Where should I go to study web design?

I'm really into web design and want to pursue it in college. What schools are known for their web design programs, and should I be looking at tech schools, art schools, or somewhere else?

You are certainly on the right track by considering what type of institution -- an art school, a tech school, or a traditional university -- would best suit your web design studies! Here's a bit about the options available at each kind of institution.

At traditional universities, computer science or graphic design programs often have web design courses or concentrations. These programs give a comprehensive understanding of the technical fundamentals and design principles you'll need for web design. Notably, Northeastern University's College of Arts, Media and Design offers a combined major in Computer Science and Design that would provide a well-rounded foundation for a career in web design.

Art and design schools offer more specialized programs that can allow for a deep-dive into the design aspects of web design. Courses at these schools will likely focus on areas like typography, layout, color theory, and user experience. The Rhode Island School of Design, for example, has a much-praised Graphic Design program which includes courses in interactive design.

Tech schools and institutes, on the other hand, will often emphasize the more technical aspects of web design, such as coding, algorithms, and systems. You can expect to study languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP. The Rochester Institute of Technology, for instance, has a New Media Design BFA program that very explicitly melds design and technology disciplines.

Ultimately, the best fit for you depends on what aspects of web design you're most interested in – the aesthetic and UX components, the underlying code, or a blend of both. Check out the curriculum of the web design-related programs at the schools you're interested in, and think about whether you'd be excited to take those courses. That can be one of the best ways to gauge if a program is right for you.