Enroll in an associate degree program in web design, such as the one at Provo College.
Most associate programs are two years and require a high school diploma or GED. Classes include color theory, typography, digital illustration, web page design, web animation, design fundamentals, production methods and multimedia design. Students who prefer to learn from home can find online associate degree programs.
Seek a bachelor's degree in web design, usually a four-year program combining both general education classes, such as English composition and psychology, with web graphic design training. Programs such as the one at American Sentinel University teach students web multimedia production, introduction to computer programming, web design, web graphics production, database and dynamic web design, website design and management, web multimedia production and computer ethics. A high school diploma is required.
Take an adult education course. Adult ed classes are usually short-term, may be held in the evening and don’t require any prior experience or education. Students in the New York area, for example, may enroll in one of New York University’s adult education courses, such as “Web Analytics for Digital Design,” “Web Design Intensive,” “Web Design Theory and Practice,” “Information Graphics” or one of a number of courses on tools used to make web graphics, such as Photoshop, Flash and Dreamweaver.
Read an introductory book, such as “The Principles of Beautiful Web Design” by Jason Beaird, “Web Design for Dummies” by Lisa Lopuck, “Web Design All-in-One For Dummies” by Sue Jenkins or “Web Graphics for Dummies” by Linda Richards. Look for books with clear screen shots and lots of step-by-step instructions.
Watch or download web graphic design tutorials online. You’ll find many free ones available, such as Entheos' topics on “Web Design Ideas,” “Web Graphic Design Ideas and Tips,” “Website Design Tips” and “Best Website Design Software.” Watch at your own pace and practice along with what you’re viewing.