You may choose to go through a formal degree program or simply take a few classes. When you browse through program catalogs, look for courses in user research, user interface design, information architecture and interaction design. Though you may not have a hand in visual design or coding in your future role, it also is important to gain knowledge and experiences in those areas as they are crucial components to the overall development process.
Because technology changes rapidly, it's important to stay abreast of the latest trends in user experience. Read industry blogs, follow user experience thought leaders, and study the designs of ground-breaking sites and applications. Additionally, many user experience design tools are free to download online that you can use to hone your craft.
The best training comes from designing for real-world projects. Find ways to volunteer for projects for work, friends or non-profit organizations. These projects will help build your portfolio and improve your skills. Internships are another great way to get experience and can be the pathway to a full-time position in user experience design.