Online web development degree programs can put you on a path toward a career handling the creation and design of websites and similar web tools.
A web development online education can help you acquire a breadth of technical skills and knowledge that can also be applied to a variety of careers.
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Positions in the field of web development may allow you to work across various sectors, benefit from positive job growth, and take advantage of higher than average annual salaries.
Web Development Degrees Online
A web development degree program can help you develop the technical skills and knowledge needed to plan and execute web development and design ideas in order to create websites useful for end users.
This type of work can include planning website interfaces, overseeing entire website development projects, managing website functionality, and creating website mock-ups for client proposals. You can also learn to develop websites by using programming languages.
Related careers in this field include:
- Computer and information systems manager
- Software developer, quality assurance analyst, and tester
- Information security analyst
- Database administrator
- Computer systems analyst
- Computer programmer
- Web developer
These and other technological positions may exist in the private job market sector, in the nonprofit sector, or in various government institutions. Possible employers can include banks, insurance companies, manufacturing companies, small businesses, and more. Some web professionals with a degree in web development can even become self-employed.
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As part of your studies in a bachelor’s in web development program, you may take a blend of general education and specific web development degree courses. This could include course topics like:
- Front end development
- Back end web development
- Internet systems architecture
- JavaScript
- Business for web development professionals
- JS
- NoSQL
- Development operations
- Application building
- MEAN stack development
- Database infrastructure fundamentals
Specific web development degree courses can vary from one school to the next.
Internet and Web Development Careers & Salaries
A web development degree program can help prepare you to take on roles in web programming, mobile development, web design, and website front end development. These roles can be found in various industries, ranging from the private sector job market to government and nonprofits. Many web professionals in the field are even self-employed.
One thing to note is that a number of universities offer a web design degree program, in addition to one in back end web development, for students more interested specifically in the design process.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, adding a concentration to your web developer degree online program can open up even more job opportunities in the computer and IT field.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $151,150 |
| Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analysts | $103,590 |
| Database Administrators | $98,860 |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $93,730 |
| Computer Programmers | $89,190 |
| Web Developers and Digital Designers | $77,200 |
| Computer Network Support Specialists | $65,450 |
| Graphic Designers | $53,380 |
| Computer User Support Specialists | $52,690 |
The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects many computer and technology positions to experience significant growth over the next several years.
This includes positions like systems analyst (7% job growth), web developer and digital designer (13%), computer and information system manager (11%), database administrator (8%), software developer (22%), and information security analyst (33%).
Web Development Bachelor’s Curriculum & Courses
Web development majors may be required to take a variety of general education classes in addition to courses that are specific to their major. Specific web development courses can include:
- Fundamentals of Web Development: You’ll learn the basics of web development, including various programming languages, accessible user design, and web standards in order to create websites useful to end users.
- Internet Systems Architecture: This course covers terminology utilized in the profession of web development and internet usage more broadly while expanding on your knowledge of how web systems are developed.
- JavaScript: You’ll explore the coding language of JavaScript and expand your understanding of how to use the language’s syntax to develop web applications in a professional setting.
- Business for Web Development Professionals: You’ll learn about the role of web development in business along with administrative and business processes used within the profession.
- .js: You’ll develop an understanding of node.js programming, including how to go about creating web forms, collecting information, and storing information.
- NoSQL: You’ll explore the key principles of NoSQL, or non-relational database structures, including a look at access controls, data tables, and value pairs. These are critical components of database development.
- Development Operations: You’ll learn about development operations (DevOps) and the role they play in the web development process.
- Application Building with TypeScript: You’ll discover how to build web applications with TypeScript.
- MEAN Stack: You’ll explore the full realm of considerations when it comes to web development, including user interface and experience, web environments, and the relationships between various coding languages.
- Database Infrastructure: You’ll learn about the fundamentals of database infrastructure and how it ties into web development.
In addition to completing various major-specific web development classes, you may also be required to complete an internship or thesis in order to graduate. Requirements can vary greatly from one program to the next.
How to Choose a Web Development Online Degree Program
There are some important considerations for web development majors to keep in mind when choosing a web development online degree program to attend, such as:
- The accreditation status of each program
- Whether you can enroll on a part-time or full-time basis
- The types of web development classes required in order to earn your degree
- If a program includes internship or thesis requirements
- What financial aid options are available for each program
- If there are accelerated course options available as part of your online learning
Another factor to consider is whether a web development degree program is entirely online or requires any on-campus components.
Web Dev Admissions Requirements
While the specific admission requirements for web development programs can vary from one school to the next, common entry criteria may include:
- High school diploma
- Transcripts from high school and any postsecondary studies
- Admissions essay
- SAT or ACT scores (only some schools require them)
Other admission requirements for web development programs can include passing an English language proficiency test if English is not your first language.
Accreditation
Regional accreditation is a status that’s granted to schools that have met a predetermined set of standards. Receiving regional accreditation verifies that a school’s academic offerings are of high quality.
Attending a web development program at a school that has been regionally accredited is an important consideration, as this status can impact your ability to qualify for financial aid. It can also influence your ability to transfer credits into another school down the road. Accreditation can also impact your ability to enroll in graduate-level educational programs.
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For more information on regional accreditation, you can visit the US Department of Education’s website.
Web Development Certifications
Web development certifications can be a strategic way to enhance your qualifications in the field and make you more appealing to potential employers and clients. Here are some examples of available certifications in the field:
- Google Developers Certification: Google offers a variety of certifications that can demonstrate your proficiency in topics like machine learning, android development, and cloud architecture.
- Adobe Certified Expert: This certification can allow you to show your expertise when it comes to some of the industry’s most well-known tools.
- Zend Certified PHP Engineer: Earning this certificate can help you hone your PHP skills to stand out from the competition.
There are so many different types of web development program certifications you can pursue, each covering different areas of expertise and specialization.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Financial aid can be an important consideration when it comes to completing your postsecondary education. Here are a few aid options that may be available to you if you qualify:
- Federal or state aid. This financial aid options can come in the form of grants and loans from the federal and state governments.
- Scholarships. Scholarships can be made available by private and public organizations or individuals. In some cases, scholarships are geared toward specific areas of study.
- Employer training programs. Some employers offer tuition assistance to workers who are pursuing higher education.
For more information on financial aid options that may be available to you, you can visit the US Department of Education’s website.
Web Development Professional Organizations
There are a number of web development professional organizations that can offer you value throughout your educational journey and career. Some web development organizations include:
Joining web dev professional organizations can allow you to meet other web development professionals, access training in the field, and stay up to date on new and changing practices.
Is Web Development a Good Career?
Yes, web development is a good career for many professionals. The median salary for web development and design professionals is $77,200 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics). The salary for this position can vary depending on a number of factors, including years of experience, geographic location, and industry.
For example, web developer positions in publishing industries earn a median of $123,870 per year, while positions in advertising and public relations tend to earn a median of $71,930 per year.
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Web developers and digital designers are also expected to experience 13% job growth over the next ten years, which is much faster than average (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Do You Need a Degree to Be a Web Developer?
While it is not essential to earn a bachelor’s degree in order to become a web developer, it can offer a number of advantages. For instance, a degree program can enhance your understanding in areas related to front-end, back-end, and full-stack development.
Some employers may employ individuals with a high school diploma or an associates degree in the field, but it is common for many entry-level positions to require a bachelors degree.
In addition to learning fundamental web development skills, an online degree program can also help you develop skills in project management and communication. You may learn how to work efficiently with other members of a team as well.
What Can You Do with a Bachelor Degree in Web Development?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, earning a web development degree online can help you qualify for a variety of positions in the private, nonprofit, or government sectors.
Positions in this field include computer and information systems manager, web developer, software developer, database administrator, systems analyst, computer programmer, and computer system design specialist. With experience, a bachelor’s in web development can also help you qualify for management roles or self-employment.
Some universities also offer on-site and online web development master’s degree programs for graduates of a bachelor’s program.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Web Development Degree Online?
When following traditional 16 week semesters and attending on a full-time basis, you can typically complete a bachelors degree from a web development program in 4 years.
You may be able to speed up your studies by enrolling in an accelerated program or completing some courses through the winter and summer. Many fast online bachelors degree programs follow 8 week terms, which may help you earn your degree in less time if you stay enrolled year-round.
Other factors, such as attending on a part-time basis, may extend the length of time required to earn your degree.
Is a Degree in Web Development Worth It?
Yes, a degree in web development is worth it for many professionals. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts positive job growth for a number of positions in this field over the next several years.
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This includes positions like computer systems analyst (7% job growth), web developer and designer (13%), computer and information system manager (11%), and database administrator (8%). Some positions that are expected to see significant growth include software developer (22%) and information security analyst (33%).
Universities Offering Online Bachelors in Web Development Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Arizona State University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Applied Science in Internet and Web Development.
The program requires students to complete 120 credit hours. Each class is 15 weeks long. Applicants must have an Associate of Applied Science and need to submit official transcripts. Enrollment advisors are available to assist applicants.
ASU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Baker College offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems with a concentration in Web Development. To graduate, students must complete 120 credit hours, a senior project, and a work experience course consisting of 150 work hours. Applicants must submit an online application with official high school transcripts or their GED scores.
Baker College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Bellevue University offers a Bachelor of Science in Web Development. To graduate, students must complete 127 credit hours, 36 of which must be dedicated to the major.
Accepted students with a qualifying associate’s degree may automatically enter the accelerated bachelor’s degree program. Prospective students must submit a high school diploma or an equivalent degree with their application.
Bellevue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Brigham Young University—Idaho offers a Bachelor of Science in Web Design and Development. To graduate, students must complete 120 credit hours. Prospective students must have a church endorsement, a high school GPA of 3.5 or higher, appropriate ACT or SAT test scores, and seminary attendance.
Brigham Young University – Idaho is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Champlain College offers an online bachelor’s degree in web design and development. Each class is 7 weeks long.
To graduate, students must complete 120 credit hours. Students have the option to transfer in up to 90 qualifying credits. Applicants must submit an online application with short answer essay questions, official transcripts, and a current resume.
Champlain College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Devry University offers a Bachelor’s in Computer Information Systems with a specialization in Web Development and Administration. Students must complete 124 credit hours to graduate. Applicants must have a high school diploma with a GPA of 2.0 or higher or the equivalent.
DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
East Coast Polytechnic Institute offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science with a major in Software Development.
This major has a Web Design and Development track. Students must complete 120 credit hours to graduate. Interested applicants may meet with an admissions advisor to help with the process. Applicants must submit entrance test scores and official transcripts when applying.
ECPI University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Fort Hays State University offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Information Networking and Telecommunications.
Both programs offer a concentration in Web and Mobile Application Development. For either program, students are required to complete 120 credit hours to graduate. Applicants may apply online through the school’s website.
FHSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Gulf Coast State College offers a Bachelor of Applied Science in Digital Media with a specialization in Web Development. Students must complete 120 credit hours to graduate. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have an associate’s degree. Official transcripts must be submitted to the school when applying.
Gulf Coast State College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Liberty University offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Web and Media Programming. To graduate, students are required to complete 120 credit hours. Each class is 8 weeks long and offered online, and the program can typically be completed in 3.5 years. Applicants must have a high school GPA of 2.0 or higher.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Getting Your Bachelors in Web Development Online
Earning your online bachelor’s degree in web development can help you develop the necessary technical skills and expertise via online learning to enter the field of website development.
You may pursue roles in the public, private, or non-profit sector, or you may choose to become self-employed. Web development skills are versatile and in-demand, and a growing number of accredited universities are offering flexible, online degree programs in this field.
If you’re interested in joining the lucrative field of web development, you can start exploring online bachelor’s degree programs today to find the one that best aligns with your online education learning needs and career goals.
