Web developers create and optimize websites for businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations. They design visual interfaces, write code, and test sites to improve user experience. A web developer degree helps students acquire the technical skills needed to succeed in this growing field.
Web development jobs focus on either back-end or front-end development. Back-end developers maintain a site's overall construction. Front-end developers design the site using elements from HTML, CSS, and other coding languages.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 8% growth in web development jobs between 2019-2029. Web developer associate degree-holders earn median annual salaries of $77,200.
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What is Web Development? Questions and Answers
Is a web development degree worth it?
The BLS projects jobs in web development to grow faster than average through 2029. Learners who pursue a web developer degree can expect to qualify for many jobs after graduation.
What kinds of jobs can you get with a web development degree?
Web developer degree-holders work as front-end developers, web designers, and user interface designers.
Is there a high demand for web developers?
Job opportunities for web developers continue to grow rapidly. Developers who know multiple coding languages remain in the highest demand.
What's the difference between web development and web design?
Web developers typically focus on the structural and technical requirements of websites, while designers create the visual interface.
Why Get a Degree in Web Development?
An online web development degree suits students wanting to work in a dynamic, fast-paced, and highly technical profession. Because of high demand, web developers often receive multiple job offers after graduation. Graduates can expect to qualify for more positions than individuals without web developer degrees.
Web developer degrees prepare graduates to build websites and mobile applications for organizations both large and small. A degree ensures that students master the technical skills needed to work as back-end or front-end developers.
Graduates of online web development degrees typically earn more than developers without degrees. Additional benefits of a web developer online degree include job stability, technical mastery, and career advancement opportunities.
How Much Does a Web Development Degree Cost?
The cost of a typical web developer degree varies by school type, location, and program length. Degrees at public schools generally cost less than similar programs at private institutions. Schools in urban areas may charge more for tuition than those in rural areas.
Students in an online web development degree tend to pay less overall. Online programs provide maximum value for learners because they often feature accelerated coursework and generous transfer policies. Enrollees who take advantage of these features can complete their web developer associate degrees sooner. Many learners also save money by working while attending school.
Although online programs may charge distance education fees, they still tend to cost less than face-to-face degrees. Some schools charge additional fees for technology, student activities, and health-related programming. Web developer online degree-seekers can also expect to pay for specialized software or hardware for some of their classes.
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How Much Do Web Development Majors Make?
Web development remains a high-demand field thanks to continuous growth in the technology sector. As a result, web developers command higher salaries. The BLS reports that the majority of developers earn over $70,000 annually. The very top developers can make more than $140,000 per year. Earning potential varies by job type and location.
Some developers seek further education to advance their careers and salary potential. Developers wanting to transition to management roles may obtain a bachelor's degree in web development, computer science, or business administration. According to the BLS, computer and information systems managers earn median annual salaries of $151,150.
Online web development degree-holders with more specialized skills tend to make more than other entry-level professionals. Specialized certifications provide developers with new skills and better job prospects. The most successful candidates know at least one programming language.
Courses in Web Development
Enrollees of online web development degrees can expect to take a mixture of core and specialized courses. Learners gain key programming skills and master design principles. Introductory courses focus on HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and server-side languages.
Specialized classes cover advanced programming, mobile application development, and interaction design. Other course topics include database design, user experience principles, and project management. Degree-seekers typically specialize in either back-end or front-end development.
Many programs encourage students to create portfolios with representative samples of their work. Web development majors complete internships and other capstone experiences prior to graduation. The list below features three common web development courses.
Introduction to Front-End Web Development
The course introduces the foundational concepts and skills of front-end web development. Learners practice basic HTML and CSS and engage with common digital tools. The class covers IT workflow, file management, and system maintenance. Students can expect a combination of hands-on projects and class discussions.Server-Side Scripting
Participants learn the fundamentals of server-side scripting. The course focuses on the basic structure and syntax of PHP. Enrollees learn how to produce dynamic webpages by implementing PHP into HTML. This project-based class prepares students to tackle more advanced server-side issues.User Experience Design
The class focuses on the major principles of user experience design for web development. Students engage with common usability standards and learn the basics of user research. The course includes units on wireframing, prototyping, and interaction design. Learners gain an understanding of the major digital tools that help designers produce evidence-based user experiences.
Certifications and Licensure for Web Development
Several major companies and organizations host certifications for developers who want to increase their earning potential. Certifications provide learners with additional marketable skills. These opportunities expand job prospects and ensure that developers possess the most up-to-date knowledge of their field. The list below describes three web development certifications.
AWS sponsors a certification program for web development professionals. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in AWS architecture best practices. Certification requirements include an exam and in-depth knowledge of at least one programming language.
This program leads to certification as a Zend certified PHP engineer. This industry-wide standard measures proficiency in PHP basics, object-oriented programming, and database design. Candidates must take an exam to qualify.
Microsoft hosts a certification program for developers that includes mastery of user interface design concepts and tools. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft products such as Identity and Graph and possess a basic understanding of key UI elements.
Scholarships for Web Development
Web development students qualify for many scholarships. These opportunities help students pay for tuition, fees, and living expenses. Degree-seekers may find additional scholarships and grants available through individual schools or programs. Many students also apply for state and federal financial aid. The list below highlights three scholarships for web development majors at all levels.
Scholarships for Web Development
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
Bowen Web Design Scholarship |
$1,500 |
Bowen, a web design and marketing firm, sponsors two scholarships each year for students majoring in web design. Applicants must attend an accredited U.S. school to qualify. |
Entertainment Software Association Foundation Scholarship |
Varies |
The ESA Foundation awards funds to women and minority students interested in video game development. Only U.S. citizens attending school full time may apply. |
Betty Stevens Frecknall Scholarship |
$2,000 |
The Foundation for IT Education sponsors an annual scholarship for learners studying information technology, including web development. Application requirements include full-time enrollment at an accredited institution, U.S. citizenship, and a minimum 3.0 GPA. |
Online Web Development Degrees
#1 Online Web Development Degrees
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Liberty University's online BS in web and mobile programming is one of the best online web development degrees. Degree-seekers can pursue the school's programs at its Lynchburg campus. Undergraduate students can also choose from 30 online bachelor's programs.
The online web development program emphasizes scheduling flexibility. Learners can choose online learning to access customizable scheduling options that make earning a degree easier. The program's online format allows learners to view lectures and participate in discussions virtually. Bachelor's programs typically take four years for full-time degree-seekers to complete. Students can transfer previous credits into their undergraduate program to graduate in less than four years.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates. The institution charges an average per-credit tuition rate of $750 for online bachelor's programs, which typically require about 120 credits. Degree-seekers with financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Students can consult with financial aid counselors to explore funding options, such as scholarships and grants.
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Web Development Degrees
Bellevue University
- Bellevue, NE
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bellevue University offers an online bachelor's in web development that ranks among the top programs of its kind. Students can pursue 79 online programs from the private institution, along with in-person academic offerings in Nebraska. Among the school's distance learning options are 54 online bachelor's programs.
The virtual classroom environment allows distance learners to complete coursework from anywhere. Students in the program develop transferable skills through core coursework and specialize during upper-level classes. General education requirements help degree-seekers develop critical thinking and analytical skills. Many undergraduates pursue internship opportunities to gain professional experience while earning their degree.
The school offers student support services including academic advising and career counseling. At the accredited institution, students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. Learners can discuss funding options, including grants and scholarships, with qualified financial aid counselors.
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Online Web Development Degrees
Baker College
- Owosso, MI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A private postsecondary school in Owosso, Baker College has one of the best online schools in the country. In addition to 20 on-campus bachelor's programs, the school offers 19 online bachelor's degrees. Some programs offer a hybrid format with in-person sessions. Learners can pursue a BS in information systems with a web development concentration.
Online learning often appeals to students with children or other responsibilities. Bachelor's degree-holders can benefit from increased earning potential and career opportunities. Like most bachelor's degrees, the web development program requires about four years to complete.
Baker College Numbers:
Percentage of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 89%
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
Rate of Undergraduate Admission: 73%
Baker College has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Online Web Development Degrees
Franklin University
- Columbus, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Franklin University enrolls online students in its top-ranked web development program. Located in Columbus, Ohio, the private institution educates learners through traditional and online bachelor's programs. The flexibility of online programs often appeals to busy students and working professionals.
During the online web development bachelor's program, degree-seekers build foundational and advanced skills in the field. Students work closely with faculty mentors and academic advisors to individualize their degree based on their interests and career goals. Online services, including tutoring, financial aid advising, and career counseling, help distance learners achieve their educational goals.
At an accredited institution, online learners can qualify for federal financial aid programs such as the Pell Grant. Distance learners can also use scholarships, state grants, and student loans to cover costs.
Franklin University Numbers:
Total Bachelor's Programs: 44
Online Bachelor's Programs: 32
Number of Online Students: 4,809
Percent of Undergrads who Graduate: 28%
Allows Transfer Credits: No
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
80%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
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