Oregon Tech receives $310k to continue expanding UX education and student access to industry tools

Oregon Tech has received a $310,000 increase in its existing Workforce Ready Grant award from the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) to continue support for User Experience (UX) certificate programs. The grant was awarded through the Future Ready Oregon Workforce Ready Grant Round 3T: Technology program in 2024.

The supplemental funding will provide additional student scholarships, access to UX technologies, outreach, and faculty salary support for a two-week summer program.

Oregon Tech's UX certificate programs focus on writing, research, and design, with a curriculum that helps students understand how UX skills apply across many types of work-not just in traditional technology roles, but also in fields where UX skills complement existing expertise.

Skills developed through the program are relevant to a wide range of careers, including software development, information technology, engineering, instructional design, and education. The program is structured to support learners with varied professional backgrounds who want to expand their skill sets or explore new career options.

The additional funding will provide 66 scholarships for students enrolling in UX courses, covering full tuition and fees and helping remove cost barriers for individuals interested in building or strengthening skills.

"This funding helps us keep the program accessible while staying focused on practical learning," said Amber Lancaster, Ph.D., Associate Professor and Director of Professional Writing at Oregon Tech. "Students are able to build UX skills through real projects and hands-on work."

In addition to scholarships, the funding provides students with access to professional UX tools commonly used in the field. These tools include software for eye-tracking, usability testing, prototyping design, and user research.

Access to these technologies allows students to practice UX work using the same software they are likely to encounter in professional settings.

Beyond the grant funding, Dr. Lancaster also worked directly with several technology providers to extend student access beyond the funded period. Loop 11 and Figma agreed to provide six-month access extensions for students, while Balsamiq offered an additional six weeks of access, allowing students to continue practicing and building portfolios after coursework concludes.

The UX certificate programs are open to a broad audience, including working professionals, career changers, and individuals looking to add UX skills to their current roles. Students enroll through Oregon Tech as non-degree-seeking students, allowing them to focus on targeted skill development without committing to a full degree program.

Students interested in participating should begin by applying to Oregon Tech or contact Dr. Lancaster at [email protected].