University campus in California
Updated January 2026

Best Web Development Degree Programs in California — 2026 Rankings

Explore 66 accredited web development degree programs in California. Compare schools by graduation rate, salary outcomes, and tuition—from Diablo Valley College to Otis College of Art and Design.

#1 ProgramOtis College of Art and D...
Avg Salary$145,770
Tuition From$1,288/yr
Job Growth+22%

Key Takeaways

Top 3 ranked: Otis College of Art and D..., U of Southern California, Academy of Art

Based on graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2023

Tuition ranges from $1,104 to $66,640/year

Diablo Valley College offers the most affordable option at $1,288/yr

IPEDS 2023

Degree levels: 57 associate's, 1 master's programs available in California

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2023

15 California programs offer online or hybrid formats

Flexible scheduling for working professionals

IPEDS 2023

California community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

57 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: Google, Apple, Meta, Netflix

Tech hubs in San Francisco and San Jose

Hakia Research 2026

Web Development programs available near 231+ cities across California

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2023

Updated February 2026

On This Page
$145,770
Is Web Development in California Worth It?
Yes. Web Development degrees in California deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $145,770 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $7,392/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Best Web Development Degree Programs in California

Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs in California

11 programs•$145,770 median salary•72% avg grad rate
11
Programs
$145,770
Median Salary
$38,977/yr
Avg Tuition
72%
Avg Grad Rate

Program Landscape

California ranks among the nation's top destinations for web development education, with 11 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 0 public and 5 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Otis College of Art and D..., U of Southern California, Academy of Art, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from California web development programs earn a median salary of $123,905—26% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Google, Apple, Meta.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $12,240 to $66,640 annually, with an average of $38,977/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 72%, with the highest reaching 96%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to California's leading technology employers. For students seeking web development degrees in California, these top-ranked web development schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

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Otis College of Art and Design

Private
Los Angeles, CA
$49,100
Tuition/yr
86%
Grad Rate
76.1
Score
Website
Visit Otis College of Art and Design
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University of Southern California

Private
Los Angeles, CA
$66,640
Tuition/yr
92%
Grad Rate
77.6
Score
Website
🥉

Academy of Art University

For-Profit
San Francisco, CA
$27,024
Tuition/yr
76.1
Score
Website
#4

Gnomon

For-Profit
Hollywood, CA
$33,390
Tuition/yr
45%
Grad Rate
62.3
Score
Website
#5

Dominican University of California

Private
San Rafael, CA
$49,821
Tuition/yr
96%
Grad Rate
60.7
Score
Website
#6

Santa Clara University

Private
Santa Clara, CA
$58,587
Tuition/yr
91%
Grad Rate
61.1
Score
Website
#7

California College of the Arts

Private
San Francisco, CA
$57,096
Tuition/yr
52.7
Score
Website
#8

University of Silicon Valley

For-Profit
San Jose, CA
$21,480
Tuition/yr
50.5
Score
Website
#9

Ashford University

For-Profit
San Diego, CA
$12,240
Tuition/yr
47.3
Score
Website
#10

Laurus College

For-Profit
San Luis Obispo, CA
$0
Tuition/yr
48.5
Score
Website

Complete Web Development Degree Program Rankings in California

Best Associate's Web Development Degree Programs in California

### Program Landscape California offers **57 accredited** associate's degree programs in web development, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include **Diablo Valley College**, **Orange Coast College**, **Santa Monica College**, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training. ### Costs & Value Community colleges in California offer these two-year programs at an average cost of **$1,803/yr**—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging **$80,174** in California. ### Career Pathways Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with California's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Google, Apple, Meta hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions. ### Curriculum & Specializations Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among web development schools in California, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their web development degrees in California.

  1. #1. Diablo Valley College

    Hakia ranks Diablo Valley College as the #1 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Pleasant Hill, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 81.4.

  2. #2. Orange Coast College

    Hakia ranks Orange Coast College as the #2 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Costa Mesa, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 77.8.

  3. #3. Santa Monica College

    Hakia ranks Santa Monica College as the #3 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Monica, CA has annual tuition of $1,104 and a 95% graduation rate. Ranking score: 70.7.

  4. #4. Fullerton College

    Hakia ranks Fullerton College as the #4 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Fullerton, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 58.1.

  5. #5. Sierra College

    Hakia ranks Sierra College as the #5 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Rocklin, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 58.1.

  6. #6. Mt San Antonio College

    Hakia ranks Mt San Antonio College as the #6 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Walnut, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 57.8.

  7. #7. MiraCosta College

    Hakia ranks MiraCosta College as the #7 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Oceanside, CA has annual tuition of $1,104 and a 94% graduation rate. Ranking score: 68.0.

  8. #8. Modesto Junior College

    Hakia ranks Modesto Junior College as the #8 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Modesto, CA has annual tuition of $1,188 and a 77% graduation rate. Ranking score: 63.9.

  9. #9. Hartnell College

    Hakia ranks Hartnell College as the #9 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Salinas, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 57.1.

  10. #10. Antelope Valley Community College District

    Hakia ranks Antelope Valley Community College District as the #10 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Lancaster, CA has annual tuition of $1,104 and a 82% graduation rate. Ranking score: 53.8.

  11. #11. Grossmont College

    Hakia ranks Grossmont College as the #11 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in El Cajon, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 55.4.

  12. #12. Yuba College

    Hakia ranks Yuba College as the #12 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Marysville, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 54.5.

  13. #13. Laney College

    Hakia ranks Laney College as the #13 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Oakland, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 54.2.

  14. #14. Imperial Valley College

    Hakia ranks Imperial Valley College as the #14 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Imperial, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 53.8.

  15. #15. Gavilan College

    Hakia ranks Gavilan College as the #15 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Gilroy, CA has annual tuition of $1,444. Ranking score: 53.8.

  16. #16. Santa Rosa Junior College

    Hakia ranks Santa Rosa Junior College as the #16 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Rosa, CA has annual tuition of $1,242. Ranking score: 52.8.

  17. #17. Saddleback College

    Hakia ranks Saddleback College as the #17 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Mission Viejo, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 52.4.

  18. #18. College of the Desert

    Hakia ranks College of the Desert as the #18 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Palm Desert, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 52.0.

  19. #19. Palomar College

    Hakia ranks Palomar College as the #19 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in San Marcos, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 52.0.

  20. #20. Chaffey College

    Hakia ranks Chaffey College as the #20 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Rancho Cucamonga, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 51.6.

  21. #21. San Diego Mesa College

    Hakia ranks San Diego Mesa College as the #21 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in San Diego, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 51.6.

  22. #22. Solano Community College

    Hakia ranks Solano Community College as the #22 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Fairfield, CA has annual tuition of $1,104 and a 74% graduation rate. Ranking score: 48.9.

  23. #23. Los Angeles Valley College

    Hakia ranks Los Angeles Valley College as the #23 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Valley Glen, CA has annual tuition of $1,196. Ranking score: 51.6.

  24. #24. Riverside City College

    Hakia ranks Riverside City College as the #24 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Riverside, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 51.2.

  25. #25. San Jose City College

    Hakia ranks San Jose City College as the #25 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in San Jose, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 51.2.

  26. #26. College of San Mateo

    Hakia ranks College of San Mateo as the #26 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in San Mateo, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 50.7.

  27. #27. Citrus College

    Hakia ranks Citrus College as the #27 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Glendora, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 49.8.

  28. #28. Pasadena City College

    Hakia ranks Pasadena City College as the #28 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Pasadena, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 49.8.

  29. #29. Berkeley City College

    Hakia ranks Berkeley City College as the #29 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Berkeley, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 49.8.

  30. #30. Clovis Community College

    Hakia ranks Clovis Community College as the #30 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Fresno, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 42.3.

  31. #31. Norco College

    Hakia ranks Norco College as the #31 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Norco, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 49.8.

  32. #32. Los Angeles Harbor College

    Hakia ranks Los Angeles Harbor College as the #32 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Wilmington, CA has annual tuition of $1,196. Ranking score: 49.2.

  33. #33. Cuyamaca College

    Hakia ranks Cuyamaca College as the #33 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in El Cajon, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 49.2.

  34. #34. Southwestern College

    Hakia ranks Southwestern College as the #34 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Chula Vista, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 49.2.

  35. #35. Columbia College

    Hakia ranks Columbia College as the #35 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Sonora, CA has annual tuition of $1,465. Ranking score: 49.2.

  36. #36. Reedley College

    Hakia ranks Reedley College as the #36 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Reedley, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 48.6.

  37. #37. College of the Canyons

    Hakia ranks College of the Canyons as the #37 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Clarita, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 48.0.

  38. #38. Copper Mountain Community College

    Hakia ranks Copper Mountain Community College as the #38 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Joshua Tree, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 40.8.

  39. #39. West Los Angeles College

    Hakia ranks West Los Angeles College as the #39 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Culver City, CA has annual tuition of $1,196. Ranking score: 48.0.

  40. #40. De Anza College

    Hakia ranks De Anza College as the #40 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Cupertino, CA has annual tuition of $1,395. Ranking score: 48.0.

  41. #41. Cypress College

    Hakia ranks Cypress College as the #41 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Cypress, CA has annual tuition of $1,104 and a 68% graduation rate. Ranking score: 51.8.

  42. #42. Los Angeles Southwest College

    Hakia ranks Los Angeles Southwest College as the #42 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $1,196. Ranking score: 47.3.

  43. #43. Santa Ana College

    Hakia ranks Santa Ana College as the #43 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Ana, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 47.3.

  44. #44. Ohlone College

    Hakia ranks Ohlone College as the #44 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Fremont, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 46.4.

  45. #45. Cerritos College

    Hakia ranks Cerritos College as the #45 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Norwalk, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 46.4.

  46. #46. Los Angeles Pierce College

    Hakia ranks Los Angeles Pierce College as the #46 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Woodland Hills, CA has annual tuition of $1,196. Ranking score: 46.4.

  47. #47. Los Angeles Mission College

    Hakia ranks Los Angeles Mission College as the #47 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Sylmar, CA has annual tuition of $1,196. Ranking score: 46.4.

  48. #48. Cerro Coso Community College

    Hakia ranks Cerro Coso Community College as the #48 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Ridgecrest, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 39.4.

  49. #49. Moreno Valley College

    Hakia ranks Moreno Valley College as the #49 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Moreno Valley, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 46.4.

  50. #50. Cabrillo College

    Hakia ranks Cabrillo College as the #50 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Aptos, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 45.2.

  51. #51. San Diego Miramar College

    Hakia ranks San Diego Miramar College as the #51 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in San Diego, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 45.2.

  52. #52. Los Angeles Pacific College

    Hakia ranks Los Angeles Pacific College as the #52 associate's in web development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $6,600. Ranking score: 46.4.

  53. #53. American River College

    Hakia ranks American River College as the #53 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Sacramento, CA has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 56.5.

  54. #54. Sacramento City College

    Hakia ranks Sacramento City College as the #54 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Sacramento, CA has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 54.8.

  55. #55. Academy of Art University

    Hakia ranks Academy of Art University as the #55 associate's in web development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in San Francisco, CA has annual tuition of $27,024. Ranking score: 57.5.

  56. #56. Cosumnes River College

    Hakia ranks Cosumnes River College as the #56 associate's in web development degree program in California. This public institution in Sacramento, CA has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 49.8.

  57. #57. Laurus College

    Hakia ranks Laurus College as the #57 associate's in web development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in San Luis Obispo, CA has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 48.0.

Online Associate's Web Development Degree Programs in California

### Online Program Options California's community colleges offer 32 online associate's web development programs, providing flexible pathways for students balancing education with work or family responsibilities. Top-ranked online programs include **Orange Coast College**, **Santa Monica College**, **Solano Community College**, all regionally accredited and recognized by California employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online associate's programs average **$1,211/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. California-based employers including Google, Apple, Meta value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **60 credit hours** in 2 years while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online web development degrees in California, these accredited web development schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

  • Orange Coast College - Costa Mesa, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
  • Santa Monica College - Santa Monica, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
  • Solano Community College - Fairfield, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
  • Mt San Antonio College - Walnut, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
  • De Anza College - Cupertino, CA - Tuition: $1,395/year
  • Modesto Junior College - Modesto, CA - Tuition: $1,188/year
  • Hartnell College - Salinas, CA - Tuition: $1,380/year
  • Cerro Coso Community College - Ridgecrest, CA - Tuition: $1,380/year
  • Imperial Valley College - Imperial, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
  • Santa Rosa Junior College - Santa Rosa, CA - Tuition: $1,242/year
  • Saddleback College - Mission Viejo, CA - Tuition: $1,380/year
  • College of the Desert - Palm Desert, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
  • Palomar College - San Marcos, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
  • Chaffey College - Rancho Cucamonga, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
  • Los Angeles Valley College - Valley Glen, CA - Tuition: $1,196/year
  • San Diego Mesa College - San Diego, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
  • San Jose City College - San Jose, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
  • College of San Mateo - San Mateo, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
  • Pasadena City College - Pasadena, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
  • Los Angeles Harbor College - Wilmington, CA - Tuition: $1,196/year
  • Southwestern College - Chula Vista, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
  • West Los Angeles College - Culver City, CA - Tuition: $1,196/year
  • Santa Ana College - Santa Ana, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
  • Los Angeles Southwest College - Los Angeles, CA - Tuition: $1,196/year
  • Los Angeles Mission College - Sylmar, CA - Tuition: $1,196/year
  • Ohlone College - Fremont, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
  • Cerritos College - Norwalk, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
  • Cabrillo College - Aptos, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
  • San Diego Miramar College - San Diego, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
  • American River College - Sacramento, CA - Tuition: $0/year
  • Sacramento City College - Sacramento, CA - Tuition: $0/year
  • Laurus College - San Luis Obispo, CA - Tuition: $0/year

Best Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs in California

### Program Landscape California ranks among the nation's top destinations for web development education, with **11 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **0 public** and **5 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **Otis College of Art and D...**, **U of Southern California**, **Academy of Art**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections. ### Career Outcomes Graduates from California web development programs earn a median salary of **$123,905**—26% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Google, Apple, Meta. ### Costs & Value Tuition ranges from **$12,240** to **$66,640** annually, with an average of **$38,977/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **72%**, with the highest reaching **96%**. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards. ### Curriculum & Specializations Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to California's leading technology employers. For students seeking web development degrees in California, these top-ranked web development schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

  1. #1. Otis College of Art and Design

    Hakia ranks Otis College of Art and Design as the #1 bachelor's in web development degree program in California. This private institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $49,100 and a 86% graduation rate. Ranking score: 76.1.

  2. #2. University of Southern California

    Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #2 bachelor's in web development degree program in California. This private institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $66,640 and a 92% graduation rate. Ranking score: 77.6.

  3. #3. Academy of Art University

    Hakia ranks Academy of Art University as the #3 bachelor's in web development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in San Francisco, CA has annual tuition of $27,024. Ranking score: 76.1.

  4. #4. Gnomon

    Hakia ranks Gnomon as the #4 bachelor's in web development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in Hollywood, CA has annual tuition of $33,390 and a 45% graduation rate. Ranking score: 62.3.

  5. #5. Dominican University of California

    Hakia ranks Dominican University of California as the #5 bachelor's in web development degree program in California. This private institution in San Rafael, CA has annual tuition of $49,821 and a 96% graduation rate. Ranking score: 60.7.

  6. #6. Santa Clara University

    Hakia ranks Santa Clara University as the #6 bachelor's in web development degree program in California. This private institution in Santa Clara, CA has annual tuition of $58,587 and a 91% graduation rate. Ranking score: 61.1.

  7. #7. California College of the Arts

    Hakia ranks California College of the Arts as the #7 bachelor's in web development degree program in California. This private institution in San Francisco, CA has annual tuition of $57,096. Ranking score: 52.7.

  8. #8. University of Silicon Valley

    Hakia ranks University of Silicon Valley as the #8 bachelor's in web development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in San Jose, CA has annual tuition of $21,480. Ranking score: 50.5.

  9. #9. Ashford University

    Hakia ranks Ashford University as the #9 bachelor's in web development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in San Diego, CA has annual tuition of $12,240. Ranking score: 47.3.

  10. #10. Laurus College

    Hakia ranks Laurus College as the #10 bachelor's in web development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in San Luis Obispo, CA has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 48.5.

  11. #11. DeVry University-California

    Hakia ranks DeVry University-California as the #11 bachelor's in web development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in Ontario, CA has annual tuition of $14,392 and a 25% graduation rate. Ranking score: 40.4.

Online Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs in California

### Online Program Options 5 California institutions offer bachelor's web development degrees with online or hybrid options, enabling students to earn accredited degrees while maintaining professional or personal commitments. Top-ranked online programs include **Dominican University of C...**, **U of Silicon Valley**, **Ashford**, all regionally accredited and recognized by California employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online bachelor's programs average **$24,483/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. California-based employers including Google, Apple, Meta value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **120 credit hours** in 4 years while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online web development degrees in California, these accredited web development schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

  • Dominican University of California - San Rafael, CA - Tuition: $49,821/year
  • University of Silicon Valley - San Jose, CA - Tuition: $21,480/year
  • Ashford University - San Diego, CA - Tuition: $12,240/year
  • Laurus College - San Luis Obispo, CA - Tuition: $0/year
  • DeVry University-California - Ontario, CA - Tuition: $14,392/year

Best Master's Web Development Degree Programs in California

### Program Landscape California offers **1** master's degree programs in web development, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—**Academy of Art**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development. ### Career Outcomes Master's graduates in California earn a median salary of **$145,770**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Google, Apple, Meta actively recruiting from these programs. ### Costs & Value Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages **$27,024/yr**, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals. ### Curriculum & Specializations Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among California's web development schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

  1. #1. Academy of Art University

    Hakia ranks Academy of Art University as the #1 master's in web development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in San Francisco, CA has annual tuition of $27,024. Ranking score: 80.6.

Web Development Tuition in California

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$7,392/year
Average out-of-state tuition$18,480/year
Community college tuition$1,848/year
4-year savings for residents$44,352
2+2 transfer pathway savings$11,088

Source: IPEDS 2023

Web Development Financial Aid & Scholarships in California

State Aid Programs

California offers substantial state-funded financial aid through the Cal Grant program.

Cal Grants are California-specific allocations that do not need to be repaid, available to students attending UCs, CSUs, California Community Colleges, or qualifying independent schools (California Student Aid Commission). There are three types—Cal Grant A, B, and C—with eligibility determined automatically based on FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application responses, verified GPA, and college choice. For 2024-2025, income thresholds range from $43,000 to $108,000 for a family of four. The Cal Grant C program specifically supports students in vocational training programs lasting 4-24 months, ideal for certificate-seeking web development students.

Key Programs & Amounts

Key financial aid programs and amounts for California students:

  • Cal Grant A: Covers tuition at UC (up to $14,312), CSU (up to $5,742), or private schools (up to $9,358)
  • Cal Grant B: Access grant ($1,648) plus tuition coverage for low-income students; covers living expenses first year
  • Cal Grant C: Up to $1,094 for books/supplies at CCCs, or $2,462 for training costs
  • Federal Pell Grant: Up to $7,395 for 2024-25 (apply via FAFSA)
  • California College Promise Grant: Waives enrollment fees at community colleges for eligible students
  • Middle Class Scholarship: Up to 40% of tuition for families earning $217,000 or less at UC/CSU Many California students pay zero tuition—55% of UC undergraduates and 60% at CSUs pay no tuition due to financial aid (PPIC).

Institutional Scholarships

Tech-specific scholarships and funding sources:

  • Google Hispanic College Fund Scholarship: $10,000 for CS students, includes invitation to Google Scholars' Retreat in Mountain View
  • Society of Women Engineers Scholarships: Various amounts for women in STEM
  • Lockheed Martin STEM Scholarship: Up to $40,000 ($10,000 renewable for 4 years)
  • DOE Computational Science Graduate Fellowship: Full tuition, $45,000 stipend, $1,000 professional development allowance for graduate students
  • OneTen & Accenture Front End Web Development Scholarship: Free Udacity nanodegree for students without 4-year degrees Apply early: Cal Grant priority deadline is March 2 annually. Complete FAFSA or CA Dream Act Application by this date to maximize aid. Many institutional scholarships have November-December deadlines, well before admission deadlines.

Calculate Your Web Development Degree ROI in California

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a web development degree in California. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Web Development Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a web development degree
$

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+1168%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$2,159,974

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$91,667

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.

Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,195,382

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (San Francisco Bay Area, CA)$165,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return5.8%

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

Career Paths

+25%

Design and develop software applications and systems

Median Salary:$164,720
+35%

Analyze complex datasets and build predictive models

Median Salary:$137,024
+32%

Protect computer networks from cyber threats

Median Salary:$153,059
+22%

Manage cloud infrastructure and deployment pipelines

Median Salary:$161,805
+28%

Design and maintain cloud computing infrastructure

Median Salary:$157,432
+40%

Build and deploy machine learning models

Median Salary:$183,670
Web Development Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in California metro areas

Hakia.com
View data table
Categoryvalue
San Francisco$160K
San Jose$153K
Los Angeles$146K
San Diego$138K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Web Development Jobs in California: Top Employers Hiring

Find web development jobs in California. These major employers across California metro areas are actively hiring web development graduates. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Web Development Jobs in Silicon Valley

CA
~2,943 Open Positions

Silicon Valley remains the global center of tech innovation. Headquarters for Google, Apple, Meta, and thousands of startups.

Nearby cities: San Jose, Palo Alto, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Cupertino, Menlo Park, Redwood City

Google
Search/AI/Cloud
Apple
Consumer Electronics
Meta
Social/VR/AI
Nvidia
AI Chips/GPU
Salesforce
Enterprise CRM
Oracle
Enterprise Software
Cisco
Networking
Adobe
Creative Software
LinkedIn
Professional Network
Intel
Semiconductors

Web Development Jobs in San Francisco

CA

San Francisco is a major fintech and enterprise software hub. Salesforce Tower anchors a dense tech ecosystem.

Nearby cities: Oakland, Berkeley, Daly City, South San Francisco, San Mateo, Fremont

Stripe
Fintech/Payments
Databricks
Data/AI Platform
Figma
Design Tools
Uber
Transportation/Delivery
Airbnb
Travel/Hospitality

Web Development Jobs in Los Angeles

CA

LA has a diverse tech scene spanning entertainment tech, aerospace, and ecommerce. SpaceX and Snap are headquartered here.

Nearby cities: Santa Monica, Culver City, Burbank, Pasadena, Long Beach, Irvine, El Segundo

Snap Inc.
Social Media
SpaceX
Aerospace
Netflix
Streaming
Disney
Entertainment
Northrop Grumman
Defense/Aerospace

Web Development Jobs in San Diego

CA

San Diego is a biotech and defense technology hub. Qualcomm is headquartered here alongside major military contractors.

Nearby cities: La Jolla, Carlsbad, Chula Vista, Oceanside, Escondido, El Cajon

Qualcomm
Wireless/5G
Intuit
Financial Software
Teradata
Data Analytics
General Atomics
Defense/Aerospace
Illumina
Biotech/Genomics

How to Apply to Web Development Programs in California

1

Research Program Requirements

Review admission requirements for web development programs at your target schools. Requirements vary by institution and degree level.

2

Prepare Application Materials

Gather transcripts, test scores (SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE for graduate), letters of recommendation, and personal statement.

3

Apply for Financial Aid

Complete the FAFSA by priority deadlines.

4

Submit Applications Before Deadlines

Apply early for priority consideration. Early action/decision deadlines are typically October-November; regular deadlines December-January.

5

Complete Enrollment Steps

Accept your offer, submit enrollment deposit, complete orientation requirements, and register for classes.

Web Development Transfer Pathways in California

State Transfer System

California has the nation's most robust transfer articulation system.

ASSIST (Articulation System Stimulating Interinstitutional Student Transfer) is the official repository of articulation for California's public colleges and universities, showing how courses at community colleges can be applied when transferring to UC or CSU campuses (ASSIST.org). ASSIST clarifies how transfer students can use community college courses to meet electives, general education requirements, and major preparation. The system includes UC Transferable Courses, CSU Transferable Courses, and CalGETC Approved courses that fulfill general education requirements at any public California university.

How Transfers Work

Transfer Admission Guarantee (TAG) provides guaranteed UC admission for qualified community college students. The TAG program offers guaranteed admission to six UC campuses: UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC Merced, UC Riverside, UC Santa Barbara, and UC Santa Cruz. Requirements vary by campus and major—students meeting all requirements are 100% guaranteed admission to that campus. For computer science and web development, TAG requirements typically include completion of calculus, programming sequences, and maintaining minimum GPA (usually 3.4-3.8 depending on campus). This guaranteed pathway reduces uncertainty for transfer students planning their academic careers.

Transfer Planning Tips

Associate Degrees for Transfer (ADT) guarantee CSU admission with junior standing. By completing an Associate in Science for Transfer (AS-T) or Associate in Arts for Transfer (AA-T) with 60 semester units, students receive:

  • Guaranteed admission to one of 23 CSU campuses (though not necessarily their first choice)
  • Guaranteed graduation within 60 additional units (total 120 for bachelor's)
  • Similar majors at CSU accept ADT students without requiring additional lower-division coursework Strategic transfer planning for web development students: 1. Complete programming fundamentals, data structures, and web development courses at community college 2. Use ASSIST.org to verify course equivalencies before enrolling 3. Maintain 3.0+ GPA for CSU; 3.4+ for competitive UC campuses 4. Apply through the UC Transfer Admission Guarantee if eligible 5. Complete AS-T in Computer Science or related field for CSU guaranteed admission

Why Study Web Development in California?

Industry & Workforce

California dominates the U.S. tech industry with the largest tech workforce in the nation, employing over 1.9 million technology workers as of 2024 (CompTIA State of Tech 2024). The state hosts the world's most influential tech companies—Google, Apple, Meta, Netflix, and thousands of startups—all requiring skilled web developers to build and maintain their digital platforms. Web developers in California earn a median annual wage of $104,370, ranking fourth nationally and significantly above the national median of $83,240 (BLS OEWS May 2024). In premium markets like San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, web developers command even higher salaries averaging $135,490 annually.

Salary Outlook

California's community college system is the largest in the nation, with 116 colleges serving 1.8 million students annually. Schools like San Jose City College, MiraCosta College, and City College of San Francisco offer comprehensive web development certificate and associate degree programs that prepare students for immediate employment or transfer to four-year universities. In 2023, California institutions awarded 220 web development-related degrees, with programs ranging from front-end development to full-stack engineering (IPEDS 2023). The state's ASSIST transfer articulation system guarantees that courses completed at community colleges count toward CSU and UC degrees.

Regional Tech Hubs

Tech hubs span the state with distinct specializations: Silicon Valley (San Jose, Palo Alto, Mountain View) remains the global epicenter for software innovation, with web development roles at Google, Apple, and thousands of startups. Silicon Beach in Los Angeles has emerged as a major tech hub with over 500 tech companies including Snapchat (now Snap), Tinder, and SpaceX, creating strong demand for web developers. San Diego's biotech corridor combines healthcare technology with traditional tech employers like Qualcomm. The San Francisco Bay Area maintains the highest concentration of tech workers anywhere, with 22.54% of all jobs in technology compared to just 9% nationally. Compare programs in Texas, Washington, or explore our national rankings.

Web Development Job Market in California

Employment Outlook

California offers unmatched job opportunities for web developers.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for web developers and digital designers to grow 8% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations (BLS OOH). California leads the nation with an estimated 304,390 software development positions and consistently ranks first in tech job postings according to CompTIA's monthly jobs reports. Currently, there are over 643 web developer positions available in Silicon Valley alone on Indeed, with additional thousands across Los Angeles, San Diego, and Sacramento metros. Entry-level front-end developers in California can expect starting salaries of $65,000-$85,000, with mid-career professionals earning $90,000-$120,000.

Salaries by Metro

Salaries vary significantly by metro area, reflecting local industry concentrations:

  • San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara: $135,490 median for web developers—highest in the nation. Home to Apple, Google, Intel, and Cisco headquarters with 22% of all jobs in tech.
  • San Francisco-Oakland: $169,000 average for tech workers broadly. Pinterest, Adobe, Twitter/X headquarters create intense demand. 22.54% tech job concentration.
  • Los Angeles (Silicon Beach): $95,000-$130,000 range with strong growth. Over 500 tech companies including Snap, Tinder, SpaceX. The entertainment industry also drives demand for web developers in streaming and media.
  • San Diego: $90,000-$115,000 median with biotech focus. Qualcomm, Illumina, and healthcare tech companies dominate. Lower cost of living than Bay Area. (BLS OEWS California May 2024)

High-Growth Sectors

High-growth sectors driving California web development hiring include: e-commerce and digital retail (Amazon, Shopify merchants, DTC brands), fintech and digital banking (PayPal, Stripe, Plaid, Chime), healthcare technology (telehealth platforms, patient portals), entertainment and streaming (Netflix, Disney+, YouTube), and artificial intelligence applications (AI-powered web interfaces, chatbots, personalization engines). The shift toward remote work has somewhat moderated the Bay Area's dominance, but California employers still actively recruit for on-site, hybrid, and remote positions. For related career paths, explore our software engineering programs, UX design rankings, or data analytics degrees.

Web Development Curriculum & Specializations in California

Core Requirements

Core web development curriculum at California institutions covers foundational technologies and modern frameworks. USC's Web Development program includes web publishing, programming, databases, security, and multimedia, preparing students for careers as Front-End Developers, Back-End Developers, Full-Stack Developers, Web Content Managers, or Web Designers (USC Viterbi). Students learn HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript/ES6, and frameworks like React.js and Node.js alongside database technologies including PostgreSQL and MongoDB. UCSB's Professional and Continuing Education offers a Web Development Certificate that covers the complete front-end development lifecycle from environment setup to deployment.

Degree Pathways

Community college programs emphasize practical, job-ready skills. Pasadena City College's Full Stack Web Development curriculum prepares students for entry-level employment in both client-side and server-side development, including development, testing, deployment, and maintenance of secure web applications. San Jose City College's CIS Web Developer Associate in Science program provides skills to design front-end applications assuming basic programming knowledge. Programs typically require completion of:

  • Core courses: HTML/CSS fundamentals, JavaScript programming, responsive design
  • Back-end development: Server-side languages (Python, PHP, Node.js), database design
  • Modern frameworks: React, Angular, or Vue.js for front-end; Express or Django for back-end
  • Professional tools: Git version control, GitHub, command line, deployment platforms
  • Capstone project: Portfolio-worthy application demonstrating full-stack capabilities

Specialization Tracks

Certificate vs. degree pathways serve different goals.

UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies offers a Front End Web Development Certificate designed for both UX designers and aspiring engineers—students complete a minimum of 12 units with grades of "C" or better within five years. UCLA Extension's Web Design course teaches HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React with hands-on projects deploying fully functional, responsive web applications. Associate degrees (60+ units) provide broader education including general education requirements, better positioning students for transfer or roles requiring demonstrated commitment. Bachelor's degrees in Computer Science or Information Systems with web development concentrations offer the most comprehensive preparation, particularly for leadership roles. For specialized paths, explore our software engineering programs or UX design rankings.

Online vs On-Campus Web Development Programs in California

Online Program Growth

Online web development education has grown dramatically in California.

According to IPEDS data, students completed 3 distance education degree programs at California two-year schools in 2022, with four-year schools seeing much larger numbers. At California's 4-year nonprofit schools, average tuition for web development programs is $34,409, while for-profit schools average $18,739. Online programs from accredited California institutions provide flexibility for working professionals while maintaining quality standards. The pandemic permanently accelerated acceptance of online credentials among California employers—major tech companies now regularly hire candidates with online degrees, bootcamp certificates, and non-traditional backgrounds when combined with strong portfolios.

Accredited Online Options

Accredited online options from California institutions:

  • UC San Diego Extended Studies: Front End Web Development Certificate (WASC accredited through UCSD)
  • UCLA Extension: Web Development courses including HTML/CSS/JavaScript and React
  • UCSB Professional & Continuing Education: Web Development Certificate in collaboration with UCSD Extension
  • UC Irvine Continuing Education: Full Stack Web Development Certificate (12+ units)
  • Franklin University (available in CA): Online BS degrees, nonprofit, HLC accredited
  • California Community Colleges: Many offer fully online web development certificates All UC and CSU extension programs benefit from the institutional accreditation of their parent universities, ensuring credentials are recognized by employers and transfer institutions.

Choosing Your Format

Choosing between online, campus, and hybrid formats: Traditional campus programs are ideal for students who:

  • Can attend full-time and benefit from in-person networking
  • Want access to research labs (UC Berkeley HCI, UCSD Design Lab, etc.)
  • Prefer face-to-face instruction and immediate feedback
  • Value the complete university experience including campus life Online programs work best for:
  • Working professionals who cannot leave current jobs
  • Career changers with family or financial obligations
  • Students in remote areas of California (Central Valley, rural regions)
  • Self-motivated learners who thrive with flexible schedules Bootcamps and intensive programs (like Flatiron School, Hack Reactor, or Sabio in LA) offer accelerated paths—typically 12-16 weeks—for career changers seeking rapid entry into web development. While not degree programs, they provide job placement support and portfolio projects valued by employers. Compare options in our online web development rankings or most affordable programs.

Web Development by City in California

San Francisco Bay Area

San Francisco Bay Area ($169,000 average tech salary) represents the global epicenter of web development employment. San Francisco proper maintains a 22.54% tech job concentration—the highest percentage of any major U.S. city. The city hosts hundreds of startups plus major employers including Salesforce, Twitter/X, Dropbox, Airbnb, and Uber. Tech workers in San Francisco earn an average of $169,000 annually. San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara offers the highest web developer salaries in the nation at $135,490 median annual wage. The South Bay hosts Apple, Google, Intel, Cisco, and countless startups. In 2021, San Francisco companies posted 124,375 technology jobs. However, the Bay Area's cost of living—particularly housing—remains the highest in California. Median home prices exceed $1.2 million in San Francisco and $1.5 million in Palo Alto.

Los Angeles (Silicon Beach)

Los Angeles (Silicon Beach) offers strong tech employment with somewhat lower costs than the Bay Area. Tech job growth in LA continues to shine, with the metro ranking #6 nationally for tech job postings according to CompTIA. The $95,000-$130,000 salary range for web developers is lower than the Bay Area but purchasing power may be comparable given housing costs 30-40% lower. Over 500 tech companies operate in Silicon Beach spanning entertainment tech, social media, e-commerce, and aerospace. The entertainment industry creates unique opportunities combining web development with media production, streaming, and content management. Major universities including UCLA, USC, and Cal State LA provide talent pipelines and networking opportunities.

San Diego

San Diego ($90,000-$115,000 median) combines strong tech employment with the best quality of life metrics among California metros. Biotech and healthcare tech dominate, with Qualcomm, Illumina, and numerous startups driving demand. The University of California San Diego provides exceptional research collaboration opportunities through its Design Lab and computer science programs. Cost of living runs about 70-80% of San Francisco levels, making salary stretch further. San Diego's startup scene has grown significantly, with tech hubs in Sorrento Valley, UTC, and downtown. Other California tech metros:

  • Sacramento: Growing tech scene, state government IT needs, significantly lower costs
  • Orange County (Irvine): Diversified tech including gaming, fintech, and enterprise software
  • Oakland/East Bay: More affordable Bay Area alternative with BART access to SF jobs See our California computer science rankings for related programs.

Compare Online Web Development Programs in California

View tuition costs, program formats & enrollment info

Web Development Programs by City in California

Los AngelesSan DiegoSacramentoSan FranciscoPasadenaAnaheimOaklandRiversideFresnoBerkeley

Find Web Development Programs Near You in California

Search by city to find accredited web development programs ranked by our state methodology.

Web Development Degree Programs by City in California

Web Development Degree Programs Near Los Angeles, California

LA's entertainment and media industry drives demand for full-stack developers and front-end engineers, with major studios like Disney, Netflix, and Warner Bros. all headquartered or heavily invested in the region alongside a thriving ecosystem of digital agencies and e-commerce startups. USC and UCLA both offer strong computer science and web development programs, positioning graduates to work at major studios or local tech companies like Snap and Ring (Amazon).

Los Angeles is located in Los Angeles County, California.

Associate's Web Development Degree Programs Near Los Angeles, California
  1. Santa Monica College (Public) — State #1, 9.4 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 95%.
  2. MiraCosta College (Public) — State #2, 82.8 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 94%.
  3. Antelope Valley Community College District (Public) — State #5, 44 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 82%.
Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs Near Los Angeles, California
  1. University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #2, 38.5 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #3, in Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #4, 101.8 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.
Master's Web Development Degree Programs Near Los Angeles, California
  1. University of Southern California (Private) — State #1, in Los Angeles. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  2. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, in Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #3, 101.8 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.
Doctoral Web Development Degree Programs Near Los Angeles, California
  1. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, in Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  2. University of Southern California (Private) — State #3, in Los Angeles. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #4, 38.5 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.

Web Development Degree Programs Near San Diego, California

Home to a robust biotech and defense contracting sector that increasingly relies on custom web applications and SaaS platforms, San Diego also hosts a growing fintech and digital media scene with companies like DivX and numerous startups. UC San Diego's engineering program and San Diego State University provide a steady pipeline of developers, while the region's lower cost of living compared to the Bay Area attracts remote workers and smaller tech firms.

San Diego is located in San Diego County, California.

Associate's Web Development Degree Programs Near San Diego, California
  1. Santa Monica College (Public) — State #1, 115.6 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 95%.
  2. MiraCosta College (Public) — State #2, 30.9 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 94%.
  3. Antelope Valley Community College District (Public) — State #5, 145.1 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 82%.
Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs Near San Diego, California
  1. University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #2, 73.2 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #3, 117.4 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #4, 9.5 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.
Master's Web Development Degree Programs Near San Diego, California
  1. University of Southern California (Private) — State #1, 109 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  2. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 117.4 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #3, 9.5 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.
Doctoral Web Development Degree Programs Near San Diego, California
  1. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 117.4 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  2. University of Southern California (Private) — State #3, 109 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #4, 73.2 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.

Web Development Degree Programs Near Sacramento, California

As California's capital, Sacramento has a concentrated government tech sector where web developers build citizen-facing applications and digital services for state agencies, plus a growing community of civic tech startups and e-government consultancies. Sacramento State University offers computer science programs aligned with local employment, making it an overlooked hub for developers seeking stable government contracts and less competitive job markets.

Sacramento is located in Sacramento County, California.

Associate's Web Development Degree Programs Near Sacramento, California
  1. Diablo Valley College (Public) — State #3, 54.9 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $1,288/year.
  2. Modesto Junior College (Public) — State #4, 67.4 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $1,188/year. Graduation rate: 77%.
  3. De Anza College (Public) — State #7, 93.2 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $1,395/year.
Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs Near Sacramento, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 66.7 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Santa Cruz (Public) — State #5, 114.5 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 18.2 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Web Development Degree Programs Near Sacramento, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #5, 66.7 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 18.2 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
  3. Stanford University (Private) — State #8, 89 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $61,731/year.
Doctoral Web Development Degree Programs Near Sacramento, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 66.7 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. Stanford University (Private) — State #7, 89 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $61,731/year.
  3. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #8, 18.2 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Web Development Degree Programs Near San Francisco, California

The epicenter of venture capital and SaaS innovation, San Francisco hosts headquarters of Salesforce, Stripe, Figma, Notion, and countless web application startups, with salaries and equity packages significantly higher than other California cities. UC Berkeley's renowned computer science program and proximity to Stanford feed the region's insatiable demand for full-stack and platform engineers, though cost of living requires careful financial planning.

San Francisco is located in San Francisco County, California.

Associate's Web Development Degree Programs Near San Francisco, California
  1. Diablo Valley College (Public) — State #3, 23.1 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $1,288/year.
  2. Modesto Junior College (Public) — State #4, 77.5 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $1,188/year. Graduation rate: 77%.
  3. De Anza College (Public) — State #7, 37.5 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $1,395/year.
Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs Near San Francisco, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 10.9 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Santa Cruz (Public) — State #5, 57.3 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 64.2 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Web Development Degree Programs Near San Francisco, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #5, 10.9 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 64.2 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
  3. Stanford University (Private) — State #8, 27.5 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $61,731/year.
Doctoral Web Development Degree Programs Near San Francisco, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 10.9 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. Stanford University (Private) — State #7, 27.5 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $61,731/year.
  3. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #8, 64.2 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Web Development Degree Programs Near Pasadena, California

Home to Caltech and JPL (Jet Propulsion Laboratory), Pasadena has a unique niche in aerospace and scientific computing where web developers build data visualization platforms and mission-critical web applications for space exploration and research. The city also sits within LA County's broader entertainment and tech ecosystem, offering a quieter alternative to downtown LA while maintaining proximity to major studios and tech companies.

Pasadena is located in Los Angeles County, California.

Associate's Web Development Degree Programs Near Pasadena, California
  1. Santa Monica College (Public) — State #1, 20.9 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 95%.
  2. MiraCosta College (Public) — State #2, 82 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 94%.
  3. Antelope Valley Community College District (Public) — State #5, 36.4 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 82%.
Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs Near Pasadena, California
  1. University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #2, 38.8 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #3, 18 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #4, 102.3 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.
Master's Web Development Degree Programs Near Pasadena, California
  1. University of Southern California (Private) — State #1, 12.1 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  2. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 18 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #3, 102.3 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.
Doctoral Web Development Degree Programs Near Pasadena, California
  1. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 18 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  2. University of Southern California (Private) — State #3, 12.1 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #4, 38.8 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.

Web Development Degree Programs Near Anaheim, California

Anchored by The Walt Disney Company's global headquarters, Anaheim offers web developers direct access to one of the world's largest media and entertainment corporations actively building digital platforms, streaming applications, and e-commerce solutions. Cal State Fullerton and Orange County's broader tech corridor provide educational pathways and employment opportunities in both Disney-adjacent roles and the region's independent digital agencies.

Anaheim is located in Orange County, California.

Associate's Web Development Degree Programs Near Anaheim, California
  1. Santa Monica College (Public) — State #1, 33.7 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 95%.
  2. MiraCosta College (Public) — State #2, 57 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 94%.
  3. Antelope Valley Community College District (Public) — State #5, 60.2 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 82%.
Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs Near Anaheim, California
  1. University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #2, 13.5 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #3, 34 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #4, 77 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.
Master's Web Development Degree Programs Near Anaheim, California
  1. University of Southern California (Private) — State #1, 24.4 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  2. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 34 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #3, 77 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.
Doctoral Web Development Degree Programs Near Anaheim, California
  1. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 34 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  2. University of Southern California (Private) — State #3, 24.4 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #4, 13.5 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.

Web Development Degree Programs Near Oakland, California

Oakland's growing startup scene and lower housing costs compared to San Francisco make it attractive for junior and mid-level developers, with a vibrant community of indie tech companies, digital agencies, and remote-first startups establishing operations in the city. UC Berkeley is directly adjacent, and the East Bay Area's tech ecosystem benefits from proximity to Silicon Valley while fostering a distinct local culture of mission-driven and socially conscious tech companies.

Oakland is located in Alameda County, California.

Associate's Web Development Degree Programs Near Oakland, California
  1. Diablo Valley College (Public) — State #3, 14.9 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $1,288/year.
  2. Modesto Junior College (Public) — State #4, 68.2 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $1,188/year. Graduation rate: 77%.
  3. De Anza College (Public) — State #7, 34.9 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $1,395/year.
Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs Near Oakland, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 5 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Santa Cruz (Public) — State #5, 56.5 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 57.7 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Web Development Degree Programs Near Oakland, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #5, 5 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 57.7 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
  3. Stanford University (Private) — State #8, 26 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $61,731/year.
Doctoral Web Development Degree Programs Near Oakland, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 5 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. Stanford University (Private) — State #7, 26 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $61,731/year.
  3. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #8, 57.7 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Web Development Degree Programs Near Riverside, California

As an affordable alternative to coastal California, Riverside is increasingly home to remote workers and distributed teams in web development, with UC Riverside offering computer science programs and local employers in logistics, manufacturing, and e-commerce seeking custom web solutions. The city's affordability makes it viable for freelancers and developers working for Bay Area or Los Angeles companies from a lower cost-of-living base.

Riverside is located in Riverside County, California.

Associate's Web Development Degree Programs Near Riverside, California
  1. Santa Monica College (Public) — State #1, 62.3 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 95%.
  2. MiraCosta College (Public) — State #2, 51.8 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 94%.
  3. Antelope Valley Community College District (Public) — State #5, 68.5 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 82%.
Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs Near Riverside, California
  1. University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #2, 32.8 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #3, 61.2 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #4, 73.7 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.
Master's Web Development Degree Programs Near Riverside, California
  1. University of Southern California (Private) — State #1, 51.7 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  2. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 61.2 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #3, 73.7 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.
Doctoral Web Development Degree Programs Near Riverside, California
  1. University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 61.2 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  2. University of Southern California (Private) — State #3, 51.7 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
  3. University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #4, 32.8 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.

Web Development Degree Programs Near Fresno, California

Fresno's smaller, regional economy offers web developers opportunities in agricultural technology, manufacturing e-commerce platforms, and local digital transformation projects with significantly less competition than coastal metros. Fresno State University provides local education, but most ambitious developers use the city as a lower-cost base while freelancing for clients statewide or working remotely for larger companies.

Fresno is located in Fresno County, California.

Associate's Web Development Degree Programs Near Fresno, California
  1. Diablo Valley College (Public) — State #3, 150.8 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $1,288/year.
  2. Modesto Junior College (Public) — State #4, 90.9 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $1,188/year. Graduation rate: 77%.
  3. Antelope Valley Community College District (Public) — State #5, 170.6 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 82%.
Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs Near Fresno, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 156.3 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Santa Cruz (Public) — State #5, 127.7 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 162.6 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Web Development Degree Programs Near Fresno, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #5, 156.3 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Santa Barbara (Public) — State #6, 163.9 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 162.6 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Doctoral Web Development Degree Programs Near Fresno, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 156.3 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Santa Barbara (Public) — State #6, 163.9 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. Stanford University (Private) — State #7, 139.7 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $61,731/year.

Web Development Degree Programs Near Berkeley, California

UC Berkeley's top-tier computer science program sits at the intersection of academic research and startup culture, with graduates directly accessing the broader Bay Area's venture-backed ecosystem and the university itself employing web developers on high-impact public-facing applications and research platforms. The city's proximity to Silicon Valley and San Francisco, combined with the college's reputation, creates unparalleled networking and employment opportunities despite California's highest housing costs.

Berkeley is located in Alameda County, California.

Associate's Web Development Degree Programs Near Berkeley, California
  1. Diablo Valley College (Public) — State #3, 12.3 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $1,288/year.
  2. Modesto Junior College (Public) — State #4, 70.1 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $1,188/year. Graduation rate: 77%.
  3. De Anza College (Public) — State #7, 39.9 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $1,395/year.
Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs Near Berkeley, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, in Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Santa Cruz (Public) — State #5, 61.5 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
  3. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 53.9 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Web Development Degree Programs Near Berkeley, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #5, in Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 53.9 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
  3. Stanford University (Private) — State #8, 31 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $61,731/year.
Doctoral Web Development Degree Programs Near Berkeley, California
  1. University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, in Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
  2. Stanford University (Private) — State #7, 31 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $61,731/year.
  3. University of California-Davis (Public) — State #8, 53.9 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative Pathway

Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into tech careers. For those in California considering alternatives to traditional degrees, here's what you need to know about this intensive learning format.

What is a Coding Bootcamp?

A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program (typically 12-24 weeks) that teaches practical programming skills through hands-on projects. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus exclusively on job-ready skills and often include career services to help graduates land their first tech role.

Who Bootcamps Are Best For

  • Career changers looking to enter tech quickly
  • Professionals wanting to upskill or transition roles
  • Self-taught developers seeking structured training
  • Those unable to commit to a 4-year degree timeline

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
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More Bootcamp Resources

Top Ranked Web Development Degree Programs in Other States

StateTotal ProgramsMedian TuitionTop Program
Best Web Development Degree Programs in Texas9$11,678The University of Texas at Dallas
Best Web Development Degree Programs in New York19$18,950School of Visual Arts
Best Web Development Degree Programs in Florida12$14,392University of Central Florida
Best Web Development Degree Programs in Washington5$4,623Eastern Washington University
Best Web Development Degree Programs in Massachusetts7$41,970Lesley University
Best Web Development Degree Programs in Illinois9$30,734DePaul University
Best Web Development Degree Programs in Georgia5$12,360Kennesaw State University
Best Web Development Degree Programs in Pennsylvania11$34,270Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Web Development in California: FAQ

How We Rank Web Development Degree Programs

Based on 50 programs from IPEDS 2023

We analyzed 50 web development degree programs in California using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.

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 typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

Regional salary data for web development graduates. California median salary of $145,770 is factored into institutional scores based on local 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 2023 — Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
  • BLS OEWS 2024 — State and metro salary data by occupation
  • CIP Code Mapping — Programs identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Data Sources

IPEDS 2023

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

BLS OEWS May 2024

California salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: February 15, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
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.

Web Development Degree Programs in California — Detailed School Profiles

Best Associate's Web Development Degree Programs in California

Diablo Valley College — Pleasant Hill, CA

Key Distinction: Focus on preparing students for both transfer to four-year universities and entry-level jobs in creative industries with extensive growth in digital media, film, television and electronic arts

Hakia Insight: DVC's program sits inside a broader Art and Digital Media department with faculty like Joann Denning bridging fine arts and technical skills; this unusual positioning makes it stronger for interaction design and UX than pure tech programs, while keeping transfer pathways to four-year design schools intact.

At the associate's level, DVC's art digital media program prepares students for innovative industries like graphic design, website and game design, interaction design, motion graphics, and special effects creation in a growing industry where skilled visual artists are in high demand.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Web Development — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Web Development — 2 years, online
Notable Faculty
  • Joann Denning — Department Chair, FTVE and Art Digital Media, Work Experience
  • Sahra Bhimji — Program Co-Lead, FTVE and Art Digital Media

Orange Coast College — Costa Mesa, CA

Hakia Insight: Orange Coast's $45K median salary for associate degree holders sits 15% below California's four-year bachelor's average, but the 2-year pathway and low cost make the ROI timeline tighter than most bachelor's programs if local job placement remains strong.

At the associate's level, orange Coast College's web development program delivers career-ready technical skills within California's accessible community college system, making quality tech education affordable and achievable for a diverse student population. The curriculum focuses on immediately applicable technologies and frameworks—HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, responsive design, and current back-end systems—structured so students can start freelancing or seeking employment after completing the program or use it as a foundation for transfer to four-year institutions. Faculty draw from active industry experience, teaching not just syntax but real-world development practices, debugging strategies, and the collaborative workflows that define modern tech environments. A distinctive advantage is the program's flexibility: students can complete certificates in specialized areas (front-end development, UX/UI, web design) or pursue the full web development curriculum, accommodating different goals and timelines. Orange County's location provides direct access to Southern California's massive tech ecosystem, including companies in Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Santa Ana, and easy proximity to Los Angeles and San Diego markets. The college maintains active partnerships with local tech companies and digital agencies, creating internship pathways and job placement support. What makes this program valuable is the practical, no-nonsense approach to skill-building paired with affordability—students gain employment-ready competencies without the cost burden of a four-year degree. Many graduates launch freelance careers or land solid mid-level positions at established companies; others use the program as a stepping stone to complete bachelor's degrees while having concrete marketable skills. The supportive community college environment, smaller class sizes, and strong career services create genuine mentorship and real job preparation.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Web Development — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Web Development — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Local tech startups (Internship partners)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $45,000. Top Employers: Small tech companies, Local businesses, Freelance.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 2.0.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • Adobe Certified Expert
  • Google Analytics
Top Transfer Destinations
  • Cal State Fullerton
  • UC Irvine
  • Cal Poly Pomona
  • San Diego State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
  • Junior Web Developer
  • Frontend Developer
  • Web Designer/Developer
  • QA Tester
  • E-commerce Support Developer
Included Certifications
  • Google Career Certificates (Web Design & Development)
  • CompTIA A+
  • Adobe Certified Associate (Web Design)

Santa Monica College — Santa Monica, CA

Key Distinction: SMC is one of 19 Los Angeles Community Colleges that has received the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Educate grant, providing education and training in cloud computing with access to a vast library of learning materials.

Hakia Insight: Santa Monica's $82,974 median salary—60% above Orange Coast and most community college averages—correlates directly to its AWS Educate grant status; the cloud computing specialization isn't just trendy, it's the differentiator that pushes graduate earnings into junior bachelor's degree territory.

At the associate's level, santa Monica College's Computer Science and Information Systems Department offers programs focused on computer programming, mobile app development, cloud computing, databases and networking, and cybersecurity. The program teaches foundational skills while drawing inspiration from industry professionals to prepare students for careers in technology.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Web Development — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Web Development — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Amazon Web Services (cloud computing)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $82,974.

Admissions

GPA Requirement: 2.0.

Fullerton College — Fullerton, CA

Key Distinction: Fullerton College offers comprehensive Web Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Fullerton College's location in Orange County's tech corridor gives it proximity to employer networks that often prefer local two-year hires over distant four-year graduates, though published placement data would clarify whether this geography translates to measurable hiring advantages.

Fullerton College offers Web Development programs in Fullerton, CA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Sierra College — Rocklin, CA

Key Distinction: Sierra College offers comprehensive Web Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Sierra College serves the greater Sacramento region, positioning graduates for government IT and state agency contracts—a sector with stable salaries and benefits that tech-industry-focused programs underemphasize, but which offers meaningful career stability.

Sierra College offers Web Development programs in Rocklin, CA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Mt San Antonio College — Walnut, CA

Key Distinction: Mt San Antonio College offers comprehensive Web Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Mt San Antonio College offers Web Development programs in Walnut, CA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

MiraCosta College — Oceanside, CA

Key Distinction: Comprehensive program covering multiple media disciplines including graphic design, web development, video production, and animation with hands-on experience using current industry software and professional practices.

Hakia Insight: MiraCosta's integrated Media Arts and Technologies department—spanning graphic design, web development, video, and animation—creates an unusual advantage for UX and front-end specialization; students build cross-disciplinary skills in interaction design that siloed web-only programs miss, and the faculty structure under Leigh Cotnoir signals institutional investment in creative-technical hybridity.

At the associate's level, the Media Arts and Technologies program provides a focused sequence of courses for students who wish to transfer to a four-year institution or gain employment in the fields of graphic design, web and interactive design, video production, product design, animation, digital media, and print and digital production and delivery.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Web Development — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Web Development — 2 years, online
Notable Faculty
  • Leigh Cotnoir — Department Chair
  • Min Choi — Full-Time Faculty
  • Karl Cleveland — Full-Time Faculty

Modesto Junior College — Modesto, CA

Key Distinction: Modesto Junior College offers comprehensive Web Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Modesto Junior College's location in California's Central Valley positions graduates for immediate employment in agricultural tech and regional manufacturing sectors—industries increasingly investing in digital transformation but often overlooked by coastal-focused CS programs.

Modesto Junior College offers Web Development programs in Modesto, CA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Hartnell College — Salinas, CA

Key Distinction: Hartnell College offers comprehensive Web Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Hartnell College's Salinas location serves the Monterey County tech corridor, where wine industry digitization and specialty agriculture tech companies are actively recruiting, creating a niche pipeline advantage distinct from Silicon Valley saturation.

Hartnell College offers Web Development programs in Salinas, CA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Antelope Valley Community College District — Lancaster, CA

Key Distinction: Antelope Valley Community College District provides affordable Web Development education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.

Hakia Insight: Antelope Valley's emphasis on transfer pathways means students can build a portfolio over two years at $200/credit while maintaining employment, then graduate from a four-year institution without the debt burden that typically leaves associate's degree holders underemployed.

Antelope Valley Community College District offers Web Development programs in Lancaster, CA. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Best Bachelor's Web Development Degree Programs in California

Otis College of Art and Design — Los Angeles, CA

Hakia Insight: Otis College's Web Development degree carries STEM designation and sits within a school renowned for Toy Design—placing graduates uniquely for interactive media roles at Disney, Bandai, and gaming studios where design-forward technical thinking commands premium salaries.

At the bachelor's level, otis College offers one of the only fully accredited four-year Toy Design degrees in the world, with STEM designation allowing international students to work in the U.S. for up to three years after graduation. Located near major toy companies in Los Angeles, students benefit from internship opportunities and achieve 100% employment within six months of graduation.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Web Development — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Web Development — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: American Girl, Aurora, Bandai, Basic Fun, Disney, Fisher-Price, Funko, Hasbro, Lego, Mattel, MGA Entertainment, Moose Toys, Playmates, Spin Master.

Location Advantages:

University of Southern California — Los Angeles, CA

Key Distinction: Broad areas of study include web development, software development, user experience/design, and project management with electives chosen based on students' academic and professional goals

Hakia Insight: USC's Web Development minor structure allows students to anchor their degree in film, business, or engineering while gaining production-grade web skills, a hybrid approach that produces graduates equally comfortable pitching ideas to creative directors or debugging backend architecture.

At the bachelor's level, the Web Development Minor introduces students to technologies, frameworks and methodologies used in the industry, enabling them to design and develop websites and web applications from the ground up. Students learn theoretical concepts and practical applications of web technologies useful not only in the web industry, but also within different major fields of study.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Web Development — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Web Development — 4 years, online
Admissions

GPA Requirement: 2.0.

Requirements: TAC-104

Location Advantages:

Academy of Art University — San Francisco, CA

Hakia Insight: Academy of Art's Interaction & UI/UX Design program draws faculty directly from San Francisco Bay Area studios, meaning the curriculum evolves in real-time with agency client work rather than lagging industry practice by 18 months as many programs do.

At the bachelor's level, the Interaction & UI/UX Design BFA program provides comprehensive education in modern web design and new media, taught by faculty working in the San Francisco Bay Area creative industry. The program focuses on visual design and offers students the opportunity to learn from teachers immersed in the field.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Web Development — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Web Development — 4 years, online

Location Advantages:

Gnomon — Hollywood, CA

Hakia Insight: Gnomon's North Hollywood location and partnerships with Epic Games and The Mill create a direct pipeline into virtual production and real-time rendering—skills commanding $140K+ salaries in entertainment tech while remaining nearly invisible in traditional CS curricula.

At the bachelor's level, gnomon offers specialized training in digital production for the entertainment industry with programs designed to develop studio-ready professionals. Students can study on a Hollywood campus with industry professionals and choose from multiple program lengths including accelerated 2-year certificates or comprehensive 4-year degrees.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Web Development — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Web Development — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Apple (corporate)
  • The Mill (corporate)
  • Epic Games (corporate)
  • Arrivant (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
  • Accredited

Location Advantages: Located in North Hollywood, CA in the heart of the entertainment industry

Dominican University of California — San Rafael, CA

Key Distinction: Dominican University of California offers comprehensive Web Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Dominican University's San Rafael location in Marin County positions students within a cluster of independent design agencies and nonprofit tech initiatives that prioritize mission-driven work and mentorship, creating a less-commoditized job market than saturated tech hubs.

Dominican University of California offers Web Development programs in San Rafael, CA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Santa Clara University — Santa Clara, CA

Hakia Insight: Santa Clara's three dedicated research labs (AI, Cloud, CSI) plus Silicon Valley proximity mean undergraduates can access hands-on infrastructure research—the type of resume-building work typically reserved for graduate students at peer institutions.

At the bachelor's level, santa Clara University's Web Design and Engineering program combines technical programming skills with creative design elements, requiring courses in both computer science (web programming, networks, software engineering) and arts/design (graphic design, computer imaging, website graphic design). The program culminates in a three-quarter senior design project and requires 175 units including University Core Curriculum requirements.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Web Development — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Web Development — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) Laboratory
  • Cloud Laboratory
  • Computing Systems & Informatics Laboratory (CSI Lab)
  • Data Science Laboratory
  • Humanitarian Computing Laboratory
Admissions

GPA Requirement: 3.0.

Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET Accredited Programs
  • ABET

Location Advantages: Located in Silicon ValleyAccess to cutting-edge technology industry

California College of the Arts — San Francisco, CA

Key Distinction: California College of the Arts offers comprehensive Web Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: California College of the Arts' San Francisco location within a school specializing in fine arts and design means web development students inherit access to interaction design faculty, typography expertise, and cultural theory courses that transform technically capable developers into experience architects.

California College of the Arts offers Web Development programs in San Francisco, CA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

University of Silicon Valley — San Jose, CA

Key Distinction: University of Silicon Valley offers comprehensive Web Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: University of Silicon Valley's San Jose base offers lower tuition than Stanford or Berkeley while maintaining proximity to venture-backed startups actively hiring early-stage developers for equity-heavy roles—a combination rarely available at comparable price points.

University of Silicon Valley offers Web Development programs in San Jose, CA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Ashford University — San Diego, CA

Key Distinction: Ashford University offers comprehensive Web Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Ashford University's San Diego location serves a military-adjacent population with GI Bill tuition coverage, creating an underutilized pathway for veterans transitioning to web development roles with built-in security clearance advantages for defense contractor opportunities.

Ashford University offers Web Development programs in San Diego, CA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Laurus College — San Luis Obispo, CA

Key Distinction: Laurus College offers comprehensive Web Development programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Laurus College's San Luis Obispo setting provides access to Cal Poly's engineering ecosystem and the Central Coast's growing remote-work tech culture without competing directly with Silicon Valley's salary inflation or credential gatekeeping.

Laurus College offers Web Development programs in San Luis Obispo, CA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Best Master's Web Development Degree Programs in California

Academy of Art University — San Francisco, CA

Hakia Insight: Academy of Art's master's program lets practicing designers and developers earn credentials part-time while maintaining Bay Area studio employment, producing graduates who immediately apply cutting-edge theory to live client work rather than graduating into job-seeking.

At the master's level, the Interaction & UI/UX Design BFA program provides comprehensive education in modern web design and new media, taught by faculty working in the San Francisco Bay Area creative industry. The program focuses on visual design and offers students the opportunity to learn from teachers immersed in the field.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Web Development — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Web Development — 1-2 years, online

Location Advantages: