- 1.Web Development professionals earn a median salary of $98,580/year, with 16% job growth projected through 2032—much faster than average.
- 2.Our top-ranked web development programs are New York University, University of Arizona, and University of Georgia—selected based on graduation rates, program size, and career outcomes.
- 3.Best value: Weber State University offers web development degrees at just $5,471/year with a 92% graduation rate.
- 4.61 accredited web development programs available nationwide, with options at every degree level from associate's to doctoral.
- 5.Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor's degree; master's degrees unlock senior roles with 20-40% higher salaries and leadership opportunities.
Source: BLS OEWS 2024, Stack Overflow Survey 2024
Best Web Development Programs - Top 10
These are the best web development programs in the United States based on our comprehensive methodology that considers graduation rates, program size, institutional reputation, and career outcomes. Rankings are updated annually using data from IPEDS and BLS.
Best Web Development Programs - Top 10
New York University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
NYU leverages its prime Manhattan location to provide students with real-time exposure to industry trends and innovations, with faculty who are active practitioners at top NYC organizations, creating an immersive tech education experience in the world's business capital.
Program Overview
New York University offers web development education primarily through its Tandon School of Engineering's M.S. in Computer Science program, which provides significant curriculum flexibility to tailor degrees toward web technologies, interactive media, and software engineering. Students can shape their studies around areas like web search technology, game engineering, and interactive data visualization while gaining a solid foundation in computer science fundamentals. The program is highly adaptive, allowing both full-time completion in 1-2 years and part-time study extending to 3+ years for working professionals.
NYU's School of Professional Studies also offers technology-focused master's programs that complement web development skills, emphasizing practical, hands-on experience in the heart of New York City. With faculty who are industry experts and innovators at top organizations, students gain real-world insights and access to cutting-edge trends. The university's location in NYC provides unparalleled access to the world's business capital, where students can tap into the dynamic energy of the tech industry while building professional networks.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Audio technology and interactive media research
Haptic interfaces and Human-Computer Interaction
Data visualization and analytics
Location Advantages
- •Located in Manhattan's tech corridor with access to major tech companies
- •Proximity to Wall Street and financial technology firms
- •Access to NYC's vibrant startup ecosystem
- •Networking opportunities in the world's business capital
Career Outcomes
Admissions
University of Arizona
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Arizona's Applied Computing program uniquely combines six specialized emphasis areas under one flexible degree, allowing students to customize their education for emerging fields like AI and DevOps while maintaining strong fundamentals in web and software development.
Program Overview
The University of Arizona offers several computing and information science programs, but does not appear to have a dedicated "Web Development" program. Instead, students interested in web development can pursue the Bachelor of Applied Science in Applied Computing through the College of Information Science, which includes a Software Development emphasis that covers web programming, application development, and related technologies. This 120-credit online program costs $525 per credit and is ranked in the top 3% of online bachelor's programs nationally by U.S. News & World Report.
The Applied Computing program features six specialized areas of emphasis including Software Development, Information Management, Network Operations, Applied Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, and DevOps. Students gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art online technologies and interactive assessments designed for "learning by doing." The Software Development emphasis specifically covers object-oriented programming, web programming, systems programming, and data analysis - providing a strong foundation for web development careers. The program is designed to prepare graduates for careers across government, private, and public organizations in fields ranging from finance to manufacturing.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Access to Arizona's growing tech sector
- •Strong ties to government and defense contractors in the Southwest
Career Outcomes
Software companies, Government agencies, Financial institutions, Manufacturing companies
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Georgia
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
UGA's approach to web development education integrates business leadership and emerging media expertise rather than offering a traditional computer science track, positioning graduates uniquely for entrepreneurial and strategic technology roles.
Program Overview
The University of Georgia does not offer a dedicated Web Development program, but provides several technology-focused degrees that encompass web development skills through related disciplines. The Terry College of Business offers an online Master of Business and Technology degree designed to reinforce IT skill sets and complement them with project management and leadership expertise. Additionally, the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication houses an online Master of Arts in Emerging Media program that focuses on interactive digital media, encompassing design, development, digital storytelling, social strategy, data analytics, brand identity, user research, product ideation, and project management. These programs serve students seeking to combine technical development skills with business acumen or digital media expertise.
While UGA's School of Computing produces strong Computer Science graduates who often pursue web development careers - with Class of 2024 graduates working at major tech companies like Google, Amazon, and Meta in software engineering roles - there is no standalone web development curriculum. The university's strength lies in its comprehensive technology education through established departments, with the Terry College ranking as the #1 Public BBA program according to Niche and featuring 9 programs ranked among the top 10 public business schools.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Access to Atlanta tech corridor
- •Strong alumni network of 80,000 across 80 countries
Career Outcomes
Google, Amazon, Meta, Capital One, Deloitte
Admissions
The New School
Doctoral: High Research (R2)
Parsons School of Design is the #1 ranked art and design school in the United States, located in Greenwich Village where students learn from industry leaders while having direct access to New York City's thriving tech and creative industries.
Santa Clara University
Doctoral/Professional
Santa Clara University does not offer a dedicated Web Development graduate program, despite its prime Silicon Valley location and strong technology program offerings.
DePaul University
Doctoral: High Research (R2)
Located in Chicago's Loop technology district with faculty who are active industry professionals, DePaul's web development programs offer direct professional networking opportunities and real-world experience that many university programs cannot match.
Sacred Heart University
Doctoral/Professional
28 web development graduates annually
Weber State University
Masters: Larger Programs
Weber State offers a rare dual-track approach that allows students to master both technical full-stack development and user experience design within a single ABET-accredited program, with mandatory community partnerships providing real client experience before graduation.
CUNY New York City College of Technology
Baccalaureate/Associates: Mixed
City Tech is strategically located in Brooklyn's Tech Triangle, one of NYC's fastest-growing tech hubs, providing students direct access to internships and careers with major tech companies while maintaining the affordability of the CUNY system at just $4,800 annual tuition for New York residents.
St. Francis College
Baccalaureate: Diverse Fields
8 web development graduates annually
Our rankings methodology weighs program strength (25%), graduation rate (20%), career outcomes (15%), institutional quality (12%), industry recognition (10%), selectivity (10%), and data transparency (8%). Learn more about our methodology →
Who Should Study Web Development?
Web development is ideal for students who enjoy creative problem-solving, have an eye for design, and want to see immediate visual results from their coding work. You don't need prior programming experience, but you should enjoy learning new technologies and adapting to the fast-changing web landscape.
- Creative problem-solvers who enjoy both technical and visual challenges
- Detail-oriented students comfortable with constantly evolving technologies
- Visual learners who want to see immediate results from their code
- Students interested in user experience and human-computer interaction
- Career-focused students seeking flexible work options including remote and freelance
- Entrepreneurial students who want to build their own web products or services
Web Development Degree Levels Compared
Web development education is available at multiple levels, each suited to different career goals and time constraints.
Web Development Programs by Degree Level
2-year programs for career entry or transfer to bachelor's programs
Top-ranked undergraduate programs nationwide
Top graduate programs for specialization and advancement
Flexible online programs for working professionals
Best Web Development Programs - Bachelor's
A bachelor's degree in web development is the standard credential for entry-level positions. These 4-year programs provide comprehensive training and hands-on experience.
Best Web Development Programs - Top 3 Bachelor's
University of Arizona
97 graduates, 68% grad rate, Score: 67.1
The New School
186 graduates, N/A% grad rate, Score: 65.1
New York University
31 graduates, N/A% grad rate, Score: 64.7
4. Santa Clara University (Santa Clara, CA) - Score: 59.1, Tuition: $58,587
5. DePaul University (Chicago, IL) - Score: 57.3, Tuition: $43,379
6. Weber State University (Ogden, UT) - Score: 54.0, Tuition: $5,471
7. CUNY New York City College of Technology (Brooklyn, NY) - Score: 52.9, Tuition: $6,930
8. Lipscomb University (Nashville, TN) - Score: 52.2, Tuition: $35,848
9. University of Washington-Bothell Campus (Bothell, WA) - Score: 52.1, Tuition: $11,524
10. University of Maryland Global Campus (Adelphi, MD) - Score: 51.6, Tuition: $7,632
Best Web Development Programs - Master's
A master's degree in web development prepares students for senior and specialized roles. These 1-2 year programs offer advanced expertise and leadership training.
Best Web Development Programs - Top 3 Master's
New York University
149 graduates, N/A% grad rate, Score: 80.6
University of Georgia
23 graduates, 95% grad rate, Score: 66.2
The New School
128 graduates, N/A% grad rate, Score: 65.9
4. Sacred Heart University (Fairfield, CT) - Score: 55.4, Tuition: $48,160
5. St. Francis College (Brooklyn, NY) - Score: 52.8, Tuition: $27,460
6. Drexel University (Philadelphia, PA) - Score: 52.2, Tuition: $58,293
7. DePaul University (Chicago, IL) - Score: 51.2, Tuition: $43,379
8. Touro University (New York, NY) - Score: 48.2, Tuition: $18,950
9. New York Institute of Technology (Old Westbury, NY) - Score: 45.7, Tuition: $41,960
10. Duquesne University (Pittsburgh, PA) - Score: 43.5, Tuition: $47,146
Best Web Development Programs - Online
Online web development programs offer flexibility for working professionals. Top accredited programs provide the same curriculum quality as on-campus alternatives.
Best Web Development Programs - Top 3 Online
University of Arizona
97 graduates, 68% grad rate, Score: 67.1
University of Georgia
23 graduates, 95% grad rate, Score: 66.2
The New School
186 graduates, N/A% grad rate, Score: 65.1
4. New York University (New York, NY) - Score: 64.7, Tuition: $60,438
5. Santa Clara University (Santa Clara, CA) - Score: 59.1, Tuition: $58,587
6. DePaul University (Chicago, IL) - Score: 57.3, Tuition: $43,379
7. University of Maryland Global Campus (Adelphi, MD) - Score: 56.6, Tuition: $7,632
8. Sacred Heart University (Fairfield, CT) - Score: 55.4, Tuition: $48,160
9. Weber State University (Ogden, UT) - Score: 54.0, Tuition: $5,471
10. CUNY New York City College of Technology (Brooklyn, NY) - Score: 52.9, Tuition: $6,930
Best Web Development Programs - Associate's
An associate's degree in web development provides a 2-year pathway into the field. These programs are ideal for career starters or those planning to transfer to a 4-year program.
Best Web Development Programs - Top 3 Associate's
Weber State University
19 graduates, 92% grad rate, Score: 59.0
Skagit Valley College
23 graduates, 91% grad rate, Score: 57.5
Florida State College at Jacksonville
24 graduates, 89% grad rate, Score: 54.7
4. Madison Area Technical College (Madison, WI) - Score: 53.5, Tuition: $4,386
5. Edmonds College (Lynnwood, WA) - Score: 52.8, Tuition: $4,073
6. Dakota State University (Madison, SD) - Score: 50.8, Tuition: $7,616
7. Valencia College (Orlando, FL) - Score: 50.4, Tuition: $1,984
8. MiraCosta College (Oceanside, CA) - Score: 50.3, Tuition: $1,104
9. Olympic College (Bremerton, WA) - Score: 48.5, Tuition: $4,197
10. Clover Park Technical College (Lakewood, WA) - Score: 47.9, Tuition: $5,740
Most Affordable Web Development Programs
Looking for quality web development education without the hefty price tag? These programs offer the best value—balancing tuition costs with strong academic outcomes and career prospects. Our Value Score factors in graduation rates, program strength, and institutional quality relative to cost.
Top 5 Most Affordable Web Development Programs
| Rank | Institution | Location | Tuition | Value Score | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Weber State University | Ogden, UT | $5,471 | 98.7 | 92% |
| 2 | Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | $5,614 | 87.3 | 92% |
| 3 | Brigham Young University-Idaho | Rexburg, ID | $4,656 | 83.6 | — |
| 4 | Atlantic University | Guaynabo, PR | $6,120 | 78.1 | — |
| 5 | CUNY New York City College of Technology | Brooklyn, NY | $6,930 | 76.3 | 98% |
Web Development Career Outcomes
Web development offers strong career prospects with multiple specialization paths. The BLS projects 13% job growth for web developers through 2032, faster than average for all occupations. Remote work is common, with many companies offering fully distributed teams. For detailed compensation breakdowns, see our software engineer salary guide.
Career Paths
Web Developer
SOC 15-1254Build and maintain websites and web applications using front-end and back-end technologies.
Front-End Developer
Specialize in user interface development using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and modern frameworks.
Work on both front-end user interfaces and back-end server logic and databases.
UX/UI Developer
Bridge design and development, implementing user experience designs in functional code.
Build complex web-based applications and software-as-a-service platforms.
Web Development Curriculum Overview
Web development programs typically start with fundamental web technologies and progress to advanced frameworks, databases, and deployment strategies. Most programs emphasize hands-on projects and real-world application development.
- Front-End Fundamentals: HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript ES6+, responsive design
- Modern Frameworks: React, Vue.js, Angular, or similar component-based systems
- Back-End Development: Node.js, Python (Django/Flask), PHP, or Java server programming
- Database Management: SQL databases, NoSQL (MongoDB), database design and optimization
- Development Tools: Git version control, build tools, package managers, deployment workflows
- Web Design & UX: Design principles, accessibility, usability testing, wireframing
- Security & Performance: Web security best practices, performance optimization, SEO fundamentals
- Capstone Projects: Full-stack web applications, client projects, portfolio development
Many programs also include internship opportunities, collaborative team projects, and exposure to agile development methodologies used in professional web development teams.
Web Development Programs by State
Arizona
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Indiana
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
Web Development vs Related Fields
Web development is the most accessible entry point into software careers—you can see results immediately in a browser, abundant learning resources exist, and many employers hire based on portfolios rather than credentials.
The tradeoff for accessibility is that web development alone provides narrower preparation than CS. Web developers may struggle to transition into systems programming, embedded development, or other areas without additional learning.
The field evolves rapidly, with new frameworks and tools emerging constantly. Success requires comfort with continuous learning and some tolerance for technology churn. What's popular today (React, Next.js) may be replaced within a few years.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want to specialize specifically in web technologies and browser-based applications
- You enjoy both programming and visual design aspects
- You prefer seeing immediate visual results from your code
- You want flexibility for freelance, remote, or startup opportunities
- You want broader foundations covering all areas of computing
- You're interested in algorithms, systems, or theoretical computer science
- You want maximum career flexibility across all tech roles
- You plan to pursue advanced degrees or research
- You want to focus on large-scale software systems beyond just web
- You're interested in software architecture and engineering methodology
- Your goal is enterprise software development
- You prefer structured engineering processes over rapid iteration
- You prefer managing and maintaining technology over creating it
- You're interested in networking, systems administration, or IT support
- You want an IT management career path
- You prefer less programming and more technology operations
Is a Web Development Degree Worth It?
For most students, yes. Web development offers strong career prospects ($85,420 median salary), job growth (13% through 2032), and excellent work flexibility including remote and freelance opportunities. A degree provides structured learning, networking, and credentials that purely self-taught or bootcamp paths may not offer.
When it's worth it: You want comprehensive web development knowledge, prefer structured learning environments, value networking opportunities with classmates and faculty, and plan to work for larger companies that prefer degree holders. The degree also provides a foundation for career advancement to technical lead and management roles.
When to consider alternatives: You're specifically focused only on front-end development (shorter bootcamps may suffice), have significant financial constraints (start with free resources and bootcamps), or you're already working in tech and just need to add web skills to your toolkit.
Alternative paths like bootcamps vs degree comparison and self-taught development can help you evaluate the best path for your situation.
Alternative Paths to Web Development Careers
While a web development degree is valuable, several alternative paths exist for those with different goals, timelines, or budgets
- Best Software Engineering Bootcamps — Intensive 12-24 week programs focused on practical web development skills
- Self-Taught vs Degree — Comparing outcomes and strategies for independent learning
- Building a Portfolio — Essential for demonstrating web development skills to employers
- Technical Interview Prep — Preparing for coding interviews and technical assessments
- AWS Certifications Roadmap — Cloud deployment skills increasingly important for web developers
Many successful web developers combine paths—starting with self-study or bootcamps for quick entry, then adding formal education for advancement. The web development field is particularly welcoming to non-traditional educational backgrounds if you can demonstrate strong portfolio work.
Web Development Degree FAQ
Based on 485 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES 2024, NSA CAE Database
Number of web development graduates from IPEDS 2023, indicating program resources and faculty depth
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023, measuring student success
State-level salary data from BLS OES 2024 for relevant occupations
Carnegie Classification with bonus for R1 research universities
NSA/DHS CAE-CD designation for cybersecurity programs, ABET accreditation for engineering
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Completeness of reported metrics to IPEDS
Related Resources
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.