Choosing Web Design Schools

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Web Design Schools: Training for Your Career

In today's internet savvy world, most of us know a little something about how web pages work, and a fair number of people have put together websites of their own. But if you're planning to make a career out of web design, you need to know more than just a handful of HTML tags. Getting specialized training at web design schools can give you the graphic design skills and technical knowledge you need to be competitive in the field.

What You Should Look for in Web Design Schools

Not all web design schools are created equal. However, the best programs have several characteristics in common.

A focus on core design training. The technical elements are important, but even more critical is developing your artistic eye by taking courses in visual art and design. A good web design program will teach you the basics of graphics, layout and color theory.
Instructors with professional experience. Good web design schools have experienced, knowledgeable faculty, many of whom have real-world experience in web design and can pass their expertise along to students.
Solid education in technical fundamentals. In a web design career, you'll need to be familiar with software such as Photoshop^®, Dreamweaver^® and Flash^®, as well as the basics of web programming languages like HTML, CSS and JavaScript.
Opportunities to build your career skills. Look for a school that has a strong career services center, where you'll obtain valuable career advice, learn job-hunting strategies and find out about networking opportunities. Also helpful are schools that can teach you basic business skills, since many web designers run their own businesses.
Up-to-date accreditation. Whether a school is accredited by a regional agency or the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, accreditation is critical because it guarantees that the curriculum meets appropriate standards of quality.

What Degrees Are Available at Web Design Schools?

Although graduate-level degrees can teach you about the technical aspects of web programming and development, in the field of web design, the most common educational goal is a certificate, associate's degree or bachelor's degree. A diploma or certificate generally takes about one year to complete, and covers basics of web design such as beginning HTML, Dreamweaver® and Photoshop® as well as electives depending on your area of specialization. Two-year associate's degree and 4-year bachelor's degree programs allow you to explore design topics in more depth. Many web design jobs, especially at larger companies, require a degree.

Choosing a degree program is a matter of figuring out which web design career is your ultimate goal. Most web design schools offer specializations in web design, web development, web programming and/or interactive media. If you're more interested in the technical side of things, then programming or development may be a good choice. If you're more of an artistic type, a web or graphic design career can be rewarding both creatively and financially.

Find a web design school near you, request information, and take the first step today.