Top 10 UI Developer Certifications

Certifications are important for UI developers in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the developer has a certain level of knowledge and expertise in the field. Certifications can also help to differentiate one candidate from another when applying for jobs, as they provide evidence of professional development and commitment to their field. Additionally, certifications can be used to prove a developer’s competency in specific areas of UI development, such as HTML5 or JavaScript. Overall, certifications help employers evaluate the qualifications of potential candidates and make informed hiring decisions.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for UI Developers and explains how they can help to advance an UI Developer's career.

What are UI Developer Certifications?

UI Developer Certification is an industry-recognized qualification that demonstrates a level of expertise in developing user interfaces for web and mobile applications. This certification is designed to equip developers with the skills and knowledge necessary to build intuitive, engaging, and visually appealing user interfaces. The certification can help developers by validating their skillset and providing them with the tools and techniques needed to create successful web and mobile applications. With this certification, employers will be more likely to hire UI developers who are knowledgeable in best practices for creating intuitive user experiences. Additionally, certified UI developers may have access to better job opportunities, higher salaries, and more recognition within the industry as a whole.

Pro Tip: Before enrolling in a UI Developer Certification program, make sure to research the curriculum and ensure that it covers the latest technologies and best practices. Additionally, look for certification programs that offer hands-on experience or projects to give you real-world experience.

Related: What does a UI Developer do?

Top 10 UI Developer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to UI Developers today.

1. Certified UI Developer (CUD)

Certified UI Developer (CUD) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Software Architects (IASA). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of experienced User Interface (UI) developers. The CUD certification is intended to demonstrate that an individual has the necessary skills and expertise to design, develop, and maintain user interfaces for web applications.

The CUD certification requires a minimum of two years of professional experience in developing user interfaces for web applications. To receive the CUD certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as web standards, usability principles, accessibility guidelines, front-end development technologies, and UI design best practices. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and can be taken online or at a testing center.

The cost of the CUD certification varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 USD to take the exam online or $500 USD to take it at a testing center. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or proctoring fees.

Overall, obtaining the Certified UI Developer (CUD) certification can help demonstrate your expertise in developing user interfaces for web applications and can be beneficial when applying for jobs in this field.

2. Certified User Interface Professional (CUIP)

Certified User Interface Professional (CUIP) is a credential that recognizes individuals who have specialized knowledge and experience in the design, development, and implementation of user interfaces. The certification is administered by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES).

To become a CUIP, individuals must meet certain requirements including having at least three years of professional experience in the field of user interface design or development, passing an examination, and completing a portfolio review. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as design principles, usability testing methods, software engineering techniques, and user interface toolkits.

The certification process typically takes between six months to one year to complete depending on an individual's experience level. To get started with the CUIP program, applicants must submit their resume along with a completed application form to HFES.

The cost for the CUIP program is $450 USD for HFES members and $550 USD for non-members. This fee includes the cost of the exam and portfolio review.

3. Certified User Experience Designer (CUXD)

Certified User Experience Designer (CUXD) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in designing user experiences for digital products. The certification is offered by the User Experience Professionals Association (UXPA), and it requires successful completion of a two-part examination process.

The first part of the exam consists of a written test, which covers topics such as user research methods, design principles, usability testing, and accessibility standards. This exam must be completed within three hours and is open-book. It costs $325 to take the written exam.

The second part of the exam involves completing a practical project. This project should demonstrate your ability to apply user experience design principles to create an effective digital product experience. You will be given six weeks to complete this project and submit it for review by UXPA judges. The cost for this portion of the exam is $500.

In total, it takes approximately nine weeks from start to finish to become certified as a UXD professional, and it costs $825 in total fees.

4. Adobe Certified Expert in Web Design and Development (ACE)

Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) in Web Design and Development is a professional certification program offered by Adobe. It is designed to recognize individuals who possess the skills and knowledge necessary to design, develop, and maintain websites using Adobe tools and technologies. The ACE certification validates an individual's ability to create engaging web experiences with Adobe products such as Dreamweaver, Photoshop, Flash, Illustrator, Fireworks, Acrobat Professional, and other related software.

The ACE certification process includes two exams: one for web design & development fundamentals and the other for advanced topics such as scripting languages and multimedia integration. Both exams must be taken within a 12-month period in order to become certified.

In order to get the ACE certification, candidates must first register with the Adobe Certification Program website. After registering, they can purchase exam vouchers from the website or from authorized training centers. The cost of each exam voucher varies depending on location but typically ranges from $100-$150 USD per exam.

Once registered and purchased the exam vouchers, candidates can then schedule their exams at any Pearson VUE testing center around the world. Each exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and is graded immediately after completion. If a candidate passes both exams with a score of 70% or higher, they will receive their ACE certificate via email within 3-4 weeks of completing the exams.

Overall, it usually takes about 2-3 months from start to finish for someone to become an Adobe Certified Expert in Web Design & Development (ACE).

5. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): Web Applications

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): Web Applications is a certification program offered by Microsoft that validates the skills and knowledge of software developers who design and develop web applications using Microsoft technologies. The MCSD: Web Applications certification requires candidates to demonstrate their expertise in developing web applications using HTML5, ASP.NET, JavaScript, CSS3, AJAX, and other Microsoft technologies.

To obtain the MCSD: Web Applications certification, candidates must pass four exams: Exam 70-480 (Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3), Exam 70-486 (Developing ASP.NET MVC Web Applications), Exam 70-487 (Developing Windows Azure and Web Services) and Exam 70-488 (Developing Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013 Core Solutions). It typically takes between three to six months to complete all four exams depending on the candidate's level of experience with the technologies.

The cost of obtaining the MCSD: Web Applications certification depends on the number of exams taken and whether or not you are a member of the Microsoft Partner Network. Generally speaking, it can range from $150-$400 per exam plus any applicable taxes.

6. Oracle Certified Professional, Java EE 5 Web Component Developer

Oracle Certified Professional, Java EE 5 Web Component Developer is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in developing web-based applications using the Java Platform, Enterprise Edition (Java EE) 5. The certification is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge of the core technologies and APIs used to develop web components for enterprise applications.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for this certification. To get certified, you must pass two exams: 1Z0-858 - Oracle Certified Professional, Java EE 5 Web Component Developer and 1Z0-859 - Oracle Certified Professional, Java EE 5 Web Services Developer. Both exams are available through Pearson VUE and cost $245 each.

In addition to passing the exams, candidates must also have at least six months of experience developing web components with the Java Platform, Enterprise Edition (Java EE) 5.

7. Apple Certified Associate – Mac Integration 10.9

Apple Certified Associate – Mac Integration 10.9 is a certification that demonstrates a person’s ability to integrate Mac computers into existing networks. The certification requires knowledge of macOS, networking, and troubleshooting. It is designed for IT professionals who need to deploy and maintain Macs in the workplace.

The Apple Certified Associate – Mac Integration 10.9 exam takes approximately 90 minutes and consists of 50 questions. To get certified, you must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The exam costs $150 USD and can be taken at an Apple Authorized Training Center or online through Pearson VUE.

8. CIW User Interface Designer Certification

CIW User Interface Designer Certification is a professional certification that validates an individual's skills in designing user interfaces for web-based applications. It demonstrates the ability to create engaging and intuitive user experiences, as well as troubleshoot and optimize existing designs.

The certification consists of one exam, CIW User Interface Designer 1D0-621. The exam covers topics such as user interface design principles, design tools, usability testing, and accessibility standards. It takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and costs $150 USD.

To get the CIW User Interface Designer Certification, you must first pass the CIW User Interface Designer 1D0-621 exam with a score of 70% or higher. After passing the exam, you will be awarded the official CIW User Interface Designer Certification credential.

The cost of taking the exam is $150 USD, which includes all necessary materials and access to practice tests. Additionally, there are several study resources available online at no cost to help prepare for the exam.

9. CIW Advanced HTML 5 and CSS3 Specialist Certification

The CIW Advanced HTML 5 and CSS3 Specialist Certification is an industry-leading certification program designed to demonstrate a professional’s knowledge and skills in web development. This certification focuses on the latest version of HTML and CSS, which are essential for creating modern, interactive websites. The program covers topics such as responsive design, multimedia integration, animation techniques, and more.

To earn the CIW Advanced HTML 5 and CSS3 Specialist Certification, candidates must pass two exams: CIW Site Development Associate (CIW SDA) and CIW Advanced HTML 5 and CSS3 Specialist (CIW AH5CS). The exams can be taken online or in person at an authorized testing center.

The cost of the certification depends on the exam provider chosen. The CIW SDA exam costs $125 USD while the CIW AH5CS exam costs $195 USD. Both exams must be passed within one year of starting the program in order to receive the certification.

Overall, obtaining this certification typically takes between 1-2 months depending on how quickly you can study for and pass both exams.

10. Brainbench UI Developer Certification

Brainbench UI Developer Certification is a professional certification program that tests the knowledge and skills of individuals in the field of user interface (UI) development. This certification is designed to assess a candidate’s ability to design, develop, and deploy effective user interfaces for web applications. The exam covers topics such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, AJAX, jQuery, and other UI-related technologies.

The Brainbench UI Developer Certification exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes about 90 minutes to complete. It is divided into two sections: Design & Development (30 questions) and Deployment & Maintenance (30 questions). The exam costs $99 USD.

To get certified, you must first register for the exam online at the Brainbench website. You will then be asked to pay the fee using a credit card or PayPal account. Once payment has been received, you will receive an email containing instructions on how to access the exam. You must then take and pass the exam within 30 days of registering in order to become certified.

Do You Really Need a UI Developer Certificate?

Whether or not you need a UI developer certificate depends on many factors. First, what type of job are you looking for in the field of UI development? Are you aiming to be a full-time employee at a company, or do you plan to work as an independent contractor?

If your goal is to become an employee at a company, then having a UI developer certificate could increase your chances of being hired. Employers look for candidates who have the skills and knowledge required for the job, and having a certification can demonstrate that you have the necessary qualifications.

On the other hand, if you plan to work as an independent contractor, then having a certificate may not be necessary. Many companies hire contractors based on their experience and portfolio rather than their qualifications. In this case, it may be more important to focus on building up your skills and portfolio instead of investing time and money into obtaining a certificate.

Ultimately, whether or not getting a UI developer certificate is right for you depends on your specific goals and situation. If it is something that will help further your career goals, then it may be worth considering obtaining one.

Related: UI Developer Resume Examples

FAQs About UI Developer Certifications

Q1. What is a UI Developer Certification?

A1. UI Developer Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a person's expertise in creating user interfaces for web and mobile applications. It covers the development of graphical user interfaces (GUIs), web design, and other related topics.

Q2. How can I become certified as a UI Developer?

A2. To become certified as a UI Developer, you will need to complete an accredited program or course and pass an exam administered by an authorized certification body like Certiport or Brainbench.

Q3. What are the benefits of having a UI Developer Certification?

A3. Having a UI Developer Certification shows employers that you have expertise in the field and are qualified for the job. It also may allow you to command higher salaries and gain access to more job opportunities due to your specialized skillset.

Q4. What type of jobs can I apply for with a UI Developer Certification?

A4. With a UI Developer Certification, you can apply for jobs such as Front End Web Developer, UX/UI Designer, Mobile App Designer, Web Design Manager, and more!

Q5. What is the cost of getting certified as a UI Developer?

A5. The cost of getting certified as a UI Developer will vary depending on which program or course you choose to take and which certification body administers the exam. Generally speaking, costs range from $100-$500 USD depending on location and provider fees associated with each exam or training program