- 1.Hakia's analysis of the best online web development degree programs reveals that web Developers earn a median salary of $98,580 with 16% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Web Development programs include University of Arizona, University of Georgia, The New School based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of Arizona offers web development education at $11,546/year with 68% graduation rate
- 4.50 accredited Web Development programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Web Development Programs - Top 10 Online
University of Central Florida
UCF Hack@UCF won 3 back-to-back National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition championships. Students intern at companies in Central Florida Research Park and downtown Orlando.
University of Central Florida Web Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Central Florida as the #1 in web development degree program.
University of Central Florida offers BS in Information Technology through the College of Engineering and Computer Science. Students work to drive business efficiency through innovative IT solutions, maintaining systems and improving business processes.
Hakia Insight: University of Central Florida's CECS Research Centers creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Central Florida Research Park, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
IT and cybersecurity research
Location Advantages
- •Orlando tech hub
- •Simulation and defense industry
- •Theme park technology
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
L3Harris Technologies, Siemens, HD Supply, Lockheed Martin
Admissions
Rowan University
Rowan's software engineering education uniquely integrates with advanced visualization technologies including a 10-sided CAVE system and Dreamscape Learn VR environments, while maintaining active research partnerships with organizations like the FAA, Department of Defense, and NIH for real-world project experience.
Rowan University Web Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks Rowan University as the #2 in web development degree program.
Rowan University offers software engineering education through multiple pathways within its robust computer science ecosystem. The flagship Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program includes a specialized Software Engineering concentration (C707), allowing students to select from advanced courses like Object Oriented Design, Database Systems, Human-Computer Interaction, and Software Engineering II. For graduate students, Rowan provides a comprehensive Master of Science in Computer Science program with a dedicated Software Design core area, featuring courses in Agile Software Engineering, Advanced Software Engineering, and Parallel Programming. The program operates from the College of Science & Mathematics on Rowan's Glassboro campus and maintains strong connections to the South Jersey Technology Park, providing students access to both academic rigor and industry partnerships.
What sets Rowan's approach apart is its integration with cutting-edge research facilities and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Students can engage with the Digital Engineering Hub (DEHub), the Machine & Virtual Reality Center (MAVRC) featuring 10-sided and 4-sided CAVE systems, and the VIVID Lab for interactive media development. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through project-intensive courses and research opportunities, with faculty actively involving students in applied research projects ranging from Federal Aviation Administration applications to pharmaceutical data analysis using machine learning algorithms.
Hakia Insight: Students at Rowan University benefit from active collaborations with Federal Aviation Administration and Civil Air Patrol, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Digital engineering methods, AI, and machine learning for cyberphysical systems
Immersive systems including 10-sided and 4-sided CAVE environments for VR experiences and AI model training
Visualization, Immersive, Virtual, Interactive Design for interactive media and simulation projects
Location Advantages
- •Access to South Jersey Technology Park for industry collaboration
- •Proximity to Philadelphia tech corridor
- •Integration with medical and engineering schools on campus
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Southern California
USC's cybersecurity program is one of only six featured in Fortune magazine for career advancement potential and offers both traditional on-campus and fully equivalent online delivery through DEN@Viterbi, making it accessible to working professionals worldwide while maintaining the same rigorous USC engineering standards.
University of Southern California Web Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #3 in web development degree program.
USC's Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering is a 28-unit professional program housed within the prestigious Viterbi School of Engineering, focusing on the fundamentals of developing, engineering, and operating secure information systems. The program uniquely emphasizes how security policy drives technology decisions, training students in secure operating systems, applications, networking, cryptography, and key management. Available both on-campus and through DEN@Viterbi's fully equivalent online platform, this program serves graduate students seeking careers in computer network operations or those advancing toward doctoral studies with an information security focus.
Hakia Insight: Students at University of Southern California benefit from active collaborations with Boeing and Raytheon Technologies, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Systems security and cybersecurity research
Security systems and privacy research
Network security and traffic analysis
Location Advantages
- •Located in Los Angeles tech hub
- •Proximity to Hollywood entertainment industry
- •Access to aerospace and defense contractors
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Bloomberg, Boeing, Northrop Gruman, PwC, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
The University of Texas at Dallas
UT Dallas offers one of the few Executive Master's in Software Engineering programs in the nation, allowing working professionals to earn their degree in just 20 months through weekend-only classes, while maintaining access to the same world-class faculty and research opportunities as traditional students.
The University of Texas at Dallas Web Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks The University of Texas at Dallas as the #4 in web development degree program.
The University of Texas at Dallas offers a comprehensive Software Engineering graduate program through its Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, featuring both Master's and Doctoral pathways. The MS in Software Engineering requires 33 semester credit hours and can be completed through traditional full-time study or the innovative Executive Master's in Software Engineering (EMSE) format, designed specifically for working professionals with classes meeting Friday evenings and Saturday mornings for just three weekends per month, enabling degree completion in 20 months. The program emphasizes real-world application with core courses in Object-Oriented Software Engineering, Advanced Requirements Engineering, Software Architecture and Design, and Software Testing and Verification, culminating in an Advanced Software Engineering Project.
UT Dallas maintains specialized research laboratories for software engineering, high-performance computing, and distributed systems, with faculty conducting cutting-edge research in areas including AI and machine learning techniques for software engineering, software quality and reliability, and knowledge mining-based approaches. The program benefits from the university's location in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, recently rated by Forbes as the #1 'Best City for Jobs,' providing exceptional access to industry partnerships and internship opportunities with major technology employers.
Hakia Insight: The University of Texas at Dallas's direct partnerships with Texas Instruments and Microsoft give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Requirements engineering, architecture design, testing and verification, software maintenance
Advanced cutting-edge testing technologies and user-friendly tool support
Programming language security and software systems research
Location Advantages
- •Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex rated #1 'Best City for Jobs' by Forbes
- •Access to major technology employers and Fortune 500 companies
- •Strong alumni network of over 5,000 graduates across 40+ states
- •Proximity to technology corridors and emerging tech companies
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Technology companies, Fortune 500 corporations, Government contractors, Consulting firms
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
The University of Texas at Austin
UT Austin uniquely positions UX education across information science, traditional design, and healthcare through its pioneering M.A. in Design focused on Health program—the first collaboration of its kind between a design school and medical school to reimagine patient experiences and health services.
The University of Texas at Austin Web Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks The University of Texas at Austin as the #5 in web development degree program.
The University of Texas at Austin takes a unique multi-school approach to UX design education, offering programs across three distinct academic units that create rich interdisciplinary pathways. The School of Information's undergraduate Informatics program features a dedicated User Experience Design concentration, emphasizing human-centered design grounded in cognitive psychology and perception theory. Students master user research methodologies while exploring the broader societal impacts of design decisions. For graduate study, the Master of Science in Information Studies (MSIS) provides flexible UX specialization tracks, while the School of Design and Creative Technologies offers both traditional design degrees with interaction design components and an innovative M.A. in Design focused on Health—a first-of-its-kind collaboration with Dell Medical School. The programs benefit from state-of-the-art facilities including the Information eXperience Lab (IX Lab), dedicated to advancing human-computer interaction research, usability testing, and accessibility studies.
Hakia Insight: The University of Texas at Austin's direct partnerships with Amazon and Dell Medical School give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
State-of-the-art research facility advancing human-computer interaction, UX, usability, accessibility, and human-information processing
Location Advantages
- •Austin's thriving tech ecosystem
- •Access to Dell Medical School collaboration
- •Growing design and technology community
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Amazon
Admissions
University of Houston
Bauer MIS benefits from Houston energy corridor connections, with graduates working at major oil/gas companies and healthcare organizations in IT roles.
University of Houston Web Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Houston as the #6 in web development degree program.
University of Houston Bauer College offers a BBA in Management Information Systems preparing students for IT leadership roles. The curriculum covers systems analysis, database management, business intelligence, and IT project management.
Hakia Insight: University of Houston's Bauer Institute for Regional Forecasting creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Houston energy companies, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Business analytics
Location Advantages
- •Houston energy corridor
- •Texas Medical Center proximity
- •Fortune 500 headquarters
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
ExxonMobil, Chevron, Memorial Hermann, Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Purdue University-Main Campus
Purdues Web Programming degree can be completed in three years through their Degree in 3 program, and is one of the few ABET-accredited web development degrees in the nation.
Purdue University-Main Campus Web Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks Purdue University-Main Campus as the #7 in web development degree program.
Purdue Polytechnics Web Programming and Design program develops technical and creative skills in web development, 3D modeling, and computer graphics programming. Students create interactive web applications and dynamic websites using server-side technologies including PHP, MySQL, and ASP. The curriculum provides a solid STEM foundation with trigonometry, calculus, and physics alongside practical development skills.
Hakia Insight: Purdue University-Main Campus's industry network — including Amazon and Microsoft — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Web technologies and interactive media
Location Advantages
- •Proximity to Chicago tech scene
- •Strong Midwest employer connections
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Amazon, Microsoft, IBM, Salesforce, Google
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth
UMass Dartmouth provides affordable New England UX education with strong arts and engineering integration. Online programs emphasize practical skills and portfolio development.
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth Web Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth as the #8 in web development degree program.
UMass Dartmouth offers UX design education through its College of Visual and Performing Arts and College of Engineering. Online options provide pathways for working professionals. Emphasis on combining design thinking with technical skills for modern UX roles.
Hakia Insight: University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth's Design Research Center creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Regional tech companies, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
User-centered design
Location Advantages
- •Affordable UMass tuition
- •New England location
- •Arts and engineering integration
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Boston tech companies, Healthcare IT, Financial services
Admissions
Texas A & M University-College Station
Texas A&M Visualization is one of only a handful of programs nationwide that equally stresses both technical and artistic aspects of digital media, with an unrivaled track record in student placement at top animation studios and an intensive Summer Industry Course where students work 10 weeks under mentorship from professionals at ILM, Pixar, Disney, and Dreamworks.
Texas A & M University-College Station Web Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks Texas A & M University-College Station as the #9 in web development degree program.
Texas A&M's Master of Science in Visualization sits within the College of Performance, Visualization & Fine Arts, representing a unique fusion of art and technology that few universities offer at the graduate level. This 32-credit program integrates artistic creativity with scientific rigor, preparing students to become 'technical artists' through studio-based coursework spanning computer animation, interactive design, user experience design, virtual reality, and data visualization. Students can choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks, with the thesis option requiring 8 hours of research culminating in a public defense, while the non-thesis route focuses on a practical capstone project executed over one semester. The program typically takes two years to complete and is offered exclusively on-campus in College Station, emphasizing hands-on learning through creative application.
Hakia Insight: Texas A & M University-College Station's industry network — including Industrial Light & Magic and Pixar — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Cybersecurity
Computer graphics and visualization
HPC systems and optimization
Location Advantages
- •Texas A&M's research infrastructure and resources
- •Annual Viz Industry Fair connecting students with employers
- •Advisory board meetings with animation, gaming, architecture and graphic design companies
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
ILM, Pixar, Disney, Dreamworks, Rhythm & Hues
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Florida
UF's Computer Science program uniquely combines access to one of the world's most powerful supercomputers (HiPerGator) with a strong emphasis on undergraduate research participation and interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, business, and medicine.
University of Florida Web Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Florida as the #10 in web development degree program.
The University of Florida's Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE) Department offers one of the most prestigious computer science programs in the Southeast, emphasizing both theoretical foundations and practical applications. The program is known for its strong research culture, with undergraduate students encouraged to participate in cutting-edge research alongside faculty in areas ranging from artificial intelligence and machine learning to cybersecurity and software engineering. UF's approach combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on experience through internships, co-ops, and industry partnerships, preparing students for both immediate career success and advanced graduate study.
What sets UF apart is its significant investment in computing infrastructure and interdisciplinary collaboration, with the HiPerGator supercomputer providing students access to world-class computational resources. The program maintains strong connections to Florida's growing tech industry while also preparing students for positions at major national technology companies. The curriculum emphasizes problem-solving skills, mathematical foundations, and practical software development, with opportunities for specialization in areas like data science, cybersecurity, and human-computer interaction.
Hakia Insight: With a 31% acceptance rate, University of Florida's web development program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and sensor networks
Cybersecurity, privacy, and secure systems
Human-computer interaction and user experience research
Database systems, data mining, and big data analytics
Location Advantages
- •Access to growing Florida tech corridor with companies like Magic Leap and startups
- •Proximity to government research facilities and defense contractors
- •Strong alumni network throughout Southeast tech industry
- •Lower cost of living compared to major tech hubs
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Lockheed Martin, IBM
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Best Web Development Programs - Top 10 Online — Complete Program Data
#1. University of Central Florida Web Development Program
Hakia ranks University of Central Florida as the #1 in web development degree program. Location: Orlando, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,478/year | Graduation Rate: 93% | Score: 100.0
What makes University of Central Florida stand out: UCF Hack@UCF won 3 back-to-back National Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition championships. Students intern at companies in Central Florida Research Park and downtown Orlando.
Hakia Insight: University of Central Florida's CECS Research Centers creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Central Florida Research Park, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Program Overview: University of Central Florida offers BS in Information Technology through the College of Engineering and Computer Science. Students work to drive business efficiency through innovative IT solutions, maintaining systems and improving business processes.
Degree Programs: BS Information Technology (4 years)
Research Labs: CECS Research Centers - IT and cybersecurity research
Industry Partners: Central Florida Research Park
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: L3Harris Technologies, Siemens, HD Supply, Lockheed Martin | Common Roles: IT Specialist, Systems Administrator, Cybersecurity Analyst
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 41%
#2. Rowan University Web Development Program
Hakia ranks Rowan University as the #2 in web development degree program. Location: Glassboro, NJ | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,250/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 95.5
What makes Rowan University stand out: Rowan's software engineering education uniquely integrates with advanced visualization technologies including a 10-sided CAVE system and Dreamscape Learn VR environments, while maintaining active research partnerships with organizations like the FAA, Department of Defense, and NIH for real-world project experience.
Hakia Insight: Students at Rowan University benefit from active collaborations with Federal Aviation Administration and Civil Air Patrol, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: Rowan University offers software engineering education through multiple pathways within its robust computer science ecosystem. The flagship Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program includes a specialized Software Engineering concentration (C707), allowing students to select from advanced courses like Object Oriented Design, Database Systems, Human-Computer Interaction, and Software Engineering II. For graduate students, Rowan provides a comprehensive Master of Science in Computer Science program with a dedicated Software Design core area, featuring courses in Agile Software Engineering, Advanced Software Engineering, and Parallel Programming. The program operates from the College of Science & Mathematics on Rowan's Glassboro campus and maintains strong connections to the South Jersey Technology Park, providing students access to both academic rigor and industry partnerships. What sets Rowan's approach apart is its integration with cutting-edge research facilities and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Students can engage with the Digital Engineering Hub (DEHub), the Machine & Virtual Reality Center (MAVRC) featuring 10-sided and 4-sided CAVE systems, and the VIVID Lab for interactive media development. The program emphasizes hands-on experience through project-intensive courses and research opportunities, with faculty actively involving students in applied research projects ranging from Federal Aviation Administration applications to pharmaceutical data analysis using machine learning algorithms.
Degree Programs: BS Computer Science with Software Engineering Concentration (4 years); MS Computer Science (2 years); 4+1 Accelerated Dual Degree Program (5 years total)
Research Labs: Digital Engineering Hub (DEHub) - Digital engineering methods, AI, and machine learning for cyberphysical systems; Machine & Virtual Reality Center (MAVRC) - Immersive systems including 10-sided and 4-sided CAVE environments for VR experiences and AI model training; VIVID Lab - Visualization, Immersive, Virtual, Interactive Design for interactive media and simulation projects
Industry Partners: Federal Aviation Administration, Civil Air Patrol, Rowan School of Medicine, South Jersey Technology Park
Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Systems Programmer, Application Programmer, Systems Analyst, Programmer Analyst, Network Specialist, Computer System Designer
Notable Faculty: undefined (Compiler design, algorithms and data structures, software engineering); undefined (Artificial intelligence, pattern recognition, computer graphics); undefined (Database theory, software engineering, computer science education)
Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum for MS program
Accreditations: ABET Accredited BS Computer Science program, Computing Accreditation Commission certified
#3. University of Southern California Web Development Program
Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #3 in web development degree program. Location: Los Angeles, CA | Type: Private | Tuition: $66,640/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 95.2
What makes University of Southern California stand out: USC's cybersecurity program is one of only six featured in Fortune magazine for career advancement potential and offers both traditional on-campus and fully equivalent online delivery through DEN@Viterbi, making it accessible to working professionals worldwide while maintaining the same rigorous USC engineering standards.
Hakia Insight: Students at University of Southern California benefit from active collaborations with Boeing and Raytheon Technologies, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: USC's Master of Science in Cyber Security Engineering is a 28-unit professional program housed within the prestigious Viterbi School of Engineering, focusing on the fundamentals of developing, engineering, and operating secure information systems. The program uniquely emphasizes how security policy drives technology decisions, training students in secure operating systems, applications, networking, cryptography, and key management. Available both on-campus and through DEN@Viterbi's fully equivalent online platform, this program serves graduate students seeking careers in computer network operations or those advancing toward doctoral studies with an information security focus.
Degree Programs: Minor (4 semesters); Specialization (3 semesters)
Research Labs: Center for Computer Systems Security - Systems security and cybersecurity research; STEEL Security Research Lab - Security systems and privacy research; ANT (Analysis of Network Traffic Lab) - Network security and traffic analysis
Industry Partners: Boeing, Raytheon Technologies, PwC, IBM
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: Strong employment outcomes reported | Top Employers: Bloomberg, Boeing, Northrop Gruman, PwC, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory, U.S. Department of Justice, IBM | Common Roles: Detection Engineering, Product Security Engineer, Network Engineer, Cyber Risk Associate, Security Engineer, Cybersecurity Analyst
Notable Faculty: Professor Newman (Cybersecurity research)
Admissions: GPA: Bachelor's degree required, preferably in engineering, computer science, economics, hard sciences, or mathematics
Accreditations: OPT STEM extension eligible
#4. The University of Texas at Dallas Web Development Program
Hakia ranks The University of Texas at Dallas as the #4 in web development degree program. Location: Richardson, TX | Type: Public | Tuition: $14,564/year | Graduation Rate: 77% | Score: 94.7
What makes The University of Texas at Dallas stand out: UT Dallas offers one of the few Executive Master's in Software Engineering programs in the nation, allowing working professionals to earn their degree in just 20 months through weekend-only classes, while maintaining access to the same world-class faculty and research opportunities as traditional students.
Hakia Insight: The University of Texas at Dallas's direct partnerships with Texas Instruments and Microsoft give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Program Overview: The University of Texas at Dallas offers a comprehensive Software Engineering graduate program through its Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, featuring both Master's and Doctoral pathways. The MS in Software Engineering requires 33 semester credit hours and can be completed through traditional full-time study or the innovative Executive Master's in Software Engineering (EMSE) format, designed specifically for working professionals with classes meeting Friday evenings and Saturday mornings for just three weekends per month, enabling degree completion in 20 months. The program emphasizes real-world application with core courses in Object-Oriented Software Engineering, Advanced Requirements Engineering, Software Architecture and Design, and Software Testing and Verification, culminating in an Advanced Software Engineering Project. UT Dallas maintains specialized research laboratories for software engineering, high-performance computing, and distributed systems, with faculty conducting cutting-edge research in areas including AI and machine learning techniques for software engineering, software quality and reliability, and knowledge mining-based approaches. The program benefits from the university's location in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, recently rated by Forbes as the #1 'Best City for Jobs,' providing exceptional access to industry partnerships and internship opportunities with major technology employers.
Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (4 years); BS in Computer Engineering (4 years); MS in Computer Science (2 years); PhD in Computer Science (5-6 years)
Research Labs: Software Engineering Research Lab - Requirements engineering, architecture design, testing and verification, software maintenance; Center for Software Testing - Advanced cutting-edge testing technologies and user-friendly tool support; Applied Logic, Programming-Languages and Systems Lab - Programming language security and software systems research
Industry Partners: Texas Instruments, Microsoft, AT&T, CISCO, NSF
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Technology companies, Fortune 500 corporations, Government contractors, Consulting firms | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Software Developer, Cybersecurity Engineer, Data Scientist, Program Analyst, Systems Analyst
Notable Faculty: Dr. W. Eric Wong (Software testing and verification); Dr. Farokh B. Bastani (Software reliability and fault-tolerant computing); Dr. Andrian Marcus (Software maintenance and evolution); Dr. Shiyi Wei (Software engineering and program analysis)
Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum overall, 3.3 in quantitative courses
Accreditations: NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education (CAEIAE), NSA/DHS CAE in Research
#5. The University of Texas at Austin Web Development Program
Hakia ranks The University of Texas at Austin as the #5 in web development degree program. Location: Austin, TX | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,678/year | Graduation Rate: 89% | Score: 92.7
What makes The University of Texas at Austin stand out: UT Austin uniquely positions UX education across information science, traditional design, and healthcare through its pioneering M.A. in Design focused on Health program—the first collaboration of its kind between a design school and medical school to reimagine patient experiences and health services.
Hakia Insight: The University of Texas at Austin's direct partnerships with Amazon and Dell Medical School give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Program Overview: The University of Texas at Austin takes a unique multi-school approach to UX design education, offering programs across three distinct academic units that create rich interdisciplinary pathways. The School of Information's undergraduate Informatics program features a dedicated User Experience Design concentration, emphasizing human-centered design grounded in cognitive psychology and perception theory. Students master user research methodologies while exploring the broader societal impacts of design decisions. For graduate study, the Master of Science in Information Studies (MSIS) provides flexible UX specialization tracks, while the School of Design and Creative Technologies offers both traditional design degrees with interaction design components and an innovative M.A. in Design focused on Health—a first-of-its-kind collaboration with Dell Medical School. The programs benefit from state-of-the-art facilities including the Information eXperience Lab (IX Lab), dedicated to advancing human-computer interaction research, usability testing, and accessibility studies.
Degree Programs: B.A./B.S. in Informatics with UX Design Concentration (4 years); Master of Science in Information Studies (MSIS) (2 years); B.F.A. in Design with Interaction Design (4 years); M.A. in Design focused on Health (10 months)
Research Labs: Information eXperience Lab (IX Lab) - State-of-the-art research facility advancing human-computer interaction, UX, usability, accessibility, and human-information processing
Industry Partners: Amazon, Dell Medical School
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: Over 75% of MSIS graduates secure employment within two months | Top Employers: Amazon | Common Roles: UX Designer, UX Researcher, Interaction Designer, Human Factors Specialist
Notable Faculty: Vasudha Singh (UX Design)
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: Competitive admissions for top-ranked MSIS program
#6. University of Houston Web Development Program
Hakia ranks University of Houston as the #6 in web development degree program. Location: Houston, TX | Type: Public | Tuition: $8,685/year | Graduation Rate: 91% | Score: 90.6
What makes University of Houston stand out: Bauer MIS benefits from Houston energy corridor connections, with graduates working at major oil/gas companies and healthcare organizations in IT roles.
Hakia Insight: University of Houston's Bauer Institute for Regional Forecasting creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Houston energy companies, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Program Overview: University of Houston Bauer College offers a BBA in Management Information Systems preparing students for IT leadership roles. The curriculum covers systems analysis, database management, business intelligence, and IT project management.
Degree Programs: BBA in Management Information Systems (4 years)
Research Labs: Bauer Institute for Regional Forecasting - Business analytics
Industry Partners: Houston energy companies
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: ExxonMobil, Chevron, Memorial Hermann, Hewlett Packard Enterprise | Common Roles: Business Analyst, IT Manager, Systems Analyst
Admissions:
Accreditations: ABET
#7. Purdue University-Main Campus Web Development Program
Hakia ranks Purdue University-Main Campus as the #7 in web development degree program. Location: West Lafayette, IN | Type: Public | Tuition: $9,718/year | Graduation Rate: 83% | Score: 90.3
What makes Purdue University-Main Campus stand out: Purdues Web Programming degree can be completed in three years through their Degree in 3 program, and is one of the few ABET-accredited web development degrees in the nation.
Hakia Insight: Purdue University-Main Campus's industry network — including Amazon and Microsoft — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Program Overview: Purdue Polytechnics Web Programming and Design program develops technical and creative skills in web development, 3D modeling, and computer graphics programming. Students create interactive web applications and dynamic websites using server-side technologies including PHP, MySQL, and ASP. The curriculum provides a solid STEM foundation with trigonometry, calculus, and physics alongside practical development skills.
Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (Web Development focus) (4 years); MS in Computer Science (Web systems specialization available) (2 years)
Research Labs: Computer Graphics Technology Labs - Web technologies and interactive media
Industry Partners: Amazon, Microsoft, IBM
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Amazon, Microsoft, IBM, Salesforce, Google | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Full-stack Developer, Cloud Engineer, Systems Engineer
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 53%
Accreditations: ABET Engineering Technology Accreditation
#8. University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth Web Development Program
Hakia ranks University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth as the #8 in web development degree program. Location: North Dartmouth, MA | Type: Public | Tuition: $14,533/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 88.6
What makes University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth stand out: UMass Dartmouth provides affordable New England UX education with strong arts and engineering integration. Online programs emphasize practical skills and portfolio development.
Hakia Insight: University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth's Design Research Center creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Regional tech companies, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Program Overview: UMass Dartmouth offers UX design education through its College of Visual and Performing Arts and College of Engineering. Online options provide pathways for working professionals. Emphasis on combining design thinking with technical skills for modern UX roles.
Degree Programs: MS User Experience Design (Online) (2 years)
Research Labs: Design Research Center - User-centered design
Industry Partners: Regional tech companies
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Boston tech companies, Healthcare IT, Financial services | Common Roles: UX Designer, Product Designer, Interaction Designer
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 85%
#9. Texas A & M University-College Station Web Development Program
Hakia ranks Texas A & M University-College Station as the #9 in web development degree program. Location: College Station, TX | Type: Public | Tuition: $9,003/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Score: 88.5
What makes Texas A & M University-College Station stand out: Texas A&M Visualization is one of only a handful of programs nationwide that equally stresses both technical and artistic aspects of digital media, with an unrivaled track record in student placement at top animation studios and an intensive Summer Industry Course where students work 10 weeks under mentorship from professionals at ILM, Pixar, Disney, and Dreamworks.
Hakia Insight: Texas A & M University-College Station's industry network — including Industrial Light & Magic and Pixar — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Program Overview: Texas A&M's Master of Science in Visualization sits within the College of Performance, Visualization & Fine Arts, representing a unique fusion of art and technology that few universities offer at the graduate level. This 32-credit program integrates artistic creativity with scientific rigor, preparing students to become 'technical artists' through studio-based coursework spanning computer animation, interactive design, user experience design, virtual reality, and data visualization. Students can choose between thesis and non-thesis tracks, with the thesis option requiring 8 hours of research culminating in a public defense, while the non-thesis route focuses on a practical capstone project executed over one semester. The program typically takes two years to complete and is offered exclusively on-campus in College Station, emphasizing hands-on learning through creative application.
Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (4 years); BS in Computer Engineering (4 years); MS in Computer Science (2 years); PhD in Computer Science (5-6 years)
Research Labs: Center for Infrastructure Assurance and Security (UTSA partnership) - Cybersecurity; Visualization Laboratory - Computer graphics and visualization; High Performance Computing Lab - HPC systems and optimization
Industry Partners: Industrial Light & Magic, Pixar, Disney, Dreamworks, Rhythm & Hues, Reel FX
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: ILM, Pixar, Disney, Dreamworks, Rhythm & Hues, Reel FX | Common Roles: Technical Director, Look Development Artist, Game Designer, Visual Effects Artist, UI/UX Designer, Interactive Media Specialist, Producer, Project Manager
Notable Faculty: Bjarne Stroustrup (Programming languages, C++ design)
Admissions:
Accreditations: ABET accredited
#10. University of Florida Web Development Program
Hakia ranks University of Florida as the #10 in web development degree program. Location: Gainesville, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,477/year | Graduation Rate: 95% | Score: 87.3
What makes University of Florida stand out: UF's Computer Science program uniquely combines access to one of the world's most powerful supercomputers (HiPerGator) with a strong emphasis on undergraduate research participation and interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, business, and medicine.
Hakia Insight: With a 31% acceptance rate, University of Florida's web development program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: The University of Florida's Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE) Department offers one of the most prestigious computer science programs in the Southeast, emphasizing both theoretical foundations and practical applications. The program is known for its strong research culture, with undergraduate students encouraged to participate in cutting-edge research alongside faculty in areas ranging from artificial intelligence and machine learning to cybersecurity and software engineering. UF's approach combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on experience through internships, co-ops, and industry partnerships, preparing students for both immediate career success and advanced graduate study. What sets UF apart is its significant investment in computing infrastructure and interdisciplinary collaboration, with the HiPerGator supercomputer providing students access to world-class computational resources. The program maintains strong connections to Florida's growing tech industry while also preparing students for positions at major national technology companies. The curriculum emphasizes problem-solving skills, mathematical foundations, and practical software development, with opportunities for specialization in areas like data science, cybersecurity, and human-computer interaction.
Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (4 years); BS in Computer Engineering (4 years); BS in Digital Arts and Sciences (4 years)
Research Labs: Machine Learning and Sensing Lab - Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and sensor networks; Security and Assurance in Information Technology Laboratory - Cybersecurity, privacy, and secure systems; Human-Centered Computing Lab - Human-computer interaction and user experience research; Database Systems Research Group - Database systems, data mining, and big data analytics
Industry Partners: Microsoft, Google, Lockheed Martin, Naval Research Laboratory, IBM
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 95%+ within 6 months | Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Lockheed Martin, IBM, Accenture | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, Systems Engineer, Product Manager
Notable Faculty: Dr. Juan Gilbert (Human-centered computing and accessibility); Dr. Kristy Boyer (Educational technology and AI in education); Dr. Kevin Butler (Cybersecurity and systems security)
Admissions: GPA: 3.8+ recommended for direct admission | Acceptance Rate: 31%
Accreditations: ABET accredited, NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD), Member of Computing Research Association
Best Web Development Programs - Compare Top 5 Online
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | Public | $4,478 | 93% | 100.0/100 |
| #2 Rowan University | Glassboro, NJ | Public | $11,250 | 97% | 95.5/100 |
| #3 University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | 95.2/100 |
| #4 The University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson, TX | Public | $14,564 | 77% | 94.7/100 |
| #5 The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | Public | $11,678 | 89% | 92.7/100 |
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | Public | $4,478 | 93% | — | 100 |
| 2 | Rowan University | Glassboro, NJ | Public | $11,250 | 97% | — | 95.5 |
| 3 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | 95.2 |
| 4 | The University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson, TX | Public | $14,564 | 77% | — | 94.7 |
| 5 | The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | Public | $11,678 | 89% | — | 92.7 |
| 6 | University of Houston | Houston, TX | Public | $8,685 | 91% | — | 90.6 |
| 7 | Purdue University-Main Campus | West Lafayette, IN | Public | $9,718 | 83% | — | 90.3 |
| 8 | University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth | North Dartmouth, MA | Public | $14,533 | 97% | — | 88.6 |
| 9 | Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, TX | Public | $9,003 | 84% | — | 88.5 |
| 10 | University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | Public | $4,477 | 95% | — | 87.3 |
| 11 | DePaul University | Chicago, IL | Private | $43,379 | 86% | — | 87.3 |
| 12 | Rochester Institute of Technology | Rochester, NY | Private | $55,784 | 90% | — | 85.7 |
| 13 | Green River College | Auburn, WA | Public | $4,074 | 99% | — | 85.5 |
| 14 | The New School | New York, NY | Private | $54,995 | — | — | 83.9 |
| 15 | Otis College of Art and Design | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $49,100 | 86% | — | 83.6 |
| 16 | Farmingdale State College | Farmingdale, NY | Public | $7,070 | 79% | — | 83.4 |
| 17 | Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | Private | $7,710 | — | — | 82.5 |
| 18 | Yale University | New Haven, CT | Private | $64,700 | 96% | — | 81.4 |
| 19 | Dominican University of California | San Rafael, CA | Private | $49,821 | 96% | — | 80.8 |
| 20 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA | Private | $15,015 | 78% | — | 80.7 |
| 21 | CUNY New York City College of Technology | Brooklyn, NY | Public | $6,930 | 98% | — | 80.5 |
| 22 | University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | Public | $11,546 | 68% | — | 80.1 |
| 23 | University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | Cincinnati, OH | Public | $11,228 | 78% | — | 79.9 |
| 24 | Lipscomb University | Nashville, TN | Private | $35,848 | 90% | — | 79.5 |
| 25 | Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw, GA | Public | $4,450 | 66% | — | 79.5 |
| 26 | University of North Carolina Wilmington | Wilmington, NC | Public | $4,443 | 79% | — | 79.2 |
| 27 | University of Missouri-Columbia | Columbia, MO | Public | $13,008 | 80% | — | 78.7 |
| 28 | Wichita State University | Wichita, KS | Public | $7,247 | 87% | — | 78 |
| 29 | New York University | New York, NY | Private | $60,438 | — | — | 77.7 |
| 30 | SUNY Old Westbury | Old Westbury, NY | Public | $7,070 | 93% | — | 77.1 |
| 31 | University of Washington-Bothell Campus | Bothell, WA | Public | $11,524 | 69% | — | 76.2 |
| 32 | Ohio University-Main Campus | Athens, OH | Public | $13,746 | 88% | — | 76.1 |
| 33 | Southern New Hampshire University | Manchester, NH | Private | $15,450 | 67% | — | 75.7 |
| 34 | University of Kentucky | Lexington, KY | Public | $11,849 | 75% | — | 75 |
| 35 | Northeastern University | Boston, MA | Private | $62,000 | — | — | 75 |
| 36 | Touro University | New York, NY | Private | $18,950 | — | — | 74.8 |
| 37 | Michigan State University | East Lansing, MI | Public | $16,930 | 87% | — | 74.7 |
| 38 | Rhode Island School of Design | Providence, RI | Private | $58,690 | 90% | — | 74.2 |
| 39 | Daemen University | Amherst, NY | Private | $33,054 | — | — | 74 |
| 40 | Lesley University | Cambridge, MA | Private | $31,890 | — | — | 73.1 |
| 41 | Eastern Washington University | Cheney, WA | Public | $7,294 | — | — | 73.1 |
| 42 | Georgian Court University | Lakewood, NJ | Private | $35,360 | 96% | — | 72.6 |
| 43 | University of Michigan-Dearborn | Dearborn, MI | Public | $14,544 | 94% | — | 71.9 |
| 44 | Florida Gulf Coast University | Fort Myers, FL | Public | $4,191 | 95% | — | 71.7 |
| 45 | Florida International University | Miami, FL | Public | $4,721 | — | — | 71.6 |
| 46 | University of Wisconsin-Whitewater | Whitewater, WI | Public | $6,812 | 92% | — | 71.6 |
| 47 | Atlantic University | Guaynabo, PR | Private | $6,120 | — | — | 71.1 |
| 48 | Long Island University | Brookville, NY | Private | $39,458 | — | — | 71.1 |
| 49 | School of Visual Arts | New York, NY | For-Profit | $49,140 | 100% | — | 70.6 |
| 50 | North Seattle College | Seattle, WA | Public | $4,458 | 50% | — | 70.2 |
How Much Does a Web Development Online Degree Cost?
The total cost of a online's degree in Web Development ranges from $38,320 at public universities to over $148,800 at elite private institutions. Financial aid, scholarships, and in-state tuition significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs (Noble Desktop, Research.com, IPEDS).
- Public University (In-State): $9,580/year × 4 years = $38,320 total
- Public University (Out-of-State): $27,437/year × 4 years = $109,748 total
- Private University: $37,200/year × 4 years = $148,800 total
- Online Programs: $15,000/year × 4 years = $60,000 total
With median starting salaries of $90,930, most graduates achieve positive ROI within 3-5 years. Financial aid recipients often pay 30-50% less than sticker price.
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Online Web Development Degree Overview: What You Need to Know
Online web development degree programs have evolved significantly, now offering comprehensive curricula that match their on-campus counterparts while providing flexibility for working students. The best programs feature live coding sessions, virtual labs, and dedicated career services specifically designed for remote learners.
Our analysis of 185 accredited programs reveals that online web development graduates achieve similar career outcomes to traditional students, with (BLS OEWS May 2024). Top-ranked programs like Arizona State University's online program and Southern New Hampshire University offer robust student support systems that contribute to higher completion rates.
Key advantages of online programs include asynchronous learning options, lower total cost of attendance (no room/board), and the ability to maintain employment while studying. However, students should evaluate program features like virtual lab access, live instruction availability, and career placement support when choosing between options. For state-specific rankings, explore our guides for California, Texas, and New York programs.
Online Learning Formats Explained
Online Web Development programs offer multiple learning formats to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences. Understanding these formats helps you choose a program that fits your lifestyle.
Synchronous (Live) Learning:
- Real-time video lectures at scheduled times (often evenings/weekends)
- Live interaction with professors and classmates
- Immediate Q&A and discussion; feels most like traditional classroom
- Requires reliable internet and schedule commitment
Asynchronous (Self-Paced) Learning:
- Pre-recorded lectures watched on your schedule
- Weekly deadlines but flexible daily timing
- Discussion forums replace live interaction
- Ideal for working professionals with irregular schedules
Hybrid/Blended Programs:
- Combines online coursework with periodic in-person sessions
- Typically 1-2 weekend residencies per semester
- Best of both worlds: flexibility plus networking opportunities
- Often required for programs with lab components
How to Verify Accreditation
Accreditation verification is critical when choosing an online Web Development program. Degrees from unaccredited institutions may not be recognized by employers or other universities. According to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, only properly accredited degrees qualify for federal financial aid and professional licensure.
How to Verify Accreditation:
- Check regional accreditation — Look up the institution at CHEA Database or Department of Education Database
- Verify ABET accreditation — For engineering/CS programs, ABET accreditation signals program quality
- Confirm identical credential — Online degrees should state the same institution as on-campus degrees (e.g., "Arizona State University" not "ASU Online")
- Check employer recognition — Review job postings in your target field for degree requirements
Red Flags to Avoid:
- Accreditation from agencies not recognized by CHEA or DOE
- "Accredited" only by an agency the school itself created
- Degrees offered in weeks rather than months/years
- No faculty credentials listed; "life experience" credits
Do Employers Respect Online Degrees?
Employer perception of online Web Development degrees has shifted dramatically. According to a SHRM survey, 83% of HR managers now view online degrees from accredited institutions as equivalent to traditional degrees—up from 50% a decade ago.
What Employers Actually Care About:
- Institution reputation matters more than delivery format; a Georgia Tech online degree carries the same weight as on-campus
- Skills demonstration — Portfolio projects, GitHub contributions, and certifications often outweigh degree format
- Major tech companies (Google, Apple, Meta) have removed degree requirements entirely for many roles
- Consistency — Degree should list the institution name, not "Online Division" or similar
The COVID Shift: The pandemic normalized remote work and online education. Gallup research shows that 72% of executives who managed remote teams reported equal or higher productivity, reducing stigma around online credentials.
Best Practice: Don't mention "online" on your resume—simply list the degree and institution. If asked in interviews, emphasize the rigor and self-discipline required for online study.
Technology Requirements
Online Web Development programs require specific technology to participate effectively. Meeting these requirements before enrollment prevents frustrating technical issues during coursework.
Minimum Hardware Requirements:
- Computer — Windows 10/11 or macOS 10.15+; 8GB RAM minimum (16GB recommended for development work)
- Processor — Intel i5/AMD Ryzen 5 or better; critical for compiling code and running VMs
- Storage — 256GB SSD minimum; software development requires significant disk space
- Webcam/Microphone — Required for proctored exams and group projects
- Internet — 25 Mbps download minimum; wired connection recommended for exams
Software Typically Provided:
- Free access to development tools (JetBrains IDEs, Visual Studio, etc.) via student licenses
- Cloud computing credits (AWS, Azure, GCP) — typically $100-$500 per course
- Virtual lab environments for networking, security, or systems courses
- Collaboration tools (Slack, Microsoft Teams, Zoom) included with enrollment
Proctored Exams: What to Expect
Most online Web Development programs use proctored exams to ensure academic integrity. Understanding what to expect reduces test anxiety and technical issues.
Common Proctoring Methods:
- AI-proctored (ProctorU, Examity) — Software monitors via webcam; flags suspicious behavior for human review
- Live proctored — Real person watches via video throughout the exam
- Lockdown browser — Prevents accessing other applications; may combine with AI monitoring
- In-person testing centers — Some programs offer or require local testing site options
Preparing for Proctored Exams:
- Test your setup early — Run system checks 24-48 hours before; most services offer practice sessions
- Prepare your environment — Clean desk, good lighting, no one else in room, pets secured
- Valid ID required — Government-issued photo ID; check name matches enrollment exactly
- Stable internet — Wired connection preferred; have phone hotspot as backup
- Know the rules — No headphones, no leaving frame, no reading questions aloud (varies by exam)
Career Paths
Front-End Web Developer
SOC 15-1254Creates user interfaces and user experiences using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and modern frameworks like React or Vue.js
Back-End Web Developer
SOC 15-1252Develops server-side applications, databases, and APIs using languages like Python, Java, Node.js, and PHP
Full-Stack Web Developer
SOC 15-1252Works on both front-end and back-end development, managing complete web application development lifecycle
UI/UX Designer
SOC 15-1255Focuses on user interface design and user experience optimization using design tools and front-end technologies
Web Application Developer
SOC 15-1252Specializes in creating dynamic web applications with complex functionality and database integration
E-commerce Developer
SOC 15-1252Develops online retail platforms, payment systems, and shopping cart functionality
Financial Aid and Funding Options for Online Students
Online students are eligible for the same federal financial aid as on-campus students, including Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study programs. However, funding strategies may differ due to the ability to maintain employment while studying and lower total cost of attendance (no room and board expenses).
Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs that work particularly well with online education, allowing students to immediately apply new skills in their current roles. For comprehensive information about funding options, explore our FAFSA and grants guide for STEM majors and employer tuition reimbursement strategies.
- Federal Financial Aid: Pell Grants up to $7,395 and federal student loans available
- State Grants: Many states offer aid for online students at in-state public institutions
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Average benefit of $5,250 per year tax-free
- Military Benefits: GI Bill and military tuition assistance programs fully applicable
- Scholarship Opportunities: Many tech-specific scholarships accept online students
- Payment Plans: Most schools offer monthly payment options without interest
Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative to a Web Development Degree
Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into tech careers, typically lasting 3-6 months. While they can't replace the depth of a formal degree, they provide practical skills for entry-level positions.
What is a Coding Bootcamp?
A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program designed to teach practical programming and tech skills. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus on job-ready skills and real-world projects.
Who Bootcamps Are Best For
- Career changers looking for a fast entry into tech
- Professionals wanting to add coding skills
- Those who prefer hands-on learning over academics
- Budget-conscious learners
What People Love
Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming
- Web dev is the most accessible path into software careers
- JavaScript/React skills are in constant demand
- Freelance opportunities available while job hunting
- Visible, tangible projects to show in portfolio
- Full-stack skills make you versatile for small companies
Common Concerns
Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals
- Web dev jobs are competitive—oversaturated with bootcamp grads
- Frameworks change rapidly—what you learn may be outdated
- Many 'web developer' roles are actually front-end only
- Self-taught devs can learn the same material for free
- Entry-level web dev salaries may be lower than other software roles
Explore Bootcamps with Springboard
Springboard offers career-focused bootcamps with 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals. Their programs include a job guarantee—complete all requirements, and if you don't land a qualifying role, you may be eligible for a full tuition refund.
Programs for Web Development careers:
- Software Engineering Career Track
- Data Science Career Track
- Cybersecurity Career Track
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Software Engineering Career Track
+$25K avg salary increase·9 months
- Curriculum designed by Colt Steele, industry veteran
- 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals
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Frequently Asked Questions About Web Development Degrees
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.