How to Become a Web Designer
It is painfully obvious how important the internet and, thus, webpages are to us. Reading this, you went to a website, designed by a web designer, and now have a basic understanding of what web design does. As you surf the internet you will see a wide variety of web pages, all designed differently, with one focus in mind; making navigation easy and intuitive, as well as pleasing to the eyes. If you are interested in how to become a web designer you are probably have quiet a few questions.
What is it Like to Be a Web Designer?
Web designers make their living designing website layouts for themselves, their company, or as a freelancer. Web design is a computer science as well as an art, so your school studies should focus on that specifically. Java, Flash and HTML are the two most popular languages and programs used to create websites, so becoming familiar with those from the start will be a huge help as you enter the job market. Web design is a programming language with splashes of artistic talent thrown in. You do not simply drag and drop images and links into a website, you must write the code so that the website will understand what everything is, as well as where it links to.
As a web designer you can expect a starting salary in the mid to high $30,000 range, with a potential of $70,000 or more as you gain experience. Granted, you are able to freelance your work, so that will directly affect your income. Needless to say, web design demands a respectable and flexible income, it is really up to you what you make.
What Kind of Schooling Do I Need to Become a Web Designer?
The first step in how to become a web designer is getting an education. You should expect to spend your time in school working towards a 4-year degree, at a minimum. You may be able to get entry level positions once you obtain your associates. The earlier you can enter the field the better—experience goes a long way in computer science and web design. You will learn as much on the job as you did in school. Once you have decided to learn how to become a web designer, you will need to decide how to fit an education into your already busy life.
School is an investment of time. There is no shortcut to a degree, but finding the time can sometimes seem overwhelming. Fortunately, most schools are offering online degree programs or online courses. Some schools will have options between online and in-class study, while others will offer online degree programs with no physical campus. Doing your research is important since each school is unique. Finding the right fit for your online education is just as important as it was in the days before the internet.
Learning how to become a web designer will open a myriad of options for how to make your living, but all of it starts with school. Ensure that you do your research to take the right courses and attend the most respected schools. Soon you will be on your way to enjoying a happy and rewarding career!
