# How It Works

Each course in the Information Architecture certificate program runs for four weeks and combines live Zoom sessions with asynchronous coursework in Google Classroom. Here’s what to expect, what’s required, and how certification works.

### Format

Each course runs for four weeks. Expect **one live one-hour session per week** via Zoom, plus asynchronous readings, discussions, and assignments hosted in Google Classroom. All live sessions are recorded for asynchronous viewing if you can't make a session.

### Time Commitment

Approximately 2–3 hours per week, including the live session.

### Cohort Size

Each course is intentionally limited to **10 students**. The small cohort size means you'll get meaningful feedback on your work and real peer interaction — not just a feed of discussion posts.

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### What's Expected of Students

To receive a certificate of completion, you must:

* **Attendance:** Attend live sessions. Missing more than one session per course disqualifies you from receiving a certificate
* **Participation:** Complete weekly assignments and participate in group discussions
* **Assessment:** Submit a final project in the last week of the course demonstrating your understanding and application of course concepts
* **Agreement:** Sign a student agreement before the course begins, committing to the above

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### Certification

Students who complete a course receive a **course certificate of completion.** Students who complete all 3 receive a full program certificate **from the World IA Association**. 

*Future plans include an exam-based certification pathway for experienced IA practitioners, and a public directory of certified professionals.*

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### Frequently Asked Questions

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<summary><strong>Do I need to take all three courses?</strong></summary>

No. Each course is independent. You may take one, two, or all three — in any combination that fits your goals. The full certificate is awarded only upon completion of all three.

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<summary><strong>Do I need prior experience in Information Architecture to enroll?</strong></summary>

No. Course 1 (Foundations) is best for beginners. [Content, Structure, and Findability](https://www.information-architecture.world/certificate-program/courses/content-structure-and-findability) and [IA for Search, AI, and Emerging Technologies](https://www.information-architecture.world/certificate-program/courses/ia-for-search-ai-and-emerging-technologies) are built on foundational concepts, so if you're starting with these, some familiarity with IA basics is helpful but not required.

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<summary><strong>What if I miss a live session?</strong></summary>

Sessions are recorded and available asynchronously. However, attending live is strongly encouraged, and missing more than one session per course means you will not receive a certificate for that course.

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<summary><strong>What technology do I need?</strong></summary>

You'll need a computer with a stable internet connection, access to Zoom for live sessions, and a Google account to access Google Classroom materials.

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<summary><strong>When does registration open?</strong></summary>

The Fall 2026 pilot is currently collecting expressions of interest. We'll follow up with registration details, exact dates, and next steps.

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<summary><strong>Is there a cost?</strong></summary>

The Fall 2026 pilot cohort is free. Future cohorts will be priced at $500 per course (US, Canada, Western Europe) and $200 per course (rest of world). [See full pricing →](https://www.information-architecture.world/certificate-program/pricing)

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### Ready to Learn?

The Fall 2026 pilot cohort is open to anyone with an interest in information architecture — whether you're new to the field or a practitioner looking to formalize your knowledge.

<a href="https://forms.worldiaday.org/certificate-interest" class="button primary" data-icon="file-pen">Express your interest </a>

Submitting the interest form does not enroll you. We'll follow up with registration details, course dates, and next steps.

Still have questions? Email <education@worldiaday.org>