Web design is an excellent career path for those who want to work in a creative field and love working with technology. However, many people believe that a college degree is necessary to become a Web Designer. This is not the case, as there are many ways to learn the skills needed for this career without the high costs of a traditional four-year degree.

While starting a new career can be challenging, it can be stress-free with the proper knowledge and preparation. This article will explore the different ways to become a Web Designer without a college degree. We'll also look at the cost of traditional degrees versus more affordable certificate programs and the benefits of choosing a certificate program.

What Does a Web Designer Do?

Web Designers are responsible for the look and feel of a website. They work with graphics, text, and multimedia to create an intuitive and pleasing user experience. They must understand complex coding languages and design principles to create beautiful and functional websites.

The demand for Web Designers is high, so those who have the necessary skills can expect to find work relatively easily with the proper training and experience. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a Web Designer is $79,890 per year. However, this number can vary depending on experience, location, and other factors.

How to Become a Web Designer Without a College Degree

There are many ways to become a Web Designer without attending college. One option is to earn a web design certificate from a provider like Noble Desktop. These programs are typically much more affordable than a traditional degree, and they can be completed in a much shorter amount of time.

Another option is to learn the necessary skills on your own. This can be done by taking online courses, watching video tutorials, or reading books and articles on the subject. While it may take longer to learn everything on your own, this option is more affordable and allows you to learn at your own pace.

Consider a Web Design Bootcamp

If you're interested in becoming a Web Designer, consider taking a bootcamp course. Bootcamps are intensive programs that teach you everything you need to know to work in this field. They provide an excellent way to learn the skills necessary for this career, and they are more affordable than a traditional degree. Bootcamps typically last for a few weeks or months, and providers across the country offer them.

The most critical step in becoming a Web Designer without a college degree is to build a portfolio of your work. This will demonstrate your skills to potential employers and help you find work in the field. It's also important to stay up-to-date on new technologies and trends in web design.

Costs of a Four-Year Degree vs. Certificate Programs

A four-year degree in Web Design can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $100,000. This is a significant investment, and it's important to weigh the costs and benefits of attending college. The cost and time commitment of a traditional degree alone is not realistic for some people, so a certificate program is an excellent choice.

Certificate programs in Web Design are typically much more affordable than a traditional degree. They can be completed in just a few months, and the average cost is $5,000. This is a fraction of the cost of a four-year degree, and some certificate programs can be financed through scholarships, grants, loans, or work-study programs.

The benefits of completing a certificate program include: 

Benefits of Choosing a Web Design Certificate Course

Certificate programs are a great way to gain the skills necessary for a career in Web Design. They are more affordable than traditional degrees, and they can be completed in a shorter amount of time. Certificate programs also allow you to learn from professionals working in the field. This provides real-world experience and knowledge that you can apply to your own work.

It’s important to remember that a four-year degree is not necessary to become a Web Designer. There are many ways to learn the required skills, including certificate programs and self-teaching. The most crucial step is to build a portfolio of your work and stay up-to-date on new technologies. 

Which Course is Right for Me?

There are many ways to become a Web Designer without a college degree. The most important step is to find a course that is right for you. There are many options available, so be sure to find a course that fits your needs. Consider your interests, budget, and schedule when making your decision.

Ask yourself these questions when researching options:

These questions can help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect course for you.

The web design field continues to grow every year, with an anticipated 17,900 new job openings between 2020 and 2030. This 17% growth is faster than the national average and highlights what a great career path web design is for those who want to work in a creative field.

If you’re looking for a versatile way to learn new skills in the field, consider a live online web design bootcamp from Noble Desktop. These classes are flexible and an excellent option for anyone that wants to learn remotely from their home. If you are ready to get started, try searching for live online web design bootcamps in your area to see what’s available.