A web developer with in-depth knowledge of coding websites can earn a handsome salary and work in a variety of different industries. It can be difficult, however, to find the right program at one of the best web development colleges.
Some programs teach all the skills a professional needs to know, while others simply teach how to use specific coding languages like HTML, CSS, or JavaScript.
Many programs in which web development is a key component go by different names. For example, a school might offer a bachelor's degree in computer science with a specialization in web development.
Regardless of what it's called, computer and information sciences make up 4% of all undergraduate degrees earned in a given year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Follow this guide to explore the best schools for web development in our data-derived bachelor's and master's rankings lists.
Why Go to School to Become a Web Developer?
Earning a computer science degree can lead to lucrative employment. Individuals with bachelor's-level education in the field earn a median salary of $88,000 a year, according to June 2022 Payscale data.
Web developers earn solid income that far outpaces the national average. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), web developers earn a median annual salary of $77,200. The BLS also projects a faster-than-average employment growth rate of 13% from 2020-2030 for these professionals.
They can work in many different settings, including for themselves or in web publishing, advertising, or computer-related industries. Consider other benefits of completing web development degrees or bootcamps below.
Gaining Ancillary Skills: A web development degree develops additional abilities in writing, business, and psychology.
Preparing for an Innovative Career: Web developers can work from anywhere, earn higher-than-average salaries, and have fun while being creative at work.
Improving Problem-Solving Abilities: Learners use cutting-edge tools and techniques for problem-solving in technology and business contexts.
Should You Go to School for Web Development or Cybersecurity?
Learning either cybersecurity or web development at college can set graduates up for success. In both programs, students can learn about other careers in tech or see if the field is right for them.
Either way, a degree from an accredited school can help each learner land their first job after graduation. Advanced degrees in either field may lead to additional opportunities for promotion and salary increases.
| Situation | Cybersecurity Degree | Web Development Degree |
|---|---|---|
You want to protect websites from cybercriminals. | This degree can prepare you to pursue a cybersecurity job as a penetration tester or vulnerability assessor. | This degree can prepare you to build safe websites to keep out hackers. |
You are looking for a job in a fast-growing technology field. | The BLS projects information security analyst employment will grow by 33% from 2020-2030. | BLS projections indicate that web developer and designer employment will grow by 13% from 2020-2030. |
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What to Expect From the Best Schools With Web Development Programs
Computer science is the foundation of a web development degree. Enrollees learn to write software and understand how people interact with these programs. Computer science also helps learners assess the security risks involved in building certain features on web and mobile platforms.
Accredited computer science schools typically require courses in web design technologies, mobile programming, building information structures with Java, or data visualization. Coursework increases in complexity with degree level.
Types of Degrees in Web Development
Students can earn web development degrees at the associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Often, an associate or bachelor's degree opens opportunities to consider entry-level technical jobs.
Master's degrees prepare experienced technicians to pursue leadership roles. A Ph.D. and other doctorates equip learners to engage in research or teach at the postsecondary level. In general, salaries increase as you attain higher levels of education. Learn more about each degree level in the paragraphs below.
Associate Degree
These two-year undergraduate programs typically occur within community colleges, liberal arts colleges, and research universities. Some schools may call the degree an associate of applied science in web development. Typical features for this degree include:
60-67 credits
Courses in web design technologies, graphic design, and digital media
Options to emphasize either web development or web design
Upon graduation, students may apply for jobs as web and digital interface designers, graphic designers, and special effects artists or animators. An associate degree applicant typically needs a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Bachelor's Degree
This commonly awarded undergraduate degree requires four years of study with a blend of major courses and general education. Students can consider a bachelor's in computer science with an emphasis in full-stack web development or a bachelor of science in web development.
At the best web developer colleges, these programs may include the following components:
120-124 undergraduate credits
Core courses such as mobile programming, human-computer interaction, and freelancing for the technical professional
Coursework exploring Java software development, human factors in software development, and distributed internet application development
A senior capstone project
Tuition of around $400 per credit
Upon graduation, students should possess the skills to construct professional websites. Graduates may seek positions as graphic designers, web application developers, or chief technology officers. The degree also meets part of the qualifications for admission into a master's program.
For most bachelor's programs, each applicant needs a high school diploma or its equivalent. Some schools may require completion of particular courses or apply GPA minimums for admission.
Master's Degree
A master's degree in web development offers opportunities for upward mobility in tech-related careers. Typically, a master's in computer science with an emphasis in web design includes the following:
30-45 graduate credits
Core coursework exploring business data communication networks, database design and implementation for business, and information structures with Java
Concentration courses such as web application development, server-side application development, and foundations of machine learning
Tuition rates of $900-$1,000 per credit
A total of 12-20 months of study
Graduates can pursue roles within major corporations in finance, retail, healthcare, or public service. They often take leadership positions in web development, software engineering, or technology management.
Many master's-level students hold bachelor's degrees in technology-related fields, along with extensive professional experience. Graduates can pursue doctorates in computer science or other technology-related fields.
Doctoral Degree
The most advanced academic degree requires original research in the field. Many doctoral students are seasoned professionals who aspire to conduct research, teach, or lead teams of experts.
A Ph.D. in computer science with a concentration in web development could require:
70-90 graduate credits beyond the bachelor's degree
Courses in programming languages, data visualization, and object-oriented design
A dissertation consisting of original research
Per-credit cost of about $1,400
Fellowship opportunities in teaching or research
Applicants usually need master's degrees in the field, but some schools accept candidates with bachelor's degrees.
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Jobs for Graduates of Web Development Programs
There are plenty of entry-level jobs in web development for graduates of academic programs at all levels. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, computer science is one of the top three disciplines sought by employers.
The following list includes five of the top occupations for graduates with web development degrees.
Web Developers and Digital Designers
Web developers and digital designers create websites. They may work as front-end developers who design the technical features for website aesthetics. Others serve on the back end of website design to design the site's framework and functionality.
Information Security Analysts
Information security analysts protect organizations' networks from security breaches. These professionals check systems for vulnerabilities, recommend security enhancements, and develop security protocols.
Many information security analysts work in computer systems design, data organizations, or finance and insurance. In addition to a bachelor's degree, these professionals often need to earn industry certifications.
Software Developers
Software developers design computer programs or applications. These professionals analyze user needs and design pieces of systems that work together to meet those needs.
Software developers often work for computer systems design companies or in manufacturing. With experience and education, software developers may become computer and information systems managers.
Special Effects Artists and Animators
These professionals create realistic animations and graphics for movies and video games, including simulations used as tools for teaching cybersecurity skills. They design scenery and create three-dimensional movements through computer graphics.
Most special effects artists and animators are self employed, but some work for the movie industry or software publishers.
Computer and Information Systems Managers
These managers plan, coordinate, and manage organizations' computer-related activities.
Computer and information systems managers may have titles such as chief information security officers, chief technology officers, IT directors, or IT security managers. Their roles and responsibilities may vary depending on the size and scope of their firm.
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Choosing the Best College for Web Development for You
Selecting the right program requires careful thought and research. Start by developing a clear understanding of what web development entails. What does a web developer do? What skills does it take to be successful? Do you already have a technical background, or do you need to develop those abilities?
Consider the following factors when researching available programs.
Available Specializations: Some schools provide more specialized programs than others.
Program Length: Determine how long you can spend pursuing your degree by researching credit requirements and timelines.
Internship Opportunities: If your degree will take longer than two years, try to find a program that includes an internship in the curriculum.
Accreditation: Look for a school with regional accreditation from an organization like the Higher Learning Commission.
Alumni Network: A robust alumni network focused on internet technology can help pave the way for aspiring web developers to pursue entry-level jobs.
Should You Get Your Degree Online?
Online education provides many benefits but comes with a few drawbacks. Students who need additional flexibility in scheduling may find online or hybrid degrees ideal for their circumstances.
Internet-based education has grown rapidly. According to NCES, 37.2% of college students took an online course in 2019. During the pandemic, this percentage increased dramatically, making distance education a much more common experience.
Prospective students should seek programs at some of the best schools for web development to ensure they receive quality instruction and learn up-to-date technologies.
Top Schools for Web Development Bachelor's Degrees
The following ranking of the top colleges for web development in 2022 includes public and private schools' bachelor's programs. To find out more about how we rank schools at all degree levels, visit the methodology page below.
Top Schools for Web Development Master's Degrees
The following rankings explore the best universities for web development. Using our distinct methodology, we created a list of the five best graduate programs in 2022.
Frequently Asked Questions About Web Development
Are the best schools for web development hard to get into?
Some schools are harder to get into than others. Anybody can apply to the top web development schools, but applicants should do their research in advance and prepare their applications to stand out among other candidates.
Can other majors lead to a career in web development?As with many career fields, web development offers more than one available pathway. Students with degrees in other fields can make excellent web developers.
Is coding required for web development?Having programming knowledge is an asset, but it's not required. Many people create websites with software that allows them to manipulate graphics and text. They may rely on coders to fix problems or add more complex features.
Is it worth it to go to college to become a web developer?College graduates generally earn more money than people without degrees. However, you do not have to attend college or pursue a major in web development to become a web developer.
