Oregon Tech gets $310K to expand UX training, scholarships

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - Oregon Tech received a $310,000 increase to its existing Workforce Ready Grant to continue expanding User Experience certificate programs.

The Higher Education Coordinating Commission awarded the supplemental funding through the Future Ready Oregon Workforce Ready Grant Round 3T: Technology program in 2024. The money 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. The curriculum 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 people interested in building or strengthening skills. "This funding helps us keep the program accessible while staying focused on practical learning," said Amber Lancaster, associate professor and director of professional writing at Oregon Tech. "Students are able to build UX skills through real projects and hands-on work."

The funding also 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. 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. This allows 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 people 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.