User experience (UX) design goes beyond the aesthetics of a website. It involves everything that a user experiences from a product, including perception, accessibility, and efficiency. Online UX design courses exist to equip you with the skills necessary to deliver results that accentuate all of those elements.
Whether you’re a beginner or a professional looking to upgrade your skills, these courses are designed to teach you the relevant skills to become UX experts. In this article, you will get detailed information on the top online UX design courses and learn about the factors to consider before choosing the learning program that’s right for you.
Web design courses are an exciting blend of aesthetics and the creation of functional and responsive websites. These courses aren’t only for teaching designers how to choose fonts, colors, and features to create the brand and feel of a web page. Free UX design courses focus on the user experience.
A UX designer’s main goal is to make sure each component of a web product is functional, serves a purpose, and looks desirable. If you are interested in discovering the best free UX courses, then keep reading as we list some courses that will help you design your future career.
What Is UX Design?
User experience (UX) design is the process of creating products that provide pleasant experiences for users. It entails product research, acquisition, integration, branding, design, usability, and function. The product must meet the needs of the user rather than just visually appeal to the user.
What Does a UX Designer Do?
User experience is about putting the user first. Instead of designing a web page for themself or a company, UX designers always have the user in mind. They usually follow a rough workflow of researching users’ and competitors’ trends, sketching ideas, designing prototypes, testing their work, and then launching a website.
Designing Wireframes
Wireframing is a mockup of the visual flow that a user will see on a digital interface. The UX designer usually sketches their display of the user experience. The designer might focus on something as seemingly simple as a user-friendly button or a call to action that will take the user to the right page when clicked.
User Research
A UX designer will do a lot of user research, including interviews, observing people using interfaces, documenting these behaviors, and even data research.
Information Architecture
Information architecture is the process of designing the navigation of a website to promote positive user experience. Think of it as using logic to create the structure of a page to help the user achieve their goals.
Working With Developers
A UX designer may work in a team alongside web developers to act as a kind of translator. They will explain to the developer what experiences will benefit the user, to help shape the developers’ creation.
User Testing
As a user experience designer, user testing is a smart method for validating your work. Finding out if your UX design tool or function works the way you want it to is a big part of the career.
Why Online UX Design Courses Are Important for Professional Development
Online UX design courses are important for professional development for many reasons. Firstly, they help you advance your skills by equipping you with up-to-date and in-demand industry knowledge and skills. They also serve as evidence of your skills in the job market and help you stand out to employers. Lastly, they allow you to optimize your current design process.
Should You Attend a Coding Bootcamp to Learn UX Design?
Coding bootcamps are a great way to learn user experience (UX) design because they are curated to equip students with specific in-demand skills. UX bootcamps provide you with hands-on projects that allow you to develop or optimize your skills. Additionally, the instructors are usually industry experts who know the relevant skills required to excel as UX designers.
Overview: The Best Online UX Design Courses, Classes, or Training
There are several online education paths for learning UX design. You can enroll in a coding bootcamp, massive online open course, or class. The table below includes some of the best online courses, classes, and training for UX design.
| Provider | Course | Price | Length | Certificate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BrainStation | UX Design Course Online | $3,250 | 10 Weeks | Yes |
| Career Foundry | UX Design Program | $7,900 | 10 Months | Yes |
| Coursera | Introduction to User Experience Design | Free and paid options | 6 Hours | Yes, in the paid option |
| DesignLab | Learn UX/UI Design | $6,249 | 14 Weeks | Yes |
| Figma | Learn Design Pilot | Free | 1 Hour and 30 Minutes | Yes |
| Future Learn | Digital Skills: User Experience | N/A | 3 Weeks | Yes |
| Future Learn | Introduction to UX and Accessible Design | N/A | 2 Weeks | Yes |
| General Assembly | UX Design Immersive Online | $14,950 | 3 Months | Yes |
| Interaction Design Foundation | User Experience: The Beginner’s Guide | $16 per month | 6 Weeks | Yes |
| Ironhack | UX/UI Design Bootcamp | $12,500 | 3 Months | Yes |
| Skillshare | UX/UI Design Fundamentals | $8.15 per month | 1 Hour and 28 minutes | No |
| Springboard | Free UX Design Curriculum | Free | 40 Hours | N/A |
| Udacity | Product Design by Google | Free | 2 Months | No |
| Udemy | User Experience Design Fundamentals | $84.99 | 10 Hours | Yes |
| Web Flow University | Ultimate Web Design Course | N/A | 5 Hours | Yes |
In Detail: The Best Online UX Design Classes, Courses, or Training
There are a few ways to gain web design skills, whether from a coding bootcamp, online community college, other online courses, or an on-campus degree. Learning UX design doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag, thanks to the Internet. See our list below to decide which free UX design course is right for you.
UX Design Course Online | Brain Station
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Advanced
- Subjects Covered: User research, information architecture, sketching, wireframing, prototyping
This is a course designed for professionals who want to improve their design skills. It gives students hands-on experience using a project-based learning model. Students learn using industry-specific tools and techniques to solve real-world design problems.
This course is ideal for present UX designers who want to upgrade their skills and advance in their design careers. The course is taught by experienced instructors who have worked in the UX design industry and aims to enhance students’ skills by helping them stay updated on industry trends.
Key Takeaway: This course is ideal for current UX design professionals who want to take their skills to the next level.
UX Design Program | Career Foundry
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Voice interface user, user interface (UI) for UX designers, front end development
The UX design program by CareerFoundry is for beginners and professionals alike. It is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to be expert UX designers. The course also offers one-on-one mentorship and a personal tutor.
Students will get to work on real-world projects to help build their portfolios during the program. Students will also gain access to the provided career services. These career services help prepare and students for the workplace and guide them through the process of landing their dream jobs.
Key Takeaway: The program offers tailored career coaching and interview prep to prepare students for UX design careers. This course is ideal for anyone pursuing a career as a graphic designer, visual designer, or UX designer.
Introduction to User Experience Design | Coursera
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Usability, user experience (UX), user experience design (UD), user interface (UI)
This course is offered by Coursera in conjunction with Georgia Institute of Technology, which is a prestigious research university. The course is designed for absolute beginners who want a general introduction to UX design for professional purposes. The course focuses on teaching students the skills needed to produce effective designs for clients.
During the course, they will learn what the user needs, how to design and model interfaces based on these needs, and how to ensure that the user’s goals are met. The syllabus includes an introduction to design, research, design alternatives, prototyping, and evaluation.
Key Takeaway: Upon successful completion, you receive a shareable certificate issued by Georgia Institute of Technology, which is an attractive addition to your LinkedIn profile and resume.
Learn UX/UI Design | DesignLab
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: UX design, UX research, interaction design, information architecture
This UX/UI design course is divided into eight parts, including Design and Communication Basics, Intro to UX Design, UX Research, Information Architecture, Interaction Design, User Interface Design, Iteration and Implementation, and Personal Brand and Portfolio Setup. The last five weeks are dedicated to three capstone projects.
During the course, students complete coursework and several hands-on projects. They also receive feedback and support from the student community. At the end of the course, students will have completed several hundred hours of work and have a portfolio that showcases their UX design skills to potential employers.
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Key Takeaway: The course pairs students with a one-on-one industry expert who mentors them throughout the program. Students also get unparalleled career support to help them break into the industry and land high-profile jobs.
Learn Design Pilot | Figma
- Learning Format: Single class
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Ethics, design thinking, typography, content, consistency, research
Figma is a well-known design tool used by designers in the industry. As an online learning platform, it helps beginners get started in the design field. The class covers Design Thinking and Ethics, Accessibility and Inclusion, Design Research, and Typography.
Key Takeaway: Upon completion of this course, you get a certificate that can be added to your resume and shared on your LinkedIn profile as evidence of your skills.
Digital Skills: User Experience | Future Learn
- Learning Format: Full course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: UX design, visual design, wireframes and interactive prototypes, interaction design
This course is offered by Accenture, a highly respected organization in the industry. The program is designed to help beginners learn the necessary skills to start a career in design. It also functions as an excellent refresher course for experienced designers.
The course will teach you the importance of UX, the foundations of UX design, and the UX design process. Students will learn how to do research, design their experience, draw wireframes, and build usable prototypes. On completion of the course, students will have the skills necessary to be professional UX designers.
Key Takeaway: The program is offered by a prestigious and Fortune 500 company that is well-respected in the industry. To learn about the pricing options for this course, you can contact Future Learn through their website.
Introduction to UX and Accessible Design | Future Learn
- Learning Format: Full course
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Inclusive interfaces, accessibility, human-centered design
This course is designed for entry-level designers or other professionals looking to learn more about accessible design. The course is taught by industry experts with disabilities who aim to educate students on usability and accessibility issues that users with disabilities face.
Students will learn about the guidance and regulations covering user interfaces, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), and JavaScript, all of which are applied to UX and UI design for optimal accessibility. They brainstorm ideas for design solutions and explore diverse functionality. At the end of the program, students will be able to design accessible user interfaces.
Key Takeaway: This course is an excellent option for current and aspiring designers. It educates students on the importance of accessibility in design, which empowers them to design inclusively. To learn more about the pricing options, you can contact Future Learn through their website.
UX Design Immersive Online | General Assembly
- Learning Format: Bootcamp program
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: UX foundations, UI foundations, design iteration and development
This bootcamp is offered by General Assembly, a recognized bootcamp in the industry. The course is available to beginners who want to learn design concepts and professionals who would like to upgrade their skills. The course equips students with skills in UI design and Agile methods and allows students to work with product teams.
The program is designed to train and prepare students for the design industry. During the program, students will work on projects that will help build their professional portfolios and enhance their appeal to employers. Students will also get feedback, guidance, technical assistance, and check-ins to monitor their progress.
Key Takeaway: The course offers job support to help students find job opportunities upon graduation. Students also get to work with industry experts during the program.
User Experience: The Beginner’s Guide | Interaction Design Foundation
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: User experience, product experience, emotion and experience, design thinking
This course aims to equip students with the understanding of design principles, the value of user experience design, and areas of consideration in design. Students will learn about design principles, visual perception, usability, and psychological principles. At the end of the course, students will gain access to the global community where they can interact with industry experts.
Key Takeaway: The program offers a globally recognized certificate of completion that can be shared on LinkedIn and used as proof of your skills.
UX/UI Design Bootcamp | Ironhack
- Learning Format: Bootcamp program
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: User experience, app design, user interface, web design, design implementation
This bootcamp is designed for anyone new to the field, transitioning from another career, or wanting a refresher of foundational concepts. Students will learn about design research, Figma, design thinking, and user interface.
Students will need to complete the 40-hour pre-work at the beginning of the program before proceeding to the main course. The curriculum includes user experience, app design, user interface, web design, design implementation, and a capstone project.
Key Takeaway: This course includes hands-on training to help students get real-life experience before graduation. This course is ideal for students who want to become UI or UX designers from scratch.
UX/UI Design Fundamentals | Skillshare
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Design research, mobile design, website design, UX design, creative, responsive design
The course covers topics like introduction to design, the difference between UX and UI design, design thinking, user persona, user journey, flow, principles of good interface designs, typography, colors, images, font combinations, color theory, user research, intuitive design, wireframing, responsive design, and usability testing.
By the end of the course, students have an in-depth understanding of UX and UI design principles, know how to utilize tools to address design challenges, and are confident in applying their newly-developed skills to their professional careers.
Key Takeaway: The course is taught by industry professionals and trains students on how to think like designers.
Free UX Design Curriculum | Springboard
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: User research, prototyping, personas, wireframing
This course is designed for anyone who wants to start a career in UX design. Throughout the course, students learn how to utilize different design research methods, user-centered design techniques, and personas to define users. Students will also interview users in real-world contexts and work on deliverables.
Key Takeaway: During this program, students get to work on an industry-design project for a real client, which can then be added to their professional portfolios.
Product Design by Google | Udacity
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Ideation and validation, UI/UX, design sprint, key metrics
This course is offered by Udacity in collaboration with Google. Throughout the course, students learn how to bring their ideas to life and make them into valuable products. The program combines theory and hands-on practice to teach students product validation, UI and UX practices, Google’s Design Sprint, and the process for setting and tracking actionable metrics.
Key Takeaway: During the program, students will be able to build a portfolio that showcases their skills and help them secure UX design jobs.
User Experience Design Fundamentals | Udemy
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: Elements of user experience, strategy, scope, structure, skeleton, surface
This course is designed to teach students how to create effective websites, mobile sites, and mobile apps using a variety of design methods and techniques. The course covers the strategy, scope, structure, skeleton, and surface of user experience. It includes 10 hours of on-demand video, full lifetime access, and a certification of completion.
Key Takeaway: This course offers a wide range of design principles and methods, all of which are meant to enhance users’ experience with web and mobile applications.
Ultimate Web Design Course | Web Flow University
- Learning Format: Full course with hands-on training
- Level: Beginner/Intermediate
- Subjects Covered: HTML, CSS, box model, div block
This course by Webflow includes over 100 videos covering everything that students need to get started in web design. Some of the topics covered include the basics of HyperText Markup Language (HTML), CSS classes and subclasses, and page design construction with divs, flexboxes, and containers.
Key Takeaway: By the end of the program, students will be able to design their own websites.
Online UX Design Classes, Training, or Courses: Which Is the Right Option?
Choosing between online classes, training, or courses depends on your professional and academic goals. Courses and training programs tend to last longer than classes, involve more hands-on learning, and provide students with an in-depth understanding of design principles. They also often include career services to help students find employment immediately after.
Online classes are typically short-term, only lasting a few hours to a couple of days, and typically have a single focus. While they tend to be one of the most affordable options, they don’t provide many hands-on learning opportunities, nor do they usually include a certification of completion.
How to Choose the Right Online UX Design Course, Class, or Training Program
Length
The duration of the program is one of the first things you should consider before applying for a program. You should check to see if it fits with your schedule and doesn’t exceed the time frame you have planned for your career transition. Some courses can last for as little as two months and others for as long as a year.
Cost
Whether or not you’re working on a tight budget, it is important for you to find out the cost of a program before enrolling in it. While some programs are offered to students for free, others can cost thousands of dollars. If the course you’re interested in is out of your budget, you can always check the provider’s website for financing options.
Curriculum
The curriculum of the program is another important factor. You want to be sure that the program you’re interested in covers relevant topics and in-demand skills to help you progress in the industry. The curriculum of an ideal online UX design course should cover design thinking, user experience, prototyping, and design research.
UX Design Course Certificates vs Certifications
Certificates and certifications are often confused with one another, despite their significant differences. Certificates are awarded on completion of a course or program as evidence of skills learned. They can be awarded by schools, bootcamps, or massive open online courses (MOOCs) providers at the end of a program or through a certificate program.
On the other hand, certifications are credentials that are earned by passing the related exam, function as proof to employers that you’re qualified for the related position, and are issued by a third-party organization. Some examples of UX design certifications are Google UX design professional certificate and NN/g UX Certification.
Importance of UX Design Certifications
UX design certifications help professionals showcase their skills and demonstrate to employers that they are qualified for the role. They are highly reputable and acknowledge within the industry, and can help boost your candidacy.
Why You Should Take Online UX Design Courses or Classes
There are a variety of reasons you should consider enrolling in an online UX design course or class. As a beginner, it will help you develop the required skills to kickstart your UX design career. Whether you aspire to be a UX or UI designer, product designer, visual designer, or interaction designer, online UX design courses and classes can help you reach your professional goal.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a web designer earns a median salary of $82,370 per year. So, if you love the idea of creating beautiful, functional, and user-friendly websites, taking one of these courses would be a worthwhile use of your time.
If you are interested in further exploring the difference between UX and UI, between UX and graphic design, or if you want some senior UX designer portfolio tips, then we have got your back.
Consider whether you are interested in learning the intricacies of web design and programming languages, and researching the habits of Internet users. If you are, a UX design course will help you work toward your career dreams.
We hope this article has helped you gain a better understanding of UX while finding potential free online courses you can take on your UX journey.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
