Online Web Development Degree Programs

Online web development degree programs are for any aspiring web developer who wants to acquire skills on how to use software languages, web programming languages, internet technologies and tools to create and maintain websites.

Web developers are responsible for the technical aspects of websites, as opposed to web designers, who are primarily responsible for the aesthetic or design aspects of websites.

Although some web development positions require both web design and web development skills, web developers work with existing web applications and identify and develop new ones. Web developers are problem-solvers of the first degree, and have excellent analytical skills.

Featured Online Colleges

University of Phoenix

Associate of Arts in Information Technology - Web Design
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology - Web Development

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DeVry University

Associate's in Web Graphic Design
Bachelor's in Web Development & Administration

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Kaplan University

AAS in Information Technology / Web Development
BS in Information Technology / Web Development

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Rasmussen College

AAS in Web Programming
AAS in Multimedia Technologies - Web Design

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Strayer University

Bachelor of Science in Information Systems - Web Development Technology

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Education and Training

Aspiring web developers can choose from a wealth of web development degree programs, courses, and certificates, many of which are offered online. An associate degree in web development is a good starting point for individuals seeking entry-level jobs as web designers, web programmers, or web server administrators. Students gain practical experience in programming, network administration, wireless networking, and website development.

Students in bachelor's programs in web development learn the newest computer concepts and skills, especially the programming and development skills required for developing interactive, data driven websites. Programs may focus on either the communication or the technical aspects of web development. Students typically take courses such as programming concepts, server side scripting, ethics and policy, Internet law, computer security, database development, new media, multimedia design, interface design, dynamic website systems, web programming, database management, networking, and programming languages. Bachelor's programs prepare students for professional positions in web development, networking, and technology-based communication.

A master's degree in web development can open doors to the top jobs in the profession. Graduate courses teach advanced techniques for creating and maintaining websites. In addition to programming languages, students further their knowledge of Internet application development, website development, web graphics, web scripting, computer networking, software engineering, project management, databases, client-server computing, and enterprise architecture. Graduates gain the skills to create interactive, state-of-the-art web-based applications.

Doctoral students in web development conduct research that will contribute to their profession. Graduates may work in academic or industry research positions, teach at the university level, and become leaders in their field.

Because of the dynamic nature of technology, web developers must continually upgrade their skills. They can take advantage of undergraduate and graduate certificate programs that focus on specific technological advances. Many web development certificates are offered online to accommodate the needs of working students..

Job Prospects and Careers in Web Development

Web developers work in all industries, including public and private organizations of all sizes. Their work may focus on maintaining and updating existing technology or on creating new applications. Many work as consultants for consulting firms or run their own businesses.

Selected job titles and descriptions include:

Senior web developer: Develop web-based applications, convert HTML mockups into dynamic content.
Web applications developer: Implement, maintain, and enhance suite of web applications.
E-commerce web developer: Identify emerging web trends and concepts; develop company's online presence, including e-commerce applications; coordinate media efforts; and define improvement initiatives.
Web developer/designer: Design web sites and perform front-end coding for maintaining the company's online identity.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that many computer-related professions will grow faster than most career fields through 2016 and that job prospects for web developers with college degrees should be excellent. According to Indeed.com, the average salary for web developers is $84,000, with junior web developers averaging $48,000.