Alumni Spotlight: Sharpening Skills to Make a Greater Impact

Looking to deepen his expertise and enhance his consulting services, Aaron Lopez found a program that mirrored real industry demands and supported his professional growth.

What inspired you to choose UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education’s E-Learning Instructional Design certificate program?

I was drawn to the program’s strong emphasis on instructional design methodology, which is a core component I found lacking in many other programs I considered. What stood out was the comprehensive framework that emphasized essential skills for navigating instructional design projects.

For instance, before enrolling, I noticed that the program provided a course on project management, which was a skill I was seeking to learn to manage complex projects and make the best use of my instructional design skills.

When comparing certificate programs, I considered how the programs can support my career transition and was thrilled to see that I’d have access to DCE’s Career Services. Finally, as a UC system graduate, I was confident UC Irvine would deliver high-quality courses led by highly regarded instructors.

What aspect(s) of the program exceeded your expectations?

Given its remote format, I didn’t anticipate such a collaborative environment, or the level of personalized support provided by instructors. I was also impressed by how application-based the courses were.

The projects closely mirrored the type of work expected of instructional designers in real-world settings. From creating project charters to using development tools and submitting deliverables on realistic timelines, the program provided an experience that truly reflected on-the-job demands.

Which course or learning experience stood out the most, and why?

The experience that stood out most was creating a complete learning module within a short time frame, replicating an end-to-end project. It was a challenging but rewarding process that pushed me to think on my feet and be resourceful.

Through this hands-on experience, I gained insights into the subtle but critical junctures of the instructional design process that can only be learned through practical application.

How has earning the certificate influenced your career growth and professional opportunities?

The certificate has been instrumental in expanding my professional network, deepening my understanding of formal instructional design practices, and preparing me for real-world demands for working through end-to-end projects.

The hands-on experience I gained has opened doors to new opportunities as an independent consultant. It’s made it easier to connect with the clients I’m excited to work with and has boosted my confidence in applying my skills in a professional consulting capacity.

How have you applied the new skills and knowledge you acquired in the program?

I’m actively using the skills and knowledge I gained to build and manage my independent consulting business and develop a strong portfolio. As a consultant, an effective portfolio is essential for showcasing my capabilities to clients.

The program equipped me not only with instructional design expertise but also with project management strategies, stakeholder communication skills, and skills to navigate and use eLearning tools, all of which help me better meet my clients’ needs.

How did the flexibility and structure of the online courses fit within your personal and professional life?

The program’s flexibility was crucial to my success. During my time in the program, I experienced several major shifts in both my personal and professional life, including travel and significant progress in launching my consulting business.

Without the flexibility the program offers, I don’t know how feasible it would have been to achieve the goals I set for myself within the timeframe I needed.

Would you recommend this program to others? If so, why?

Absolutely. The program offers rigorous, practice-based learning experiences that help develop enduring skills. It’s an accredited and well-known program within the instructional design community and offered by a highly reputable institution, which matters to hiring managers. The flexibility and structure of the program make it accessible for professionals with busy schedules.

Additionally, the collaborative learning environment is led by some of the very best practitioners in the field. The added support, such as career services and scholarships (which I was fortunate to receive), makes it an exceptional investment in your professional growth.

Learn more about the E-Learning Instructional Design Certificate Program.