Learning Figma can be challenging, especially for those who are unfamiliar with prototyping and UX design tools, or those who are just starting in the field. There are as many ways to learn Figma as there are different learning styles, including in-person instruction, online courses, and certification programs. Determining how to learn Figma is the first step in finding the right Figma course, certificate program, or workshop.
Some of the best options for learning Figma include:
- In-person Figma courses
- Online Figma classes
- Figma certificate programs
Figma classes in person
In-person classes are a great option for individuals who want to learn Figma from experienced professionals in a structured learning environment. You can attend these kinds of courses at the American Graphics Institute (AGI), which has several campus locations in major cities like Boston and Philadelphia. The Figma app and a computer suitable for UX design work are provided for the course, along with proprietary curriculum developed for the Figma courses. AGI has an average class size of six students, so you’ll learn Figma hands-on with a live instructor in the same classroom.
Figma online classes
Online Figma courses are a good choice for those who want to improve their Figma skills but prefer to not travel to a classroom. The online Figma courses at AGI include live instructors for each course, and small class sizes, allowing for each student to receive one-on-one attention, ask questions, and interact with the instructor and other class participants. Questions can easily be answered, as you can share your screen with the instructor if you have questions relating to the in-class projects. AGI offers Figma courses, including an introductory Figma course and private Figma training.
Figma certificates and certifications
While certificates and certifications are different, both offer individuals a chance to demonstrate their proficiency in a particular skill. A Figma certificate shows that an individual has completed a stand-alone course or program covering the skills that are needed to use the application effectively. Anyone who enrolls in AGI’s introductory Figma course earns a certificate upon their completion of the coursework. You can learn Figma while working in small groups, building a portfolio of work, and receiving assistance with job placement.
For individuals who want to study other digital design skills in addition to learning Figma, AGI’s UX certificate program is another option for earning a certificate. This program includes Figma training along with assistance creating a portfolio, which includes prototyping projects. Students can take the courses in this program at their own pace either online or in person at AGI campus locations.
In AGI’s UX certificate program, students learn to create designs for a variety of devices, including desktops, tablets, and mobile platforms. The courses in this program include information on design principles, rapid prototyping, responsive web design, and Figma. Individuals who enroll in these courses can retake them for free at any time.
For those interested in earning a certification, this requires the completion of a separate exam that tests their skill level. While many certification exams are offered by manufacturers, the creators of Figma do not currently offer one. If Adobe receives approval from the US government to acquire the application, it may opt to create a certification exam for Figma like it does for its Creative Cloud suite.
Cost of Figma training
The cost of Figma training varies depending on a number of factors, including the budget, schedule, and extent of training an individual wants to pursue. While many courses provide a copy of Figma upon enrollment, students may need to purchase a subscription on their own. Figma subscriptions for individuals are tiered and vary in their capabilities, ranging from a limited free version to a more robust plan for $12 per month when billed annually, or $15 per month when billed monthly.
In addition to the cost of a Figma subscription, individuals who want to pursue training from reputable schools like AGI should budget for this expense. Individual digital design classes offered by AGI, such as the introductory Figma course, which costs $495. Although broader certificate programs can cost up to several thousand dollars, they provide more extensive levels of instruction and offer assistance with job placement.
Benefits of Figma courses
Personalized instruction can help new Figma users quickly move up the learning curve and use its full capabilities. Because the design language and workflows can be difficult for novices to grasp, Figma training courses are a worthwhile investment, where you can learn from UX industry professionals how to navigate the interface and efficiently create high-quality designs.
Lengthier programs like AGI’s UX certificate program allow students to immerse themselves in the skills needed to pursue a role in the field of digital design. Figma courses that are part of the UX certificate program also provide students with the opportunity to receive feedback on their work and generate a UX portfolio while practicing new skills. Those enrolled in the UX certificate program learn about design principles and many design tools in addition to Figma. Upon completion of the program, students have the opportunity to work with AGI staff to find careers in their field of study. Learn more about how long it takes to learn Figma.
What is Figma
Cloud-based design and prototyping application Figma helps designers and developers create a variety of projects, from interactive prototypes to mobile app interfaces and websites. In January 2023, Adobe purchased Figma for $20 million, an acquisition that is still pending approval by the US government.
Figma offers a customizable interface with a range of features to support the UX design process. It includes support for design systems, multi-user editing, and developer handoff tools to transition designs into production. Designers can use these features to work efficiently on wireframing, prototyping, and other visual design tasks.
Figma also plays a crucial role in the workflow of remote design teams. As a cloud-based application, Figma can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing designers to work on their projects from multiple devices without being in the same physical location. Designers and developers can launch the application in a browser or as a desktop app on desktop computers and tablets from both MacOS and Windows. You can learn more about what is Figma and why it's important.
Why learn Figma
If you are trying to understand why you should learn Figma, it is because individuals or teams looking to create high-quality prototypes of websites and apps, Figma provides tools and built-in design templates. Whether you're working on a website, app, or interface, Figma has tools that help at various stages of the design process, without needing to switch between applications.
Design teams find Figma’s collaborative capabilities useful, along with the capabilities to handoff completed work to developers, helping to reduce errors and miscommunication as work moves from the design process to development.
Learning Figma
Despite its user-friendly interface, many individuals who are new to UX and digital design may find it difficult to work in Figma. There are training options available for designers of all skill levels, including remote learning, in-person courses, and certificate programs. Anyone who wants to learn Figma should consider their schedule, budget, and personal preferences when selecting a training option.
Those who enroll in Figma training from the American Graphics Institute receive a number of benefits, including instruction from trained professionals and certificates of completion. Additionally, students who finish a long-term program, such as AGI’s UX certificate program, receive assistance from staff with job placement.
Options for learning Figma
You can learn Figma with live training from live, expert instructors. Through practice that is part of the hands-on training that includes exercises and projects, you’ll gain proficiency in creating and collaborating as you design prototypes of websites and apps.
- From prototyping to reusable components and plug-ins, AGI’s introductory Figma course covers everything you need to know to bring your designs to life:
- Individuals can enroll in live Figma training courses at any of AGI’s campuses, or have an instructor teach on-site at your location:
- You can learn Figma from anywhere with an instructor that that comes to your office, or through live online training, or a private training for your group. See all locations for Figma training.
- Attend a Figma course from anywhere with live online Figma classes.