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Advice on making Web Design a career...?
Hi, all.. I'm really interested in making web design/web development a career.. I have experience with XHTML, CSS, PHP and with programs like Photoshop and Dreamweaver.. But, all of it is self-taught. I've designed quite a few sites too.. But as far as a resume goes, I have no formal training or internships... I really want to move this hobby to a career and I was looking into getting a AS in Communication design. Most colleges I've found (in the New York City area) offer web design as maybe one or two elective classes (which is entirely ridiculous). Now for my questions: I've heard that NYC is a great place for designers. How can I break into this field? Also, what should I do as far as training? I'm not sure how to get the proof I need to show I know what I know as well. And should I pursue a degree in communication design or computer science? Or both? And I'm completely clueless as far as getting an internship... =(
Public Comments
- I have no formal training -- like you, all learned on the fly -- and make a fine living. A degree in computer science will open the door to more and better-paying jobs, but you should follow a path that keeps your interest high, as you cannot be successful if you hate what you do. http://www.dougv.com/blog/2007/05/26/the-three-keys-to-successful-self-employment-in-programming-and-consulting-introduction/
- I've been out of college for a long time, but you are not going to find a degree in web design. Your only real option is Computer Science... where you will learn programming languages such as PHP, but more than likely C++ and Java. You might also try a Art or Marketing degree... or just a plain Business degree, but if you like the programming aspects of web design versus the visual graphical (artsy) side of web design, then Computer Science is your degree. However, don't bother with an AS... you'll need a BS. If you are not willing to go the extra mile, then just work very hard at finding an entry level computer job anywhere and start building a resume... but more importantly start making personal contacts with experienced professionals who can help guide your career. Good Luck!
- I disagree with previous posts in that Computer Science is you only option. It's not. Computer science is strictly coding; no visual design or creativity involved. If you'd like to pursue web development, then yes do computer science. but web DESIGN will require design skill and I'd recommend pursuing graphic design or communications design. Great schools in NYC that offer technology-based design courses and majors include Parsons School of Design http://www.parsons.edu/index.html and the School of Visual Arts http://www.schoolofvisualarts.edu/index.jsp and the Fashion Institute of Technology http://www.fitnyc.edu/html/dynamic.html I'm a recent college grad also pursing a career in web design. I studied Advertising with a concentration in Art Direction. But I'm also self taught in all the web stuff. In terms of breaking into the field, the projects you have worked on are perfect resume-fillers. Speaking in terms of design, employers want to see what you're capable of. Creativity will show in your work, not through the name of the people you've worked for. Craigslist is a good way to find internships. Just be careful that the post is serious and that you have electronic samples of your work to send to people so that they can see what you can do. And if you're in school speak to your guidance counselor/career development office. It's their job to help students get internships. If you'd like to design definitely go for Communication Design or Graphic Design (the exact naming depends on the school). good luck!
