Web Design
Web Design Degrees
Web design degrees aim to help students develop the technical know-how and creativity needed to be successful in the ever-expanding field of web design. These programs teach students the fundamentals of web site design, interface design, multimedia development, and familiarize them with essentials such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, coding, and multimedia applications. Students will also work with audio, video and animations, and will become familiar with popular software tools used in web design. These skills can prove to be useful to individuals and professionals alike.
Types of Web Design Degree and Training Programs
Web design certification programs are very popular for those who wish to learn the basics of web design to further develop their knowledge of the Internet. Courses can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to complete, depending on the program chosen. Certification courses can also focus specifically on a certain skill or software program such as Dreamweaver, Photoshop, or JavaScript.
An associate’s degree in web design is a popular choice for those who are looking to find work in the field of web design and development. Associate’s degree programs generally require about 2 years of study. Students will learn the fundamentals of art and design while obtaining a solid general education. Many web design degree programs also offer job placement assistance and career counseling to help recent graduates find entry level work as web designers.
Bachelor’s degrees in web design give students a traditional undergraduate education while focusing heavily on web design and the topics relating to it. Students will be required to take courses in art history, design, economics, accounting and business, along with courses relating to the web design major. Graduates of a web design bachelor’s degree program will have the ability to apply design principles to solve communication problems, and will have developed the teamwork and problem solving skills that are needed to be successful in this field of work.
Job Opportunities for Web Designers
Graduates of web design degree or certificate programs often work closely with marketing teams, content writers, and corporate executives. Some web designers will work for companies who are seeking to increase their presence on the Internet and improve their corporate image. Others will work for design companies or technical firms that cater to companies who have not employed their own web designer. Web designers can also develop their own client base, consult, and be self- employed. Graduates of a web design degree program can also find work as computer systems designers, graphic designers, desktop publishers, information architects, multimedia designers, web technicians, or internet developers among other positions.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-2009 Edition
