What can I do as a UX designer?

UX is a growing field with a wide range of job titles and responsibilities. You may see some companies advertising for UX/UI designers or similar titles. To be an effective champion for your users, most UX designer roles will require the following core skills:

• Conducting research studies leveraging a variety of techniques to understand user needs and guide product decisions
• Organizing content and information to create effective website navigation through building an appropriate taxonomy
• Planning, designing and sketching clickable prototypes of user-centered sites using a variety of methodologies and tools
• Proficiency in HTML and CSS, and designing websites responsive to different devices
• Influencing and partnering across project teams including developers, visual designers, and product managers

What industries employ UX designers?

While the majority of UX jobs in Puget Sound are currently concentrated in the technology industry, recent job postings for UX professionals came from retailers like Nordstrom, manufacturers like Phillips, and non-profit organizations including the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

How long does it take to complete the UX design certificate and what is the cost?

The UX Design Certificate will likely take up to a year on a part-time basis to complete, but it must be completed in no more than 13 quarters from the quarter in which you take your first class. This certificate does not include any electives.

Are there any prerequisites?

There are no prerequisites to begin the program. These courses assume that you are familiar with using personal computers and word processing. You should be comfortable in the Windows environment and be able to use Windows to manage information on your computer. Specifically, you should be able to launch and close programs, navigate to information stored on the computer, manage files and folders, and select text prior to taking the specific UX Design and HTML and CSS computer courses. Specific courses in the UX Design Certificate do have prerequisites.

Is there a minimum number of classes I need to take each quarter?

The program was created with a busy student in mind. It’s up to you how many classes you take in a quarter. Our only requirement is that you complete the certificate within 13 quarters after taking the first class.

What if I have an extensive experience in some of the topics taught? Can I skip or substitute classes?

Yes, on case-by-case basis and subject to approval based on work history/experience and prior education, one of the required classes might be substituted with another Tombolo Institute at Bellevue College class. However, you must still complete the total number of required/substituted classes. To request a class substitution, please fill out the Class Substitution Request Form.