You can import files into word, insert > picture > from file. I believe you can import .png and .jpeg files.
As for a special program to make the layouts, there are a few programs out there that you can use Photoshop Elements (there is a free 30-day trial available at the Adobe site) is relatively inexpensive ~$79. Some folks have Photoshop CS - I dont think I'd recommend that for a beginner. Also, some people use Paint Shop Pro and there are other Digital Scrapbooking Software available.
There are a variety of sites out there with tutorials for getting started. The FAQ here recommends...
DigiScrappin with Jen - a Blog with information on just about anything and everything you'd want to know about our craft. A great place to start and then some!
Scrapbook Bytes Tutorials - THE #1 Digital Scrap site on the internet for a reason. They have lots of program specific tutorials that focus on a wide variety of aspects of digital scrapbooking.
ScrapArtist - There are a handful of really good tutorials in the forums at ScrapArtist, certainly worth checking out for newbie and experienced scrappers alike.
HTH!