Overview

In this course, you will learn how to use CSS to control the appearance, layout and responsiveness of web pages. Through interactive, guided lab activities on Coursera, you will style existing HTML pages and build responsive layouts using modern techniques such as CSS Grid, ensuring your designs work well across a range of screen sizes and devices. You will explore the principles of responsive and accessible design, learning what web accessibility means and why it matters for users, organisations and society. Using hands-on exercises, you will apply practical techniques to improve accessibility, including testing pages with assistive technologies and automated accessibility checking tools, then fixing common issues to meet recognised standards. The course also introduces advanced CSS features such as variables, selectors, transitions and animations. By applying these in guided labs, you will develop efficient, maintainable and accessible stylesheets that reflect current best practice in modern web design.

Syllabus

Introduction to web page layout with CSS

This week, you will begin working with CSS, the language that controls the look and layout of web pages. You’ll start by exploring the basics of CSS and how it applies styles to HTML, then practise using it to change colours, fonts, and spacing. Next, you’ll move on to CSS Grid, a powerful tool for creating responsive layouts that adapt to different screen sizes. By the end, you’ll understand how CSS works, how to structure responsive designs, and how to use grids effectively to create modern, professional web pages.

Introduction to accessibility

This week, you will learn what web accessibility means and why it is essential for inclusive design. You’ll start by exploring the definition of accessibility and see how assistive technologies, such as screen readers, help users navigate websites. Through guided labs, you’ll experience common accessibility challenges, such as visual impairments, and learn techniques to make your pages more usable for everyone. You’ll also examine the business case for accessibility, understanding its impact on user experience and organisational success. By the end, you’ll understand both the practical steps and the ethical and commercial reasons for making websites accessible.

Testing website accessibility and usability

This week, you will learn how to evaluate and improve the accessibility of websites. You’ll start by using automated tools to test for common accessibility issues, then explore practical steps to fix these problems. You’ll apply accessibility principles to real HTML examples, ensuring your pages meet standards for usability and inclusivity. By the end, you’ll be able to identify accessibility issues, correct them, and understand why accessibility is essential for ethical and professional web design.

Advanced CSS

This week, you’ll learn advanced CSS techniques to make your designs more dynamic and efficient. You’ll work with CSS variables for reusable themes, add transitions and simple animations, use advanced selectors and pseudo-elements, and explore modern layout tips. You’ll also cover performance best practices and optimise your CSS for accessibility. Finally, you’ll apply everything in a capstone project to create a polished, professional design.