A UX (User Experience) design bootcamp is an intensive, short-term program that teaches the essential skills and knowledge required to succeed in UX design.
UX design focuses on creating user-friendly digital products and services, ensuring the end-user has a seamless, enjoyable experience while interacting with websites, apps, or other digital platforms.
UX design bootcamps are ideal for individuals looking to break into the field or advance their careers in design, development, or related areas.
What we cover
What You Will Learn in a UX Design Bootcamp
A UX design bootcamp covers a range of topics, including design thinking, user research, information architecture, wireframing and prototyping, interaction design, and visual design.
Students work on real-world projects during the course, building a portfolio demonstrating their skills and knowledge to potential employers.
Do You Need Relevant Experience Before Starting a UX Bootcamp?
While having some background in design or a related field may be helpful, most UX design bootcamps do not require prior experience or formal education in UX design.
These programs are designed to teach the foundational skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the industry, regardless of your background.
Factors to Consider
When selecting a UX design bootcamp, it’s crucial to consider several factors to ensure the program aligns with your needs and goals.
By examining the following aspects, you can make an informed decision and choose the bootcamp that best suits your requirements:
- Cost: Different bootcamps come with varying price tags. Consider your budget and the return on investment, considering factors such as job placement rates and potential salary increases. Some bootcamps offer scholarships, financing options, or income share agreements to help manage costs, so be sure to explore all available options. Tuition fees can range from a few thousand dollars to over $15,000.
- Schedule Flexibility: If you have other commitments, such as a full-time job or family responsibilities, it’s crucial to find a bootcamp that offers flexibility in its schedule. Look for programs that have part-time or self-paced options, as well as those that provide online or hybrid learning formats to accommodate your needs.
- Curriculum Quality: The quality of the curriculum can significantly impact your learning experience and job prospects. Investigate the content, methods, and tools taught in each bootcamp. Ensure that they align with current industry standards and practices. Look for bootcamps emphasizing hands-on projects, real-world scenarios, and peer collaboration to develop your skills effectively.
- Prerequisites Required: Some bootcamps may have prerequisites or require a certain level of experience or knowledge before you can enroll. Evaluate your current skill set and determine whether the program suits your background. If you’re a beginner, look for bootcamps that cater to those with little or no experience in UX design.
- Instructor Expertise and Support: The quality of the instructors can significantly influence your learning experience. Research their professional backgrounds, qualifications, and industry experience to ensure they are competent and knowledgeable. Additionally, consider the level of support provided by the bootcamp, such as one-on-one mentoring, peer collaboration, and post-graduation job search assistance.
Top UX Design Bootcamps Summary
To help you find the perfect fit for your career aspirations, we’ve compiled a list of the best UX design bootcamps available. Each bootcamp offers a unique approach to teaching UX design principles, providing you with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in this exciting field.
| Bootcamp | Duration | Online/In-Person | Price Range | Job Guarantee | Key Features |
| Springboard | 6-9 months | Online | $21,840 | Yes | 1-on-1 mentorship, job guarantee, practical projects |
| UX Designer Bootcamp by CareerFoundry | 6 months | Online | $7,100 to $7,900 | Yes | Dedicated mentors, job guarantee, project-based learning |
| UX/UI Design Bootcamp by Thinkful | 5-6 months | Online | $14,823 (Full-time) / $12,350 (Part-time) | Yes | Flexible scheduling, job placement assistance, tuition refund guarantee |
| General Assembly | 12 weeks | Both | $14,950 | No | Practical approach, peer collaboration, various scheduling options |
| UX Academy by DesignLab | 15 weeks | Online | $7,749 + interest + fees | No | 1-on-1 mentorship, group critiques, career services |
Please note that the information in the table may be subject to change. You must visit each bootcamp’s website for the most up-to-date information on pricing, duration, and features.
1. Springboard – Best Overall
Springboard’s UX Design Bootcamp is a self-paced, mentor-led program that offers comprehensive UX design training and 1:1 mentorship, ensuring personalized guidance and support.
- Price: $21,840 (maximum total cost)
- Payment Options: upfront, monthly, deferred tuition, and financing
- Duration: 6-9 months
- Online or In-Person: Online
- Website: https://www.springboard.com/
Springboard’s UX Design Bootcamp is popular due to its flexible, self-paced structure and personalized mentorship. Students can complete the program at their own pace, working on real-world projects to build a strong portfolio.
Their alums appreciate its mentor-guided approach, with 1-on-1 weekly calls and the job guarantee offered upon program completion.
The curriculum covers essential UX design topics, including user research, wireframing, and prototyping. Students work on real-life projects to build a strong portfolio.
Key Features
- Personalized mentorship with weekly calls
- Real-world projects and portfolio building
- Job guarantee or money back
Why You Should Consider
Springboard is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a flexible, self-paced UX design program with personalized mentorship and a job guarantee.
2. UX Designer Bootcamp by CareerFoundry – Highest Rated
CareerFoundry’s UX Designer Bootcamp offers a project-based curriculum, expert mentorship, and a job guarantee, preparing students for success in the UX design field.
- Price: $7,100 to $7,900
- Payment Options: upfront, monthly, and deferred tuition
- Duration: 6 months on average
- Online or In-Person: Online
- Website: https://www.careerfoundry.com/
CareerFoundry’s UX Designer Bootcamp is known for its well-structured curriculum and excellent student support.
The program is project-based, allowing students to gain practical experience while building a portfolio. Participants benefit from dedicated mentors, tutors, and career specialists who provide guidance and feedback throughout the course.
The bootcamp also guarantees a job, ensuring students secure a job within six months of completion.
Key Features
- Project-based learning and portfolio building
- Expert mentorship and career support
- Job guarantee or money back
Why You Should Consider
CareerFoundry is an ideal choice for those looking for a comprehensive UX design program with personalized mentorship and a job guarantee.
3. UX/UI Design Bootcamp by Thinkful
Thinkful’s UX/UI Design Bootcamp is a flexible online program that offers students personalized mentorship and a strong focus on real-world projects and portfolio building.
- Price: $14,823 (Full-time) / $12,350 (Part-time)
- Payment Options: month-to-month and deferred tuition
- Duration: 5 months (Full-time) / 6 months (Part-time)
- Online or In-Person: Online
- Website: https://www.thinkful.com/
Thinkful’s UX/UI Design Bootcamp offers a flexible and immersive learning experience. Students can choose between full-time and part-time programs, allowing them to learn at their own pace.
The comprehensive curriculum covers fundamental UX and UI design principles. It features hands-on projects that prepare students for real-world scenarios.
Thinkful also provides career support, including job placement assistance and a tuition refund guarantee if students do not find a job within a specified timeframe.
Key Features
- Flexible full-time and part-time options
- Personalized mentorship and support
- Real-world projects and portfolio building
Why You Should Consider
Thinkful’s UX/UI Design Bootcamp is an excellent option for those seeking a flexible program that covers both UX and UI design principles, with personalized mentorship and a strong focus on portfolio building.
4. General Assembly – Best Instructors
General Assembly’s UX design immersive is an intensive, full-time program that covers all aspects of UX design through hands-on projects, expert instruction, and a strong focus on collaboration.
- Price: $14,950
- Payment Options: upfront and installment plants
- Duration: 12 weeks
- Online or In-Person: Both
- Website: https://generalassemb.ly/
General Assembly’s UX Design Bootcamp is highly regarded for its immersive and practical approach to learning. The curriculum covers the entire UX design process, from research to wireframing and prototyping.
Students work on real-world projects, collaborate with peers, and receive feedback from industry professionals.
General Assembly offers various scheduling options, including full-time, part-time, and self-paced courses, to accommodate different learning preferences.
Key Features
- Comprehensive curriculum and expert instruction
- Collaborative learning and group projects
- Online and in-person options
Why You Should Consider
General Assembly’s UX Design Immersive is ideal for those seeking an intensive, full-time program with expert instruction, a comprehensive curriculum, and a collaborative learning environment.
5. UX Academy by DesignLab – Best for Working UX Designers
UX Academy by DesignLab is an online, part-time program that offers a personalized learning experience with expert mentorship and a focus on real-world projects and portfolio building.
- Price: $7,749 + interest + fees
- Payment Options: upfront and installment plans
- Duration: 15 weeks
- Online or In-Person: Online
- Website: https://trydesignlab.com/
DesignLab’s UX Academy is a popular choice for its rigorous and well-rounded curriculum. Students work on a series of design projects that help build a strong portfolio, essential for securing a job in the industry.
The program includes 1-on-1 mentorship, peer collaboration, and group critiques, providing valuable feedback and support throughout the course.
DesignLab also offers career services, such as resume reviews and interview preparation.
Key Features
- Flexible, part-time schedule
- Personalized mentorship and support
- Real-world projects and portfolio building
Why You Should Consider
UX Academy by DesignLab is an excellent option for individuals seeking a flexible, part-time UX design program that offers personalized mentorship and a strong focus on real-world projects and portfolio building.
6. Interaction Design Foundation – Most Affordable
Interaction Design Foundation offers a wide range of online, self-paced UX design courses, allowing students to customize their learning experience and focus on specific areas of interest.
- Price: $13/month or $149/year (Membership)
- Payment Options: monthly and yearly
- Duration: self-paced
- Online or In-Person: Online
- Website: https://www.interaction-design.org/
The Interaction Design Foundation is known for its flexible and affordable UX design courses. While not a traditional bootcamp, the platform offers a wide range of self-paced courses that allow students to build their own curriculum based on their interests and needs.
Students have access to a vast library of resources, expert-led courses, and a global community of designers.
The platform’s reputation and extensive course offerings make it an attractive option for those looking to enhance their UX design skills.
Key Features
- Self-paced, online learning
- Wide range of UX design courses
- Community platform for networking and support
Why You Should Consider
Interaction Design Foundation is an excellent choice for those seeking a flexible, self-paced learning experience with a wide range of UX design courses to choose from.
7. Online UX/UI Design Bootcamp By Flatiron
Flatiron’s Online UX/UI Design Bootcamp offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers both UX and UI design, with personalized mentorship and a strong focus on real-world projects and portfolio building.
- Price: $15,000
- Payment Options: upfront, loans, installment plans, scholarships, and deferred tuition
- Duration: 15-24 weeks
- Online or In-Person: Online
- Website: https://flatironschool.com/
Flatiron School’s Online UX/UI Design Bootcamp is a comprehensive program that covers both UX and UI design principles. Students work through a structured curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world projects.
The bootcamp offers personalized support through 1-on-1 mentorship, collaborative learning, and a strong community.
Flatiron School also provides dedicated career support and job placement assistance to help students secure positions in the field.
Key Features
- Comprehensive UX and UI design curriculum
- Personalized mentorship and support
- Dedicated career services team
Why You Should Consider
Flatiron’s Online UX/UI Design Bootcamp is an excellent option for those seeking a comprehensive UX and UI design program with personalized mentorship and strong career support.
8. Ironhack
Ironhack offers an intensive, full-time UX/UI Design Bootcamp that covers all aspects of UX and UI design, with expert instruction and a strong focus on real-world projects and collaboration.
- Price: ~$6,500 – $12,000 (Varies by location)
- Payment Options: upfront, installments, financing plans
- Duration: 9 weeks (Full-time) / 24 weeks (Part-time)
- Online or In-Person: Both
- Website: https://www.ironhack.com/
Ironhack’s UX/UI Design Bootcamp is known for its intensive and immersive curriculum. The program covers UX design, UI design, and front-end development fundamentals, providing students with a well-rounded skill set.
Students work on projects that simulate real-world scenarios and collaborate with classmates, fostering a supportive learning environment.
Ironhack also offers career services, such as job placement assistance and networking events, to help students succeed in the industry.
Key Features
- Intensive, immersive learning experience
- Comprehensive curriculum and expert instruction
- Collaborative learning and group projects
Why You Should Consider
Ironhack’s UX/UI Design Bootcamp is ideal for individuals seeking an intensive, full-time program with expert instruction, a comprehensive curriculum, and a collaborative learning environment.
9. BrainStation
BrainStation’s UX Design Bootcamp is a flexible, part-time program that offers a comprehensive curriculum, expert instruction, and personalized mentorship, focusing on real-world projects and portfolio building.
- Price: ~$15,000
- Payment Options:
- Duration: 5-10 weeks
- Online or In-Person: Both
- Website: https://brainstation.io/
BrainStation’s UX Design Bootcamp is a popular choice for its comprehensive curriculum and flexible learning options.
The program covers essential UX design concepts like user research, information architecture, and interaction design. It includes hands-on projects that allow students to apply their skills in real-world scenarios.
BrainStation offers full-time, part-time, and online courses catering to various learning preferences.
The bootcamp also provides career support and networking opportunities to help students succeed in the industry.
Key Features
- Flexible full-time and part-time options
- Comprehensive curriculum and expert instruction
- Personalized mentorship and real-world projects
Why You Should Consider
BrainStation’s UX Design Bootcamp is a great choice for those seeking a flexible program that covers all aspects of UX design, with personalized mentorship and a strong focus on real-world projects and portfolio building.
10. Devmountain
Devmountain’s UX design immersive is an in-person, full-time program that provides a comprehensive curriculum, expert instruction, and a strong focus on collaboration and real-world projects.
- Price: $7,500
- Payment Options:
- Duration: 13 weeks
- Online or In-Person: In-Person
- Website: https://devmountain.com/
Devmountain’s UX design bootcamp emphasizes hands-on learning and skill development to prepare students for the industry.
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of the field with a curriculum covering core UX design concepts such as user research, information architecture, and interaction design.
Throughout the program, students work on real-world projects, allowing them to build a solid portfolio that showcases their design skills and problem-solving abilities.
The bootcamp is known for its small class sizes, which enable personalized attention from experienced instructors.
Additionally, for those enrolled in the full-time program, Devmountain provides housing options, making it a convenient choice for students looking to immerse themselves in their studies fully.
Key Features
- An intensive, full-time program
- Comprehensive curriculum and expert instruction
- Collaborative learning and group projects
Why You Should Consider
Devmountain’s UX Design Immersive is ideal for individuals seeking an in-person, full-time program with a comprehensive curriculum, expert instruction, and a strong focus on collaboration and real-world projects.
11. Avocademy
Avocademy offers a flexible, self-paced UX Design Bootcamp that provides a comprehensive curriculum, personalized mentorship, and a strong focus on building a professional portfolio.
- Price: $1,997
- Payment Options: upfront, monthly, and payment plans
- Duration: 24 weeks
- Online or In-Person: Online
- Website: https://www.avocademy.com/
Offering a flexible and customized learning experience, Avocademy’s online UX design bootcamp caters to individual students’ unique learning paces and needs.
The curriculum includes practical, hands-on projects that allow students to apply their newly acquired skills and build a solid portfolio to showcase their design capabilities.
Avocademy strongly emphasizes personalized mentorship, providing weekly meetings with experienced mentors and unlimited access to their expertise for questions and feedback.
Furthermore, the bootcamp offers a job guarantee, demonstrating its commitment to students’ success in the UX design job market.
Key Features
- Flexible, self-paced learning experience
- Comprehensive curriculum and personalized mentorship
- Strong focus on portfolio building and job preparation
Why You Should Consider
Avocademy’s UX Design Bootcamp is an excellent choice for those seeking a flexible, self-paced program with personalized mentorship and a strong focus on practical skills and job preparation.
12. Memorisely
Memorisely offers a remote, part-time UX/UI Design Bootcamp that combines live classes, peer collaboration, and personalized mentorship with a strong focus on real-world projects and portfolio building.
- Price: $3,450 (upfront) / $987 (monthly)
- Payment Options: upfront and monthly
- Duration: 15 weeks (Part-time)
- Online or In-Person: Online
- Website: https://www.memorisely.com/
Memorisely’s remote-first bootcamp emphasizes collaboration and real-world experience.
The program’s unique structure encourages students to work on design projects in small groups, simulating the teamwork and communication necessary in the industry.
The comprehensive curriculum covers essential UX and UI design concepts like user research, wireframing, and prototyping.
Memorisely also offers personalized mentorship and career support, helping students find success in the field.
Key Features
- Engaging, remote learning experience
- Comprehensive curriculum, live classes, and personalized mentorship
- Strong focus on real-world projects and portfolio building
Why You Should Consider
Memorisely’s UX/UI Design Bootcamp is an excellent choice for those seeking a part-time, remote program with a comprehensive curriculum, engaging live classes, and a strong focus on practical skills and job preparation.
Is a UX Bootcamp Worth It?
Investing in a UX design bootcamp can be a smart career move. These programs can help you acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the field.
Graduates of Thinkful, a coding bootcamp, see a moderate increase in job opportunities after completing their program[1]. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts an 8% growth in employment for UX designers, which is significantly faster than the average growth for other fields[2].
UX designers are also among the highest-paid professionals in the US, with a median salary of $75,000 and the upper 10% earning over $109,000[2].
According to Glassdoor, the average base salary for UX designers in the country is $95,572 annually as of February 2023[3].
The return on investment in terms of increased earning potential and job satisfaction makes UX bootcamps a worthwhile endeavor for many individuals.
Jobs and Expected Salaries
After completing a UX design bootcamp, graduates can pursue a variety of roles within the industry, including:
- UX Designer: $73,000 – $102,000
- UI Designer: $61,000 – $91,000
- Interaction Designer: $69,000 – $104,000
- User Researcher: $66,000 – $110,000
- UX/UI Designer: $62,000 – $100,000
- Information Architect: $85,000 – $120,000
Salary data sourced from Glassdoor and Payscale
FAQs
1. How long is the average UX design bootcamp?
The average UX design bootcamp ranges from 12 to 24 weeks,
with some programs offering full-time or part-time options. The duration may vary depending on the intensity of the program and the individual’s pace of learning.
2. Are there free UX design bootcamps online?
While free UX design resources and courses are available online, comprehensive UX design bootcamps generally require payment. However, some bootcamps may offer scholarships, financial aid, or payment plans to help make the programs more accessible.
3. Are UX designers currently in demand?
Yes, UX designers are currently in high demand as businesses continue to prioritize creating user-friendly products and services. The demand for UX designers is expected to grow as the need for improved user experiences and digital interfaces expands across various industries.
4. Is a UX Bootcamp enough to get a job?
While a UX bootcamp can provide the necessary skills and knowledge to enter the field of UX design, it is essential to continue learning and developing a strong portfolio to showcase your abilities. A UX bootcamp can be a great starting point. Still, it’s critical to actively network, apply for internships or entry-level positions, and continue honing your skills to increase your chances of securing a job in the UX design field.
