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college degree isn't necessary to become a web designer. Many website designers are self-taught. However, since the field is constantly changing, taking classes to learn the latest methods and reading to brush up on your current skills may be necessary to keep up with this growing career field. As a website designer, you could work freelance or for an corporate or nonprofit organization.
Learn coding, scripting and programming, such as HTML, DHTML, XML and JavaScript. Free online
tutorials can be found at the W3 Schools website.
- Experiment and learn various website building packages, such as Dreamweaver, FrontPage, PhotoShop, Flash and Fireworks.
- Learn your way around a personal computer as well as a Macintosh.
- Take a marketing design class at your local college to learn how colors, fonts and graphics affect the consumers.
- Build your own website, and use it as not only a marketing tool for your services, but as an example of your work. Make sure it is free of mistakes and that all your links work.
- Design other websites. Perhaps you could design one for friends or a family member. This will help build your portfolio. The more examples you have, the more you have to show your prospective clients.
- Keep up with the ever-changing world or technology. Subscribe to publications, participate in seminars and know the latest design fads. Joining a professional organization for web designers could also keep you updated and give you a venue for networking with others in your field.
A college degree isn't necessary to become a web designer. Many website designers are self-taught. However, since the field is constantly changing, taking classes to learn the latest methods and reading to brush up on your current skills may be necessary to keep up with this growing career field. As a website designer, you could work freelance or for an corporate or nonprofit organization.