April 28, 2026

University of Colorado Boulder Now Accepting Applications for Architectural Lighting Certificate Program

The University of Colorado Boulder is now accepting applications for its Architectural Lighting Certificate program for the 2026–2027 academic year. Designed for professionals seeking to advance their expertise in architectural lighting, this graduate-level certificate offers a focused, three-course (nine-credit) sequence that blends theory, design, and hands-on practice.

Students evaluate lighting systems on the CU Boulder campus.

Students complete two online courses during the academic year (September through May), followed by a summer capstone in July. The capstone includes an immersive, on-campus experience in Boulder, where participants conduct lighting measurements, explore visual perception exercises, develop lighting design concepts, and gain experience with optical design tools.

Graduates of the program earn a professional credential from CU Boulder, strengthening their skills in both the technical and experiential aspects of lighting design.

"The CU Boulder Lighting Certificate program filled key gaps in both the technical and creative aspects of lighting and gave me confidence in this field," said Tatiana Baughman, Lighting Designer at Apeiro Design, who earned the CU Boulder Architectural Lighting Certificate in 2024.

Applications are open now, and prospective students can learn more and apply at no cost via the program website.