Industry Application

The demand for web site designers is high. Many businesses are looking to extend onto the net and many individuals also want to start up their own web pages. Since there are such specialized skills needed to create web pages, many businesses and individuals contract someone to get their site up and running. Because of the high demand, many web site designers are able to work from home and be self-employed. Some career tracks in this field include, web graphic designer, web designer, multimedia web designer, user interface designer, and website architect. Each one of these tracks focuses on a particular aspect of the field.

Job Outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the outlook for jobs in Web design and multimedia should increase about 15 percent between 2008 and 2016. Many universities and colleges now offer degrees in web development and Web design, which may indicate the growing need for Web designers. The median annual income for entry level Web designers is approximately $40,229 (depending on the area and amount of academic preparation).

Certification Goals

Certified Internet Webmaster (CIW): CIW Professionals have certified their knowledge and skills in a specific IT discipline. This mid-level CIW job-role certification validates the student’s knowledge in foundational IT skills as well as more advanced skills in a job role of choice. CIW Professional certifications are best suited to individuals who are now performing jobs or pursuing careers in mid-level technical positions.

Adobe/Macromedia Certifications: Macromedia Certified Flash Designer, and Macromedia Certified Dreamweaver Developer.

Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP): The MCP program offers multiple certifications, based on different areas of technical expertise. To attain these certifications, a candidate must pass a series of exams within the program. The current sets of certifications are Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS), Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD), Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP), the Microsoft Certified Architect (MCA), Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) and Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE).

Why get certified? By earning a certification credential, you can prove your expertise in using the latest office programs and legacy operating systems. Certifications can help you differentiate yourself in today's competitive job market, broaden your employment opportunities by displaying your advanced skills, and result in higher earning potential. Certification can also lead to increased job satisfaction. Research indicates that certified individuals have increased competence, productivity, and credibility with their employers, co-workers, and clients.

For employers, the certification program provides skill-verification tools that not only help assess a person's skills in using the latest business programs but also the ability to quickly complete on-the-job tasks across multiple applications.