Web Designers Need Broader, Deeper Knowledge

The Internet’s rapid evolution means professional Web designers must continually update and expand their skill sets to keep up with changing technologies and industry standards. Today’s Web designers must be able to define the business problem and determine user needs, in addition to applying principles of information architecture, interaction design, graphic design, and user research. They also must know how to write their own front-end code and use visual authoring software.

Professional-Level Program Delivers Solid Expertise

The professional Web Design program at UCSC Extension equips you to meet these challenges. Our newly revised certificate program begins with an orientation course entitled “Web Design, Introduction” that brings you up to date on opportunities in the field. The final course, “Web Design Project”, provides an opportunity to apply newly acquired theory, tools, and techniques to create a professional-quality Web site. In between are courses that expose you to each step in the user-centered design process.

Flexible Requirements Accommodate Entry-level and Experienced Designers

Our certificate program includes foundation skills and advanced Web design courses. Those who are new to the Web Design field should start with the recommended prerequisites and take all the foundation courses. This will equip you with the broad skills needed to become a competent Web designer. Experienced Web designers who want to expand and update their knowledge can select a mix of foundation and advanced courses based on their current knowledge and career goals. Either approach leads to a UC certificate.

Get Hands-on Experience Working in Our State-of-the-Art Labs

Many software courses are taught in our state of-the-art Macintosh lab. The lab features multi-core Mac Pros, the latest version of Mac OS X, and the latest software including Adobe CS5. The lab provides you with the opportunity to practice new skills on top-quality machines loaded with the most current software.

Benefits of Studying Web Design at UCSC Extension Silicon Valley

The Web Design program offers current and aspiring professionals:

• The basic foundation skills for designing Web sites
• Courses in advanced topics to help students develop areas of specialization
• Courses taught by senior working professionals
• Convenient course schedules and Silicon Valley location
• Courses updated frequently to reflect the latest tools and techniques