Learn traditional design, user experience design, user research, and user interface design.

In 15 Weeks, you will be on your way to a successful career as a designer.
This Deep Dive Bootcamp will cover a variety of topics including why we need design, methods of design persuasion, UX research methodologies, software development methodologies, introduction to information architecture, data visualization, systems thinking, and the life cycle of product development.
While this course will mostly be focused on UX/UI design in the context of software development, students will also learn how this new skill can make them a valuable asset to any company, regardless of industry.
Why You Should Learn UX/UI
UX applies to anything that can be experienced, such as a website, a vehicle, a commercial, etc. It’s about the interaction between the user and the product or service, and the design elements that shape that experience. UI is the point of interaction between the user and a digital device or product that gives it a unique look and feel. Researching how individuals interact with products and services is a valuable skill, particularly when it comes to web and software development. As of January 2020, there were over 1.94 billion websites in existence. There are currently over 4 million mobile apps available for download on Android and iOS combined. Globally, more than 4 billion people are using the internet. Someone needs to design that experience, and that someone could be you!
Upcoming Bootcamps
Winter 2021
Dates: February 1, 2021 – May 14, 2021
Application deadline: January 15
Part-time Schedule:
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:30-8:30pm & Saturdays 9am-1pm
Spring 2021
Dates: May 3, 2021 – August 14, 2021
Application deadline: April 2
Part-time Schedule:
Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:30-8:30pm & Saturdays (1:30-5:30pm on May 8 and 15, then 10am-2pm on the remaining Saturdays)
Fall 2021
This cohort will be limited to a rural NM audience, ages 18-29.
Learn more about the Thoma Equity Grant Rural Deep Dive Scholarship
Dates: August 23, 2021 – December 3, 2021
Application deadline: July 12
Part-time Schedule:
Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:30-8:30pm & Saturdays 10am-2pm
Location
This is currently a virtual bootcamp.
Learn the Tools
We’ll teach you the software used by modern designers, including:
- Adobe Creative Suite (Acrobat, Illustrator, XD, etc.)
- Figma
- Marvel
- Miro
Prerequisites
- Experience with the Windows, OS X, or Linux Ubuntu operating systems.
- Practical understanding of the Internet – e.g. using a modern internet browser such as Chrome or Firefox to navigate the World Wide Web and download files.
- Basic computer skills.
- Ability to collaborate and work on teams.
- Access to internet.
Program
Pre-Bootcamp (Before the program starts)
Pre-work will be assigned to you before the bootcamp starts. All the resources used in the pre-work are accessible online or will be provided to you. Pre-work is mandatory and must be completed prior to orientation, which is generally a few days before bootcamp begins. The sooner you start and the more time you spend on your pre-work, the more prepared you’ll be. We estimate about 40 total hours of pre-work.
Design Thinking, Strategic Thinking, Inspiration & The Human Component (weeks 1 – 2)
- Discover design basics, design questions and how to frame them, and creative problem solving.
- Discover basics of color theory, layout design, and typography.
- Articulate why behavioral analysis is so important in UX/UI design, and why we design with people in mind.
- Settle into your routine, inspire productivity in yourself, and find your own creative process.
UX/UI Design Research, Software Development Methodologies, Ideation & Exploration (weeks 3 – 5)
- Discover UX research methodologies and when to use them.
- Learn different software development methodologies and why thy’re important as a UX/UI designer.
- Find your place within a software development team, even if you don’t have any coding knowledge.
- Explore and begin your first major project.
Semiotics in Design, User Interface Design & Symbology, User Flows & Layout Design (weeks 6 – 8)
- Critical for UI designers, discover semiotics, the study of symbols and their use.
- Discuss UI design libraries and best practices.
- Present your first projects.
- Discuss how UX research comes into play when creating a brand.
- Discover the importance of layout design, how to work within a grid, and logo marks.
Iteration – Wireframes, User Testing, Prototyping (weeks 9-11)
- Begin understanding the importance of wireframes and user testing.
- Move into a prototyping stage using Figma and Adobe XD.
Deliverables, Feedback, Pitch Deck Presentations, and Implementation (weeks 12-15)
- Understand what it means to listen to and implement client feedback.
- Create pitch decks to present to potential clients.
- Discuss project management, execution, and distribution.
Cost*
The total bootcamp tuition is $2,995.
Participants receiving third-party funding may not have to pay any tuition. Learn more about financial assistance for the bootcamp. *Prices subject to change.
Instructors
Melody Carlisle Lead Instructor
Other FAQs
What types of jobs will I be ready for after attending this bootcamp?
By understanding how, and more importantly why people interact with products and their environment, you’ll find a deeper understanding of how to create meaningful and memorable user experiences across all industries. When we design with people in mind, we have the ability to help make their lives easier.
This bootcamp will lend well towards entry level UX designer positions, entry level UI positions, non-coding web designer opportunities, entry level UX research positions, and other areas of digital media such as social media campaigns and designing advertising campaigns.
Why the focus in software development design?
Most of the time, that’s where you’ll find user experience jobs, and where most people recognize the need for such a position. Software companies looking to bring in user experience designers want to ensure that their products stick out from the crowd. By focusing on a human centered design experience, we’re removing future headaches from potential customers.
Ever wondered why a button seems to be in the wrong place? Can’t find something after five minutes of searching? A UX designer should spot those issues before they happen through user research. We want to find the easiest, most natural way someone interacts with a product. If your users are having trouble navigating your product or physical space, that’s an example of when to hire a UX designer.

This Deep Dive bootcamp was developed thanks to a PNM Resources Power Up Grant, supporting Economic Vitality in New Mexico.