Application International Students Program Format Tuition & Fees Once Admitted
Application
Where can I find the online application for the certificate program?
The application for Autumn 2025 will open on May 1, 2025.
- Priority deadline: July 1, 2025
- Final deadline: August 1, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. PDT
Applications will not be accepted after the final deadline.
How do I submit an application?
You can access the application portal here. In the Program Selection section, choose:
"Engineering Grad Cert - User Centered Design (Stackable)"
Is a bachelor's degree required to apply?
Yes. All applicants must have a bachelor's degree and submit unofficial or official transcripts to verify their degree.
Is the program application competitive?
Yes, due to high demand, we are only able to accept about 30% of all applicants.
When will I be notified of my admissions decision?
All applicants will be notified of their admissions decision by September 1.
Will I have an advantage if I apply long before the deadline?
No. The program does not use rolling admissions. All applications are reviewed after the final deadline.
If I am not accepted into the program, could I receive feedback about why?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide personalized feedback due to the high volume of applications.
Is a GRE score required?
No. GRE scores are not required or reviewed, even if submitted.
Could I submit a portfolio?
No. Please do not submit a portfolio, as it will not be reviewed. Only required materials will be considered. Review the required application materials.
Could I submit a letter of recommendation?
No. Letters of recommendation are not accepted and will not be reviewed. Please submit only the required application materials.
Could I sit in on a class before deciding whether to apply?
Due to limited class capacity, we are unable to accommodate guest attendance. Classes are open to registered students only.
Admission for International Students
I am an international student. Does the certificate support student visas?
No. This program is not eligible for an I-20 visa. For information on visa-eligible programs, visit PCE's International Student Eligibility.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for this program?
Please refer to our English Language Proficiency Requirements for detailed information.
Program Format
Is the program available online or through distance learning?
No. The certificate is offered in person on the University of Washington campus in Seattle, WA.
How long does the program take to complete?
The program is designed to be completed over one academic year (Autumn through Spring quarters). Courses must be taken in sequence, and students are expected to remain enrolled each quarter. Please only apply if you are able to commit to the full program schedule.
When are classes held?
Classes are held once per week in the evenings (typically 6–9:50 p.m.), Monday through Thursday. All classes are in person on the UW Seattle campus.
Tuition & Fees
What is the total tuition rate?
Tuition is the same for all students, regardless of residency status. A detailed breakdown is available on the Tuition and Fees page.
Do you offer scholarships or tuition support?
No. Unfortunately the program does not have the resources to offer any scholarships or tuition support to students. Tuition is due at the start of each academic quarter for the courses being taken that term.
Is this program eligible for federal financial aid? Could I take out a federal student loan?
No. As a certificate program, it is not eligible for federal student aid. Students are responsible for covering tuition costs.
I work for the University of Washington or the State of Washington. Is this program eligible for Tuition Exemption?
No. The certificate is not included in the UW Tuition Exemption Program.
Once Admitted
Is there a new student orientation before classes begin?
Yes. All new UCD Certificate students must attend the HCDE User Centered Design New Student Orientation before the start of the program. Orientation details will be provided in your admission offer.
What kind of grades do I need to achieve in these graduate classes?
Students must earn a minimum grade of 2.7 in each course. Students who receive below a 2.7 in any course will be withdrawn from the program and may not continue. Retaking classes is not an option.
Could credits from the Graduate Certificate in User Centered Design count toward the MS in Human Centered Design & Engineering?
Yes. If admitted to the HCDE MS program, all 15 credits earned through the UCD Certificate may be applied to the degree.
For students who completed the certificate prior to Autumn 2024, 12 credits may be transferred to the MS program.
Would completing the Graduate Certificate in User Centered Design give me an advantage in later applying for the MS in Human Centered Design & Engineering?
Not necessarily. The MS program is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 20%. However, completing the UCD Certificate allows you to gain relevant experience and insight into the program, which may help you assess your interest in the 50-credit MS degree.