In the world of fast-paced tech, where tools evolve overnight and real-world experience often trumps theory, the idea of enrolling in a traditional web design school might seem like the obvious path—but is it really worth your time, money, and energy?
Let’s break down why web design school might not be the golden ticket it once was, and explore the smarter, faster, and more relevant alternatives to get you where you want to be.
The Traditional Pitch of Web Design School
Web design schools often promise a comprehensive education. You’ll learn HTML, CSS, JavaScript, user experience principles, and maybe even some UI and graphic design. You’ll walk away with a certificate or degree and, theoretically, the skills to land a job.
But here’s the catch: many web design school curriculums are outdated by the time they’re taught. Technologies move quickly. Frameworks change. What was relevant six months ago might already be old news by the time you graduate.
Problem #1: The Cost of Web Design School
One of the biggest deterrents to web design school is cost. Traditional colleges and design programs can run you tens of thousands of pounds per year. Add living expenses, books, fees, and the opportunity cost of lost time, and you’ve made a hefty investment.
Contrast that with online learning platforms where you can access the same (or better) knowledge for a fraction of the price. Many professionals today have built successful careers without ever stepping foot in a web design school.
Problem #2: Time Investment vs Real-World Learning
Web design school programs usually take anywhere from six months to four years. That’s a lot of time, especially when you consider that web design and development are highly practical skills. You learn best by doing—by actually designing and building websites, not sitting through long lectures or theory-heavy classes.
In contrast, a self-taught designer can build a portfolio and land freelance work or even a full-time job in a matter of months. The learning process is faster, more flexible, and often more effective when you’re working on real-world projects rather than classroom exercises.
Problem #3: Web Design School Teaches Theory, Not Business
Most web design school programs don’t teach you how to get clients, manage a project, communicate with stakeholders, or run a business. They focus on the craft—but ignore the context.
If your goal is to freelance or start your own agency, these are essential skills. Learning how to price your work, handle contracts, and market your services is just as important as knowing how to write clean code or create beautiful interfaces.
Problem #4: Portfolios Matter More Than Diplomas
When employers or clients are looking for a web designer, they rarely—if ever—ask where you went to web design school. They want to see your work. Your portfolio is your proof.
A beautiful, functional, and diverse portfolio of real-world work will beat a diploma any day. And you can start building that today, for free, with tools like WordPress, Wix, Shopify, and Figma.
What to Do Instead of Web Design School
So if traditional web design school isn’t the answer, what should you do?
1. Use Online Learning Platforms
Instead of spending tens of thousands on a web design school, consider investing in The Design Mentors Web Design Course. It’s structured, practical, and specifically designed to take you from beginner to pro without the fluff. You’ll learn everything from receiving a client brief, sketching ideas, designing in Figma, to building a complete website in WordPress using Divi.
This course doesn’t just focus on design theory—it teaches you the real-world skills needed to get hired or start your own freelance business. Plus, it’s a fraction of the cost of a traditional web design school and constantly updated to reflect current tools and trends.
2. Learn by Doing
Pick a project and build it. Redesign your favorite website. Make a mock business and create a website for it. Offer to build sites for local businesses or non-profits. You’ll learn faster, build a real portfolio, and develop practical problem-solving skills.
3. Join Online Communities
Reddit, Discord servers, and Facebook groups are filled with designers and developers who share tips, answer questions, and post opportunities. These networks are invaluable and can often be more helpful than a professor at a web design school.
4. Focus on Tools Clients Actually Use
While web design school may teach traditional design theory, they may skip over practical, in-demand platforms like WordPress, Divi, Shopify, and Wix. These tools dominate the real-world market. Learning them means you can start offering your services right away.
5. Follow a Structured Self-Taught Path
There are roadmaps available online that outline exactly what to learn, in what order, to become a professional web designer. Follow these guides and set your own curriculum—it’s likely to be more up-to-date than anything a web design school is offering.
The Self-Taught Advantage
Being self-taught shows initiative, resourcefulness, and drive—all traits that employers and clients love. Instead of saying “I graduated from web design school,” you can say “I taught myself, built these five websites, and landed three paying clients.” That’s powerful.
In the age of the internet, there are few barriers left. The information is out there. The tools are accessible. All you need is the willingness to learn, make mistakes, and keep going.
Conclusion: Rethinking the Web Design School Path
Web design school may still have a place for those who thrive in a traditional learning environment, or for those seeking a structured foundation. But for many aspiring designers, it’s an expensive, slow, and sometimes outdated path.
If you want to start your career faster, learn more relevant skills, and avoid massive debt, there are smarter ways to achieve your goals. In today’s world, web design school is no longer the only way—and in many cases, it might just be a waste of time.
Instead, bet on yourself. Learn by doing. Build that portfolio. Join the community. And take control of your own path to success in web design.