Graduate Certificate in Usability
The Graduate Certificate in Usability offers a flexible, practical pathway to gain experience in the rapidly growing field of usability and user experience.
Take a quick look
We’re committed to creating an education as unique as your career path. So, whether your goal is a new career or moving up in your field, our innovative programs will get you going your way.
01
Customize your plan
We work with you to map your path to your goal.
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Learn from experience
From real-world case studies to employer-based projects, we prepare you to manage what comes next.
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Choose your focus
Whatever you’re passionate about, you’ll find the classes to sharpen your specialty.
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Study anywhere, on your time
Part-time or full-time, we move at your speed, to get you where you’re going.
Overview
A wide variety of industries—from computer software and hardware to biomedical and government agencies—recognize the importance of usability. As a result, there has been an increase in the demand for people with this knowledge. The Graduate Certificate in Usability provides you with the opportunity to learn about the top in-demand skills in this field, including usability testing, prototyping, and information architecture. You can also choose from focused electives that emphasize practical assignments to help get you up to speed with this rapidly growing field.
More Details
Unique Features
- Offered 100% online
- Students can start any quarter, and can complete the program in as little as two quarters
- Flexible learning pathway; choose the electives that suit your learning objectives
- Emphasis on gaining practical experience with the latest usability tools and techniques
Experiential / Co-op opportunities
Northeastern's signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace.
This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.
Get Set with a Custom Course Plan
General Requirements
Required Courses
Complete one of the following:
| 4.00 | ||
| 4.00 |
Complete the following course:
| 4.00 |
Electives
Complete 16 quarter hours.
| 4.00 | ||
| 4.00 | ||
| 4.00 | ||
| 4.00 | ||
| 4.00 | ||
| 2.00 | ||
| 2.00 | ||
| 4.00 |
Now Let's Talk Admissions
You know where you are headed and you've seen how our program will lead you there. So let's get going. Here's what you need to know before you enroll.
Application Requirements
- Online application
- Unofficial undergraduate transcripts; official transcripts required at the time of admission
- Statement of purpose (500-1000 words): identifies your educational goals and expectations of the program; please be aware that the university's academic policy on plagiarism applies to your statement of purpose
- Professional resumé
- TOEFL requirement for nonnative English speakers
International Requirements
Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.
Global Engagement Learn how our teaching and research benefit from a worldwide network of students, faculty, and industry partners.
Financing Requirements
Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.
How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.
Cost and Tuition
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2020-2021 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.
Application Deadlines
Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis, however, we do recommend following the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term.
| Winter 2021 | Deadline |
|---|---|
| January 1, 2021 | Domestic application complete (First half start: January 19, 2021) |
| February 12, 2021 | Domestic application complete (Second half start: February 22, 2021) |
| Spring 2021 | Deadline |
|---|---|
| April 2, 2021 | Domestic application complete (First half start: April 12, 2021) |
| May 14, 2021 | Domestic application complete (Second half start: May 24, 2021) |
| Fall 2021 | Deadline |
|---|---|
| September 7, 2021 | Domestic application complete (first half start: September 20, 2021) |
| October 18, 2021 | Domestic application complete (second half start: November 1, 2021) |
Student Body Profile
Below is a look at where our Digital Media & Design alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.
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Where They Work
- Harvard
- MIT
- ViralGains
- Cognizant
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What They Do
- Art and Design
- Engineering
- Information Technology
- Marketing
- Media and Communication
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What They're Skilled At
- Adobe Creative Suite
- Social Media
- CSS
- Digital Media
- Marketing
Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on Linkedin.
Career Opportunities and Services
Overview
Did You Know?
A graduate certificate can boost your earnings by an average of 25% (Washington Post, 2012).
Did You Know?
Certificates are the fastest-growing form of postsecondary credentials in the United States (Chronicle of Higher Education, 2012).
Stackable Certificate
Credits earned completing this certificate can be applied toward the MS in Technical Communication.
From Our Faculty
"Northeastern is a world-class university with a tremendous trajectory. It's a wonderful institution where faculty can make a significant impact." — Assistant Professor Stratis Ioannidis
From Our Alumni
"Northeastern's programs are led by skilled and experienced industry leaders who are committed to the engagement and growth of their students." — Stephen O'Halloran, '14