Quick Highlights:
- Our #1 ranked school for a bachelor’s in web development is Utah Valley University, followed by Weber State University.
- The best programs focus on developing practical skills and theoretical knowledge in creative design.
- Graduates can pursue careers in various fields including multimedia, advertising, and urban design.
- Many programs include hands-on projects and internships to enhance learning and job readiness.
If you are reading this right now, you are one of the 4.66 billion active internet users worldwide, according to the latest statistics. Additionally, 92.6% of the 4.66 billion people access the internet from mobile devices.
Not surprisingly, the web development industry is booming in our technology revolution; in fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, careers in web development and digital design are increasing by 23% which is much faster than average. Whether you want to develop software for businesses or create websites for organizations, a bachelor’s in web development is the way to go.
One of the best bachelor’s in web development will give you the background and skills to find a lucrative career in this vibrant, ever-evolving industry.
Related Resource: Best Online Computer Information Degree Programs
What are the Best Bachelor’s in Web Development?
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Related Resource: Top Mobile Development Degree Prorams
Utah Valley University
A public university that Business Insider ranks #3 in the nation for “Best Return on Investment,” Utah Valley University is an open-admission institution committed to student success. With nearly 41,000 current students that span 208 degree programs, UVU has something for everyone! UVU’s Bachelor of Science in web design and development provides students with a comprehensive background in web development along with two areas of emphasis.
As a UVU web development student, you can choose between two concentration areas: web and app development or interaction design. The web and app development track prepares you for careers in:
- Web development
- Front end web development
- App development
If you’re interested in web, interaction, and digital design, then the interaction design track is for you.
Both concentrations require the same core requirements in courses like:
- Digital Design Essentials
- Web Essentials
- Web Development
- Digital Media Project Management
- Portfolio and senior capstone
UVU is known for its open-admission policy, meaning 100% of applicants are admitted.
Weber State University
Founded in 1889, Weber State University boasts a long history of excellent academic programs. Weber State is acknowledged by rankings among the “Best Western Colleges” and “Best Regional Universities in the West” (The Princeton Review; U.S. News & World Report).
WSU offers a spectacular bachelor’s degree in web and user experience with two emphasis options.
Through WSU’s BS in web and user experience, you can choose either a full-stack web development or user experience design emphasis. Along with general education courses, you will take:
- 16-17 credits in major courses
- 13-14 credits in support courses
- 12 credits in electives
The total for this web development degree is a minimum of 123 credit hours.
While a minor is not required, you can further customize your web development program with a minor in user experience design or web technology. Likewise, WSU offers three certificate programs to enhance technical skills that complement this degree program nicely. To get into WSU’s web and user experience program, you need to complete the AAS degree in web and user experience at Weber or an equivalent associate’s degree in internet and web development.
Arizona State University
Arizona State University is known for a lot of reasons, but notably, recognized as the nation’s most innovative school (U.S. News & World Report). At ASU, you will find an array of Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and intense researchers, including ones who work for NASA! ASU offers one of the best web development degree programs in the country. The internet and web development degree can be completed either on-campus and online.
ASU’s web development degree is described as an “intensive program of study emphasizing hands-on laboratory practice.” You will gain knowledge and technical skills in areas like:
- Front end web design and development
- Advanced web markup and scripting
- User design experience
- Multimedia design
Web development students pursue careers such as as:
- Web developers
- SEO specialists
- Digital designers
ASU also offers its web development degree online to ensure maximum flexibility. Additionally, you can take advantage of the accelerated web development program options where you can earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years. To apply to ASU’s bachelor’s in web development degree program, you need an Associate in Applied Science in one of the following:
- Web design
- Web development
- Media arts
- Graphic design
Youngstown State University
Conveniently located between Cleveland and Pittsburgh, Youngstown State University gives its students the best of both worlds of a college campus: the small-town feels in the excitement of a big city. Nearly 13,000 students call YSU home, and who knows, you may be one of them! Check out the Bachelor of Science in computer science, a well-rounded web development degree that leads to lucrative careers.
YSU’s computer science programs focus on everything from how to create websites to theory to programming. You will gain a foundation in designing and building software and solving computer problems through web development courses like:
- Programming and Problem-Solving
- Operating Systems
- Software Engineering
- Advanced Web Markup
- Calculus
- Statistics
Full-time web development majors are able to finish this degree in eight semesters. Additionally, this web development program is flexible and allows students to include a second minor.
As a YSU computer science graduate, you will be prepared to find employment as a:
- Computer programmer
- System analyst
- Computer specialist
- Web developer
Also, note that according to BLS, the median annual salary of software developers is $110,000 with a 25% predicted growth!
University of Arkansas-Little Rock
A metropolitan research university, UA-Little Rock is a top-ranking school that offers more than 60 undergraduate and 40 graduate programs to 9,000+ current students. The school also offers one of the best web development degrees in the country. UA’s Bachelor of Arts in web design and web development is an interdisciplinary program designed by faculty from the departments of:
- Art
- Communication
- Information science
- Information technology
UA’s web design and web development program pairs well with another major or minor like bioinformatics or information technology. You will complete 120 credit hours divided up into core, foundation, content, information science, art, mass communication credits, along with a six-hour cooperative experience capstone course.
Sample courses include:
- Mobile Web Design
- Web Technologies
- Introduction to Media Production
- Usability Testing and Design
As a UA-Little Rock web design and web development graduate, you can pursue careers as a:
- Web designer
- Web developer
- UX/UI designer
- Digital designer
- Web applications developer
- Web content manager
Many web development graduates also use this degree as a pathway to graduate school, and it’s worth noting that UA offers an accelerated BS to MS program for students interested in earning a bachelor’s and master’s in five years.
St. Cloud State University
Founded in 1869, St. Cloud State University is a comprehensive academic institution with a 100-acre campus along the scenic Mississippi River. St. Cloud State offers:
- Over 200 undergraduate programs
- 60 graduate programs
- Two doctoral programs
The school is also ranked among America’s Top Colleges by Forbes Magazine. If you’re interested in the engineering side of computer software, check out this ranking.
St. Cloud State’s Bachelor of Science in software engineering blends engineering, computing, project management, and software construction into a solid degree web development program that produces successful graduates. This web development bachelor’s degree requires 122 credits and includes plenty of math, science, and engineering courses. You will also take classes like:
- Software Design
- Software Reverse Engineering
- Computer Security
Additionally, to enhance flexibility, you can complete this web development degree online and/or part-time. St. Cloud State’s software engineering graduates have no trouble gaining employment right away.
Common careers for web professionals include:
- Computer and information systems manager
- Computer hardware engineer
- Web developer
- Computer programmer
- Software analyst
- Software developer
Additionally, St. Cloud State reports that the median annual wage of web developer/system software jobs is $97,240!
University of Colorado-Boulder
Founded in 1876 before Colorado even became a state was the University of Colorado-Boulder. CU Boulder boasts many awards and achievements, including:
- Five Nobel Prize winners
- Five National Medal of Science winners
- Nine MacArthur ‘genius grant’ fellows
Through CU Boulder’s College of Engineering and Applied Science, you can earn either a Bachelor of Arts or Science in computer science and gain expertise in web development.
The same instructors teach both the BA and BS in computer science, and the requirements in foundational computer science courses are identical. However, the BA allows fewer computer science classes overall and more general education requirements. Because of this, pairing this program with another major, minor, or certificate program is ideal.
Notable courses for both the bachelor’s degree include:
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Human-Centered Computing, Programming Languages
- Web Development
In addition, web development students will complete a year-long capstone project during their senior year, and BA students may choose to complete this capstone as well but it is not required.
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
UW Oshkosh is one university with three campuses and loads of opportunities. With 200 majors and minors, 180+ student organizations, 80+ study abroad opportunities, and nearly 10,000 Titans, UW Oshkosh is worth checking out! Here you will find a unique web development degree: Interactive web management (IWM) program available as:
- A Bachelor’s degree of Business Administration
- A Bachelor degree of Science
- A Bachelor’s degree of Arts
The bachelor’s degree options allow web development majors of diverse backgrounds and interests to pursue the specific type of degree and ultimately, their career. All three programs entail 42 credits in general education courses; however, the BA and BS students are required to take 24 credits of journalism or computer science courses.
You can also choose one of three minors that fit nicely with this program:
- Computer science
- Journalism
- Information systems
The career options from UW Oshkosh’s interactive web management program are plentiful. As a graduate, you may become a:
- Digital marketing analyst
- Product development manager
- Marketing web developer
- Digital designer
- Chief web editor
SUNY at Albany
The State University of New York at Albany holds a rich history of greatness, dating back 175 years. The university encompasses:
- Nine schools and colleges
- 18 NCAA Division I athletic teams
- 50+ undergraduate majors
- 150+ graduate programs
- 170+ research labs
It’s no surprise SUNY-Albany is consistently ranked among the best. SUNY-Albany’s Bachelor of Science in informatics focuses on research, applied learning, and includes six concentration areas.
Along with gaining a comprehensive background in information technology and web development, you can choose a concentration in one of the following areas:
- Interactive user experience
- Cybersecurity
- Social media
- Data analytics
- Software development
- Information technology
You will complete core courses, including:
- Information in the 21st Century
- Emerging Trends in Information Technology
- Senior Seminar in Informatics
A huge plus of SUNY-Albany’s web development program is the required experiential learning component. The college partners with various agencies and centers to provide research and training opportunities for students. Graduates have no problem finding jobs in both the public and private sector—in fact, some recent alumni are working for notable companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
UW Stevens Point boasts an array of pride points, but here’s a really interesting one: it is the only university in Wisconsin to have 100% of its electricity from renewable sources! UW-Stevens Point’s Department of Computing and New Media Technologies features a bachelor’s in web development, complete with a vibrant team of faculty and staff, dedicated to “teaching, research, and community outreach.” UW Stevens Points proudly offers one of the best web development degree programs in the U.S.
The bachelor’s in web development is a multidisciplinary web developer degree that focuses on:
- Collaboration
- Research
- Design
- Problem-solving
Through this web development degree, you will learn various aspects of human-technology interaction by studying:
- User experience, design and research
- Front end development
- User interface design
- Interaction design
- E-commerce
- Web design
- Web development
- Mobile design
You will gain practical web development experience through hands-on learning and group work.
A big part of UW-Stevens Point’s technology programs is outreach; in fact, they report that students have spent more than 14,000 hours working on software and web development for local organizations in the past year. UW-Stevens Point also reports that 95% of its computing and new media technologies students are hired or enrolled in graduate school within a year of graduation.
Dakota State University
Dakota State University was founded in 1881 as a school for teachers but has then shifted with the times to the virtual world. Dakota State provides students with the technology expertise needed to succeed in any career. DSU’s minor in multimedia and web design pairs perfectly with a bachelor’s in business, technology, engineering, or or course, web development.
DSU’s multimedia and web design minor is 18 credits and includes:
- Two courses of 2-D Design on Computers
- Two courses of Computer Graphic Effects
- One course in Media Studies
- One course in Web Design
You can add this minor onto one of DSU’s Digital Arts and Design bachelor’s programs, the BS in Computer Game Design, the BS in Cyber Leadership and Intelligence, or a bachelor’s degree program outside of DSU’s College of Arts and Sciences.
Additionally, DSU offers several certificate programs in multimedia design and production, professional and technical communication, and website design and development.
DSU’s technology programs provide students with the knowledge and skills to become “fluent in technology,” specific to their chosen fields.
Brigham Young University-Idaho
A large private university affiliated with the Church of Latter-day Saints, Brigham Young University-Idaho serves more than 34,000 on-campus students and 15,000 online students. (We told you it was large!) Through BYU-Idaho’s Department of Computer Information Technology, you will find one of the best web development degrees in the nation. The Bachelor of Science in web design and development prepares its students for professional careers in this lucrative field.
Through this web development degree program, you will study all you need to know in the web development industry including programming, web businesses, online media, front end and back end development, and visual media. Specific essential courses include:
- Programming Building Blocks
- JavaScript Language
- Web Fundamentals
- Programming with Functions
An internship and capstone are also required for this web development degree.
You can also pair this web development degree with a minor in business analytics or computer information technology. BYU-Idaho web design/development graduates are ready to find jobs as:
- Web designers
- Web developers
- IT consultants
The school recommends that if you’re interested in this web developer degree, start by taking the courses Web Fundamentals and Introduction to Programming.
California State University-Los Angeles
Founded in 1947, California State University-Los Angeles is a leading comprehensive academic institution dedicated to “engagement, service, and the public good” and ranked #1 in upward mobility. Cal State LA’s Bachelor of Science in computer science is ranked among the best according to U.S. News & World Report—you won’t want to miss this one!
From Cal State LA’s College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Technology, the BS in computer science provides an extensive background in web development by focusing on both theory and practice. In addition to general education courses and electives, this web developer degree requires 93 units of both lower and upper-division courses.
Sample web development courses include:
- Discrete Structures
- Software Engineering
- Web and Internet Programming
During your final year, you will complete the capstone senior design program. If you are interested in earning a bachelor’s and master’s in computer science, check out Cal State LA’s integrated BS/MS program. Graduates enjoy dynamic job opportunities in:
- computer networks
- web development
- computer graphics
- artificial intelligence
- database systems
Montclair State University
Awarded the title “New Jersey’s Best Public University” by Forbes, Montclair State University is a vibrant school with exceptional opportunities and value. If you’re interested in becoming a web developer, a computer hardware engineer, a database administrator, or a video game designer, MSU’s Bachelor of Science in information technology has you covered.
Offered through the College of Science and Mathematics, MSU’s bachelor’s in information technology focuses on designing, executing, and maintaining information systems. The web development degree program entails 120 credits with core classes like:
- Python Programming
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Human-Computer Interaction
- IT Project Management
- Web development
As an MSU student, you will be able to analyze computing problems and identify solutions.
Communication and collaboration are also a large part of MSU’s information technology program. You will be able to communicate and collaborate with others in professional contexts, an essential skill for the web development field.
Through this web developer degree, MSU graduates become computer programmers, web developers, computer network architects, and more.
Alfred State College of Technology
Alfred State College of Technology provides career-focused academic programs through over 80 majors, including some excellent ones in web development. Through Alfred State, you can earn a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in information technology: web development, which prepares you for a career as an IT professional emphasizing anything from web publishing to web server administration.
Alfred State’s 124 credit hour web development degree begins incorporating an essential foundation in web development, microcomputer systems, database administration, and networking from the very first course, Intro to Information Technology. Other web development coursework includes:
- Computer Programming
- Essentials of Info Security
- Project Management
This web development degree also requires a full-semester internship to gain hands-on experience.
Job opportunities for Alfred State BTech graduates are plentiful—in fact, 100% of graduates are employed. Many go on to become web administrators or web developers. Some become:
- Database administrators
- System analysts
- Project managers
- IT managers
- Technical support staff
This web development degree program is also a great pathway to graduate school.
Lewis-Clark State College
“A private school experience at a public school price,” Lewis-Clark State College is known for its hands-on learning, small classes, academic excellence, and its affordability. At LC State, you can choose from over 130 degrees in academic, career, and technical programs, including our #16 ranking, a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in web design and web development.
LC State’s BAS in web design and web development prepares you for organizational web design, web development, and web management through courses like:
- Fundamentals of Computer Programming
- Image Editing and Illustration
- Interactive Web Script
You will also choose from a handful of elective credits to customize your web developer program and complete two internships, one in the fall and one in the spring of your final year.
Through this web development program, you will gain communication, problem-solving, and design skills that translate into successful careers as:
- web developers and managers
- web administrators
- web designers
- front end or back end developers
- UI/UX developers
- content strategists
LC State has an acceptance rate of 100%, so you will get in!
Purdue University
Purdue University, a highly ranked research institution in West Lafayette, Indiana is among the best in the nation. One of the ten academic colleges at Purdue University, the Purdue Polytechnic Institute, has a long history dating back to 1879. Through Purdue Polytechnic, you can earn a Bachelor of Science in web programming and design, a degree that is sure to land you a lucrative web development career.
Through Purdue’s bachelor’s in web development, you will gain expertise in all the aspects of the web development industry, including:
- Human-computer interface theory and design
- Computer graphics programming
- Geometric modeling
Additionally, Purdue’s web development degree provides you with a solid STEM background (science, technology, engineering, and math), giving you the knowledge and skills to become a well-rounded web developer.
You will complete core web development courses like:
- Internet Foundations Technologies and Development
- Principles of Interactive and Dynamic Media
- Contemporary Problems in Applied Computer Graphics
- A senior capstone in human-centered design and web development
Purdue web development graduates become:
- user interface designers
- web developers
- database administrators
- web architects
Many web developers work for notable companies like Google, Allstate Insurance, or Stormfront Productions.
Greenville University
A private Christian university established in 1891, Greenville University provides over 30 academic programs, 20+ student organizations, and small classes, all at one of the safest campuses in the state of Illinois.
At GU, you can earn a Bachelor of Science in digital media, a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on:
- Graphic design
- Photography
- Animation
- Video and audio
- Web development
In addition to general education courses, the digital media major entails 54 credits. Something a little different at GU is that you are required to present a Midway Digital Media Portfolio review of your work and conference with the digital media faculty after you complete 15 courses. This portfolio review ensures that you’re on the right track in this program.
Core courses include:
- Digital Photography
- Business Management
- Digital Integration Experience
- Web Page Design
Your electives are grouped together into categories like game design, audio recording, graphic design, internet development, and video film. At GU, you will practice your digital designer skills through hands-on experiences like internships and opportunities to showcase your work.
SUNY Morrisville
Part of the State University of New York system, SUNY Morrisville offers more than 50 academic programs that embrace technology, business, agriculture, social sciences, and liberal arts, attracting students from around the globe.
SUNY Morrisville features a unique Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in information technology, with an emphasis on web development that is definitely worth checking out.
SUNY Morrison’s web development program combines skills in front end web design and coding and back end server scripting and database skills. You will learn techniques like CSS, XHTML, PHP, and JavaScript, all essential knowledge in the web development world while also practicing these skills with client and server machines. During your final year, you will complete a semester-long 12-credit professional internship.
In addition to web development coursework and hands-on experiences, you will have opportunities to get involved through various clubs and organizations like the Competitive Gaming Club and the Technology Club. SUNY Morrison graduates find employment as front end developers, web developers, and software development engineers at companies like Amazon, IBM, and Ramy Infotech.
Lindenwood University
Founded in 1827, Lindenwood University is a private, liberal arts school known “nationally and internationally for innovation, entrepreneurship, and extraordinary dedication to students.” LU offers more than 100 degree programs and serves nearly 5,000 students from all 50 states and 75 countries. At LU, you will find a Bachelor of Fine Arts with an emphasis in web development and user experience.
Often web development and technology programs are Bachelor of Science degrees, but LU’s BFA allows students to get creative in not only their course selections but their future careers. In addition to general education credits, you will complete 78 credit hours to complete this web development program through classes such as:
- Applications for Mobile Devices
- Motion Graphics
- Digital and Web Design
- Digital Painting
As an LU student, you will have access to cutting-edge software and dynamic opportunities. For example, LU hosts the Digital and Web Design Firm, which allows web development students to gain experience through working with local clients. Additionally, you will complete classes on the Adobe Suite, giving you the chance to become Adobe Certified, an excellent certification for the web development and user experience field.
Husson University
A private research institution founded in 1989, Husson University is located in beautiful Bangor, Maine, just a short drive from scenic coasts and mountains. Nearly 3,800 students from all over the world call Husson home. Husson’s Bachelor of Science in Integrated Technology (BSIT) – web development and design provides a holistic approach to web design through an “experience-based, forward-thinking curriculum.”
Through Husson’s web development degree program, you will gain expertise in:
- visual and experience design
- marketing
- project management
- technical development
Through this web development degree, you will also receive a strong business background and specialized training in computer programming and software development. Classes are taught by experienced web professionals in small classes and individualized attention.
Husson BSIT graduates are prepared to use critical thinking and communication skills to solve IT-web based problems in the business context.
It’s worth mentioning that Husson also offers a BS Integrated Technology-Web Design and Development/MBA that can be completed in just five years. This combined web development degree will prove to be a lucrative career move.
University of St. Francis
A Catholic liberal arts institution, the University of St. Francis is nationally ranked for consistent quality education, affordability, and accessibility. USF has appeared on U.S. News & World Report for “Best National Universities,” “Best Value Schools,” and “Best Online Programs” every year since 2008!
Check out what UCF has to offer through its Bachelor of Science in web application development.
UCF’s web applications development program focuses on implementing automated business systems online. You will gain technical and design experience to create and manage websites through web applications, page creation, tools, and other technologies.
Notable courses include:
- Digital Photography Editing
- Web Publishing and Platforms
- Web Programming Languages
- Java with Data Structures
A significant part of UCF’s undergraduate program is internships, which prepare you to jump right into a web applications developer career after graduation.
UCF is a test-optional school, so you will not need to submit ACT/SAT scores during your application process. If you’re interested in applying, check out this link for application requirements, and feel free to also chat with an admissions counselor online.
Columbia College
With a 167-year history that began as a women’s college, Columbia College has evolved into “a personalized liberal arts college for both men and women.” Columbia College ranks among the Best Colleges according to the U.S. News & World Report for best value, and with small classes and a 97% employment rate after graduation, you won’t want to miss this one.
Columbia College offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts in computer and information science that are available on-campus or online.
These web development programs are flexible, meaning you can add another major like mathematics or business or a minor to customize your degree. You can also add an additional cybersecurity certificate, which will increase your marketability after graduation.
Sample courses include:
- Principles of Information Systems
- Database Management Systems
- Programming, and Algorithms
- Data Structure
- Web Development
During your senior year, you will complete a web developer internship to practice the knowledge and skills you gain while increasing your experience.
Mount St. Joseph’s University
Mount St. Joseph University, commonly called “The Mount,” is a private, catholic college known for its:
- Top-notch academics
- Hands-on experiential learning
- Personalized guidance from faculty
The Mount’s liberal arts and science academic programs focus on critical thinking and communication. Check out the Bachelor of Science in web and mobile development with two areas of emphasis options.
Through the Mount’s bachelor’s in web development and mobile app development, you can choose the graphic design concentration or the technical concentration. The web development program requirements include 54-57 credits plus the required concentration/minor courses. You will take web developer courses like:
- Principles of Programming
- Database Design and Development
- Client-Side Scripting
- Data Structures
Through the Mount’s web development degree program, you will gain expertise in:
- Complex problem solving
- Web development and design
- Information systems management
This web development program appeals to many students because of its small classes, rigorous coursework, and hands-on experience and research opportunities. Whether you want to graduate and start your web developer career right away or begin graduate school, the Mount will prepare you for your goals.
Graceland University
Founded in 1895, Graceland University is a liberal arts college dedicated to the academic needs of 21st-century students. Graceland holds two campus locations: Lamoni, Iowa, and Independence, Missouri, as well as exceptional distance learning opportunities.
Graceland-Lamoni features a Bachelor’s of Arts in web design that combines art, computer science, and information technology.
As a Graceland web development student, you will excel at both the creative and technical sides of web development and design, as this major brings the best of both worlds into one program. Expect to take required courses such as:
- Computer Graphics for Art & Design
- Systems in Design
- Interactive Design
- Principles of Computing
- Web Page Programming
The web development program is also available as a minor with 18 required courses. At Graceland, you will enjoy small classes in a tight-knit community and plenty of personalized attention from faculty and staff.
If you’re interested in attending Graceland with plans as a future web developer, check out the admission details here by first selecting the campus you plan on attending.
Oakland City University
What began as a single two-story brick building in 1885 is now Oakland City University, a Christian school dedicated to academics, faith, and physical and social development for leadership. While OCU welcomes students of all faiths and backgrounds, it is the only Baptist-affiliated higher education institution in the country.
OCU’s Bachelor of Science in creative technologies is a unique blend of technology, computer science, business, and web development. You will gain knowledge and skills in:
- mathematics
- scientific reasoning
- computing programming
- project management
- collaboration
- creativity
You will complete 41 credits in foundational core web developer classes, 51 credits in creative technologies, and 28 credits of electives.
This web development focused degree is truly well-rounded and produces marketable graduates ready for careers as:
- Web designers
- Web developers
- Technical analysts
- Software engineers
Don’t let the potential high tuition of a private school deter you—OCU is ranked 5th in the Midwest for Social Mobility, the 12th most affordable school in the state, not to mention 100% of students receive financial aid.
Tulane University
Tulane University opened its doors in 1834 as a medical college and has grown into a remarkable comprehensive private research university in New Orleans. At Tulane, you can choose from more than 70 majors across five schools, and students from all over the globe (all 50 states and 58 countries!) call themselves “Tulanians.”
Tulane’s Bachelor of Arts in digital design bridges the gap between graphic design and interactive design, so whether you see yourself creating mobile apps or branding packages, this program is worth your time. Through the communication and critical thinking core curriculum, you will gain a strong background in web development before you choose a concentration in:
- Graphic design
- Game art & animation
- Interactive design
During your time at Tulane, you will complete two formal reviews of your creative coursework before you proceed in the program. In addition to coursework, you will attend professional conferences, symposiums, and events to gain knowledge of today’s digital media industry.
Tulane is one of the more competitive schools on our list, with a 13% acceptance rate.
Grace College
Founded in 1948, Grace College is an evangelical Christian school and seminary with more than 100 majors, minors, certificates, and graduate programs. However, Grace is not just about academics. You can choose from 18 Varsity NCCAA and NAIA sports teams, 25+ student organizations, or nine club sports teams like rugby or bass fishing!
Through Grace’s School of Business, you will find both a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in information systems. These programs are designed to teach you how to create “workable connections between programming/coding and organizational priorities, preparing you to weigh questions and create conversation in a Christian college context.”
You will gain web development expertise in areas like:
- object-oriented programming
- HTML and web development
- client and server-side programming
- networking
- databases
- data structures
- business spreadsheet applications
Grace College information systems graduates have no problem gaining employment as:
- Web applications or data analysts
- Database scientists or administrators
- Web developers
- Information systems managers
- IT consultants
Applying to Grace College is free, simple, and you receive an admission decision in just two weeks.
Santa Clara University
Located in Silicon Valley, known as the “world’s center of technology and innovation,” you will find Santa Clara University, a private academic institution committed to its Jesuit heritage. SCU features more than 50 majors, minors, and academic programs, including our #29 ranking, a Bachelor of Science in web design and engineering.
SCU’s BS in web design and engineering pairs a technical education with the graphic arts. You will complete 175 units, including:
- art
- humanities
- social sciences
- mathematics
- natural sciences
- web design
- engineering
- educational enrichment electives
Major courses include:
- Advanced Programming and Data Structures
- Computer Networks
- Web Infrastructure
- Web Development
- Web Information Management
During your senior year, you will complete a major project that provides a product to address a specific problem within the web design/engineering field. Past web development students have designed apps to improve healthcare options in rural areas or virtual reality software for treating anxiety.
If you’re interested in this web developer degree, you can apply to SCU through the Common App.
Rockford University
Rockford University is a four-year, co-educational private university known for its small class sizes, individualized academic experiences, and affordable tuition. At Rockford, you can choose from 80 majors, minors, and concentrations through three colleges. The College of Science, Math, and Nursing features both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in computer science.
Rockford’s bachelor’s degree programs in computer science include tracks in management information systems (MIS) and web development. The MIS track requires a minor in business, while the web development track requires a graphic design minor.
Sample courses in both web developer programs include:
- Software Design Principles
- Introduction to Programming
- Data Communications
- Database Management Systems
- Database Development
Rockford MIS and web development graduates are ready for careers like:
- Computer information systems managers
- Web developers
- Security analysts
- Digital designers
Most web development graduates work for non-profit organizations, government agencies, or small businesses, and Rockford reports that its challenging program enables graduates to move beyond entry-level positions quickly.
If you’re interested in Rockford’s bachelor’s in web development, you can apply online here, and test scores are optional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, a bachelor’s in web development is worth it. You will gain expertise in various skills like web design, computer graphic design, and computer engineering. Other skills include the following:
• Coding
• User experience design
• Web programming languages
• Web applications development
Web development degrees also provide problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking skills, which are extremely marketable in the job industry. However, the biggest reason why a bachelor’s in web development is worth your time is that we live in a digital world, and that’s not going to change. Gaining these technical skills will put you ahead of other job candidates in careers.
A typical bachelor’s degree in web development costs more than $36,000 per year, according to the Education Data Initiative. That works out to about $144,000 for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses over the course of a four-year program. However, some programs are much less, and others are much more. Factors like the type of school (e.g., public or private), the length of the program, and how much financial aid you receive all impact the final cost of your degree.
The most common pathway to becoming a web developer is a bachelor’s degree in web development or computer science. However, you might also enter this field with an undergraduate degree in computer science, web design and development, or software engineering. Web and user experience, informatics, and mobile app development might also prepare you for a web development career. In some instances, you can start your career with a certification, an associate’s degree, or a combination of the two.
The average bachelor’s degree in web development takes four years to complete if you are a full-time student. As a part-time student, you can expect a longer time frame, depending on how many courses you complete each semester. You can also earn a web development degree online, which may be more flexible and allow you to finish the degree sooner. A typical bachelor’s in web development requires at least 120 credits and, often, an internship.
Web development can be a challenging field because of its emphasis on complex technological and mathematical concepts like coding languages, database development, and mobile programming. Most web development programs also have extensive experiential learning components, like practicum and internship experiences. However, little writing is involved in web development programs, so you won’t have to conduct complex research. If you’re interested in these subjects and have the necessary skills and drive to study, you can make easy work of a web development degree.
You can work almost anywhere as a professional web developer. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the most common fields for web developers and digital designers to work in are computer systems design and related services. Additionally, you can work in education, management, scientific and technical consulting services, advertising, and software publishing. Approximately seven percent of web developers are self-employed. Whether you’re self-employed or work for someone else, you’ll work in an office-like environment.
Entry-level web developers earn a base pay of more than $77,000 annually, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, the page range extends from about $43,000 per year to more than $166,000 per year. Where you fall on the pay scale depends on where you work, your level of education, and any extra training or certifications you have. Your experience level also influences how much money you can earn.
The BLS notes that median annual salaries for related careers in this field are also quite high:
• Computer and information systems managers: $164,070
• Computer programmers: $97,800
• Computer support specialists: $68,050
• Computer systems analysts: $102,240
• Database administrators: $99,890
• Information security analysts: $112,000
• Software developers: $127,260
You can find many scholarships to help fund your web development degree. Some scholarships are based on need, while others are awarded based on academic performance. You can find scholarships from local organizations, state agencies, and even large corporations from around the world. In some instances, you might be able to offset the cost of your education with grants or work-study arrangements, neither of which have to be paid back. Many employers also provide tuition assistance to encourage employees to get a higher education.
Related Reading:
- Top Programs for Video Game Design Degrees
- Best Schools for Mobile Development Degree Programs
- Top Software Engineering Degree Programs
- Best IT Degree Programs