The 10 Best Online Bachelor's in Web Development Programs
An online web development degree offers learners numerous opportunities for specialization and professional growth and prepares them to succeed in a competitive job market. Students in these programs can focus their degree in a specific area that aligns with their career goals and personal interests, such as web design or computer programming. The curriculum introduces students to all elements of the field, including graphic design, software development, and network security.
Graduates of an online web development program qualify for lucrative careers in a rapidly growing job market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for web developers is expected to grow by 15% between 2016 and 2026, a rate much faster than the average for all other jobs in the United States. As e-commerce and the use of mobile devices expand, so does the demand for professionals who can manage online purchasing and sales as well as create mobile-friendly platforms and sites.
Bachelor's in Web Development Degree Online Ranking Guidelines
We selected the degree programs based on the quality of program and range of courses provided, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.
The Best Online Bachelor's in Web Development Degree Programs
1. Arizona State University – ASU Online
Tempe, Arizona
ASU Online, the distance education wing of Arizona State University, offers a full array of totally online undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degree programs, including an online bachelor of applied science in internet and web development degree completion program. This web developer program is designed for students seeking to build on prior studies and finish their undergraduate education.
The 60-credit web developer degree completion program includes 15 credit hours of core courses and 21 credits in the concentration. Students engage key subjects including computer technology, web technology, multimedia design, and web strategy. Graduates will earn a total of 120 credits over their undergraduate experience. Students emerge prepared for careers as web developers and graphic designers.
The online web development degree includes the following online college courses:
- Advanced Web Markup and Scripting
- Digital Workflow in Graphic Industries
- Multimedia Authoring, Scripting, and Production
- Professional Portfolio Design and Presentation
- Web Foundations
- Website and E-Commerce Strategies
Students in the online web development degree program must complete a senior project. Applicants should hold an associate degree from a regionally accredited institution, with a minimum 2.5 GPA. Relevant degrees include graphic design, graphic arts, fine arts, and technical disciplines, with work experience.
Accreditation
Arizona State University – ASU Online is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
2. Brigham Young University – Idaho
Rexburg, Idaho
The 120-credit online BS in web design and development at Brigham Young University – Idaho prepares undergrads for careers in web design, development, and maintenance. Blending aspects of web development, graphic design, information technology, social media marketing, and programming, the web developer degree provides students with key knowledge and skills for success in the field.
Students complete 40 credits of foundation courses, 54 credits of major courses, and 26 credits of electives. The foundation courses include a mix of general education courses and courses building on the university’s Mormon faith. The web developer degree combines theory and academic discussion with hands-on practical learning through internship and capstone project requirements.
The online web development degree includes the following online college courses:
- Creating Online Media
- Database Design and Development
- Digital Media Analytics and Strategy
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Introduction to Web Design and Development
- Object-Oriented Programming
- Visual Media
- Web Backend Development
- Web Business Creation
- Web Frontend Development
Accreditation
Brigham Young University – Idaho is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
3. Liberty University Online
Lynchburg, Virginia
Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University offers a bachelor’s of science in information technology with a specialization in web and mobile programming to prepare students for careers as web developers.
The web developer degree curriculum combines general educational requirements with foundational web development courses, such as organizational behavior, database management systems, systems administration, and client-side programming. Liberty provides a suggested degree sequence, recommending students complete electives before moving on to major coursework.
The online web development degree includes the following online college courses:
- Client-Side Programming
- Business Common Professional Components
- Web and Mobile Programming
- Server-Side Programming
Liberty provides an interactive virtual classroom experience for distance learners, and online students complete program requirements at their own pace. Students earning Liberty’s web development online degree complete 120 credit hours and must maintain a 2.0 GPA. Students complete 30 hours of upper-level coursework, and transfer students must complete at least half of the required credit hours through Liberty. Applicants must have a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Accreditation
Liberty University Online is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
4. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Located in Natchitoches, Louisiana, Northwestern State University of Louisiana is known for its collaborations with NASA through the Joint Venture Program. The university offers an online bachelor’s in computer information systems with a concentration in web development. Students in the program explore theoretical and practical elements of computer information systems. The curriculum emphasizes systems analysis, object-oriented programming, and design.
NSU’s nationally recognized program is one of the best online web development degrees for working professionals. Students complete the fully online, 120-hour program according to their schedule. Students complete a computer information systems core and a 24-hour web development concentration. The curriculum prepares students to obtain certification in Cisco, A+, and Network+.
NSU maintains partnerships with companies and programs, which helps students with web developer degrees secure employment after graduation. The university assists online students in finding verified testing centers at which to complete proctored exams.
Accreditation
Northwestern State University of Louisiana is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
5. Champlain College
Burlington, Vermont
Based in Burlington, Vermont, Champlain offers programs with interdisciplinary core curricula. Champlain’s online bachelor’s of science in web design and development exposes students to the latest technologies to prepare them for careers in the field. Students apply fundamental design and development skills to advanced tasks, such as maintaining web servers and using scripting languages to facilitate data transfers.
Champlain’s web development online degree program is designed for working adults. Each of the fully online courses last seven weeks, allowing students to complete web developer degree requirements at an accelerated pace. The 120-credit curriculum includes 54 general education credits and 66 major credits, which cover topics such as retail internet business, server side scripting, and website design.
The online web development degree includes the following online college courses:
- Designing Digital Images for the Web
- Introduction to Computer Systems
- Usability in Website and Software Design
- Web Media
- Web Site Design
- Writing for the Web
Along with a bachelor’s degree, the program awards a certificate in web design or web programming, depending on the student’s specialization. Transfer students may apply up to 90 previous credits toward the degree.
Accreditation
Champlain College is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Higher Education (NEASC-CIHE).
6. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
SNHU offers innovative online programs, including a BS in information technologies with a concentration in web design and development. The program prepares students to use applications and data to improve user experiences.
Students earning the web developer degree online gain specialized knowledge in information technology and systems design. Graduates pursue careers in web architecture, web design, and web development. The curriculum is comprised of 120 credits, including six elective credits. Major requirements include coursework in cyberlaw and ethics, database design, web design, and computer platform technologies. Transfer students can bring up to 90 previous credits.
The online web development degree includes the following online college courses:
- Foundation in Application Development
- Fundamentals of Information Technology
- Computer Platform Technologies
- Business Systems Analysis and Design
- Database Design
- Web Site Design
The flexible program is designed for students with busy schedules. SNHU delivers courses in eight-week terms, and students can complete requirements at their own pace. Some courses require specific programs, such as GameMaker or Cypherpath. Students must have computers that meet minimum hardware specifications.
Accreditation
Southern New Hampshire University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Higher Education (NEASC-CIHE).
7. Bellevue University
Bellevue, Nebraska
Located in Nebraska, Bellevue offers a bachelor’s of science in web development designed by experienced web developers. Students earning Bellevue’s web developer degree online gain skills in design principles, JavaScript, Angular, DevOps, and APIs and are prepared to utilize a variety of design and development tools.
The web developer degree curriculum emphasizes design and includes coursework in programming languages and database fundamentals. The 127-hour curriculum is comprised of 55 elective hours, 36 general education hours, and 36 major hours. Major requirements include courses in internet systems architecture, Node.js, and NoSQL. All Bellevue students complete the Kirkpatrick Signature Series, which explores concepts such as tradition, change, freedom, and responsibility.
The online web development degree includes the following online college courses:
- Fundamentals of Web Development
- Internet Systems Architecture
- Enterprise JavaScript I
- Enterprise JavaScript II
- Introduction to NoSQL
- Business Environment for Web Professionals
Students complete a seminar, during which they design, plan, and present a project in a setting that mirrors traditional development boot camp. For nine consecutive weeks, students devote five evenings per week to the six-credit seminar.
Accreditation
Bellevue University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
8. University of Maine at Augusta
Augusta, Maine
Known for its dedication to environmental sustainability, University of Maine at Augusta offers an online bachelor’s in computer information systems with a concentration in web development and networking.
UMA’s online web developer degree prepares students for careers in programming, network administration, and information technology. Students gain knowledge in computer information systems, learn to code in languages such as HTML and CSS, and develop skills in web security and eCommerce.
Students in the web developer degree program complete 121 credit hours and must maintain a 2.0 GPA. The curriculum includes 78 hours of major coursework in topics such as organization behavior, operating systems, and database design. Online students complete individual and group projects and gain practical experience during a mandatory internship.
All UMA students complete three general elective credit hours and 40 general education hours. UMA offers credit for prior learning through examinations and portfolios.
Accreditation
University of Maine at Augusta is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges Commission on Higher Education (NEASC-CIHE).
9. Baker College
Flint, Michigan
Located in Flint, Michigan, Baker offers an online BS in information systems with a concentration in web development. The program provides both developer knowledge and business skills to prepare students for positions across industries.
Students earning the web developer degree online complete coursework in software languages, operating systems, and design principles. The curriculum includes 75 hours of major requirements and 27 hours of general educational coursework in subjects such as algebra and composition.
The online web development degree includes the following online college courses:
- Business Analytics
- Computer Operating Systems and Maintenance I and II
- iSeries CL and File Design
- Database Management and Design
- System Modeling and Design
- Database Administration I
- Enterprise Architecture
- IS Strategy, Management and Acquisition
Students complete coursework in business analytics, enterprise architecture, and Java programming, along with a capstone senior project in information systems. Students gain practical experience during a 10-week, supervised job placement. The 18-hour web development concentration requires classes in web design and web server administration. The college adjusts class offerings to reflect changes and developments in the field. Baker students must maintain at least a 2.0 GPA.
Accreditation
Baker College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
10. Franklin University
Columbus, Ohio
Located in Columbus, Ohio, Franklin offers an online bachelor’s of science in web development that provides hands-on experience and exposure to industry leaders.
Franklin’s online web developer degree requires 124 semester hours, including 36 general education hours, 25 elective hours, and a 25-hour professional core. Professional core classes cover topics such as programming, web page construction, and computer problem-solving. Students complete 36 hours of major classes, which include courses in analytics, client-side development, and human computer interaction.
The online web development degree includes the following online college courses:
- Principles of Computer Networks
- Problem Solving With Computing
- Database Management Systems
- Graphic Editing Software
- Principles of Programming
- Introduction to Web Page Construction
Students in the online web development degree program must complete courses in writing, learning strategies, and communication. Franklin students must maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA and a 2.25 GPA in the major. Applicants must furnish a high school diploma, its equivalent, or at least 24 hours of transferable credit. All applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language.
Accreditation
Franklin University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
The Advantages of a Web Development Education
Earning a bachelor's degree in web development can result in higher salaries and more job opportunities. For example, professionals with a bachelor's degree in web development earn an average of about $10,000 more each year than those with an associate degree, and they can pursue a broader range of job opportunities. The section below reviews career opportunities available to those with a bachelor's degree in web development as well as corresponding salary information.
Average Salary by Degree Level
| Degree Level | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Associate Degree in Web Development | $50,000 |
| Bachelor's Degree in Web Development | $63,000 |
Source: PayScale
Web Development Degree Salary Information
Your program may give you the option to select a concentration in a particular web development subfield. For example, a cybersecurity concentration prepares you to protect a company's data, and graduates with this specialized expertise often work for large corporations or government agencies. With a networking concentration, you can help companies network devices or streamline information sharing. Before selecting a program or concentration, consider which option best fits your interests and career goals.
- Web Designer: Responsible for developing, creating, and coding web pages and associated apps, web designers work with their clients to provide graphical and technical aspects of website applications. They also conduct routine maintenance of websites.
- User Experience Designer: User experience designers work with executives, engineers, clients, and product managers to derive solutions to improve user experience. They present design deliverables and concepts to meet business and client requirements and produce prototypes to perform user testing and guide iterations of design.
- Web Graphic Designer: Creating and designing websites for companies, web graphic designers convey a company's overall message and mission to the public. They also communicate the company's culture and philosophy through videos, colors, pictures, sounds, and applications.
- Web Developer: Working with content producers and designers, web developers write code to generate web pages and access business logic servers and databases. Web developers build the backbone of websites and make necessary improvements.
- Computer Programmer: Computer programmers collaborate with content producers and designers as they write, modify, and debug computer software for server applications. They also test software for server applications and document their findings and results.
Salary by Experience for Web Development Careers
| Careers | Entry Level (0-12 Months) |
Early Career (1-4 Years) |
Midcareer (5-9 Years) |
Experienced (10-19 Years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Web Designer | $42,000 | $47,000 | $54,000 | $57,000 |
| User Experience Designer | $62,000 | $70,000 | $84,000 | $92,000 |
| Web Graphic Designer | $41,000 | $44,000 | $50,000 | $54,000 |
| Web Developer | $50,000 | $56,000 | $65,000 | $70,000 |
Source: PayScale
Choosing an Online Web Development Degree Program
When looking for an online web development program, students should carefully review several important factors. To begin, compare program costs to determine what you can afford and take into account any expected financial aid. Then, review transfer policies, program length, school size and type, and any on-campus requirements you might need to satisfy before graduating. Being selective allows you to choose a program that best fits your specific needs.
-
Program Cost:
Program cost is one of the main variances across online web development degree programs. Each college or university features its own tuition structure. Most programs charge out-of-state students higher rates than in-state students, although some universities grant distance learners the same rate as in-state students regardless of their residency. Prospective learners should review expected program costs to determine what they can afford. -
Transfer Policies:
Some students transfer into a bachelor's program from a related associate program or from a bachelor's program at another institution. These learners should review transfer policies at their chosen college or university to determine how many credits will be accepted. -
School Size and Type:
Students should review whether an institution is public or private, explore what those differences entail, and consider how a school's designation may impact them. Additionally, students can review class sizes at their college or university to determine what their learning experience may be like. -
Program Length:
Some programs feature cohort formats with defined program lengths, while others highlight average program lengths depending on enrollment. Students can review what options their college or university offers to determine how long they might spend earning their degree and decide if the program length works for their timeline. -
On-Campus Requirements:
Some online programs require students to participate in on-campus components, while others are fully online. Learners should review any on-campus requirements for their program and plan their schedule accordingly.
Accreditation for Online Web Development Degrees
As you explore prospective online degrees in web development, pay special attention to a school or program's accreditation.
Two main types of accreditation exist: national and regional. Nationally accredited institutions typically focus on career and technical-based coursework and offer a minimal liberal arts curriculum. As a result, these institutions tend to feature lower tuition rates than regionally accredited colleges and universities, but they may be excluded from most tuition reimbursement plans. Conversely, institutions with regional accreditation feature primarily liberal arts-based coursework. Although they generally charge higher tuition rates than nationally accredited colleges and universities, these schools give students the opportunity to qualify for tuition reimbursement plans and allow them to transfer credits more easily.
While the U.S. Department of Education (ED) does not accredit educational institutions or programs, it does hold accrediting agencies responsible for proper enforcement of standards. As a part of the ED's oversight roles, the Secretary of Education must publish a list of nationally recognized accrediting agencies considered reliable authorities for the quality of education and training in higher education. Additionally, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) functions as an organization of degree-granting colleges and universities, providing national advocacy for academic quality through self-regulation.
Students can access a list of all accredited schools on the ED's website or on CHEA's website.
Web Development Concentrations
Web development is a broad field with several different areas of focus. Many online web development degrees offer concentrations where students can tailor the curriculum to their personal or professional interests. The table below outlines a few of the most common areas.
-
Web Design:
Students explore topics such as JavaScript, XML, and internet protocols. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on web design experience and features a special focus on electronic publishing through the use of industry standard software.- Careers this concentration prepares for: Web designer, user experience architect, computer programmer
-
Digital Design:
A digital design concentration explores topics such as electronic publishing, multimedia projects, and motion graphics. Throughout the curriculum, students gain hands-on experience with multimedia and animation.- Careers this concentration prepares for: Graphic designer, typographer
-
Software Development:
Learners apply specific methodologies and tools to assess and analyze software and software systems design. They also learn to identify vulnerabilities and threats that compromise the intention of the software.- Careers this concentration prepares for: Software developer, cybersecurity professional
-
Web and Mobile Development:
This concentration allows students to learn the language of web design as they create dynamic artwork using color commands, painting tools, layers, typeface design, filters, and other imaging techniques.- Careers this concentration prepares for: Web designer, graphic designer, mobile application designer
-
Programming:
Programming students learn to write code to help create software programs for businesses. Throughout their coursework, they learn to investigate enterprise resource planning, business process modeling, enterprise application integration, and business activity monitoring in a global enterprise.- Careers this concentration prepares for: Computer programmer, information technology specialist
How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in Web Development?
Students typically take about four years to earn their online bachelor's in web development; however, some may take longer if they enroll part time. Since part-time students complete fewer credits each semester, they can take up to five years to earn a bachelor's degree.
Some programs offer accelerated options, allowing learners to double up on their credits each semester in order to graduate sooner; students can complete accelerated programs in as little as two years. Learners should consider these programs if they do not have other commitments such as full-time jobs or families, as these formats require students to complete a significant amount of coursework in a short period of time. Conversely, students might consider part-time enrollment if they have personal or professional commitments to juggle with their coursework.
Courses in an Online Bachelor's in Web Development Program
A bachelor's degree cultivates skills that prepare learners to succeed on the job, such as advanced knowledge of computer coding. These courses also prepare students for certification tests. Multiple certifications are available that prove your competence in computer coding to future employers. To stay competitive in the job market, choose a program that offers optimal coding courses.
Capstone projects play a significant role in online web development degree programs. They require you to synthesize the knowledge and skills gained through coursework into an original computer program, database, or web app. A successful capstone project not only ensures that you earn your diploma, but the final product can also set you apart from other applicants when you seek your first postgraduate job.
-
Foundations in Application Development
Introducing students to the design, understanding, and implementation of computer programs, a foundations in application development course focuses on programming as a problem-solving tactic in engineering and business applications. Students learn to write computer code in a structured, logical, and organized fashion. -
Computer Platform Technologies
In this course, students develop an understanding of the background of hardware and software technology. Hardware topics in the course include memory, registers, CPU architecture, addressing modes, instruction sets, busses, and input and output devices. Software topics focus on process management, memory, file system management, and input and output. -
Business Systems Analysis and Design
Learners explore the roles and uses of information systems in business organizations. The course focuses on the major issues that come with managing information technology in contemporary business environments as well as the relationship between an organization's information technology and other operational structures.
-
Website Design
Students in this course learn to create interactive pages for the World Wide Web, survey internet concepts, and explore client-server communications and network protocols. Coursework also explores the syntax for building consistent appearances and styles across web pages. -
Network and Telecommunication Management
This course gives learners in-depth knowledge of networking theory and data communications along with requirements and concepts related to networking technologies and telecommunications. Students learn to design, maintain, and build a local area network; manage telecommunications networks; and conduct cost-benefit analyses of connectivity options.
Web Development Membership Associations
- Association of Independent Information Professionals: With numerous resources for professionals in the field, the Association of Independent Information Professionals serves as a reliable source for professional development, collegiate support, and mutually beneficial relationships between business owners and information professionals.
- User Experience Professionals Association: The User Experience Professionals Association serves professionals interested in user experience and supports them as they cultivate research and design and evaluate user experience products and services across the industry.
- American Institute of Graphic Arts: A professional organization for design, the American Institute of Graphic Arts serves members who practice all forms of communication design including interaction design, graphic design, branding and identity, and typography. The organization focuses on encouraging professional ethics and the highest standards for design professionals.
- Graphic Artists Guild: This organization helps members compete effectively in the constantly evolving graphic arts field and provides graphic artists and other design professionals resources to develop their expertise.
- Association for Computing Machinery: Bringing together computing researchers, educators, and professionals, the Association for Computing Machinery inspires members to share resources and ideas to address challenges in the field. The world's largest computing society, the association promotes high standards and technical excellence.
