COURSE CURRICULUM

The User Experience Design graduate certificate program spans two semesters and provides a comprehensive foundation in UX principles, research, design, and business skills. In the first semester, students begin with an introduction to user-centered design, learning about the UX process, roles, and its relationship with other disciplines. They explore research methods through quantitative and qualitative approaches, including competitive analysis and ethnographic research. Information architecture is introduced, focusing on organizing information for better usability through sitemaps, wireframes, personas, and user flows. Students also gain skills in prototyping using industry-standard software and learn accessible design principles that promote inclusivity and social justice. The semester concludes with a course on usability and universal design, where students conduct heuristic evaluations and usability testing to meet diverse user needs.In the second semester, students build on their foundational knowledge by independently conducting UX research projects and applying advanced information architecture strategies that balance user needs and business objectives. The business side of UX is emphasized through courses on project management, facilitation, and content strategy, equipping students with skills to define business and user requirements and produce industry-standard documentation. Students also explore UX career paths and develop a professional portfolio tailored to various sectors such as healthcare, education, and public policy. The program culminates with a team-based capstone project where students collaborate to solve a real-world UX design problem, applying research, prototyping, and testing to create accessible, user-friendly solutions. Finally, students prepare and deliver professional presentations that communicate the value of UX design, integrating both business and practical aspects of the discipline. This comprehensive curriculum prepares graduates to enter the UX design field with practical skills, research expertise, and professional confidence.