Web Development Degree Programs
Updated July 13, 2026

Best Web Development Degree Programs

Search every web development degree program by what you actually want. All 425 accredited programs, ranked on real outcomes across bachelor's, master's, and online. $85,420 median salary with +13% projected job growth.

Accredited Programs425
Median Salary$85,420
Job Growth+13%
Annual Openings19,000+
On this page

Key Takeaways

  • 1.Hakia ranks the best web development degree programs in 2026, 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 require a bachelor's degree. Master's degrees unlock senior roles with 20-40% higher salaries and leadership opportunities.

Quick Answer: Is a Web Development Degree Worth It?

Answer
Yes for most students
A web development degree provides structured learning, networking opportunities, and credential recognition that bootcamps alone can't match. With $85,420 median salary and 13% job growth, web development offers solid career prospects. Degree holders advance faster to senior roles and management positions.

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. These programs are sometimes listed as a web developer degree at community colleges and technical schools.

Best Web Development Programs - Top 10

🥇

New York University

Bachelor's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
New York, NYPrivate nonprofit

$92,650 median salary · 88% graduation rate

96.2
Score
$63K
Tuition/yr
88%
Grad Rate
$93K
Median Salary
Visit
program page

New York University Web Development Program Overview

Hakia ranks New York University as the #1 in web development degree program.

The NYU program matching this CIP is Tandon's Integrated Design and Media (IDM) B.S., an on-campus, maker-centric degree built on a four-part core of Image, Sound, Narrative, and Interactivity, layered with engineering coursework and upper-level electives in UX, AR, and motion capture. The page names a for-credit internship pipeline into employers like Google, Apple, Etsy, and Instagram. It fits builders who want interactive/web design plus an engineering backbone in NYC. The numbers set the bar: a 9% admit rate makes entry brutally selective, though an 88% grad rate means most who enroll finish. As a private school there is no residency break, so New Yorkers pay the same flat $62,796/year as everyone else. Four years of tuition alone runs about $251,000, roughly 2.7 times the $92,650 national median for web development, so the price only pays off if the Tandon network lands above-median outcomes.

Program Strengths

  • 88% graduation rate; 9% admit rate
  • Four-part IDM core: Image, Sound, Narrative, Interactivity
  • For-credit internships at Google, Apple, Etsy, Instagram
  • Flat $62,796/yr tuition, no in-state discount
🥈

Santa Clara University

Bachelor's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
Santa Clara, CAPrivate nonprofit

$92,650 median salary · 88% graduation rate

92.8
Score
$61K
Tuition/yr
88%
Grad Rate
$93K
Median Salary
Visit
program page

Santa Clara University Web Development Program Overview

Hakia ranks Santa Clara University as the #2 in web development degree program.

Santa Clara's "Web Design and Engineering" is a named Bachelor of Science major housed in the engineering school, not a generic CS track, requiring 175 units. The core runs from CSEN 60 Introduction to Web Technologies through Web Programming I and II, Web Infrastructure, and Web Usability, capped by a three-quarter Senior Design capstone (one past team shipped "Code Girl," a coding app for ages 5-8). Design and communications electives sit alongside the engineering load. The numbers: an 88% graduation rate, a selective 48% admit rate, and a Hakia Score of 92.8 (its #2 ranking basis). The honest tradeoff is cost. Tuition is $60,639 whether you are a California resident or not, so there is no in-state discount to chase; four years runs about $242,556, roughly 2.6x the $92,650 national median web-development salary. This fits students who want a design-plus-engineering hybrid and can absorb the full price.

Program Strengths

  • 88% graduation rate, 48% admit rate
  • Named BS "Web Design and Engineering" major in the engineering school, 175 units
  • Core sequence CSEN 161-169: Web Programming, Infrastructure, Usability
  • Three-quarter Senior Design capstone (past project: "Code Girl")
🥉

Touro University

Bachelor's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
New York, NYPrivate nonprofit

$92,650 median salary · 72% graduation rate

88.9
Score
$19K
Tuition/yr
72%
Grad Rate
$93K
Median Salary
Visit
program page

Touro University Web Development Program Overview

Hakia ranks Touro University as the #3 in web development degree program.

Touro's Digital Multimedia Design major runs out of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences for Women on the Flatbush campus, and its page is candid that it is built for women turning creative energy into career-ready skills. The curriculum is organized around six areas, ending in a required internship and a portfolio-preparation course, with named tracks in UI/UX, motion graphics, branding, and digital marketing. Tuition is flat at $19,472/year in-state or out (Touro is private nonprofit, so no residency penalty). Against the $92,650 national BLS median for web developers, one year of tuition is roughly 21% of that figure, about 2.5 months of median earnings. The 61% admit rate keeps it accessible, but a 72% graduation rate means nearly 3 in 10 starters don't finish, the real risk to weigh. Its 88.9 Hakia Score earns the No. 3 rank.

Program Strengths

  • Flat $19,472/yr tuition, in-state or out (private nonprofit, no residency penalty)
  • 88.9 Hakia Score, ranked No. 3; 61% admit rate keeps it accessible
  • Required internship plus a final portfolio-preparation course
  • Named UI/UX, motion graphics, and branding tracks taught alongside AI design tools
#4

Drexel University

Bachelor's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
Philadelphia, PAPrivate nonprofit

$92,650 median salary · 78% graduation rate

87.2
Score
$60K
Tuition/yr
78%
Grad Rate
$93K
Median Salary
Visit
program page

Drexel University Web Development Program Overview

Hakia ranks Drexel University as the #4 in web development degree program.

Drexel's Web Page, Digital/Multimedia and Information Resources Design bachelor's lives inside the Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design, not a standalone tech department, so the training is studio-based and built around Drexel's Cooperative Education (Co-op) model of paid work terms. Worth flagging: the scraped source is the college catalog, not a course-level page for this specific major, so it does not detail the track's own courses or faculty. The numbers that do stand: a 78 percent graduation rate, a 79 percent admit rate, and a Hakia Score of 87.2 behind its No. 4 rank. As a private nonprofit, tuition is a flat $60,042 whether or not you live in Pennsylvania, so there is no in-state discount to chase. That one year runs 64.8 percent of the $92,650 national median pay for Web Development, and four years totals roughly $240,168. Best fit: students who value Co-op work experience and can fund the full sticker.

Program Strengths

  • 78% graduation rate, 79% admit rate
  • Built around Drexel's Co-op paid work terms
  • Studio-based, inside the Westphal College of Media Arts & Design
  • Hakia Score 87.2, ranked No. 4
#5

Georgia College & State University

Bachelor's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
Milledgeville, GAPublic

$98,325 median salary · 64% graduation rate

86.6
Score
$8K
Tuition/yr
64%
Grad Rate
$98K
Median Salary
Visit
program page

Program Strengths

  • 64% graduation rate
  • $98,325 median salary
  • $7,696 in-state tuition
  • 66 graduates annually
#6

The New School

Bachelor's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
New York, NYPrivate nonprofit

$92,650 median salary · 69% graduation rate

85.8
Score
$57K
Tuition/yr
69%
Grad Rate
$93K
Median Salary
Visit
program page

The New School Web Development Program Overview

Hakia ranks The New School as the #6 in web development degree program.

This is Parsons School of Design's Communication Design BFA at The New School in New York City, a design-first major that opens with intensive typography and interaction study before branching into brand, editorial, motion, and type design. The web-relevant hook is the Interaction Design and Coding track, which teaches the coding fundamentals to build projects that live online; the program is also STEM-designated and the school calls it the oldest undergraduate program of its kind in the country. As a private nonprofit, tuition is a flat $57,374/year with no in-state break, so four years runs about $229,496 before aid, roughly 2.5x the $92,650 national median wage for web development. With a 69% grad rate and 63% admit rate, expect selectivity and cost. It fits designers who want a coding-literate, portfolio-driven path and can secure real aid; Hakia Score 85.8 ranks it 6th.

Program Strengths

  • Hakia Score 85.8, ranked 6th overall
  • Interaction Design and Coding track for building projects that live online; STEM-designated
  • 69% grad rate, 63% admit rate
  • Flat $57,374/year private tuition (no residency discount), about $229,496 over 4 years
#7

Bradley University

Bachelor's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
Peoria, ILPrivate nonprofit

$98,325 median salary · 76% graduation rate

85.3
Score
$41K
Tuition/yr
76%
Grad Rate
$98K
Median Salary
Visit
program page

Bradley University Web Development Program Overview

Hakia ranks Bradley University as the #7 in web development degree program.

Bradley University's degree here is not a computer-science web track but an Interactive Media major housed in the Interactive Media department, blending web design, interactive and video production, and media theory. The 41-credit-hour major stacks 17 core hours (I M 150 Fundamentals of Interactive Design, I M 161 Intro to Web Design, I M 285 Intro to Video for Interactive Media) on 9 hours of history and theory and 15 elective hours, with programming (CS 100/101/102) only optional. Tuition is a flat $41,210 a year, identical in-state and out-of-state since Bradley is private nonprofit, so there is no residency discount to chase. It ranks 7th on our Hakia Score of 85.3, with a 76% graduation rate and 77% admit rate. Four years runs about $164,840, roughly 1.78 times the $92,650 national BLS median for web roles. It fits a visually driven student wanting design plus media over pure coding; the tradeoff is thin programming depth and one in four starters not finishing.

Program Strengths

  • Hakia Score 85.3, ranked 7th; 76% grad rate, 77% admit rate
  • Interactive Media major: 41 credit hours across web design, video, and media theory
  • Flat $41,210 tuition in-state and out-of-state; no residency premium
  • Core includes I M 161 Intro to Web Design and repeatable Interactive Media Practicum I/II
#8

Lipscomb University

Bachelor's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
Nashville, TNPrivate nonprofit

$92,650 median salary · 72% graduation rate

83.5
Score
$37K
Tuition/yr
72%
Grad Rate
$93K
Median Salary
Visit
program page

Lipscomb University Web Development Program Overview

Hakia ranks Lipscomb University as the #8 in web development degree program.

Lipscomb's B.S. in Web Application Development is an on-campus, 126-129 hour degree at a private Christian university in Nashville, and it is unusually applied for a four-year program: past core courses like Web Application Development I and II, User Interface Design, and Web Server Technologies, every student picks a 9-hour concentration from five tracks (Game Development, IT Entrepreneurship, Information Security, Internet and Mobile Computing, or System Administration) and completes a required internship plus a senior project. The numbers back the fit: a 72% graduation rate, a forgiving 68% admit rate, and a Hakia Score of 83.5 (the basis for its No. 8 rank). The honest tradeoff is cost. Tuition is a flat $37,460 with no in-state discount, so Tennessee residents get no residency break; four years runs roughly $149,840 in tuition alone, about 1.6x the $92,650 national Web Development salary median. Best for students who want structure, a named specialization, and can secure aid.

Program Strengths

  • 9-hour concentration in one of five tracks: Game Dev, Info Security, IT Entrepreneurship, Mobile, or SysAdmin
  • 72% graduation rate with a 68% admit rate
  • Required internship plus a senior project and senior seminar
  • Flat $37,460 tuition (no in-state break) = ~$149,840 over four years
#9

University of Arizona

Bachelor's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
Tucson, AZPublic

$92,650 median salary · 68% graduation rate

83.3
Score
$12K
Tuition/yr
68%
Grad Rate
$93K
Median Salary
Visit
program page

University of Arizona Web Development Program Overview

Hakia ranks University of Arizona as the #9 in web development degree program.

Read the fine print before you file this under web development. The page mapped here is Arizona's Bachelor of Arts in Design Arts & Practice, an interdisciplinary art/design degree where you pick one of three tracks: Visual, Object, or Spatial Design. Websites, apps, games, and animation show up only as examples inside the Visual Design emphasis, bundled with print work like posters, comics, and magazines. It ranks 9th here on a Hakia Score of 83.3, backed by a 68% graduation rate and an easy 86% admit rate. In-state tuition of $11,835/yr is roughly 12.8% of the $92,650 national median web-dev wage; out-of-state runs $38,165/yr, $26,330 more for the same degree. Best fit: Arizona residents who want a broad design foundation, not a coder's bootcamp. The tradeoff is real: choose Object or Spatial and you can finish 120 units with zero web-focused core courses.

Program Strengths

  • Hakia Score 83.3 (ranked 9th); 68% grad rate, 86% admit rate
  • In-state tuition $11,835/yr = ~12.8% of the $92,650 national web-dev median wage
  • Web work (websites, apps, games) lives inside the Visual Design emphasis, the only track open to Arizona Online students
  • Interdisciplinary 120-unit BA spanning the Schools of Art, Architecture, and Information
#10

Union University

Bachelor's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
Jackson, TNPrivate nonprofit

$92,650 median salary · 66% graduation rate

83.1
Score
$36K
Tuition/yr
66%
Grad Rate
$93K
Median Salary
Visit
program page

Union University Web Development Program Overview

Hakia ranks Union University as the #10 in web development degree program.

Union University's entry here is its Digital Media Communications (DMC) major, a broad creative-media track at a private Christian university in Jackson, TN, that spans web design and development alongside video, photography, editing, and publishing, framed around training a "one-person creative studio." Every DMC student gets full Adobe Creative Cloud access all four years at no added cost, and named internship placements include Nashville Soccer Club and the Jackson Symphony. It ranks 10th on an 83.1 Hakia Score. Tuition is a flat $36,005 a year, same in-state or out, roughly $144,020 over four years. Against the $92,650 national median wage for web development (a field-wide figure, not this school's outcome), one year runs about 39% of that median. The honest tradeoff: a 66% graduation rate means one in three starters don't finish, 60% admit rate, and web work is one lane among many, not a dedicated coding curriculum.

Program Strengths

  • Ranked 10th, 83.1 Hakia Score
  • Flat $36,005 tuition, no residency premium
  • Free Adobe Creative Cloud all four years
  • 66% grad rate, 60% admit rate

Best Web Development Programs - Top 10, Complete Program Data

  1. #1. New York University — Bachelor's Web Development

    Hakia ranks New York University's bachelor's web development program #1. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: New York, NY | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $62,796/year | Graduation Rate: 88% | Median Salary: $92,650 | Score: 96.2

  2. #2. Santa Clara University — Bachelor's Web Development

    Hakia ranks Santa Clara University's bachelor's web development program #2. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Santa Clara, CA | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $60,639/year | Graduation Rate: 88% | Median Salary: $92,650 | Score: 92.8

  3. #3. Touro University — Bachelor's Web Development

    Hakia ranks Touro University's bachelor's web development program #3. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: New York, NY | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $19,472/year | Graduation Rate: 72% | Median Salary: $92,650 | Score: 88.9

  4. #4. Drexel University — Bachelor's Web Development

    Hakia ranks Drexel University's bachelor's web development program #4. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Philadelphia, PA | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $60,042/year | Graduation Rate: 78% | Median Salary: $92,650 | Score: 87.2

  5. #5. Georgia College & State University — Bachelor's Web Development

    Hakia ranks Georgia College & State University's bachelor's web development program #5. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Milledgeville, GA | Type: Public | Tuition: $7,696/year | Graduation Rate: 64% | Median Salary: $98,325 | Score: 86.6

  6. #6. The New School — Bachelor's Web Development

    Hakia ranks The New School's bachelor's web development program #6. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: New York, NY | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $57,374/year | Graduation Rate: 69% | Median Salary: $92,650 | Score: 85.8

  7. #7. Bradley University — Bachelor's Web Development

    Hakia ranks Bradley University's bachelor's web development program #7. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Peoria, IL | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $41,210/year | Graduation Rate: 76% | Median Salary: $98,325 | Score: 85.3

  8. #8. Lipscomb University — Bachelor's Web Development

    Hakia ranks Lipscomb University's bachelor's web development program #8. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Nashville, TN | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $37,460/year | Graduation Rate: 72% | Median Salary: $92,650 | Score: 83.5

  9. #9. University of Arizona — Bachelor's Web Development

    Hakia ranks University of Arizona's bachelor's web development program #9. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Tucson, AZ | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,835/year | Graduation Rate: 68% | Median Salary: $92,650 | Score: 83.3

  10. #10. Union University — Bachelor's Web Development

    Hakia ranks Union University's bachelor's web development program #10. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: on-campus. Location: Jackson, TN | Type: Private nonprofit | Tuition: $36,005/year | Graduation Rate: 66% | Median Salary: $92,650 | Score: 83.1

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

Associate's Degree in Web Development

2-year programs for career entry or transfer to bachelor's programs

Online Web Development Degrees

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

🥇 #1

New York University

Bachelor's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
New York, NYPrivate nonprofit

$92,650 median salary · 88% grad rate · 52 grads/yr

$63K
Tuition/yr
88%
Grad Rate
96.2
Score
Visit
Program
🥈 #2

Santa Clara University

Bachelor's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
Santa Clara, CAPrivate nonprofit

$92,650 median salary · 88% grad rate · 15 grads/yr

$61K
Tuition/yr
88%
Grad Rate
92.8
Score
Visit
Program
🥉 #3

Touro University

Bachelor's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
New York, NYPrivate nonprofit

$92,650 median salary · 72% grad rate · 8 grads/yr

$19K
Tuition/yr
72%
Grad Rate
88.9
Score
Visit
Program

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

🥇 #1

New York University

Master's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
New York, NYPrivate nonprofit

$92,650 median salary · 88% grad rate · 137 grads/yr

$63K
Tuition/yr
88%
Grad Rate
95.9
Score
Visit
Program
🥈 #2

University of Georgia

Master's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
Athens, GAPublic

$92,650 median salary · 90% grad rate · 20 grads/yr

$10K
Tuition/yr
90%
Grad Rate
95.8
Score
Visit
Program
🥉 #3

Touro University

Master's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
New York, NYPrivate nonprofit

$92,650 median salary · 72% grad rate · 12 grads/yr

$19K
Tuition/yr
72%
Grad Rate
80.1
Score
Visit
Program

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

🥇 #1

Fox Valley Technical College

Associate's in Web DevelopmentFully online
Appleton, WIPublic

$98,325 median salary · 65% grad rate · 27 grads/yr

$4K
Tuition/yr
65%
Grad Rate
92.6
Score
Visit
Program
🥈 #2

Eastern Gateway Community College

Associate's in Web DevelopmentFully online
Steubenville, OHPublic

$92,650 median salary · 65 grads/yr

$4K
Tuition/yr
0%
Grad Rate
90.6
Score
Visit
Program
🥉 #3

St Petersburg College

Associate's in Web DevelopmentFully online
St. Petersburg, FLPublic

$98,325 median salary · 38% grad rate · 13 grads/yr

$2K
Tuition/yr
38%
Grad Rate
88.3
Score
Visit
Program

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

🥇 #1

Valencia College

Associate's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
Orlando, FLPublic

$92,650 median salary · 48% grad rate · 28 grads/yr

$2K
Tuition/yr
48%
Grad Rate
93.3
Score
Visit
Program
🥈 #2

Santa Fe College

Associate's in Web DevelopmentOn-campus
Gainesville, FLPublic

$92,650 median salary · 53% grad rate · 15 grads/yr

$2K
Tuition/yr
53%
Grad Rate
93.1
Score
Visit
Program
🥉 #3

Fox Valley Technical College

Associate's in Web DevelopmentFully online
Appleton, WIPublic

$98,325 median salary · 65% grad rate · 27 grads/yr

$4K
Tuition/yr
65%
Grad Rate
92.6
Score
Visit
Program

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

RankProgram & SchoolDeliveryAnnual TuitionGrad RateMedian SalaryHakia Score
#1
Bachelor's in Web Development
New York University
New York, NY · Private nonprofit
On-campus$62,79688%$92,65096.2
#2
Bachelor's in Web Development
Santa Clara University
Santa Clara, CA · Private nonprofit
On-campus$60,63988%$92,65092.8
#3
Bachelor's in Web Development
Touro University
New York, NY · Private nonprofit
On-campus$19,47272%$92,65088.9
#4
Bachelor's in Web Development
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA · Private nonprofit
On-campus$60,04278%$92,65087.2
#5
Bachelor's in Web Development
Georgia College & State University
Milledgeville, GA · Public
On-campus$7,69664%$98,32586.6
#6
Bachelor's in Web Development
The New School
New York, NY · Private nonprofit
On-campus$57,37469%$92,65085.8
#7
Bachelor's in Web Development
Bradley University
Peoria, IL · Private nonprofit
On-campus$41,21076%$98,32585.3
#8
Bachelor's in Web Development
Lipscomb University
Nashville, TN · Private nonprofit
On-campus$37,46072%$92,65083.5
#9
Bachelor's in Web Development
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ · Public
On-campus$11,83568%$92,65083.3
#10
Bachelor's in Web Development
Union University
Jackson, TN · Private nonprofit
On-campus$36,00566%$92,65083.1
#11
Bachelor's in Web Development
Southern Adventist University
Collegedale, TN · Private nonprofit
On-campus$26,00049%$98,32583.0
#12
Bachelor's in Web Development
DePaul University
Chicago, IL · Private nonprofit
On-campus$44,60168%$92,65082.3
#13
Bachelor's in Web Development
Utah Valley University
Orem, UT · Public
On-campus$5,81845%$98,32581.6
#14
Bachelor's in Web Development
Beacon College
Leesburg, FL · Private nonprofit
On-campus$50,94060%$92,65081.5
#15
Bachelor's in Web Development
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, PA · Private nonprofit
On-campus$48,98677%$92,65081.4
#16
Bachelor's in Web Development
Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, IL · Private nonprofit
Online$52,23073%$92,65080.6
#17
Bachelor's in Web Development
Lindenwood University
Saint Charles, MO · Private nonprofit
On-campus$19,90049%$92,65080.4
#18
Bachelor's in Web Development
CUNY Brooklyn College
Brooklyn, NY · Public
On-campus$6,93054%$92,65080.0
#19
Bachelor's in Web Development
Butler University
Indianapolis, IN · Private nonprofit
On-campus$46,57080%$92,65079.4
#20
Bachelor's in Web Development
School of Visual Arts
New York, NY · Private for-profit
On-campus$51,40076%$92,65078.9
#21
Bachelor's in Web Development
Weber State University
Ogden, UT · Public
On-campus$5,62146%$92,65077.7
#22
Bachelor's in Web Development
Baldwin Wallace University
Berea, OH · Private nonprofit
On-campus$38,83267%$92,65077.4
#23
Bachelor's in Web Development
Northern Michigan University
Marquette, MI · Public
On-campus$13,37452%$98,32575.8
#24
Bachelor's in Web Development
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock, AR · Public
On-campus$6,81042%$92,65075.2
#25
Bachelor's in Web Development
University of Charleston
Charleston, WV · Private nonprofit
On-campus$22,11746%$92,65074.6
#26
Bachelor's in Web Development
University of Washington-Bothell Campus
Bothell, WA · Public
On-campus$11,86965%$92,65074.6
#27
Bachelor's in Web Development
Kent State University at Kent
Kent, OH · Public
On-campus$12,74264%$92,65074.5
#28
Bachelor's in Web Development
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MD · Public
Online$7,77633%$92,65074.2
#29
Bachelor's in Web Development
Central Connecticut State University
New Britain, CT · Public
On-campus$6,99848%$92,65073.9
#30
Bachelor's in Web Development
Roger Williams University
Bristol, RI · Private nonprofit
On-campus$44,86769%$92,65073.8
#31
Bachelor's in Web Development
Edgewood College
Madison, WI · Private nonprofit
On-campus$35,86060%$92,65073.6
#32
Bachelor's in Web Development
SUNY College of Technology at Alfred
Alfred, NY · Public
On-campus$7,07055%$92,65072.8
#33
Bachelor's in Web Development
The University of Findlay
Findlay, OH · Private nonprofit
On-campus$39,66458%$92,65072.7
#34
Bachelor's in Web Development
Mount St. Joseph University
Cincinnati, OH · Private nonprofit
On-campus$36,95056%$92,65072.5
#35
Bachelor's in Web Development
Quincy University
Quincy, IL · Private nonprofit
On-campus$37,14045%$98,32572.4
#36
Bachelor's in Web Development
Northwest Missouri State University
Maryville, MO · Public
On-campus$6,71354%$92,65072.2
#37
Bachelor's in Web Development
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Oshkosh, WI · Public
On-campus$7,06146%$98,32572.1
#38
Bachelor's in Web Development
College for Creative Studies
Detroit, MI · Private nonprofit
On-campus$51,95071%$92,65071.9
#39
Bachelor's in Web Development
Brigham Young University-Idaho
Rexburg, ID · Private nonprofit
On-campus$4,80055%$92,65071.6
#40
Bachelor's in Web Development
University of Mount Union
Alliance, OH · Private nonprofit
On-campus$36,10059%$92,65071.3
#41
Bachelor's in Web Development
Hastings College
Hastings, NE · Private nonprofit
On-campus$35,99049%$92,65070.8
#42
Bachelor's in Web Development
Eastern Washington University
Cheney, WA · Public
On-campus$7,52143%$92,65069.3
#43
Bachelor's in Web Development
University of Maine at Farmington
Farmington, ME · Public
On-campus$9,18052%$98,32569.0
#44
Bachelor's in Web Development
Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global
Marion, IN · Private nonprofit
Online$8,84835%$98,32568.9
#45
Bachelor's in Web Development
CUNY New York City College of Technology
Brooklyn, NY · Public
On-campus$6,93021%$92,65068.5
#46
Bachelor's in Web Development
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Stevens Point, WI · Public
On-campus$7,37851%$92,65068.5
#47
Bachelor's in Web Development
Atlantic University
Guaynabo, PR · Private nonprofit
On-campus$6,12039%$92,65068.5
#48
Bachelor's in Web Development
Louisiana Christian University
Pineville, LA · Private nonprofit
On-campus$20,09644%$98,32568.3
#49
Bachelor's in Web Development
Neumont College of Computer Science
Salt Lake City, UT · Private for-profit
On-campus$25,50063%$92,65067.6
#50
Bachelor's in Web Development
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE · Private nonprofit
Online$12,12333%$98,32567.5

Showing all 50 ranked programs.

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.

$55,000
Starting Salary
$85,420
Mid-Career
+13%
Job Growth
19,000
Annual Openings

Career Paths

Front-End Developer

+15%

Specialize in user interface development using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and modern frameworks.

Median Salary:$88,000

UX/UI Developer

+12%

Bridge design and development, implementing user experience designs in functional code.

Median Salary:$82,000

Web Development Curriculum Overview

Web development programs 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

Best Web Development Programs in California
Total Programs
45
Median Tuition
$15,200
Top Program
UC Berkeley, Stanford
Best Web Development Programs in Connecticut
Total Programs
28
Median Tuition
$16,800
Top Program
Yale, UConn
Best Web Development Programs in Florida
Total Programs
28
Median Tuition
$8,200
Top Program
UF, FSU
Best Web Development Programs in Indiana
Total Programs
35
Median Tuition
$10,200
Top Program
Purdue, IU Bloomington
Best Web Development Programs in Maryland
Total Programs
35
Median Tuition
$10,900
Top Program
UMD, Johns Hopkins
Best Web Development Programs in Minnesota
Total Programs
32
Median Tuition
$14,600
Top Program
U of Minnesota
Best Web Development Programs in Missouri
Total Programs
32
Median Tuition
$11,300
Top Program
Wash U, Mizzou
Best Web Development Programs in New Jersey
Total Programs
42
Median Tuition
$15,200
Top Program
Rutgers, Princeton
Best Web Development Programs in New York
Total Programs
35
Median Tuition
$18,500
Top Program
NYU, Columbia
Best Web Development Programs in Oregon
Total Programs
25
Median Tuition
$12,400
Top Program
Oregon State, U of Oregon
Best Web Development Programs in Tennessee
Total Programs
30
Median Tuition
$9,800
Top Program
Vanderbilt, UT Knoxville
Best Web Development Programs in Texas
Total Programs
38
Median Tuition
$12,100
Top Program
UT Austin, Texas A&M
Best Web Development Programs in Utah
Total Programs
22
Median Tuition
$8,900
Top Program
U of Utah, BYU
Best Web Development Programs in Washington
Total Programs
22
Median Tuition
$13,800
Top Program
UW Seattle
Best Web Development Programs in Wisconsin
Total Programs
28
Median Tuition
$10,700
Top Program
UW-Madison

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.

Choose Web Development if.

  • 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

Choose Computer Science if.

  • 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

Choose Software Engineering if.

  • 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

Choose Information Technology if.

  • 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

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

What can I do with a web development degree?
Web development graduates work as front-end developers, full-stack developers, web application developers, UX/UI developers, and web designers. You can work for tech companies, marketing agencies, e-commerce businesses, startups, or as a freelancer. The skills also transfer to mobile app development, software engineering, and digital product management roles.
Do I need to know coding before starting a web development degree?
No, most web development programs start with basic HTML, CSS, and programming fundamentals designed for beginners. However, trying some free online tutorials beforehand can help you confirm your interest and give you confidence. Basic familiarity with computers and willingness to learn new technologies is more important than prior coding experience.
What's the difference between web development and computer science?
Web development focuses specifically on creating websites and web applications, covering front-end, back-end, and design aspects of web technologies. Computer science is broader, covering algorithms, systems, theory, and multiple programming domains. Web dev is more specialized and practical, while CS provides deeper theoretical foundations. See Computer Science degrees for comparison.
Can I work remotely as a web developer?
Web development is one of the most remote-friendly tech careers. Many web developers work fully remote for companies worldwide, and freelance opportunities are abundant. The nature of web development work, collaborating through code repositories and communicating through digital tools, makes it well-suited for distributed teams.
Is web development still in demand with no-code tools?
Demand remains strong. While no-code tools handle simple websites, complex web applications, custom functionality, performance optimization, and enterprise systems still require skilled developers. Many businesses also need developers to customize and extend no-code platforms. The complexity of modern web applications continues to grow.
What programming languages should I learn for web development?
Start with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, these are fundamental to all web development. For backend development, popular choices include Python, Node.js (JavaScript), PHP, Java, or C#. Most programs teach multiple languages, and the specific choice depends on your career goals and local job market preferences.
How much can web developers earn?
Web developers earn median $85,420/year nationally, with entry-level positions starting around $55,000 and experienced developers earning $100,000+. Specializations like full-stack development, React expertise, or senior roles can command higher salaries. Location significantly impacts pay. San Francisco, Seattle, and New York offer premium compensation. See our software engineer salary guide for detailed breakdowns.
Should I choose a bachelor's or associate degree in web development?
A bachelor's degree opens more opportunities and provides deeper technical foundations, but an associate degree can be sufficient for entry-level positions, especially combined with a strong portfolio. Bachelor's degrees are preferred for career advancement to senior developer or management roles. Consider your timeline, budget, and career goals when choosing.

How We Rank Web Development Degree Programs

Based on 742 programs from IPEDS 2024

We scored 50 web development programs on the Hakia Score, a 0 to 100 composite drawn from federal IPEDS 2024 and BLS figures, and New York University's Bachelor's in Web Development sits at the top. 4 of them can be earned fully online.

Ranking Factors

Program Completions35%

Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.

Graduation Rate25%

Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.

Selectivity20%

Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

National salary data for web development graduates, factored into institutional scores based on job market strength.

Ranking Categories

Best Programs

Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.

Online Programs

Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.

Most Affordable

Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.

Data Sources

  • IPEDS 2024Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
  • BLS OEWS 2024National and metro salary data by occupation
  • CIP Code MappingPrograms identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Related Resources

Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)

Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.