Job Prospects in Web Design and Development Remain Strong

by Sarah Clark
sarah.clark@careertrainingdirectory.com
Career Training Directory Columnist

Computer science specialists-including web design and development professionals-can expect strong job prospects in the years ahead, says the U.S. Department of Labor. Here’s why the field is growing, and why web design might make a great career.

A Bright Future

Even though some routine computer-related jobs are being outsourced, there’s still plenty of job growth in the information technology sector. The web is currently experiencing another growth spurt, fueling a surge in demand for web design and development professionals. Moreover, that growth is expected to continue as technology evolves further, and companies seek to keep up with it to remain competitive in the marketplace.

But today’s jobs are a little different from those of just 10 years ago. Today, you’re more likely to find jobs that require a higher level of skill and education. For that reason, it’s increasingly important to get a degree, particularly if you have no relevant professional experience.

Web Design School

Many web design schools offer two-year programs. Some offer shorter certificate courses that focus exclusively on instruction that relates to building and maintaining web sites. These certificate programs cater to working professionals seeking to brush up on their skills or transition to a new career. You can find them at technical schools or private postsecondary schools.

During web design school, you’ll learn the basics of graphic design. You’ll learn how to use design tools like Photoshop and Illustrator. You’ll learn how to use color, symbols, photographs, shapes, and text to craft a message.

Web Design or Web Development?

Many programs today pair web design with web development. The two are very different, and often pursued separately. But those who have both skills are in high demand, particularly among smaller businesses that need only one technical person on staff.

Web development involves using computer programming languages to make a web site perform a function, such as receive information in a form, send an e-mail, or carry out a credit card transaction. During a web design and development program, you may learn web programming languages such as PHP, Python, and Perl. You’ll also learn how to use database and server tools, including Oracle, Apache, and MySQL.

Start your search for a web design school, and thrive in the new employment economy that rewards workers skilled in web design and development.

Source

The Bureau of Labor Statistics

About the Author

Sarah Clark is a freelance writer who specializes in postsecondary education and career development.