Best 12 Online UX Design Courses (2024 Guide)

The digital landscape is continually evolving, and as more services and products transition onto the web, user experience (UX) design has become a critical field for any business looking to remain competitive.

For aspiring UX designers, industry professionals seeking to upskill, and creative minds looking for a career change, selecting the right online course or boot camp is fundamental.

Here, you will find an analysis of the top online UX design courses available in 2024, focusing on the quality of instruction, course structure, usability of the platform, and the overall value of your investment.

Here are the top 12 Online UX Design Courses

Coursera

Price: $39 per month

Coursera offers diverse courses, including UX design, in collaboration with esteemed universities and companies. The UX Design Fundamentals Specialization provides a comprehensive insight into the UX design journey, covering user research to prototyping.

The course is designed for beginners and features a flexible learning schedule comprising video lectures, practical projects, and peer-reviewed tasks. It is entirely online and typically takes around six hours to complete. Upon completion, you will receive a certificate of participation to showcase your achievement, which you can share on LinkedIn.

Skillshare

Price: Basic Skillshare membership is free; premium membership costs $1 for the first two months, then $19 per month (or yearly at $99).

Skillshare is a community-based platform that fosters a creative environment with its online classes. Their UX Design course equips learners with hands-on projects and up-to-date design tools.

With Skillshare, you can expect a more casual learning setting, suitable for those who prefer a self-paced and community-driven educational approach. The course, available with membership, will get you full access to over 20,000 classes in the platform’s Premium catalog and other features like offline viewing.

It delves into the practical side of design for those wishing to reimagine existing digital experiences.

General Assembly

Price: $15,950

General Assembly is renowned for its immersive, project-based learning experiences. Although rigorous, their User Experience Design Immersive Online program pledges to shape beginners into proficient UX designers in just ten weeks.

Despite being an online course, it demands full-time commitment with scheduled classes from Monday to Friday, spanning 12 weeks. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills like real-world design projects, providing a solid network with industry professionals.

This comprehensive program is ideal for individuals aiming to enter the UX design industry swiftly.

This course could be ideal if you’re open to investing more for a classroom-style experience without commuting.

Springboard

Price: $13,860

The Springboard UX Design Bootcamp, a 9-month program tailored for beginners aspiring to launch their careers in the challenging realm of UX design, is offered entirely online.

This self-paced program is divided into four comprehensive segments, starting with the fundamentals of UX and progressing to more advanced topics, all delivered by a diverse range of industry experts. This systematic approach ensures that participants will have cultivated a robust portfolio by the end of the boot camp, ready to showcase to potential employers.

Serving as an exceptional entry point to the world of UX design, the Springboard course is commendable. Yet, given its relatively high price point, it is prudent to conduct thorough research to determine its alignment with your career goals and financial considerations.

SuperHi 

Price: $149 for the introductory course

SuperHi’s course “Introduction to User Experience Design” is tailored for beginners to acquire essential skills for creating practical and user-friendly experiences. SuperHi Priced affordably at $149, this course delves into crucial elements of an iterative UX design process.

It covers user research, wireframing, prototyping, UI design, and user testing.

Whether you aim to kickstart a career in UX design or shift to digital platforms as a designer, this course offers a convenient and cost-effective way to build a solid foundation in the field.

UX Academy Foundations by DesignLab (Beginner)

Price: $$7,249–9,677 (monthly payment options)

For those seeking a structured, mentor-led program, DesignLab offers a solid foundation through its four-week UX Academy Foundations course. Students work on a project with a team and receive one-on-one sessions with expert mentors.

This personalized approach is ideal for beginners or those looking to build a portfolio before committing to a lengthier course.

Led by top-notch instructors committed to your success, this eight-week, part-time program will provide you with all the essential skills needed to excel in UX design.

Agile Methods for UX Design by Interaction Design Foundation (Intermediate)

Price: €11 per month

The Interaction Design Foundation is renowned for its academic rigor. This 7-week online course introduces learners to various aspects of user experience design, encompassing usability principles and visual design elements.

Their Agile Methods for UX Design course delves into agile methodology within UX design. If you aim to enhance and apply your theoretical understanding professionally, consider this course, which emphasizes iteration and flexibility in design processes, a valuable foundation.

Advance Your Skills in UX Design by LinkedIn Learning (Advanced)

Price: Free month followed by €39.33 per month premium subscription

LinkedIn Learning offers new users a complimentary month and the option to upgrade to a premium subscription. As a subscription-based online learning platform, LinkedIn Learning boasts more than 4,000 courses led by industry experts.

The Advanced UX Design class is for experienced professionals seeking to remain at the industry’s forefront. The course offers valuable insights and delivers advanced instruction on intricate design techniques; user flows, and collaborative strategies. Participants will experience the latest UX trends and technologies.

UX Design Certificate by Google (Beginner)

Price: $39 per month

One of the newest additions to the UX learning space is the Google UX Design Certificate. Great for beginners who want a flexible, low-cost introduction to UX, this is a fully online program.

Google’s UX Design Certificate is a beginner-friendly program suitable for anyone seeking a reputable credential. The curriculum provides a hands-on approach to the entire design process, focusing on mobile app and web development.

The course takes an estimated six months to complete at a pace of ten hours per week. Participants can expect practical learning assignments and a highly interactive curriculum that promotes designing for real-world problems.

Certified 16-week Product Design Course by Dribbble (Intermediate)

Price: The course is available for $3,999 upfront or three monthly payments of $1,080.

Dribbble’s 16-week product design course is an exceptional option for individuals seeking a comprehensive and specialized program. This course enhances participants’ skills and workflows, emphasizing commercial viability and innovative design.

Guided by seasoned designers, students will address intricate challenges and present marketable solutions. The course blends self-paced learning with interactive classes featuring 3-4 capstone projects to enrich your portfolio.

Engage with design luminaries and experts in live workshops, exploring fundamental UX design principles such as Wireframing, UX UI research, and Figma design.

Business Value Through User Experience Design by FutureLearn (Advanced)

Price: The course is available for a subscription price of $27.99/month.

FutureLearn’s Advanced User Experience Design course, part of online UX courses, caters to those interested in exploring the business and marketing dimensions of user experience. It merges strategic thinking with UX design, highlighting how design decisions can enhance business value.

This interdisciplinary approach provides a unique perspective, bridging UX design with business strategy.

The course requires a four-week commitment of 4 hours per week to delve into the practical applications of UX design, including hands-on work on capstone projects for valuable research experience.

Prototyping by Acumen Academy (Advanced)

Price: Free

Prototyping is a crucial skill for every UX designer. Acumen Academy’s Advanced Prototyping course provides comprehensive knowledge in this pivotal domain for UX designers.

Focused on crafting functional prototypes, participants will gain expertise in interaction design, usability testing, and Human-Centered Design 201. Ideal for professionals seeking specialization in the prototyping phase of the design process.

No cost involved: enhance your skill set at no charge through this course.

Activity-driven: engage in hands-on projects and activities for practical learning.

Thorough feedback: benefit from learning, implementing, and receiving guidance from experienced instructors.

These are the most important things you will learn from the online course:

• Theoretical and practical knowledge of UX design principles.
• How to create wireframes and prototypes.
• Understanding and utilizing design tools for web and mobile apps.
• Conducting user research and usability testing techniques.
• Creating visually appealing user interfaces that are also functional.

Types of UX Design Courses

1. Online courses

Online courses in UX design have become increasingly popular, offering convenience and flexibility that traditional classroom settings cannot match. Participants can access a wealth of resources from anywhere globally, making it a potent tool for career advancement.

With a blend of video lectures, interactive quizzes, and peer-reviewed assignments, these courses cater to a wide range of learners, from beginners eager to break into the field to experienced professionals looking to refine specific skills.

Furthermore, online forums and discussion boards provide valuable opportunities for networking and mentorship, enhancing the learning experience.

Advantages of online courses:

• Flexibility in scheduling
• Access to a wide range of topics
• Cost-effective compared to traditional education
• Learn at your own pace.
• No geographical limitations

Disadvantages of online courses:

• Limited face-to-face interaction may impact learning for those who thrive in a traditional classroom environment.
  
• Requires a high level of self-discipline and motivation to stay on track with assignments and learning modules.
  
• Technical issues, such as unreliable internet connections or equipment failures, can disrupt the learning process.
  
• The overwhelming choice of courses available can lead to difficulty in determining particular programs’ quality and relevance.
  
• Lack of immediate instructor feedback or clarification on challenging topics can hinder progress.

2. In-person workshops

In-person workshops offer a dynamic and immersive learning experience that brings theory to life. These workshops allow direct interaction with instructors and fellow learners, fostering a collaborative environment conducive to hands-on learning.

Participants engage in real-time problem-solving activities and live feedback sessions and have the opportunity to network with peers and industry professionals.

Such workshops are particularly beneficial for honing specific UX design skills through practice, receiving instant clarification of doubts, and building a solid foundation in the principles of user experience design. They are ideal for individuals who thrive in face-to-face learning settings and seek an intensive learning experience.

Advantages of In-person workshops:

• Direct Interaction: Participants benefit from immediate interaction with instructors and peers, enhancing understanding and knowledge retention.
  
• Hands-on Learning: These sessions often include practical exercises that offer firsthand experience, vital for mastering new skills.
  
• Instant Feedback: Real-time instructor feedback helps correct mistakes on the spot and provides clarity on complex topics.
  
• Networking Opportunities: In-person settings offer excellent opportunities to connect with industry professionals and like-minded individuals, fostering community and potential career opportunities.
  
• Structured Environment: The structured schedule of in-person workshops helps maintain focus and discipline, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience within a condensed time frame.
  
• Enhanced Motivation: Learning in a group setting can boost motivation and commitment to the coursework, fueled by fellow participants’ shared energy and enthusiasm.

Disadvantages of In-person Workshops:

• Limited Flexibility: In-person workshops require participants to adhere to a predetermined schedule, which might not fit everyone’s personal or professional commitments.
  
• Higher Costs: These workshops often come with higher expenses, including registration fees, travel, accommodation, and meals, making them less accessible to some individuals.
  
• Geographical Limitations: Participants may have to travel long distances to attend, posing challenges for those from remote areas or with mobility issues.
  
• Fixed Pace of Learning: The instructor’s learning pace might not match each participant’s learning speed, leading to potential gaps in understanding.
  
• Risk of Health Concerns: Gathering in physical spaces, especially during health crises, can pose risks of illness to participants.
  
• Limited Diversity: The nature of in-person workshops may limit the diversity of participants and perspectives due to geographical and financial constraints.

3. Bootcamps

Bootcamps are an excellent entry point into the world of UX design, delivering an immersive learning journey that leads to a certification. These intensive programs, usually spanning two weeks, delve into various topics, including user experience design.

Bootcamps cover a spectrum of courses, including user experience design, interface design, information architecture, and web design. They facilitate networking opportunities with industry peers and provide access to top-tier instructors.

Advantages of Bootcamps

• Fast-Paced Learning: Bootcamps immerse participants entirely in UX design principles and practices, enabling them to acquire significant knowledge and skills in a condensed timeframe.
  
• Practical Experience: These programs emphasize hands-on projects and real-world applications, preparing participants for the challenges they’ll face in their careers.
  
• Industry Connections: Attending a boot camp provides invaluable networking opportunities, connecting students with peers, mentors, and professionals in the field of UX design.
  
• Career Support: Many boot camps offer career services, including resume reviews, interview preparation, and job placement assistance, greatly enhancing the employment prospects of graduates.
  
• Accessibility: Unlike traditional education paths, boot camps often have lower entry requirements, making the field of UX design more accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds and skill sets.

Disadvantages of Bootcamps

• Intensity and Pace: The fast-paced and high-intensity learning environment of boot camps can be overwhelming for some participants, making it challenging to absorb all the material.
  
• Cost: Boot camps can be more affordable than traditional degree programs, but they can still represent a significant financial investment with no guaranteed return regarding job placement.
  
• Lack of Accreditation: Many boot camps need to be accredited institutions, which means their certifications may not be recognized or valued by all employers.
  
• Limited Depth: Due to their short duration, boot camps may not cover topics as profoundly or comprehensively as longer-term courses, potentially leaving gaps in participants’ knowledge.
  
• Varied Quality: The quality of boot camp programs can vary widely, making it essential for prospective students to research and choose carefully to ensure they receive valuable training.

4. University Programs

University programs offering degrees in UX design or related fields typically span several years and provide a more traditional, structured educational experience. They offer a comprehensive curriculum covering design’s theoretical foundations, research methods, and practical applications in creating user-centered designs.

Advantages of University Programs

• Comprehensive Curriculum: University programs typically offer a well-rounded curriculum covering a wide range of topics in-depth, from design principles to advanced research methods and practical applications.
  
• Accreditation: Degrees from accredited universities are recognized worldwide, enhancing the credibility of one’s educational background and potentially increasing job market competitiveness.
  
• Networking Opportunities: Universities often provide extensive networking opportunities through alum networks, on-campus events, and connections with industry professionals, which can be invaluable for career advancement.
  
• Access to Resources: Students in university programs usually have access to a wealth of resources, including libraries, labs, and design software, which can significantly enhance their learning experience and project work.
  
• Professional Development: Many programs also include internships or project work with actual companies, offering practical experience and professional feedback on their work, which is crucial for building a solid portfolio.

Disadvantages of University Programs

• Cost: One of the most significant disadvantages of pursuing a university degree is the high cost of tuition, which can result in substantial student debt.
  
• Time Commitment: University programs typically require a multi-year commitment, which can delay entry into the workforce and may only be feasible for some, particularly those looking to switch careers or seeking faster-paced learning.
  
• Curriculum Rigidity: While comprehensive, the curriculum in university programs can sometimes be rigid, with less flexibility to explore emerging trends or technologies not included in the standard coursework.
  
• Theory vs. Practical Balance: Some programs may lean more heavily towards theoretical knowledge, with limited opportunities for hands-on, practical experience, which is crucial for a field as dynamic as UX design.
  
• Rapidly Changing Field: The field of UX design is evolving rapidly, and there can be a lag in how quickly university curriculums adapt to include new methodologies, tools, and best practices, potentially leaving graduates with outdated knowledge.

FAQs About best UX Design Courses

My Final Thoughts

Choosing the right UX design course can be a transformational step in your career. By considering the quality of the instruction, course structure, and the level of support offered, you can select a program that aligns with your career goals and learning style.

Whether you’re an aspiring designer or a seasoned professional, investing in the proper education is crucial for your success in the dynamic and burgeoning field of UX design. Remember, the best course is the one that not only provides you with a certificate or diploma but also empowers you to apply your newfound knowledge and skills to real-world projects.