Web Development Bachelor’s Degrees: Best Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

The web development field has led to the creation of millions of websites worldwide, which have become a necessity for businesses. As a result, the demand for professionals with web development skills has skyrocketed over the years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the job market for web developers to grow faster than most occupations in the US over the next decade.

For this reason, you should consider

web development courses

. You’ll learn software and programming languages such as C++, Java, HTML, Python, and JavaScript. One of the best ways to launch your career in this field is by earning a bachelor’s degree. This article covers the best web development bachelor’s degrees.

What Is Web Development?

Web development is the building and maintenance of websites and other related web-based applications. There are two different types of web development; front end web and backend web development. Front end web developers focus on the overall look, aesthetics, and feel of a website. Backend developers maintain the code that connects the website to the servers.

What Is a Web Development Bachelor’s Degree?

A web development bachelor’s degree is a four-year program that provides web development training to students on topics such as graphic design, user experience design, multimedia design, interactive design, image editing, and web scripting.

Many colleges and universities offer online programs or allow students to study at their own pace. After completing a bachelor’s degree, you’ll be eligible to look for work in a wide range of sectors including ecommerce, communications, search engine optimization (SEO), information technology, and software engineering.

Web Development Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

At minimum, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalency and school transcripts. Universities and colleges have varied entry requirements for enrolling in the web development bachelor’s degree. Be sure to check with your university of choice beforehand, as each one will have varied entrance requirements that you will have to fulfill.

How Much Does a Web Development Bachelor’s Degree Cost?

The National Center for Education and Statistics estimates the

cost of a four-year program

to be about $9,349 for public institutions and $32,769 for private nonprofit and for-profit institutions. However, the tuition rates of web development bachelor’s degrees vary with each institution.

Web Development Bachelor’s Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Web Development Degree

You can pay for your web development degree using Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), scholarships, grants, federal loans, and private loans. However, you should first consult with your university of choice to find out what option works best in your particular case.

Best Web Development Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Web Development: Top Web Development Bachelor’s Degree Programs

If you have the time and resources, you should consider enrolling in a full-time on-campus web development bachelor’s degree program. Universities and colleges offer numerous programs that will enhance your learning experience. Here are some of the best in-person web development degrees for you to consider.

Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science, Software Development Major, Web Design and Development Track | ECPI University

ECPI University offers this program to help students develop creative and technical skills in programming and website development. You’ll learn fundamental concepts such as server scripting, database development, and database design. It takes 28 semester credit hours to complete this degree program.

Bachelor of Science or Arts in Information Networking and Telecommunications, Web and Mobile Application Development Concentration | Fort Hays State University

This is a multidisciplinary program that allows students to develop skills in animation, coding, and design for web and mobile devices. It also covers web-based database development and ecommerce. You should consider this program as it helps students prepare for certifications including the Oracle Certified Associate and Certified Web Designer Apprentice (CWDSA).

Bachelor of Science in Web Development | Full Sail University

Graduates of this web development program will have the skills to integrate and deploy websites and related web applications. Students have the opportunity to learn cloud application development, and application integration and security.

Bachelor of Science in Web Design and Engineering | Santa Clara University

Santa Clara University’s School of Engineering offers a four-year web development program. It covers areas such as web designing, web programming, software engineering, computer networks, graphic design, mobile development, software design, and digital filmmaking.

Bachelors of Arts in Graphics Design and Media Arts | Southern New Hampshire University

This is a 120-credit web development program offered by SNHU. This institution allows students to use the latest design tools and technologies to learn digital media, brand identity, typography, graphic design, and digital imaging. According to SNHU’s official website, this program costs $320 per credit.

Bachelor of Technology in Information Technology: Web Development | SUNY Morrisville

This web development degree program gives you a strong foundation in database design, web security, interface design, and programming. Top regional employers for this program include IBM, Amazon, and Ramy Infotech.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Information Technology, Web Development Concentration | Trine University

Trine University offers high-quality majors in business and mechanical engineering. This course allows students to

learn coding step-by-step

, and learn about software development, ecommerce, database management, and web applications.

Bachelor of Science in Information Science, Web Development Technologies Concentration | University of South Florida

The University of South Florida is home to over 37,000 undergraduate students. The web development concentration option focuses on networks, communication, web design technologies, information architecture, interaction design, and web systems for IT.

Bachelor of Science in Web Development | University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point

The University of Wisconsin in Stevens Point offers a bachelor’s degree program specifically tailored for aspiring web development professionals. It consists of 63 credits that cover production programming, web design, and development. Students also work on capstone projects before graduating.

Bachelor of Science in Web Design and Development | Utah Valley University

Students enjoy a cross-disciplinary education focused on design and development. Students can specialize in interaction and design or web and app development.

Best Online Web Development Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Web Development: Top Online Web Development Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Many students enroll in online bachelor’s programs because of the flexible learning experiences. Online courses in web development feature the same curriculum as a degree program delivered on-campus. Here are some of the best web development online bachelor’s degree programs.

Bachelor of Applied Science in Internet and Web Development | Arizona State University

The internet and web development major is a 120-hour credit degree program that is delivered exclusively online. This program also accepts transfer credits from students who’ve completed an Associate Degree in Graphic Design, Fine Arts, or a related discipline.

Bachelor of Science in Information Systems, Web Development Concentration | Baker College

It takes about four years to complete this multidisciplinary program which consists of 120 credit hours. The curriculum features 30 hours of general education, 72 hours of information systems, and 18 hours of web development. Topics covered include web scripting, business analytics, programming, HTML, Java programming, and interactive web design.

Bachelor of Science in Web Development | Bellevue University

This program gives students the opportunity to learn front end web development and backend server scripting. As a student, you’ll also pick up new database skills. This accelerated cohort program covers major topics such as internet systems architecture, enterprise javascript, Node.js, and DevOps, among other topics which collectively make up 127 total credits.

Bachelor of Science in Web Design and Development | Champlain College

Champlain College offers a web design and development course that is delivered exclusively online. It covers general education and web development concepts. You’ll

learn Python

, server-side scripting with PHP, and networking fundamentals.

Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems, Web Development and Administration Specialization | DeVry University

If you want to learn the front end or the backend workings of the web, you should consider this program from DeVry University. You’ll get a complimentary laptop as part of this program while you obtain hands-on experience with cloud, security technologies, and programming languages.

Bachelor of Science in Web Development | Franklin University

Franklin University wants graduates to create value in the ever-changing internet industry. In addition to web development, graphics editing, and programming, this course covers behavioral and social sciences.

Bachelor of Science in Integrated Technology, Web Design and Development Specialization | Husson University

Husson University offers this accredited program which takes about 12 to 24 months to complete. The learning schedule is flexible and students can start whenever they are ready. You’ll also have 24/7 access to learning materials provided by the school.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Web and Mobile Programming Concentration | Liberty University Online

It takes about 120 credit hours or three-and-a-half years for full-time students to complete this program. As a student, you’ll learn database management, web architecture, information security, client-side programming, server-side programming, and web and mobile programming.

Bachelor of Science in Digital Media and Web Technology | University of Maryland Global Campus

Holders of an associate degree in a related field will be pleased to know that the University of Maryland accepts up to 90 transfer credits. You’ll get hands-on experience working with programming languages and related software. The coursework covers social sciences, software applications, and digital design to help students become entry-level web developers.

Bachelor of Science in Software Development | Western Governors University

Online bachelor’s degrees such as this one allow students to become highly trained application developers. The coursework starts with an introduction to programming and continues to teach data management, scripting, and user interface design. You’ll also develop project management and communication skills through various courses.

What’s the Average Web Development Bachelor’s Degree Salary?

According to PayScale, professionals with Bachelor’s Degrees in Web Development have average

annual salaries of $68,000

per year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that a bachelor’s degree is the

typical entry-level requirement

for web developers and digital designer positions. BLS also states that the median salary for these professionals is $77,200.

Top Web Development Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Best Web Development Bachelor’s Degree Jobs Explained

User Experience (UX) Researcher

UX researchers look for ways and strategies to optimize the overall feel and look of a website. Apart from conducting user research and concept development, UX researchers investigate buyer behavior and use those findings to enhance the overall experience of a landing webpage.

Web Developer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $77,200
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  13%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  199,400*
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, California, Georgia*

Web developers meet with individual clients and businesses to plan, design, and build websites and web pages. They have advanced knowledge in programming languages, software development techniques, and coding practices.

Web Designer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $77,200
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  13%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  199,400*
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, California, Georgia*

Web designers create and maintain engaging and visually appealing web pages. They also optimize sites for speed and scalability to ensure compatibility with mobile devices and computers. Web designers have a working knowledge of HTML, jQuery, CSS, and JavaScript among other programming languages.

User Experience (UX) Designer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $74,869
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  13%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  199,400*
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, California, Georgia*

UX designers work as part of a team that researches, designs, tests, and develops the user interface to optimize the ease of use. They require skills in digital design and graphic design.

App Developer

App developers use their background in programming to write the source code used in making apps. They also perform quality assurance tests, troubleshooting, and debugging to ensure optimal performance.

Game Developer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $62,400
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  22%**
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900**
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, California, New York**

Video game developers write code for games to be played on several platforms including PC, video game consoles, and mobile devices. Bachelor’s Degrees in Web Development, Computer Science, and Game Development are ideal degree programs designed for aspiring game developers.

Multimedia Programmer

Multimedia programmers plan, design, and create multimedia products including video clips, digital animations, sounds, and pictures which are integrated on websites and other applications. They also oversee multimedia projects.

Web Content Manager

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $59,269
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  13%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  199,400*
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, California, Georgia*

Web content managers oversee the quality of web-based publications. Other work activities of a web content manager include overseeing copywriters, ensuring uniform content across all platforms, and performing quality assurance on content posted on web pages.

Graphic Designer

Graphic designers create digital designs for brands, websites, and individuals. They use digital design and illustration software to create a cohesive brand presence. They use their knowledge of colors, fonts, and aesthetics.

SEO Specialist

SEO specialists use their knowledge and skills in marketing to improve a website’s ranking on search engines such as Google and Bing. Other work activities include keyword research, content research, and reviewing existing landing pages.

*Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for Web Developers and Digital Designers

**Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers

Web Development Bootcamp vs Web Development Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?

Coding bootcamps offer a ton of programs both online and in-person to help students launch their careers in tech, including web development. They offer different advantages from bachelor’s and associate degrees. Here are a few pointers to consider when choosing between a degree program and

web development bootcamp

.

Benefits of a Web Development Bachelor’s Degree

• 
  Leads to an advanced degree.
  
  It is easier to earn a graduate degree after completing a bachelor’s degree.
• 
  Higher salary potential.
  
  You could land better, higher-paying jobs with a bachelor’s degree because hiring managers prefer job applicants with an undergraduate degree.
• 
  Networking opportunity.
  
  Universities provide a great platform for meeting other aspiring professionals who you can connect with to advance your web development career.
• 
  Gives an edge over fellow job seekers in the same market.
  
  Most hiring managers, especially those from big companies, prefer hiring holders of bachelor’s degrees.
• 
  A degree makes it easier to earn professional certifications.
  
  Most universities and institutions design curricula that cover topics covered in certification examinations.

Benefits of a Web Development Bootcamp

• 
  You can gain technical skills in a short period.
  
  You’ll develop technical skills in web development in just a few months.
• 
  They offer flexible schedules.
  
  Bootcamp courses typically can be completed at your own pace and you don’t need to dramatically alter your schedule in order to gain new skills.
• 
  Most bootcamps offer career services.
  
  Career services are meant to ease the job-hunting process. They include job placement, salary negotiation, and resume building.
• 
  They are reasonably cheaper than degree programs.
  
  Bootcamp courses are more affordable than average degree courses.
• 
  Great for kickstarting your career in tech.
  
  These courses are designed to equip students with in-demand skills fit for entry-level roles.

Should You Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Web Development?

Yes, you should get a degree in web development, especially if you want to develop more technical skills in computer systems. Earning this type of degree gives you an edge over other job seekers in the market.

However, if you are on a tight budget, you should consider coding bootcamps, as the costs are lower compared to degree programs. Remember that practicing is the key to becoming successful in this industry.

Web Development Bachelor’s Degree FAQ