Graduate Certificate in User Experience (UX) Design

at Humber College North Campus Canada

Humber’s Web Development graduate certificate program focuses on the development of websites and web services for multiple environments including database-driven programming, content management and mobile services. A combination of conceptual and practical training will prepare you to execute effective, efficient website design.

Work completed individually and in teams will simulate the real-world work environment and hone collaborative and teamwork skills. You will create commercial websites that apply theories of user-centered design, security, information architecture, quality assurance testing and responsive design. This program will help you master the project management and presentation skills that are key to success in the workplace.

You will be working on websites that meet strict business and development requirements. By the end of your final semester of study, you will have developed a comprehensive personal portfolio of your competencies, and you will be able to promote your skills at a portfolio show.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the program, a graduate will:

• Explain the types of business transactions conducted on a commercial website and the process for development of such transactions.
• Prepare and present a proposal and a business plan for a commercial website.
• Implement a website solution based on a set of business requirements or client specifications.
• Create a complete content management system using a database and scripting language.
• Develop data-driven websites for multiple platforms in accordance with best practices, industry standards in content management, security, database design, interface design, usability, accessibility and personalization.
• Design and develop web services for a website using software programs.
• Design a full featured functioning commercial website using software programs, including a defined information architecture that is supported by navigation, layout, text and graphics.
• Manage web development projects using project management practices, documentation and software.
• Test, troubleshoot and debug software created in the web projects.
• Develop web projects as a leader or member of a web development team.

Work Placement

• Students will participate in a mandatory work placement which follows the last semester of study.

In Humber’s Electromechanical Engineering Technology advanced diploma program, you’ll learn how to support the engineering activities of manufacturers that rely increasingly on automation technology to maintain a competitive edge in the global economy. You will develop skills in industrial automation, robotics, control systems, machining, hydraulics, pneumatics, safety, mechatronics, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), automation welding, machine elements and computer-control methods. You will also learn to decipher mechanical and electrical schematic drawings, and use electrical and mechanical diagnostic tools.

Our program builds upon the solid technical foundation of the Technician program. The Technology graduate is prepared to enter a wider range of careers. The skills first learned in the Technician program are enhanced through project-based learning and increased hands-on practice in the labs.

Complementing your technical education are the effective communications, problem-solving and interpersonal skills that add value to any team. Coursework reflects real-world demands through independent and co-operative study in practical environments including experience with industrial standard equipment. The industry relevant curriculum is taught by faculty at the top of their fields to provide you with the skills and knowledge employers are looking for.

Our advisory committee provides regular review and input of our curriculum ensuring our program is always on the cutting edge of industry developments. The program offers an optional co-op placement.

Optional Co-op
This program offers a co-op option. Co-op work terms enable you to apply your skills and knowledge in a work environment and gain valuable, practical experience related to your program of study. You will learn new skills, learn about the world of work and meet people in your profession.

For students who are accepted into the program, three co-op work terms will take place. The first four-month work term is between Semesters 2 and 3, and then two consecutive four-month work terms between Semesters 4 and 5. There are limited spaces in the co-op option. Therefore, you will apply for the co-op option during Semester 1 and be informed of the process by which to apply. While co-op work opportunities are not guaranteed, as students are in a competitive job placement market, participating students will receive a wide range of services to help them find a co-op opportunity.

Humber’s Computer Programming and Analysis advanced diploma program is designed to prepare you for a wide variety of employment opportunities within the dynamic and ever-growing field of computer programming, software and web development and analysis.  

In addition to learning programming skills in a variety of languages, from Java and ASP.NET to PHP, Python and mobile programming (Android and iOS), the courses are designed to give students a solid foundation in theory and practice in web development and design, Oracle database management and administration, project management, technical writing, and all facets of information systems. This program also gives students the opportunity to study specialized topics such as AI (Artificial Intelligence), machine learning, data analytics, cloud computing, IT security and big data. 

Students also learn about the standards of planning, developing, testing and deploying integrated software solutions. In addition to building collaborative and teamwork soft skills, this program prepares students for today's competitive job market. 

Graduates of this program are prepared to analyze business requirements and justify solutions for the improvement or automation of organizational and individual workflow. From developing and testing computer programs to ensuring secure implementation of integrated solutions, graduates of this program will be equipped with the up-to-date skills and knowledge to succeed in a broad range of employment settings, in a variety of sectors, and in both large and small organizations. 

Optional Co-op
This program offers a co-op option. Co-op work terms enable you to apply your skills and knowledge in a work environment and gain valuable, practical experience related to your program of study. You will learn new skills, learn about the world of work and meet people in your profession. 

For students who are accepted into the program, three co-op work terms will take place. The first four-month work term is between Semesters 3 and 4, and then two consecutive four-month work terms between Semesters 4 and 5.? There are limited spaces in the co-op option. Therefore, you will apply for the co-op option during Semester 1 and be informed of the process by which to apply.??While co-op work opportunities are not guaranteed, as students are in a competitive job placement market, participating students will receive a wide range of services to help them find a co-op opportunity. 

Humber’s Design Foundation certificate program provides you with the skills to focus your creativity as you begin a career in design.  If you have a clear interest in visual art and design, but want to upgrade or build your portfolio of work, or explore various design disciplines while considering your future career, this is the program for you. With a deep scope of experience in a variety of design facets, our faculty provides you with an industry-current perspective of your work while offering you a broad based preparatory design education. You will develop design skills, techniques and processes; and learn about various professional career choices while developing and refining your comprehensive portfolio. Your training is led by professional designers from a variety of disciplines in a curriculum that features courses in:

• 1, 2 and 3-Point perspective drawing
• 2D and 3D principles
• Colour theory
• Interior design
• Industrial design
• Graphic design
• Design software such as Photoshop, Illustrator and AutoCAD

You will also work in professional-quality labs, developing skills that will give you the hands-on experience employers want.

Designers influence the development of products, the packages they come in and the marketing materials used to promote them. We also rely on designers to plan all types of buildings and to create inviting spaces within them.In Toronto’s vibrant creative sector, the demand for talented and skilled designers is strong. Your generalized training in the many aspects of design may be an effective launching pad to more specialized design study in various fields including industrial design, interior design, interior decorating, graphic design, architecture, civil engineering or building technology.

Humber’s Journalism graduate certificate program will immerse you in advanced research, writing and interview practices, data mining techniques, and a range of storytelling approaches for work within a multiplatform journalistic or information-gathering environment. You will also have the opportunity to pursue discipline-specific reporting in areas such as science, business, sports and the arts.

Using the latest technologies, the program will focus on training graduates for the field of journalism with an emphasis on digital journalism. Graduates will be able to function in a digital/online environment including social media and data-based journalism. An emphasis will be placed on providing you with opportunities to practise and develop your journalism skills through coverage of live field events.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the program, a graduate will:

• Select relevant content and credible sources to create complex news reports.
• Assess socio-political and historical context, platform requirements, and audience needs when producing news reports.
• Use data gathering, mining and visualization and presentation tools to identify and report stories hidden in big data.
• Assess industry trends to inform professional journalism decisions and develop implementation strategies.
• Conceptualize, produce and manage the implementation of multi-platform digital content using a variety of content management systems and industry-related technologies.
• Manage a project in collaboration with other media professionals as part of a news production process in an integrated, multi-platform digital environment.
• Comply with and support others to work in accordance with industry, professional, legal and ethical standards of practice.
• Develop, implement and evaluate strategies for personal, career and professional development to enhance work performance and maintain currency with industry.
• Establish and maintain strategic relationships with a diversity of stakeholders to achieve business goals and strategic objectives.

Work Placement
You'll gain valuable first-hand experience through a mandatory work placement, usually unpaid, in the final semester of your studies.
Industry partners include but are not limited to CBC (TV News, Radio News, Talk Radio, Online and Podcasts), CTV (News Channel, Toronto Bureau, Ottawa Bureau, CTVNews.ca), CP24, Global TV News, TV Ontario, CityNews, 680 News, Toronto Star, Globe and Mail, Postmedia, The Canadian Press, local and regional newspapers, The Hockey News, TSN, Sportsnet, Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, Rogers M-School, Toronto Life Magazine, Entertainment One, Cineflix, ET Canada, etalk, The Social, CityLine and The Marilyn Dennis Show.

Humber’s Cabinet Making certificate program, located at the Humber Centre for Trades & Technology, provides you with the knowledge and skills to construct and install basic cabinets, as well as build traditional furniture using recognized trade practices. By completing a series of woodworking projects, you will explore various types of joinery and construction techniques using hand tools, portable power tools, stationary machines, as well as computer-based technologies. Time management skills and the ability to work to a deadline are developed and stressed throughout the program.

Graduates of the program will be able to produce shop drawings, calculate a list of materials, cut out and assemble basic cabinetry or furniture and also apply a finish. Graduates are able to safely operate most common stationary woodworking machinery, as well as run a number of CNC machines in a limited capacity.

Industrial designers design products for consumers.  Examples include sports footwear, headphones, wearables and automobiles. Graduates of the program are in high demand for the practical skills gained through the program’s hands-on learning environment. These skills include sketching, digital graphic rendering, model-making and computer-aided design (CAD).  The program is project driven, and many of the design projects will involve industry collaboration to ensure real-world relevance.

Students elect a design specialization in Year 3 in one of:

• Automotive design
• Product design or
• Interaction design

Automotive designers design the appearance (styling) of motor vehicles including automobiles, motorcycles and off-road vehicles. Humber is the only industrial design program in Canada that offers an automotive design specialization. 
In product design, there is more emphasis on the method of finding a solution to a user’s problem in order to make doing a task easier or make the user experience with the product more satisfying.
Interaction design is a new offering in the program which recognizes that more and more physical products are integrating a digital component, including touch screens or voice activation.

Learning Outcomes

• Upon successful completion of the program, a graduate will:
  • Meet the professional criteria as established by the ACIDO Charter (The Association of Chartered Industrial Designers of Ontario), demonstrating core competencies in skills, knowledge and design methodology in industrial design meeting.
  • Design, document and communicate high quality interior design propositions of varying size, scope and complexity employing principles of evidence-based design methodology.
  • Explain how products work; how products can be made to work better for people; what makes a product useful, usable, and desirable; and how products are manufactured and serviced.
  • Select and employ appropriate visual languages to investigate, analyze, interpret, develop and articulate ideas for two and three-dimensional projects.
  • Produce sophisticated design proposals emphasizing three-dimensional quality of space achieved through architectural detailing.
  • Communicate concepts and requirements to other designers and colleagues who work with them, and to clients and employers. This need to communicate draws upon: verbal and written forms, two-dimensional and three-dimensional media, and levels of detailing ranging from sketching to engineering drawings.
  • Employ computer-aided drafting (CAD), computer-aided industrial design (CAID), and appropriate 2D and 3D graphic software to create graphic presentations and marketing materials.
  • Integrate sustainable practices in the design process and demonstrate leadership by educating users in these principles.
  • Analyze the complexity of forces – economic, political, physiological, sociological and technological – which influence the design of the physical environment.
  • Incorporate principles of user-centered design, human factors and ergonomics in design solutions.
  • Select appropriate methods and materials to achieve the technical functionality and aesthetically pleasing built environment.
  • Select the appropriate process(es) and materials for manufacture for a given production volume.
  • Support the marketing function with design strategy supported by graphic/3D materials.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between human behaviour and the built environment and the implications in preparing design solutions.
  • Assess the implications for interior design presented by key developments in current and emerging materials, media and technologies and in interdisciplinary approaches to contemporary design practice.
  • Source information on copyright, mechanical patents, and protection of intellectual property, as applied and practiced in the professional field of industrial design.
  • Develop a business case for and present design solutions to a variety of stakeholder in keeping with professional standards and practices.
  • Employ effective and professional communication skills and techniques to interact, negotiate and undertake collaborative efforts including meaningful discussion of one’s work in an open studio environment, with audiences, clients, markets, end-users and team members.
  • Work collaboratively with clients to develop an understanding of the product requirements, leading to a design brief.
  • Confidently employ appropriate professional accountability, personal and business ethics demonstrating competency of industry practices.
  • Work in a team effectively, utilizing skills of collaboration, negotiation, compromise and conflict resolution.
  • Employ appropriate conventions of measurement, scale, site measuring, drafting and volumetric manipulation through a variety of manual and digital modeling techniques.
  • Design to exceed the minimum standards of applicable laws, codes, regulations, and practices that protect the health, safety and welfare of the public.
  • Speak clearly and persuasively for design concepts and resources.
  • Plan and manage projects, demonstrate good time management skills, be a self-starter, and show resourcefulness.
  • Employ both convergent and divergent thinking in the process of observation, investigation, speculative enquiry, ideation, rationalization and implementation of design solutions.
  • Source, navigate, select, retrieve, evaluate, manipulate and manage information from a variety of sources, both primary and secondary.
  • Conduct themselves with honesty and integrity, demonstrating professional accountability.
  • Employ a variety of methods of design to develop design solutions.
  • Analyze information and experiences in order to articulate an academically structured, sustained and well-supported argument supporting a design issue or creative interior design solution.
  • Identify and analyze the customer needs of an identified target market.
  • Find relevant information that informs the design process, employing a number of techniques and skills including: observation, expert interviews, market information, and various digital search techniques.
  • Employ a variety of ideation techniques, including: sketching, brainstorming, rapid sketching, analogy, metaphors, symbols, and form exploration/sketch modeling
  • Develop a design solution which meets users’ needs, derived from concept development, product aesthetics (form, color, texture, haptics) that reflects market trends, human factors (including ergonomics, user interaction, and safety), model making, materials and technology, sustainable design, manufacturing feasibility and design validation, and cost.
  • Demonstrate good problem solving abilities.
  • Develop creative and innovative solutions.
  • Demonstrate a strong aesthetic sensibility and style, resulting in design solutions with visual appeal.
  • Articulate a well-supported argument justifying a design concept or creative design solution.
  • Articulate the difference and relationship between a product’s form and function and the emotional and experiential needs it fulfills.
  • Articulate design strategy in the context of business strategy.

Work Placement

• This program includes a work placement of 420 hours in the summer between Year three and four.

Humber’s Visual and Digital Arts diploma program offers you the opportunity to develop a well-rounded skillset applicable to a broad range of visual arts disciplines. At the Art Commons, Humber’s dedicated art facility, you will learn to effectively plan and produce visual material, and facilitate modes of interactive expression and communication.

Using state-of-the-art software and tools such as Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, you will develop skills in painting, drawing, illustration, digital art, photography and installation art. While developing your artistic abilities, you will gain knowledge about anatomy, colour, composition, figurative expressions and art history. You will apply your abilities and learn to create traditional and experimental fine art projects. Throughout the program, you will participate in collaborative projects with your peers, gain the opportunity to exhibit your work in campus galleries, take part in installations and join in critiques. With its focus on experiential learning and critical thinking, this program is an excellent launching point for more advanced creative pursuits.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the program, a graduate will:

• Produce creative life and representational drawings and paintings, illustrating volume, proportion, perspective, mass and texture with descriptive lighting.
• Create representational digital drawing, paintings and illustrations, using application software such as Photoshop, Illustrator and Painter.
• Assess the artistic merit of artwork using an analysis of the creative application of established principles of design and composition.
• Construct pictorial compositions using visual perspective to achieve accurate proportional relationships.
• Light compositions to reveal three-dimensional form.
• Create figurative pictorial compositions, using principles of human and comparative anatomy.
• Critique technical principles of composition in representational drawing, painting and illustration, through analysis of rendering.
• Prepare and present a traditional and creative art portfolio containing both original work and computer generated reproductions.
• Research and create reference materials to support successful completion of a work of art.
• Reproduce, with fidelity, colour as encountered in nature, mixing traditional and digital media.
• Develop a career plan and self-promotion skills suitable to the digital media industry, using materials such as a résumé, cover letter, contact list, e-portfolio.
• Develop and present a digital art project proposal and manage the project, using effective oral and written communications skills.

Humber’s Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician diploma program prepares you for a career as a technician capable of designing, installing and servicing many different types of energy systems. As you progress through the program, you will become familiar with the design, installation and service techniques of heating and air conditioning systems in residential and small commercial buildings. As well, you will learn to size, select and maintain equipment for building comfort according to various industry standards.
Today’s residential central air conditioning and heating systems are more energy efficient than those that were typically installed in the past. As this sector continues to address Canadians’ concerns about rising energy prices and the environment, there will be ongoing opportunities for you to work with design contractors in installing, servicing and retrofitting heating, ventilation and air conditioning and refrigeration (HRAC) equipment. As well, you could choose to work as a sales representative, specifications writer or service representative. With further experience, you could become an estimator, working with plans and specifications to determine material and labour requirements in preparation of contract bids.

Humber’s Bachelor of Health Sciences – Workplace Health and Wellness degree program is a unique honours degree program, the first of its kind in Canada. You will explore various industry-specific areas including the most current developments in evidence-based interprofessional practice.

This program is multi-disciplinary in nature, drawing from the fields of leadership; mental, physical, and psychological health; business and communication; and knowledge translation. All combined, students acquire the competencies to develop proactive, evidence-based workplace health and wellness programs and health promotion programs. You will develop the skills to promote employee health, workplace culture, employee engagement and retention.

Principles of equity, wellness coaching, diversity, ethical and legal practices, and knowledge translation are the foundation of your learning. A team approach to learning collaboratively is key and is emphasized in the classroom. 

Learning Outcomes

• Upon successful completion of the program, a graduate will:
• Evaluate determinants of workplace health and wellness in order to make evidence-informed decisions, which are supported by theoretical and practical knowledge of key health and wellness concepts.
• Employ appropriate methodologies for research, dissemination of information, program planning, implementation and renewal, problem-solving, interprofessional education and collaboration and project management.
• Apply ethical, evidence-informed strategies to develop and sustain inclusionary proactive and reactive practices, which support continuous improvements in workplace health and wellness.
• Communicate health and wellness messages effectively in a variety of traditional and innovative media modalities.
• Develop habits of mind, which demonstrate awareness of the scope and limits of professional practice.
• Demonstrate responsible leadership, accountability and effective collaboration, modeling the embodiment of personal and workplace health and wellness principles.

Work Placement
You will participate in one mandatory paid or unpaid work placement to gain 14 weeks of full-time professional work experience during the summer months between 3rd and 4th year. The placement will occur in diverse settings such as for-profit or not-for-profit enterprises, health and wellness consulting firms, governmental or educational institutions, or other health and wellness environments.

The experience will enhance the theoretical learning in the program, giving you hands-on skills. Work placement experiences might include successfully developing, evaluating and implementing a workplace health and wellness initiative; functioning as a member of a health and promotion team; working at a public health organization in knowledge translation; working in insurance companies and with workplace insurance claims; and health promotion within a long-term care facility.