Mento Design Academy
Average Rating4.85
43 Reviews
1 Course
Mento Design Academy is an online, self-paced UX & UI Design bootcamp that takes students 20-45 weeks to complete. The bootcamp curriculum is tailored to match each student's level, background, interests, and learning pace. Since the bootcamp is self-paced, students can choose to organize their learning schedule in a way that works for them (most students keep their full-time job during the bootcamp). There are no classrooms or fixed hours, and the study groups are mindful of timezones (and optional). Students are matched with a dedicated mentor based on their learning needs and career goals, and they meet with their mentor in a weekly 1:1 session.
The curriculum is built by a top team of designers with experience at companies such as Adobe, Google, Facebook. The curriculum teaches students everything they need in order to land their first UX job and be successful in it. All the theory is immediately translated into practical assignments, to help students get hands-on quickly and practice design at every step of the learning journey. Under close guidance from their mentor, students will complete up to three practical projects solving real-life problems for their portfolio. Students will also learn soft skills, including teamwork.
No prior design experience is required to apply for Mento Design Academy bootcamp. Only a stable internet connection is required.
Community is a key aspect of every successful learning journey, and Mento brings together students, mentors, past graduates and design industry leaders into a supportive family that students can always rely on to help and encourage them. Career support services are offered at the end of a student’s learning journey to prepare them for the job hunt. Students will optimize their portfolio with their mentor, run mock interviews with Senior UX Designers that have hiring experience, get in touch with Mento’s Design Recruitment partners at Fearless Group, and get access to Mento’s network to land their first job interviews. Career support continues beyond graduation, since students get lifetime access to the Mento community where they can get help and guidance from their mentor, other mentors, industry leaders and more.
43 Mento Design Academy Reviews
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- Sangharsha GurungGraduate • UX/UI Design • OnlineVerified by LinkedInJan 30, 2025Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
A Supportive, In-Depth UX Bootcamp
Mento Design Academy’s Digital Product Design Bootcamp was an incredible experience. The 1:1 weekly mentorship with highly skilled industry professionals was invaluable–they challenged me to think deeper, improve my work, and grow as a designer while always being supportive.The curriculum is in-depth, with regular assignments and reflections that keep you engaged and actively building your skills. It’s reading-heavy, focusing on real-world UX work rather than step-by-step vide...Mento Design Academy’s Digital Product Design Bootcamp was an incredible experience. The 1:1 weekly mentorship with highly skilled industry professionals was invaluable–they challenged me to think deeper, improve my work, and grow as a designer while always being supportive.The curriculum is in-depth, with regular assignments and reflections that keep you engaged and actively building your skills. It’s reading-heavy, focusing on real-world UX work rather than step-by-step video tutorials, which helped me create a unique portfolio that truly reflects my design thinking.The community is amazing, with buddy systems, weekly sessions, and fun design challenges that make learning more engaging without pressure. Mento was also incredibly accommodating–when I needed time off due to personal reasons, they paused my studies and supported me throughout, which made a huge difference.Although I’ve only recently graduated, Mento offers six months of career support, including portfolio reviews, CV help, and interview prep with mentors and career coaches, making the transition into the job market much less daunting.Things to ConsiderThis course is self-paced and reading-heavy, so it requires discipline and self-motivation—there aren’t step-by-step video tutorials, but rather a focus on critical thinking and UX processes. If you're looking for an advanced UI-heavy course, you might need to take time to learn beyond the curriculum, but I believe this would be the case across most bootcamps. Mento’s career support is great, but job hunting still takes effort, persistence, and networking, you only get out what you put in!Final ThoughtsIf you’re serious about UX and want top-tier mentorship, a strong curriculum, and a truly supportive learning environment, Mento is 100% worth it. It’s challenging but rewarding, and I came out of it with a solid UX foundation and a portfolio I’m proud of. - Veranika PaulavaProduct Designer • Graduate • UX/UI Design • OnlineVerified by LinkedInJan 16, 2025Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
Learning experience with outstanding mentors
I recently completed the bootcamp at Mento Design Academy, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the experience! The curriculum is thoughtfully structured, covering both fundamental and advanced design concepts, which helped me significantly improve my skills.
What truly sets this program apart is the quality of the mentors. They are highly experienced professionals who not only share their expertise but also provide personalized feedback and val...I recently completed the bootcamp at Mento Design Academy, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the experience! The curriculum is thoughtfully structured, covering both fundamental and advanced design concepts, which helped me significantly improve my skills.
What truly sets this program apart is the quality of the mentors. They are highly experienced professionals who not only share their expertise but also provide personalized feedback and valuable industry insights. Their guidance and support throughout the course were incredibly motivating and inspiring.
The hands-on projects allowed me to build a strong portfolio and gain practical experience, which boosted my confidence in pursuing design opportunities.
I highly recommend Mento Design Academy to anyone looking to elevate their design skills and learn from truly exceptional mentors! - Akshay KeertiSenior Product Designer • Graduate • UX/UI Design • OnlineVerified by LinkedInMay 07, 2024Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob AssistanceN/A
It was an amazing and fruitful experience
When I joined Mento, it was a leap of faith since it was a new bootcamp however it did not fail me. Considering I already had several UX projects under my belt, I was not new to UX when I joined. My goal was to get effective mentoring from industry experts. Overall it was a fantastic way to meet people. get good mentoring on my path from experts and grow further in my career. Would definitely recommend other people to join if they are looking to start their journey into UX. - Manos StefanakisProduct designer • Graduate • UX/UI Design • OnlineVerified by LinkedInApr 24, 2024Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
All I could ask from a product design bootcamp!!!
I want to address the essential aspects of choosing a product design bootcamp and how Mento Design Academy delivered them.
Mentors.
The most decisive factor in my decision to attend the Mento Design Academy was the one-on-one weekly sessions with an assigned mentor.
The experience exceeded my expectations by far. The mentors are not randomly assigned but are based on the students' needs, goals, and backgrounds. For me, it was a perfect...I want to address the essential aspects of choosing a product design bootcamp and how Mento Design Academy delivered them.
Mentors.
The most decisive factor in my decision to attend the Mento Design Academy was the one-on-one weekly sessions with an assigned mentor.
The experience exceeded my expectations by far. The mentors are not randomly assigned but are based on the students' needs, goals, and backgrounds. For me, it was a perfect match from day one. Throughout the program, the mentor addresses all the students' needs and fears and provides guidance and answers.
Price.
It is one of the most affordable product design boot camps, which made me wonder about its quality before I applied.
The experience? In short, I really doubt any other pricier BootCamp offers anything better. It is worth every penny (and so much more, to be honest).
Curriculum.
What I was looking for was:- a clear information structure
- good resources
- connection between theory and hands-on exercises.
The experience? The curriculum is so thoughtfully structured that it doesn't feel like learning for the sake of learning. All theory is directly supported with external recourses and exercises, which help students better absorb the information and build a deep understanding of the "whys" behind each decision.
Job Assistance.
Six months of professional support after graduation seems like 5-star service to me. (I just graduated when writing this review and am looking forward to making good use of this.)
Now for the hidden gem of this boot camp: The community.
I had never thought a mentor-alumni-student community could be so valuable in a student's growth. What this community offers regarding support, events, and networking (and more) is truly unique. It is up to each student to decide how involved they would like to be. I decided to be active with the Mento community, and it has been one of the best decisions I've ever made.
Oh, by the way, there are a lot of surprise perks for students and alumni!
Overall a 5/5 experience!!!
- Mala SamolGraduate • UX/UI Design • OnlineVerified by LinkedInApr 12, 2024Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
Easiest choice
I compared a lot of bootcamps before deciding on Mento. Financials were an important factor in my decision, and Mento's is one of the more affordable bootcamps. Other things I factored into my decision included mentorship, job search, and curriculum (not in any order). I was between Mento and another bootcamp, but after my call with Radu, I knew I did not think any further.
Throughout the bootcamp, I appreciated having weekly calls with my mentor because it encouraged me to work ...I compared a lot of bootcamps before deciding on Mento. Financials were an important factor in my decision, and Mento's is one of the more affordable bootcamps. Other things I factored into my decision included mentorship, job search, and curriculum (not in any order). I was between Mento and another bootcamp, but after my call with Radu, I knew I did not think any further.
Throughout the bootcamp, I appreciated having weekly calls with my mentor because it encouraged me to work through the assignments and readings. It held me accountable, and my mentor was always patient, despite me falling behind often. Nonetheless, the help and encouragement led me to complete assignments and learn about the design process. I believe that every Mento student and graduate is more than a number at Mento, and it shows whenever you need support. They are always there to answer any questions you have, have many resources, and cheer you on from the sidelines, even beyond graduation.
I would recommend Mento to anyone interested in starting a career in product design! - Paula Helena KuklaneGraduate • UX/UI Design • OnlineVerified by LinkedInMar 17, 2024Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
One of the best decisions of 2023
In September 2023, I enrolled in the Mento Design Academy UX/UI bootcamp, and it was one of the best decisions I made that year. The course was well structured. You learned the why behind each step of the design process. I enjoyed the practical assignments in the course. It was the best way to learn by doing.
I particularly enjoyed the self-paced nature of the course, combined with weekly calls with your mentor. I appreciate all the feedback I received during th...In September 2023, I enrolled in the Mento Design Academy UX/UI bootcamp, and it was one of the best decisions I made that year. The course was well structured. You learned the why behind each step of the design process. I enjoyed the practical assignments in the course. It was the best way to learn by doing.
I particularly enjoyed the self-paced nature of the course, combined with weekly calls with your mentor. I appreciate all the feedback I received during these calls. It was also the perfect time to ask any career-related questions from an expert in the UX/UI world.
In addition to technical and design-related skills, the bootcamp has boosted my confidence in presenting my work and writing. The program has helped me improve my writing skills and presentation abilities, which will benefit my future career.
The course was intense. You have to put in a lot of work by yourself, but it is rewarding. I have already secured my first UX/UI role during the bootcamp.
- Annie KuoGraduate • UX/UI Design • OnlineVerified by LinkedInOct 09, 2023Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
If not now, when?
I still remember I was hesitant if I should join a bootcamp or go for a master's degree at first. The fact is, making a career change can be terrifying at some point. However, I’m glad I chose Mento Design Academy because it truly changed my perspective towards design in life. Not only the curriculum can flexibly fit into an individual’s schedule, but it also provides practical material to make us feel real in the assignment. (Sometimes the bootcamp feels way too real that I forget I was...I still remember I was hesitant if I should join a bootcamp or go for a master's degree at first. The fact is, making a career change can be terrifying at some point. However, I’m glad I chose Mento Design Academy because it truly changed my perspective towards design in life. Not only the curriculum can flexibly fit into an individual’s schedule, but it also provides practical material to make us feel real in the assignment. (Sometimes the bootcamp feels way too real that I forget I was in a school.)Another thing I like is, that as the course keeps going, we always have the reflection section to document our process in each chapter. It was quite rewarding since the bootcamp constantly encouraged us to think aloud. To be honest, I’m beyond grateful I got to practice it as well. Instead of only relying on my brain to remember everything, it’s always better to keep it as a journal.
The most remarkable lesson I learned in the bootcamp is that I acknowledge the importance of sharing ideas/thoughts in public. I’m not saying it is 100% about the cultural thing, but as an Asian student, sharing my opinion in front of people is a challenging task. (this is just my personal experience) I remember I wasn’t comfortable and confident at the beginning. Nonetheless, I’m getting used to it and this is probably my biggest takeaway which I enjoy a lot.
Although it is just the beginning, I can't wait to see what's next for me on this journey. :) - Ana ZelayaGraduate • UX/UI Design • OnlineVerified by LinkedInOct 03, 2023Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
Invaluable experience
The mentors and instructors at Mento truly care about the success of their students and it is reflected in the top-notch curriculum and on-going support that they provide. Graduating from Mento made me more confident going into my job search, and I still have access to a community of supportive professionals and industry experts. They are extremely flexible and you always have the option of switching mentors if you feel like there could be a better fit for you. - Florence AkanbiJunior UX Designer • Graduate • UX/UI Design • OnlineVerified by LinkedInMar 22, 2023Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
Great Bootcamp
Mento Design Academy is one of a kind, I say this because I have tried a few short courses before venturing into learning at Mento and the whole set up is simply amazing.
I love how the course curriculum is detailed and simplified. You get assessments at every stage to keep you grounded and ensure that every phase of the curriculum is well understood.
You also have access to a skilled/high-level mentor with years of experience. I particularly appreciate the fact that my men...Mento Design Academy is one of a kind, I say this because I have tried a few short courses before venturing into learning at Mento and the whole set up is simply amazing.
I love how the course curriculum is detailed and simplified. You get assessments at every stage to keep you grounded and ensure that every phase of the curriculum is well understood.
You also have access to a skilled/high-level mentor with years of experience. I particularly appreciate the fact that my mentor was very patient with me and she was willing to explain and put me through the difficult tasks that I couldn't get through on my own. The mentors at Mento are kind and very patient with your growth and willing to help you through as long as it takes you.
I also enjoyed the student community, where you can get help from your fellow student. There is also the study partner sharing for accountability and the weekly meet-up. If you are someone who struggles with self-paced learning be rest assured that Mento Design academy has put everything in place to help you stay committed to your own learning.Radu Vucea of Mento Design Academy
CEO
Apr 10, 2023
Dear Florence,
Thank you for taking the time to share your wonderful experience at Mento Design Academy! As the CEO, I'm personally touched and delighted to hear that our program has had such a positive impact on your learning journey.
It's truly rewarding to know that our detailed and simplified curriculum, along with the assessments at every stage, helped you stay grounded and develop a deep understanding of the UX principles. Our team constantly strives to provide the best possible learning experience for our students, and your feedback serves as a great motivation for us.
I'm thrilled to hear that your mentor played a significant role in your growth and learning process. We take great pride in the quality of our mentors, and their dedication to supporting our students is essential to Mento's success. It's heartwarming to know that their patience, kindness, and guidance made a difference for you.
The student community, study partner sharing, and weekly meet-ups are all designed to create a collaborative and supportive environment, and I'm glad you found these features helpful. We believe that peer-to-peer learning and accountability are key factors in fostering success.
Florence, your review is a beautiful reminder of why we do what we do at Mento Design Academy. We're excited to see you thrive in your UX career, and we'll always be here to support you. Please stay in touch, and remember that our community is your lifelong resource.
Warmest regards,
Radu Vucea
CEO, Mento Design Academy - ZoeStudent • UX/UI Design • OnlineVerified by LinkedInMar 21, 2023Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
Learning at Mento feels like I'm already on a remote design team! Valuable mentorship, community, and hands-on experience.
I joined Mento right after completing a graduate certificate in UX Strategy. What I liked most about their program was that I’d get the chance to create unique case studies tailored to my background/interests alongside a mentor with a ton of design experience. It was also important to me that the curriculum was built by working designers, remote and self-paced.
When I started, I looked forward to gaining practical experience on how real-world design teams approac...I joined Mento right after completing a graduate certificate in UX Strategy. What I liked most about their program was that I’d get the chance to create unique case studies tailored to my background/interests alongside a mentor with a ton of design experience. It was also important to me that the curriculum was built by working designers, remote and self-paced.
When I started, I looked forward to gaining practical experience on how real-world design teams approach UX challenges. Mento has exceeded any expectations I had!
I’ve learned to apply critical thinking to design frameworks themselves and each deliverable. I’m also getting consistent practice communicating the reasoning behind the methods I choose to apply and my proposed design solutions. Gaining proficiency in relevant tools (e.g., Confluence, Trello, Figma, Miro, etc.) commonly used today has been invaluable. It’s almost as if I’m already working on a remote design team! This hands-on experience has given me the confidence I was searching for as a UX/UI designer. I’m very grateful to my mentor, Radu!
I’ve really enjoyed engaging in Mento’s online community meetings/events and on their Slack channel. Before, I had been learning UX in sort of a “silo.” Now, I feel part of a vibrant and encouraging global community that, otherwise, could’ve taken years and multiple design roles to build.
Mento has equipped me to be a more dynamic and skilled designer, which will be instrumental in securing the best possible remote full-time UX/UI role. I’m very happy with my decision to go with Mento. I couldn’t have imagined a better launching pad for my design career!Radu Vucea of Mento Design Academy
CEO
Apr 10, 2023
Hi Zoe!
Thank you for sharing your amazing experience at Mento! We're thrilled that you've found valuable mentorship, community, and hands-on experience through our program. It's wonderful to know that we've exceeded your expectations and helped you gain the confidence and skills you were seeking as a UX/UI designer.
We're excited to see where your design career takes you, and we're always here to support you on your journey!
Warm regards,
Radu Vucea
CEO, Mento Design Academy - Daniel NolevschiProduct Designer • Graduate • UX/UI Design • OnlineVerified by LinkedInMar 02, 2023Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
Well-structured program, great mentors and a friendly community.
I started this journey with some experience in the design industry but I needed to dive deeper into understanding the Ux principles and learn when and how to apply them in the real world.
The Mento curriculum is well-built, covering all user experience principles.The most valuable things I learned at Mento are writing, talking, and presenting my work to a future audience. They put a lot of emphasis on these skills, therefore you should be prepared to w...I started this journey with some experience in the design industry but I needed to dive deeper into understanding the Ux principles and learn when and how to apply them in the real world.
The Mento curriculum is well-built, covering all user experience principles.The most valuable things I learned at Mento are writing, talking, and presenting my work to a future audience. They put a lot of emphasis on these skills, therefore you should be prepared to write and speak a lot at Mento. 🙂
I followed the curriculum at my own pace. I had plenty of time to learn and understand each lesson. Also, I had access to unlimited resources, and a friendly community ready to help. I worked with a mentor who taught me a lot about asking the right questions, making my design process smoother. The positive thing is that after each lesson, I received homework which allowed me to practice, understand and find the “why”s behind the new information.
After graduating, you will be ready to start or continue your carrier as a product designer with a better perspective on the industry. You will know how and when to apply the Ux principles, you will master how to talk about your work, and you will leave with a well-built portfolio to help you in your future interviews.Radu Vucea of Mento Design Academy
CEO
Apr 10, 2023
Hi Daniel!
We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience at Mento Design Academy! Your kind words about our structured curriculum, mentorship, and supportive community are truly appreciated.It's fantastic that our program has helped you refine your communication and presentation skills while deepening your understanding of UX principles. We take pride in offering a personalized learning experience that allows students to progress at their own pace.We're confident that the knowledge and experience you've gained at Mento will serve you well in your design career. Wishing you great success in all your future endeavors, and remember, our community is always here to support you!Best wishes,
Radu Vucea
CEO, Mento Design Academy - Régis CamassolaGraduate • UX/UI Design • OnlineVerified by LinkedInJun 22, 2022Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
"A safe place to learn UX design with honest professionals and a real word based curriculum"
Before enrolling with Mento I spend some good 6 months searching and reading about all the different options out there. Although they seem to be very similar at first glance, the professional background of the Mento team Makes them stand out. I Have always been a bit sceptical about all the Bootcamps out there that “promise” a quick transition in UX within 6 months, And since my first “get to know” call with Radu, He was very transparent by setting The right expectations. Their successfu...Before enrolling with Mento I spend some good 6 months searching and reading about all the different options out there. Although they seem to be very similar at first glance, the professional background of the Mento team Makes them stand out. I Have always been a bit sceptical about all the Bootcamps out there that “promise” a quick transition in UX within 6 months, And since my first “get to know” call with Radu, He was very transparent by setting The right expectations. Their successful careers, honesty by setting the right expectations and a curriculum that offers you the chance to work on real projects - In my personal experience that was what made them “different” from the others. You might be a bit unsure about reviews, but trust me: Book a call with them to get to know the program and you won’t be disappointed.Radu Vucea of Mento Design Academy
CEO
Apr 10, 2023
Hi Regis!Thank you for sharing your thoughtful feedback on your experience with Mento Design Academy. It's great to hear that our team's professional background and honest approach have made a difference for you in your learning journey.We're proud that our curriculum, with its focus on real projects, has met your expectations and set us apart from other bootcamps. We understand the importance of transparency, and it's our aim to ensure students have a clear understanding of the process and what to expect.
It's fantastic to know that you would recommend our program to others. We're excited to see you continue to grow in the UX field, and we're always here to support you along the way!With warm regards,
Radu Vucea
CEO, Mento Design Academy
Mento Design Academy Alumni Outcomes
92%
Employment Rate
90%
Graduation Rate
82,071
Median Salary
Of the students who enroll at Mento Design Academy, 90% graduated. 100% of graduates were job-seeking and 92% of job-seeking graduates found in-field employment after 180 days and report a median income of $82,071. Below is the 180 Day Employment Breakdown for 37 graduates included in this report:
180 Day Employment Breakdown
| Description | Percentage |
| Full Time, In-Field Employee | 89.2% |
| Full-time apprenticeship, internship or contract position | 0.0% |
| Short-term contract, part-time position, freelance | N/A |
| Employed out-of-field | N/A |
* These outcomes are not audited by Course Report. In some cases, data is audited by a third party.
Recent Mento Design Academy News
Jess Feldman
Updated July 12, 2023
Want to learn UX design but don’t know where to start? Mento Design Academy offers a six-month, self-paced intensive bootcamp that offers all the skills, projects, and mentorship you need to become a UX designer from scratch. But what will you actually learn in the bootcamp? Radu Vucea, Founder and Mentor at Mento Design Academy shares what students can get from this design program, and how t...
Jess Feldman
Updated June 18, 2023
After a career as an educator and an entrepreneur, Nicky Freymond was still looking for something challenging and inspiring to do next. At the self-paced UI/UX design bootcamp at Mento Design Academy, Nicky learned UI/UX design as a complete beginner with no technical or art background! Having found a passion for UX research and writing, Nicky landed a job as a content writer at a sports publ...
Mento Design Academy Alumni Reviews Summary
Overall Experience
4.9
Instructors
4.9
Curriculum
4.9
Job Assistance
4.7
More Information
Guarantees Job
Job Assistance
Includes Housing
Offers Corporate Training
Accepts GI Bill
Awards
Recent Mento Design Academy News
By Jess Feldman
FAQs
How much does Mento Design Academy cost?
Mento Design Academy costs around $6,750.
What courses does Mento Design Academy teach?
Mento Design Academy offers courses like UX/UI Design.
Where does Mento Design Academy have campuses?
Mento Design Academy teaches students Online in a remote classroom.
Is Mento Design Academy worth it?
The data says yes! Mento Design Academy reports a 99% graduation rate, a median salary of $105,000 and 93% of Mento Design Academy alumni are employed. The data says yes! In 2023, Mento Design Academy reported a 90% graduation rate, a median salary of $82,071, and 92% of Mento Design Academy alumni are employed.
Is Mento Design Academy legit?
We let alumni answer that question. 43 Mento Design Academy alumni, students, and applicants have reviewed Mento Design Academy and rate their overall experience a 4.85 out of 5.
Does Mento Design Academy offer scholarships or accept the GI Bill?
Right now, it doesn't look like Mento Design Academy offers scholarships or accepts the GI Bill. We're always adding to the list of schools that do offer Exclusive Course Report Scholarships and a list of the bootcamps that accept the GI Bill.
Can I read Mento Design Academy reviews?
You can read 43 reviews of Mento Design Academy on Course Report! Mento Design Academy alumni, students, and applicants have reviewed Mento Design Academy and rate their overall experience a 4.85 out of 5.
Is Mento Design Academy accredited?
While bootcamps must be approved to operate, accreditation is relatively rare. Mento Design Academy doesn't yet share information about their accreditation status.