Top 3 Web Development Programs in Georgia
Georgia Institute of Technology
Top-ranked computer science program with strong web development track
University of Georgia
Comprehensive digital media and web design curriculum
Georgia Southern University
Strong IT program with web development specialization
- 1.Georgia Tech leads with 92% graduation rate and average starting salaries of $85,000 for web developers
- 2.In-state tuition ranges from $8,500 to $12,700 across top programs, making Georgia affordable for tech education
- 3.Atlanta's tech scene offers 23% more web development jobs than the national average according to BLS data
- 4.Georgia universities place 78% of web development graduates in tech roles within 6 months
- 5.State programs emphasize React, Node.js, and cloud technologies aligned with local job market demands
Based on 18 programs from IPEDS, College Scorecard, and BLS data
Percentage employed in tech roles within 6 months
Average salary for new graduates
Modern frameworks, industry alignment
Industry experience and advanced degrees
Graduation and retention rates
Tuition relative to outcomes
Georgia Web Development Programs Ranked
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Georgia Institute of Technology | Atlanta | $12,682 | 9200% | 9400% | $85,000 | 94.2 |
| 2 | University of Georgia | Athens | $11,830 | 8700% | 8900% | $78,000 | 89.7 |
| 3 | Georgia Southern University | Statesboro | $9,568 | 5600% | 8100% | $72,000 | 82.1 |
| 4 | Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw | $10,764 | 4700% | 7900% | $71,000 | 79.8 |
| 5 | Georgia State University | Atlanta | $11,436 | 5500% | 7700% | $69,000 | 77.5 |
| 6 | Savannah State University | Savannah | $8,890 | 3800% | 7400% | $66,000 | 74.2 |
Why Georgia Tech Dominates Web Development Education
Georgia Institute of Technology maintains its position as the top web development program in the state, with graduates earning an average starting salary of $85,000 according to College Scorecard data. The program's strength lies in its comprehensive computer science curriculum that seamlessly integrates modern web technologies with fundamental software engineering principles.
What sets Georgia Tech apart is its industry connections in Atlanta's thriving tech ecosystem. Students gain access to internships at major companies like Microsoft, Google, and Home Depot, which maintains a significant technology presence in the metro area. The university's co-op program allows students to alternate between academic terms and full-time work experience, resulting in 94% employment rates within six months of graduation.
The curriculum covers full-stack development with emphasis on JavaScript frameworks including React and Angular, Node.js backend development, and cloud deployment using AWS and Azure. Students also learn database design, API development, and modern DevOps practices that align with industry demands in Georgia's growing software engineering job market.
Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, GA • University
Program Highlights
- • Co-op program with guaranteed internship placements
- • Direct pipeline to major tech companies in Atlanta
- • State-of-the-art web development labs and facilities
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate with 94% employment within 6 months
- Average starting salary of $85,000 for web development graduates
- Strong industry partnerships with Atlanta tech companies
- Comprehensive co-op program providing real-world experience
- Modern curriculum covering React, Node.js, cloud technologies
- Access to cutting-edge research in HCI and web technologies
Why Ranked #1
Exceptional employment outcomes, industry partnerships, and comprehensive full-stack curriculum make Georgia Tech the clear leader for web development education in Georgia.
University of Georgia's Digital Media Excellence
The University of Georgia takes a unique approach to web development education through its Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication's Digital and Interactive Media Arts program. This interdisciplinary approach combines technical web development skills with design thinking and user experience principles, producing graduates who understand both the technical and creative aspects of web development.
UGA's program emphasizes responsive design, accessibility standards, and modern frontend frameworks while maintaining strong foundations in backend technologies. Students work on real client projects through the university's New Media Institute, gaining practical experience while building portfolios that demonstrate their capabilities to potential employers.
With an 87% graduation rate and average starting salaries of $78,000, UGA graduates are well-prepared for the evolving web development landscape. The program's connection to Atlanta's creative and technology sectors provides students with diverse career opportunities in both traditional tech companies and creative agencies specializing in web development careers.
Career Paths
Frontend Developer
SOC 15-1254Create user interfaces and experiences using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and modern frameworks like React and Vue.js
Full-Stack Developer
SOC 15-1254Work on both frontend and backend systems, managing databases, APIs, and user interfaces
Web Application Developer
SOC 15-1254Build complex web applications using modern frameworks and cloud technologies
UI/UX Developer
Bridge design and development by creating user-friendly interfaces and implementing design systems
Source: Atlanta's tech sector is creating web development opportunities 23% faster than the national average, driven by fintech, logistics, and enterprise software companies according to [BLS regional data](https://www.bls.gov/regions/southeast/georgia.htm).
| Factor | Georgia Tech | University of Georgia | Georgia Southern |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-State Tuition | $12,682 | $11,830 | $9,568 |
| Graduation Rate | 92% | 87% | 56% |
| Employment Rate | 94% | 89% | 81% |
| Starting Salary | $85,000 | $78,000 | $72,000 |
| Class Size | 18 students | 22 students | 28 students |
| Industry Connections | Extensive | Strong | Growing |
| Internship Placement | 100% | 87% | 74% |
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Georgia's top web development programs maintain competitive admission standards, with Georgia Tech being the most selective. Prospective students should plan early and focus on building a strong academic foundation in mathematics and science courses during high school.
For Georgia Tech's computer science program, admitted students typically have a GPA of 3.9 or higher and SAT scores above 1450. The university looks for evidence of programming experience, participation in coding competitions, or personal projects that demonstrate technical aptitude. Students interested in computer science fundamentals should begin building programming skills early.
- Georgia Tech: 3.9+ GPA, 1450+ SAT, programming portfolio recommended
- University of Georgia: 3.7+ GPA, 1350+ SAT, creative portfolio for digital media track
- Georgia Southern: 3.0+ GPA, 1200+ SAT, basic computer skills assessment
- All programs require completion of Algebra II and pre-calculus
- Computer science or programming courses highly recommended but not required
Cost Analysis and Financial Aid Options
Georgia residents benefit from relatively affordable in-state tuition rates compared to other states with strong technology programs. The HOPE Scholarship program provides significant financial assistance for Georgia students maintaining good academic standing, effectively reducing the cost of attendance by $4,000-6,000 annually depending on the institution.
Total cost of attendance varies significantly based on housing choices and lifestyle. Georgia Tech students can expect total costs around $28,000 annually for residents living on campus, while University of Georgia totals approximately $25,000. Students considering more affordable options should explore financial aid resources for STEM majors to maximize available funding.
Return on investment calculations show strong value across Georgia's programs. Even accounting for total program costs, graduates typically recover their educational investment within 3-4 years of graduation given the strong salary outcomes in Georgia's expanding tech sector. Students should also consider the long-term career growth potential in Atlanta's thriving technology ecosystem.
Online vs Campus-Based Web Development Programs
Georgia universities offer both traditional campus-based programs and online degree options for web development education. Each format has distinct advantages depending on student circumstances and career goals. Students should carefully consider their learning style and professional objectives when choosing between formats.
Campus-based programs provide direct access to faculty mentorship, collaborative project opportunities, and networking events that can be valuable for career development. Georgia Tech's campus experience includes access to hackathons, tech meetups, and recruiting events where students connect directly with potential employers from Atlanta's tech scene.
Online programs offer flexibility for working students or those with family obligations. Georgia Southern and Kennesaw State both offer online web development tracks that maintain the same curriculum standards as their campus programs. Students considering online education should review our analysis of online versus on-campus degree outcomes to understand the trade-offs involved.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want the highest-ranked program with best employment outcomes
- You're comfortable with competitive academics and rigorous coursework
- You want access to top-tier internships and co-op opportunities
- You're planning to work for major tech companies or startups
- You can handle the higher tuition cost for better ROI
- You want to combine technical skills with design and user experience
- You prefer a more balanced approach between creativity and programming
- You're interested in digital media, marketing, or creative technology roles
- You want a strong alumni network throughout Georgia
- You prefer a traditional college campus experience
- You want the most affordable option with solid career outcomes
- You prefer smaller class sizes and more personal attention
- You're comfortable with a developing program that's growing rapidly
- You want to avoid the competitive pressure of tier-1 schools
- You're planning to work in Georgia's secondary tech markets
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Salary and employment data for web developers
Institutional data including graduation rates and costs
Graduate employment and salary outcomes
State-specific employment projections and market analysis
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.