Top UX Design Certificates & Certifications in Washington, D.C.

User Experience (UX) design is a field that aims to create user-centered products.

UX Designers research a target user's needs, preferences, and behaviors to create products, websites, or software that are easy to use. Many designers strive to improve the aesthetics and engagement of the product. The end product comes from multiple research, prototyping, and testing iterations. 

Becoming certified in UX design in Washington, D.C., can be an advantageous career move. With a thriving tech and design industry, the nation’s capitol houses government agencies, tech companies, and nonprofits. All these industries require skilled UX Designers to plan and create compelling and user-friendly products. However, landing a tech-heavy UX Designer position may require a degree in a technology-related field. By earning a certificate, you can demonstrate your UX design competence to potential employers, helping you land a job. Professional networking organizations in the area support the many UX Designers through relationship building, career development, and community growth.

Noble Desktop: UX & UI Design Certificate

Key Information: This user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design course covers the necessary skills for landing an entry-level UX or UI design position. This part-time certificate program lasts for 24 weeks and costs about $3,500. Participants can pay in full or participate in several different payment plans. No prerequisites are required. On top of the regularly scheduled class meetings, this program includes one-to-one mentoring and professional help for job applications. Plus, former students may repeat any portion of the course for free up to one year after completion. 

This certificate program thoroughly covers UI and UX fundamentals. It introduces common UI patterns a designer may encounter such as menus, tabs, and breadcrumbs. Students learn how to use these options to create simple navigable screens. The course also trains enrollees in UX design, especially creating feasible products.

Once students understand UX and UI Design, they walk through examples and models, adding their original items to a portfolio. Plus, students learn to operate relevant software like Figma. Students also receive six one-on-one mentoring sessions for resume building, interviewing tips, and reinforcing best practices. On top of the hours spent in class each week, students should expect to spend five to ten hours outside completing work. 

George Washington University: GW UX/UI Boot Camp

Key Information: George Washington University’s UX/UI design bootcamp extends across 24 weeks. The course only has one option: part-time evenings on weekdays. Tuition for the program is roughly $12,000. No experience is required or expected. 

Since this course does not require experience, it begins with fundamentals in user-centric design. Students will learn about research practices and essential concepts such as information architecture and flow, user need identification, and user experience interviewing. The following steps in the design process require that UX designers know about prototyping and wireframing. The class teaches several software options that future designers may encounter on the job. Learning UI design essentials is also a part of this course. 

The program includes a few additional features besides classroom instruction. Students can access GW’s tutor network. Plus, students can get career-planning help: resume building, social media training, and interview preparations. Students must apply and be accepted into the program, though the application process is free. 

BrainStation: UX Design Bootcamp NYC

Key Information: Located in NYC, this full-time bootcamp takes 2.5 months to complete. They also offer an online part-time program, holding classes two evenings a week plus a Saturday. The full-time course costs $16,500. No prerequisites are required. Students must apply to earn a spot in their program. 

The school has several options for financing through payment plans, third-party education loans, and scholarships. BrainStation’s admission team will consider applications. Prospective students must submit a digital admissions challenge and attend an interview. 

The course is designed around real-world UX situations, working with Data Scientists, Web Developers, and Digital Marketers in various design sprints. Students experience and play an active role in the design thinking steps through repetition. 

FAQ for UX Design Certificates

What is the Difference Between a Certificate and a Certification?

Certificates and certifications are both ways of recognizing that a person has gained knowledge in UX design, but they are different. 

At the end of a training program, instructors may deliver certificates to participants. Usually, these pieces of paper specify that the named individual earned a specific level of competency in UX design by participating in a training program. These training programs may come attached to a university or a training center. 

Certifications indicate more than participation in a course; they show an individual who holds expertise in UX design, according to the conferring professional organization. Earning a certification can be a formal affair. Certification programs often require thorough assessments such as formal exams and evaluations of professional experience. 

Should I Pursue a Certificate or a Certification?

Do you want to become a UX Designer but need clarification about whether a certificate or certification is better? Even though a certification indicates a higher level of proficiency, it may not be worth the time and expense for scoring an entry-level UX Designer position. 

Professionals who want to build or change a career quickly may prefer a certificate program. These programs may be shorter or less expensive than certification courses. Plus, a certificate is granted once a program is finished, allowing the former student to seek jobs quickly. Potential employers may emphasize a job seeker’s portfolio more than a UX design certification.

Certifications may be the next step for those seeking to advance their career. Since earning a certification tends to be more rigorous, it can command respect from potential employers. A certification from a professional organization announces a person’s expertise. It also may help the certification holder earn a higher salary after being hired. 

Do I Need to Become Certified to Find a Job?

In some fields such as UX design, becoming certified is one of many ways to find a job. Alternative options include attending a traditional college degree, gathering relevant experience, or pursuing self-guided learning. 

Yet, becoming certified is one of the most affordable and effective ways to enter the UX design field. Many certificate programs include one-to-one mentoring and creating a portfolio to showcase work to potential employers. Sharing your work directly with them demonstrates your personal style and skill level. Learning UX design through self-guided learning is possible and is even more affordable, but it makes creating a portfolio more difficult. Plus, finding answers to questions, establishing a professional network, and finding motivation to continue is significantly more complicated than attending an in-person or live online class. 

What Certificate Program is Right for Me?

Which is Better: In-Person or Online Classes

Choosing between an in-person or an online class depends on the person and situation. Each one has its ups and downs.

Attending an in-person class may feel like a traditional school classroom. The instructor and students readily interact. Students receive regular feedback from the instructor. The time spent in class is structured and planned out. These classes suit individuals who need more structure to stay accountable and motivated. However, in-person classes may provide more flexibility than busy adults require. Commuting to a class may be exhausting, especially for a class that extends across several months.

Online classes score top marks for flexibility and accessibility. An enrolled student merely needs an internet connection and a personal computing device. Allowing students to take the course from any location–work, library, home, or favorite coffee shop–makes balancing life and a career much more straightforward. Many online classes are taught differently: they may bounce from video lectures to simulations or online discussions. However, online classes may be more difficult for students who need fewer distractions to tune in. 

Which is Better: Live Online or Asynchronous Classes?

UX design courses may be held live online or taught asynchronously. Either option can work, depending on an individual’s needs or commitments.

Live online classes, run by an instructor in real-time, allow student and teacher interactions. Classes are held on specific dates and times, yet students usually complete some work outside class. One massive benefit of a live online class is access to an expert instructor; students can ask questions during class and receive fast feedback. Students can also engage in live discussions. This format is preferable for students who want to interact with peers and the instructor or for students who require more accountability to stay on track. 

Taking asynchronous classes requires copious amounts of motivation, organization, and self-direction. With no regular meeting times, students must establish their schedule, watch pre-recorded lectures and read course materials, complete assignments regularly, and stick to them. This type of course is ideal for busy but motivated individuals who can stick to a strict schedule. However, asynchronous UX design classes may not be the best option if you don't have extensive self-discipline and motivation.