computer with a recent operating system and web browser
Figma (free access for students)
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 .
▸ Explore More : Want to dive deep into UX research? Check out our new Specialization in UX Research — or find the right UX program for you .
Alumni Spotlight
Alum Joan Williams explains how the Certificate in UX & Visual Interface Design prompted a positive career change in a booming field.
Duration: 02:48
Play
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN
Design thinking that places user needs at the forefront of each stage of the product development process
Low- and high-fidelity prototype creation for modeling and usability testing
Techniques for research, metadata modeling, information hierarchy and architecture
Visual design principles for interactive screens, including the use of graphics, animation, sound and hypermedia
How to address issues of accessibility
GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
Conduct user interviews and create user personas
Use industry-standard tools for organizing content and developing testable prototypes
Complete a capstone project of a high-fidelity prototype of a website or app that integrates interactive UX features with user interface (UI) and visual design
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
91%
Alumni working in field
Sample Employers
Amazon, University of Washington, Microsoft, DocuSign, Nordstrom, Pokemon
22.7%
Projected job growth for web and digital interface designers in Washington state (2024–2034)
$103,480
Median salary for web and digital interface designers in Washington state (2023)
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 .
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 .