1. Seattle Colleges home page
  2. Administration
  3. Web Development
  4. Academic Programs Project
  5. Improved User Interface and Experience

Improved User Interface and Experience

Academic degree webpages now have one template (versus the previous two). This is the same for Program Overview webpages. The new structure allows for an accurate and consistent student experience (click the thumbnails below to view).

Program Overview wireframe thumbnail 

Degree wireframe

Why This Matters

This matters because a single, shared template turns academic webpages into a reliable, scalable system instead of a collection of one‑off pages.

Here’s why that’s important:

Standardized academic pages and CRM alignment mean: 

  • Program pages can trigger CRM workflows (e.g., “Interested in Welding Fabrication Technology?”)
  • Students move seamlessly from browsing programs to taking action 

The website stops being static content and becomes an active part of the student journey.

  • Students learn one navigation pattern and can easily find key information (requirements, outcomes, next steps) across all degrees and programs.
  • Reduces confusion and cognitive load, especially for first‑generation and returning students.
  • Categorization helps students explore related programs and compare options more easily.
  • Supports discovery, advising, and guided pathways by grouping programs in meaningful ways.
  • Changes to policy language, formatting, or required content can be made once and applied everywhere.
  • Reduces maintenance time and lowers the risk of outdated or conflicting information.
  • Improvements to accessibility, design, or functionality can be rolled out broadly instead of being rebuilt page by page.
  • Encourages continuous improvement across all programs, not just a few.
  • A standardized template makes it easier to meet accessibility standards consistently.
  • Ensures all programs provide an equitable experience for users with disabilities.
  • Responsive design ensures content works well on phones, tablets, and desktops.
  • Meets students where they are, especially mobile-first users.

A single template improves the student experience, reduces institutional risk, saves staff time, and makes it easier to scale improvements across the entire system.