User Experience (UX) Design Certificate

The User Experience (UX) Design Certificate is an 8-month full-time intensive program offered twice a year, with cohorts starting in April and September. The program is available in two formats: on-campus and online. Both formats run simultaneously, ensuring that all students receive the same high-quality education, regardless of their chosen mode of study.

April Cohort:

Classes are scheduled Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm PST

September Cohort:

Classes are scheduled Monday to Friday from 1:30 pm to 5:30 pm PST

Both cohorts cover the same content and adhere to the same schedule, ensuring that all students, whether on-campus or online, complete the program together over the 8 months.

Choose the format that best suits your learning style and lifestyle.

The User Experience (UX) Design Certificate Program welcomes individuals from various educational and professional backgrounds, including graphic design, illustration, business management, accounting, health and natural sciences, data management, and computer science. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned professional, our program is designed to support all learners and foster a community for exploration and growth.

No prior experience or knowledge of design, coding, or UX is required to apply. However, familiarity with Adobe Creative Cloud tools (such as Photoshop and Illustrator) is required.

If you’re passionate about technology, digital transformation, research, and collaboration, our program provides the perfect environment to kickstart, expand, or redirect your personal and professional journey.

For information on Continuing Studies courses that can help you prepare, please reach out to CSPrograms@ecuad.ca.

We are excited for you to apply! With a limited number of seats available, applicants are encouraged to apply early to secure a spot.

April 2025 Cohort

• Early Application Deadline - November 15, 2024
• International Application Deadline - November 15, 2024
• Final Application Deadline - January 15, 2025

September 2025 Cohort

• Early Application Deadline - April 15, 2025
• International Application Deadline - April 15, 2025
• Final Application Deadline - June 15, 2025

*Students who intend to apply for funding:
Depending on the funding agency, applications may take several weeks to process and approve, so we recommend you apply by the early deadline.

*International students:
Applications for study permits may take up to 12 months. International applicants (including those with visitor visas, current study permits, or work permits) must apply by the early deadline.

For a step-by-step application guide, view our Student Application Guide in the Program Handbook.

Term 1 Tuition is due a minimum of 2 weeks prior to the program start date.

Term 2 Tuition is due before the mid-program break and is required before continuing in the program.

Required: Computer

This program requires access to a computer that can run Adobe CC software*. Students will be provided a subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud for the duration of the program.

Online Learning: Students are required to have access to a dedicated computer (desktop or laptop).

On-campus Learning: Students are required to bring a laptop to class.

*While tablets can be useful for some basic classroom activities, we do not recommend that students rely on a tablet as their main computer.

Optional: Supplies
Students are advised to budget approximately $200 for supplies they may need throughout the program, for example:

• general supplies (office supplies, post-it notes, sharpie markers)
• purchasing website domain(s) and hosting services
• software or app fees

All fees are payable to Emily Carr University of Art + Design. Accepted forms of payment include:

Online Banking

• Most Canadian banks and credit unions offer the bill payment option on your bank's website. Please use "Emily Carr University" as the payee and your student ID number as the account number. It can take 3 to 5 days to confirm and process payment through Finance; please send a screenshot of your payment (showing amount paid, payment confirmation number, date paid and student ID number) to csreghelp@ecuad.ca.

Credit Card

• We accept Visa or MasterCard payments by phone or in person during regular Continuing Studies office hours. Please note, in-person payments are not available during campus closure.

Cheque

• We accept Cheques in person. Please make sure to include your student ID number on the cheque.

The User Experience Design Certificate Program is eligible for funding via:

• WorkBC
• StudentAid BC
• Additional funding programs

A: The User Experience (UX) Design Certificate is an intensive applied program that focuses on equipping students with the fundamentals of user experience (UX) design for digital products and services. Developed in consultation with industry professionals, this program features current trends and innovations in user experience. Students develop a professional portfolio and complete the program with a range of in-demand skills that employers are looking for.

The Bachelor of Design specializing in Interaction Design is a 4-year program that gradually builds skills in research, theory and practice, offering more in-depth exploration. The Interaction Design program at Emily Carr allows you to merge courses from Communication Design, Industrial Design, Animation, and New Media + Sound Art.

For more information about earning a Bachelor of Design in Interaction Design please contact admissions@ecuad.ca

A: Developed in collaboration with UX industry experts, the User Experience (UX) Design Certificate program features the latest trends and innovations in user experience.

Students develop a professional portfolio and graduate with a diverse set of in-demand skills that employers are actively seeking.

Other great features of the program include:

• Applicants require no previous visual design, coding, or UX experience
• Students learn skills industry standard digital tools, like Figma
• Students will actively explore how user experience research and practices enhance design, with a focus on centering the human experience
• Students will have opportunities to explore divergences and connections between UX and UI design roles and workflows, to better prepare for real-life job requirements
• Students graduating from the User Experience (UX) Design Certificate program will have developed key professional skills, including presenting, pitching and storytelling, to best support a successful career path
• Developed in consultation with industry professionals and content experts, the program prepares graduates for real-world experiences and expectations
• Regular review and revisions to the program curriculum in response to industry's changing needs and expectations
• The curriculum focuses on in-depth UX skill development throughout the program
• The curriculum includes real-world projects and assignments to demonstrate knowledge that is relevant, and relatable for potential employers.
• Upon completion of the program, students will possess a portfolio of work and the capability to comprehend, recognize, and prototype designs that work well

For more information about the program, review our Program Handbook.

A: The User Experience (UX) Design Certificate is now available in two formats: on-campus and online. Both formats run simultaneously, ensuring that all students receive the same high-quality education, regardless of their chosen mode of study.

Please check the course format when applying. When on campus, the User Experience (UX) Design Certificate will be at the Great Northern Way campus in Vancouver, BC, with access to content and resources online using Moodle, Emily Carr's Learning Management System.

Courses will transition to online learning in exceptional cases where in-person attendance is restricted.

Stay up-to-date on ECU's Response to COVID-19.

A: The User Experience (UX) Design Certificate Program is ideal for students interested in understanding, influencing and enhancing user experience of digital products and services, including web and native applications.

The User Experience (UX) Design Certificate is geared towards all learners, regardless of experience or skill. Our students come from diverse educational and professional backgrounds, from graphic design and illustration, to business management and accounting, to health and natural sciences, to data management and computer science.

Come explore and develop your passion for technology and digital transformation, research, collaboration, and working in the realm of possibility. Join our learning community to launch, grow, or pivot your personal and professional path!

A: Yes. We accept applicants with no previous experience in UX. Accepted applicants with no previous knowledge of Adobe CC (including Photoshop and Illustrator) would benefit by either completing introductory Continuing Studies courses, or completing certified tutorials via Adobe or LinkedIn Learning.

Accepted applicants will have access to Adobe CC and LinkedIn Learning approximately 2 weeks prior to the program start date to complete self-directed tutorials online, free.

A: Applications are accepted year-round via SlideRoom.

All applicants are encouraged to apply early to secure a spot. For a step-by-step application guide, view our Student Application Guide in the Program Handbook.

April 2025 Cohort

• Early Application Deadline - November 15, 2024
• International Application Deadline - November 15, 2024
• Final Application Deadline - January 15, 2025

September 2025 Cohort

• Early Application Deadline - April 15, 2025
• International Application Deadline - April 15, 2025
• Final Application Deadline - June 15, 2025

*Students who intend to apply for funding:
Depending on the funding agency, applications may take several weeks to process and approve, so we recommend you apply by the early deadline.

*International students:
Applications for study permits may take up to 12 months. International applicants (including those with visitor visas, current study permits, or work permits) must apply by the early deadline.

A: SlideRoom is Emily Carr University’s online application review portal. You can log in and update your application at any time, prior to submission.

If you submit in error, or would like to make changes, please contact CSPrograms@ecuad.ca to reopen your application. No additional fees apply. For a step-by-step application guide, view our Student Application Guide in the Program Handbook.

A: Your success at Emily Carr University depends on your English proficiency.

Regardless of your immigration or citizenship status, if English is not your first language (is not the first language you learned at home as a child), you will need to provide evidence of adequate English proficiency for admission consideration, unless you qualify for an exemption.

Click here for a full list of accepted English Language Proficiency tests

Exemptions

If you meet any one of the following conditions, you may be exempt from having to submit an English proficiency test. Official transcripts must be submitted for exemptions to be considered.

• Successfully complete three or more consecutive years of recognized, full-time education in English within Canada immediately prior to attending Emily Carr, and receive an over all grade of a “C” or higher. - which excludes ESL studies.
• Successfully complete four or more consecutive years of full-time education in English in a country other than Canada where English is the principal language. These four years must be immediately prior to attending Emily Carr (see below for qualifying countries).
• Achieve a final grade of 4 or better on Advanced Placement (AP) English Language & Composition or AP Literature & Composition; or achieve a final grade of 5 or better on International Baccalaureate English A (higher-level or standard-level).
• Successfully complete six credits of post-secondary first-year English studies at a recognized university in a country where English is the principal language (see below for qualifying countries).
• Graduation from a recognized degree program at an accredited university where English is the principle language of instruction in a country where the dominant language is English (see below for qualifying countries).
• Attend four or more years at an eligible international secondary school that uses English as the language of instruction but operates in a country where the primary language is not English. These four years must be immediately prior to attending Emily Carr. See below for Eligible International Secondary Schools.

Qualifying Countries:

American Samoa, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Belize, Botswana, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Falkland Islands, Fiji, Gambia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Grenada, Guam, Guyana, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malta, Mauritius, Montserrat, New Zealand, Nigeria, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Tanzania, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, Uganda, United Kingdom, United States of America, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Eligible International Secondary Schools:

1. International Baccalaureate Diploma Program

• You must be completing the IB diploma program.
• You must have studied at a school that meets the above criteria for four years and be completing IB higher-level or standard-level English A1 or A2.
• If you’ve studied fewer than four years, your final grade in IB English A1 or A2 must be 5 or higher.

2. Council of International Schools

• Your school must be an accredited member of the Council of International Schools.
• You must have studied at a school that meets the above criteria for four years and be completing the senior or Grade 12 level (non-ESL).

3. British Curriculum (A Levels + GCSEs)

• You must achieve a final grade of A or B in A Level English (non-ESL).

4. Indian Secondary School Curricula

• Your school must be affiliated with the Central Board of Secondary Education or the Council for the Indian School Certificate.
• You must be pursuing or have completed the curriculum leading to either the Indian Senior School Certificate (SSC) or the Indian School Certificate (ISC).
• You must achieve a minimum grade of 75% (Indian grading scale) on your senior English subject. Emily Carr will use interim grades (e.g., pre-board exam results) if you are currently attending secondary school or final Class XII grades if you have graduated from secondary school.

Emily Carr University reserves the right to exclude schools from exemption.

A: The User Experience (UX) Design Certificate is an intensive, full-time program. The primary focus for students accepted into this program should be a commitment to attendance, participation and study.

Accepted students should expect to commit 20 hours of instructional time and a minimum 20 hours self-directed work outside of class each week. Students are expected to attend at least 85% of classes in order to successfully pass courses.

We acknowledge the challenge of living and studying in Vancouver; it is recommended that - if necessary - students only pursue part-time work, scheduled no more than 1 to 2 days per week.

A: Applications are reviewed by a Committee.

Note that incomplete applications will not be considered. If you submitted your application by mistake, please contact CSPrograms@ecuad.ca to reopen your SlideRoom application.

A: Applicants will receive application status results no more than 2 weeks following the application deadline(s).

Applicants offered a seat in the program will be provided deadlines for accepting the seat, as well as deposit and tuition payments.

A: Domestic Students may be eligible to apply for financial aid through StudentAid BC, WorkBC, or alternative funding sources.

Accepted students will receive all necessary information and documentation to begin applying for financial aid. Please note, it is the student’s responsibility to complete application processes for any financial aid or grant funding. Students seeking funding through WorkBC should contact their local office for support and more information.

Depending on the funding agency, applications may take several weeks to process and approve, so we recommend you apply by the early deadline. Accepted students will receive all necessary documentation to support their application for financial assistance.

For more information about Financial Aid, please follow the links above, or refer to the Program Handbook. Please note, Continuing Studies is not able to provide advising or assistance with applications for financial assistance

A: WorkBC provides grants for students looking to transition, upskill or pivot career paths. Visit your local WorkBC office, or visit WorkBC.ca

Please note, Emily Carr Continuing Studies is unable to provide guidance, determine eligibility, or offer application support for grants or funding. If you are applying for funding via WorkBC, it is best to discuss the application process, restrictions and requirements with your assigned case worker. Applicants can begin this process prior to acceptance.

When provided your Program acceptance information, it is helpful to share this documentation with your case workers directly. All dates, fees and requirements are outlined and can help speed up the process.

A: International Students accepted to the program must apply and receive confirmation of Study Permit, prior to the program start date.

Coming to a new country and starting a new program of study can be challenging! Applications for Study Permits may take several months, so we recommend you apply by the early deadline to give you time to apply and receive confirmation well before the program starts. Accepted students will receive all necessary documentation to support their application for Study Permit.

We strongly recommend that you begin the application process for Study Permit immediately after accepting your seat. Students must be in Canada and on campus on the first day of the program. Students cannot start the program late, and we do not offer hybrid learning. Students who have not received confirmation of Study Permit two weeks prior to the program start date may need to defer or withdraw from the program.

We recommend you make arrangements for accommodations well in advance and do research about neighbourhoods and transportation options.

For more information about Study Permits in Canada, please refer to the Government of Canada website. Please note, Continuing Studies is not able to provide advising or assistance with applications for Study Permit.

A: International Students studying outside Canada and accepted to the Online UX Design Certificate Program do not need a Study Permit.

For more information about Study Permits in Canada, please refer to the Government of Canada website. Please note that Continuing Studies is not able to provide advising or assistance with application for Study Permits.

A: Eligibility requirements for the Post-Graduation Work Permit requires that applicants have completed a training program that is at least 8 months in duration, and full-time student status.

The User Experience (UX) Design Certificate is a 32-week, or 8-month program. Students may be eligible for a PGWP after graduation. For more information and updates, please visit the Government of Canada website.