College of Design, HDI launch graduate certificate in universal design
The University of Kentucky College of Design is launching a new graduate certificate in Universal Design through a partnership with the UK Human Development Institute (HDI).
The certificate gives graduate students the opportunity to learn about and apply Universal Design’s broad range of strategies that create products and environments usable by all people. The program is designed for graduate students who want to think more critically about how spaces, systems, services and learning environments can better serve people with a wide range of needs.
Students are required to complete two asynchronous, online courses through the College of Design: DES 650: Universal Design Theory and DES 600: Universal Design in Practice. Then, students will choose two electives from a cross-disciplinary list of approved options.
- AAD 560: Sustainable Access for Organizations
- CED 515: Medical and Psychosocial Aspects of Disabilities
- CED 525: Growth, Disability and Development
- CED 554: Rural Rehabilitation
- DES 670: Universal Design Practicum 2, can be taken up to two semesters
- EDS 517: Assistive Technology in Special Education
- EDS 530: Moderate/Severe Disabilities
The certificate is open to all graduate students at the university and can be added to their program of study in the myUK GPS system. Many students who successfully complete the certificate will receive a stipend to support their work in Universal Design. The number of stipends and award amounts vary each year. For the 2026-27 academic year, the stipend amount is $1,000, paid as $500 at the end of the fall semester and $500 at the end of the spring semester.
Visit the certificate's webpage for more information. For questions, contact Rachel Womack, HDI training director and certificate director, at rachel.womack@uky.edu.