Best UI/UX Design Bootcamp Programs
UI/UX bootcamps teach you how to design easy to use software and app interfaces. Learn more about UI/UX design and discover the top UI/UX bootcamps. Computer science jobs are constantly in high demand. Computer science is most associated with creating new software through coding. There are two important aspects of coding, user experience (UX) and user interface (UI). UX refers to how easy it is to use software, while UI refers to the graphical design of a program. If you are interested in designing software but do not want to spend four years in college, you can sign up for a UI/UX bootcamp.
A UI/UX bootcamp is the computer science equivalent of attending a trade school. The lessons are focused specifically on UI/UX coding, teaching everything you need to know over a short period of time. Most bootcamps run for 30 to 40 weeks, but there are expediated programs that run for 12 to 20 weeks. Some bootcamps also have specific focuses, such as developing mobile apps or business software. Not only are UI/UX bootcamps much quicker than traditional college courses, but they are significantly less expensive as well.
Types of Bootcamp Programs
There are several different types of bootcamp programs to choose from. The three primary categories are online, in-person or hybrid. Online classes take place in a digital classroom. Some classes are hosted live, allowing you to interact with other students, while others use pre-recorded lessons. Online bootcamps typically take less time to complete than in-person classes.
In-person classes are commonly hosted at community colleges. The classes take longer to complete, but you benefit from an interactive environment. Hybrid classes are a combination of online and in-person. These classes typically meet in-person once or twice a week, while the rest of the class is completed independently online.
There are also different bootcamp lengths. Full-time classes meet every day for around six to eight hours each day. These classes are normally hosted in the morning or afternoon, but some groups provide evening classes. Part-time programs also meet every day, but only for three to four hours. Some programs also run a longer class over the weekend.
The final type of bootcamp is self-paced. These are most commonly associated with online courses. With a self-paced class, all the material and assignments are available from the start. You progress on your own through the program. Some self-paced programs have general deadlines when you must complete larger projects.
Skills Taught at UX/UI Bootcamps
UX/UI bootcamps cover a number of subjects. Students learn how to develop interfaces for general computer software, websites and mobile apps. This includes lessons on color theory, atomic design and typography. Students also learn about creating prototype apps and programs. Some classes take this one step further and include lessons on how to present a prototype and use it to request funding.
The bulk of UX/UI bootcamps focus on learning how to code. Many bootcamps specialize in one or two languages, such as Pascal, JavaScript, HTML or Ada. During the class, you are encouraged to add your school projects to your portfolio, which you can use when you apply for coding careers.
CareerFoundry
CareerFoundry is considered an industry leader in UI/UX bootcamps. The company hires over 600 computer science experts. Teachers are encouraged to update their lesson plans each year, ensuring students are learning the most relevant information. The bootcamp places a greater emphasis on developing practical skills, preparing students for entry-level programming and developer positions. In addition to classes, students have access to a mentorship program. Mentors help to develop portfolios and apply for careers when you are ready to graduate. Through the Career Foundry job guarantee program, 96 percent of graduates find work within 180 days after graduation.
Both full and part time classes are available online, lasting between five to nine months. As of writing, classes cost $6,555 upfront. Some of the programs have a free introductory course, letting you take a few classes before you commit to paying.
DesignLab
DesignLab hosts a variety of UI/UX bootcamps. There are several introduction courses available, but the majority of classes are meant for students with prior coding experience. The classes are entirely online, but each student is assigned a dedicated mentor. There are also periodic group assignments. DesignLab focuses on expediated classes, with full-time courses lasting for 15 weeks, or 28 for part-time classes.
One of the biggest appeals of DesignLab is their job guarantee. If you enroll in the Career Services program, a career coach will help you find work after graduating. If you are not offered a job within six months of graduating, DesignLab will refund your tuition. On average, classes cost between $6,000 and $7,000.
Avocademy
Avocademy is one of the least expensive UI/UX bootcamps, with most of the programs costing between $100 and $1,000. You can choose between paying the tuition upfront or paying in small installments. There are even career jumpstart classes available for free. These courses allow students to work with mentors and career couches to build their resumes and portfolios. Your mentor helps you meet with hiring managers and recruitment partners. Avocademy teams up with local businesses and designers, frequently hosting free lectures and recruitment drives. As of writing, all of the classes are hosted online.
Columbia Engineering
Columbia Engineering is one of the more expensive online bootcamps, with tuition costing $13,495. Unlike other bootcamps, Columbia only runs a single part-time program, intended for beginners. Over the course of 24 weeks, students learn how to create storyboards, program in Java and basic color theory. They also learn how to conduct user research, perform visual prototyping and create basic web apps. At the end of the lesson, you will develop an extensive portfolio. Each quarter, students can participate in one of Columbia’s virtual tech talks, which help students find employment after graduation.
Devmountain
Devmountain is one of the older UI/UX bootcamps, offering both in-person and online classes. Devmountain offers expediated, part-time classes, taking place over 16 weeks. Devmountain is primarily intended for experienced coders. In addition to improving your coding, the classes focus on developing a resume, career advancement and employer networking. Online classes cost $7,400, while in-person courses are $4,500. In addition to tuition, students must complete a skill review and meet with an admissions counselor.
