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Is it possible for someone to become a full-time web designer through online courses (and without a college degree)? If yes, how to go about it?

Yes, it is entirely possible for someone to become a full-time web designer through online courses and without a college degree. Here are some steps and resources to help you achieve this:

Learn About the Field

Start by understanding the role of a web designer, the tools used, and the types of projects you can expect. Resources like Noble Desktop's Web Designer Career Hub provide extensive information on the career path, job responsibilities, and starting salaries2.

Acquire Necessary Skills

Focus on learning the essential skills for web design, including:

Visual design and composition
Industry-standard design software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Figma
Basic coding in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript

Online courses and programs can provide these skills:

IAP Career College's Web Designer Certificate Course: This self-directed course covers web design principles, the design process, and starting your own business. It includes a textbook and access to faculty members for assistance1.
Noble Desktop's Web Design Certificate Program: This program teaches key design applications, basic coding, and includes career professionalization services like one-on-one mentorship and portfolio-building exercises2.
Webflow University: Offers comprehensive courses on web design, including HTML, CSS, UI, and UX design. These courses are self-paced and include advanced topics like animations and interactions3.

Gain Practical Experience

Practical experience is crucial. You can gain this through:

Volunteer Work: Design websites for non-profits or friends' businesses.
Personal Projects: Create your own web design projects to build a portfolio.
Bootcamps and Short Courses: Enroll in specialized bootcamps or short courses that focus on specific skills like front-end development, graphic design, or user experience design2 4.

Build a Professional Network

Networking is important for job hunting, getting advice, and collaborating on projects. Join online communities, attend web design events, and connect with other designers and developers2.

Learn Business Skills

If you plan to freelance or start your own business, you'll need to learn business skills such as:

Contract law and tax law
Marketing skills to attract clients
Courses like Noble’s Digital Marketing or Social Media Marketing can be helpful in this regard2.

Obtain Certifications and Credentials

While not mandatory, certifications can provide evidence of your expertise and enhance your resume. Programs like IAP Career College and Noble Desktop offer certificates upon completion of their courses1 2.

By following these steps, you can effectively transition into a career as a web designer without needing a college degree. Online courses, practical experience, and building a professional network are key components of this path.