Apply
Join the next edition of the
Donald Knuth & Charles Bigelow UX Incubator
in 2027.
Timeline
- Applications open: November 2026
- Applications close: Beginning of May 2027
- Acceptance notifications sent: End of May 2027
- Program begins: July/August 2027
Quick Facts
- Fully online course
- July/August
- 5 weeks
- Approximately 8 hours of classtime per week
- Regular attendance of live sessions is expected
What You Can Expect
- Work on a real-world UX challenge with a focus on script diversity and cultural context
- Explore how writing systems, language, and culture shape digital experiences
- Learn and apply UX methods through a structured, guided design sprint
- Collaborate in small, international teams using approaches rooted in user needs
- Learn from leading experts through weekly guest lectures and workshops
- Free tuition and access to all required applications
- A course certificate following successful completion of the program
What You Need to Bring
- Curiosity and an interest in design, UX, type, and digitally disadvantaged writing systems
- Willingness to collaborate and actively contribute in group-based work
- Commitment to attend sessions regularly and set aside time for independent and group work outside of workshops
- Respect for cultural perspectives when working with languages and scripts beyond your own
- Readiness to experiment, iterate, and learn through feedback
- No advanced UX or Figma skills required — we’ll teach you what you need
What You’ll Need on Hand
- A desktop PC / laptop
- A stable internet connection
- A free Zoom account for live sessions
- A free Discord account for team and program communication
- A free Figma account, our core design and production tool (You will receive a free upgrade to an edu account with pro features through KBI)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
The incubator is open to people worldwide who have an interest in UX, language, and script diversity. You have to be 18 years old or older by the start of the program. No advanced UX or Figma experience is required.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. Tuition is free, and all required applications and tools are provided at no cost.
What is the time commitment?
The program runs for 5 weeks, July/August 2027, with approximately 8 hours of classtime per week. Regular attendance of live sessions is expected.
Is the program fully online?
Yes. All sessions, workshops, and guest lectures take place online, with an expectation of regular live attendance.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. Participants who successfully complete the program receive a course certificate.
Do I need to speak a specific language or come from a particular script tradition?
No. The program welcomes participants from any language or script background who bring respect for cultural perspectives and a willingness to collaborate across difference. Workshops will be conducted in English but we try to make them accessible to all participants.
Accessibility
We’re committed to making this program accessible to students and instructors alike. We don’t have everything figured out yet, but we work to provide accommodations wherever they’re needed — reach out during your application or once you’re in the program, and we’ll do our best to meet you where you are.