Overview
The Professional Certificate in User Research provides an in-depth exploration of user research methodologies essential for UX professionals. Participants will learn to plan, execute, analyse, and communicate user research effectively, gaining practical skills to understand user behaviours and needs. The course includes hands-on projects, personalised feedback from experienced researchers, and culminates in the development of a professional portfolio to showcase research expertise.
Prerequisites
There are no formal prerequisites for this course. It is suitable for individuals from various backgrounds who are interested in pursuing a career in UX research.
Target audience
This course is designed for:
- UX professionals aiming to enhance their research skills
- Aspiring UX researchers seeking a comprehensive understanding of user research methodologies
- Designers, product managers, and developers wanting to incorporate user research into their processes
- Anyone interested in understanding user behaviours to inform design decisions
Objectives
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Understand the role and importance of user research in UX design
- Plan and conduct effective user research studies
- Apply various qualitative and quantitative research methods
- Analyse research data to extract meaningful insights
- Communicate research findings clearly to stakeholders
- Utilise AI tools to enhance user research processes
- Build a professional portfolio demonstrating user research expertise
Outline
Introduction to user research
- Understanding the role of a UX researcher
- Exploring types, methods, and ethics of research
Planning the research
- Building a research plan
- Collaborating with stakeholders
- Recruiting participants and managing data
Fundamental user research skills
- Mastering interviewing techniques
- Conducting usability testing
- Learning moderation and note-taking skills
Expanding your toolkit
- Exploring qualitative methods like ethnography and contextual enquiry
- Utilising service safaris and diary studies
Analysing qualitative research
- Translating data into user goals and affinity diagrams
- Creating personas and journey maps
Quantitative research
- Designing and conducting online surveys
- Performing A/B tests and analysing results
Communicating the research
- Reporting and presenting findings with confidence
AI for user research
- Exploring how AI tools can assist researchers
Portfolio project
- Building a professional portfolio to showcase research expertise
Hands-on learning
Participants will engage in practical exercises, real-world projects, and receive personalised feedback from experienced researchers to apply user research concepts effectively.
Exams and assessments
The course includes continuous assessments through practical assignments and projects. There is a final project that contributes to the professional portfolio.
What's included
- Exam included
- Dedicated tutor support via email during your course from expert instructors
Frequently asked questions
How can I create an account on myQA.com?
There are a number of ways to create an account. If you are a self-funder, simply select the "Create account" option on the login page.
If you have been booked onto a course by your company, you will receive a confirmation email. From this email, select "Sign into myQA" and you will be taken to the "Create account" page. Complete all of the details and select "Create account".
If you have the booking number you can also go here and select the "I have a booking number" option. Enter the booking reference and your surname. If the details match, you will be taken to the "Create account" page from where you can enter your details and confirm your account.
Find more answers to frequently asked questions in our FAQs: Bookings & Cancellations page.
How do QA’s virtual classroom courses work?
Our virtual classroom courses allow you to access award-winning classroom training, without leaving your home or office. Our learning professionals are specially trained on how to interact with remote attendees and our remote labs ensure all participants can take part in hands-on exercises wherever they are.
We use the WebEx video conferencing platform by Cisco. Before you book, check that you meet the WebEx system requirements and run a test meeting to ensure the software is compatible with your firewall settings. If it doesn’t work, try adjusting your settings or contact your IT department about permitting the website.
How do QA’s online courses work?
QA online courses, also commonly known as distance learning courses or elearning courses, take the form of interactive software designed for individual learning, but you will also have access to full support from our subject-matter experts for the duration of your course. When you book a QA online learning course you will receive immediate access to it through our e-learning platform and you can start to learn straight away, from any compatible device. Access to the online learning platform is valid for one year from the booking date.
All courses are built around case studies and presented in an engaging format, which includes storytelling elements, video, audio and humour. Every case study is supported by sample documents and a collection of Knowledge Nuggets that provide more in-depth detail on the wider processes.
When will I receive my joining instructions?
Joining instructions for QA courses are sent two weeks prior to the course start date, or immediately if the booking is confirmed within this timeframe. For course bookings made via QA but delivered by a third-party supplier, joining instructions are sent to attendees prior to the training course, but timescales vary depending on each supplier’s terms. Read more FAQs.
When will I receive my certificate?
Certificates of Achievement are issued at the end the course, either as a hard copy or via email. Read more here.