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Hello all, this is my first post on the board here, though I have been a regular visitor to this site for about a year. My question is a simple one: can one get a good job in the web design/development field without a college degree? I have talked with a few people about this, and they have not been able to be of any help. I have been in the web development field for going on 5 years now but have only a semi-impressive portfolio. My work is good, I deliver quick, and what references I do have, think highly of my work - what are the possibilities of me getting a good job that would pay enough to support a family (yes, that is the main reason I'm asking :-P) ?
Any advice is welcome!
Thanks,
Josh -
- CommentAuthorPettyRider
- CommentTimeJun 4th 2007
I just landed my first web design gig a few months back for $36K, no degree. Not the most comfortable but livable for sure. -
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CommentAuthoradjustafresh
- CommentTimeJun 5th 2007
This guy has done pretty well without a college degree.
Your possibilities are limited only by what you believe you can and cannot do. -
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you do not need a degree as long as you have got the necessary skills to do the job you like. I haven't got a degree but am very satisfied with my position in the web development area, am earning more than most university / college graduates in my country do.
but I know I will get a degree eventually - that's just a question of time. I don't need it now. it would be just a paper for me ;)
cheers,
Martin Saulis -
I've never let a degree get in the way of hiring someone -- it is all about quantity and quality of work.
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- CommentAuthorljromanoff
- CommentTimeJun 5th 2007 edited
I studied philosophy and history in college. There were no degree programs in web design or development at that time anyway (yes, I am older than you.) No one ever asks about my degree (which I have not yet finished.) The only thing anyone ever asks to see in interviews is my portfolio. I don't know where you are located, but in the US Northeast qualified web designers and web developers are in extremely high demand. -
Well, there is always alot of factors involved, but I do not have a degree and I work as a web developer for the Department of Defense making $60K hope that gives you a little perspective on what is possible. I think alot of web people focus on working only for private companies usually the ones with big names, or we hoped too, and don't explore the other avenues. The gov't pays pretty good and is alot more secure then private companies. The other thing is they are usually thrilled to actually have someone that can do descent design work since alot of the time they just fill those positions with unqualified people. Check out sites like www.usajobs.com and look for jobs titled Information Technology Specialist (INET), that is there title for internet related jobs. Good luck! Jerry
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There is nothing wrong with getting a formal education, but it is by no means necessary to get a job. Getting a job in web or interactive design is 100% about your portfolio. I have 2 degrees (computer science / multimedia) and I rarely get asked about my degree and its never a factor in getting hired. What I do have is a well stocked and current portfolio. If you have trouble producing quality work and forums, websites, and books aren't helping, then formal education is right for you. But if your skill level is high already and you have the ability and motivation to learn independently then don't waste your money on college just to get a job. Instead, spend your time building a great portfolio and sharpening those "people" skills.
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Creative jobs dont require degreee as long as you can do the job :) Get a killer portfolio site and you are setup for life :)
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Thank you all for your input! It's good to know that it can be done! If anyone else has anything to offer, for or against not getting a degree, I'd be glad to hear it!
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I'm 20 years old with a $40,000/yr job. My portfolio landed me my job. According to my boss I had the more "hip" design that people are looking for. I'm only in my first year of college. The job stinks(ugly graphics looks good to them) but the money is good.
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