Best Online Web Design Degree Programs
Want to work in web design? Earning an online web design degree from a top-ranked program can prepare you for careers in this growing field.
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Web designers customize the look of websites through graphics, color, and layout. And they’re also critical for making websites accessible and functional.
What qualifications do you need to become a web designer? Many careers require a bachelor’s degree. Earning a web design degree builds the knowledge and hands-on skills you’ll need to succeed in this growing field.
What will you learn during an online web design degree? You’ll explore digital design techniques while also learning how to use programming languages to customize websites. And you’ll graduate with a portfolio that highlights your skills.
Our guide introduces the best online web design programs so you can find one that fits your budget, schedule, and career goals.
Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s in Web Design Programs
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
2022- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
Brigham Young University-Idaho
Rexburg, ID4 yearCampus + Online
$4,300
$4,300
97%
82%
BYU-Idaho serves more than 42,000 students each year. Through its Pathway Worldwide platform, the university offers a comprehensive array of online certificates and degrees, including a bachelor of science in applied technology. This flexible program prepares graduates for specific careers by embedding specialized certificates into the curriculum.
By choosing to pursue the web frontend certificate, students develop skills in HTML, JavaScript, CSS, and PHP. Learners can further augment their studies by completing the web development certificate, which teaches them to use servers and tools to build databases for dynamic web applications. This program culminates in either a senior project or internship.
Applicants must be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints or maintain close ties with the church.
N/A
N/A
74%
44,481
Private
Yes
$4,300
$4,300
Rexburg, ID4 yearCampus + Online
$4,300
$4,300
97%
82%
N/A
N/A
74%
44,481
Private
Yes
BYU-Idaho serves more than 42,000 students each year. Through its Pathway Worldwide platform, the university offers a comprehensive array of online certificates and degrees, including a bachelor of science in applied technology. This flexible program prepares graduates for specific careers by embedding specialized certificates into the curriculum.
By choosing to pursue the web frontend certificate, students develop skills in HTML, JavaScript, CSS, and PHP. Learners can further augment their studies by completing the web development certificate, which teaches them to use servers and tools to build databases for dynamic web applications. This program culminates in either a senior project or internship.
Applicants must be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints or maintain close ties with the church.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
Stevens Point, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$6,698
$15,402
87%
94%
The University of Wisconsin Stevens Point enrolls more than 7,000 students in over 100 programs. UWSP's undergraduate catalog includes a fully online bachelor of science in applied computing that covers programming, technological knowledge, and business communication skills. The program prepares graduates for careers in web development, healthcare, and law enforcement.
The curriculum covers topics like math for computer science and systems analysis and design. Learners also examine the ethical and legal responsibilities of an IT professional. As a final requirement, students gain hands-on experience through a capstone practicum.
UWSP's holistic admissions process factors in a student's cumulative GPA, class rank, previous coursework, and ACT or SAT scores. Successful applicants should demonstrate leadership qualities through work, volunteer, and extracurricular experiences.
$8,066
$17,706
79%
8,302
Public
Yes
$6,698
$15,402
Stevens Point, WI4 yearCampus + Online
$6,698
$15,402
87%
94%
$8,066
$17,706
79%
8,302
Public
Yes
The University of Wisconsin Stevens Point enrolls more than 7,000 students in over 100 programs. UWSP's undergraduate catalog includes a fully online bachelor of science in applied computing that covers programming, technological knowledge, and business communication skills. The program prepares graduates for careers in web development, healthcare, and law enforcement.
The curriculum covers topics like math for computer science and systems analysis and design. Learners also examine the ethical and legal responsibilities of an IT professional. As a final requirement, students gain hands-on experience through a capstone practicum.
UWSP's holistic admissions process factors in a student's cumulative GPA, class rank, previous coursework, and ACT or SAT scores. Successful applicants should demonstrate leadership qualities through work, volunteer, and extracurricular experiences.
Arizona State University Online
Scottsdale , AZCampus + Online
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
As a leader in distance education, Arizona State University offers over 300 remote certificates and degrees, including an entirely online bachelor of applied science in internet and web development. The program's 120-credit curriculum prepares graduates for careers as SEO specialists, full-stack developers, and graphic designers.
Faculty deliver classes through accelerated, 7.5-week sessions, allowing students to graduate in under four years. Core courses include information design and usability; multimedia anchoring, scripting, and production; and image editing and manipulation. Students also learn advanced website and e-commerce strategies.
Prospective first-year learners must meet ACT or SAT score minimums, place within the top 25% of their high school graduating class, or hold a minimum 3.0 GPA.
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
Public
No
N/A
N/A
Scottsdale , AZCampus + Online
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
0
Public
No
As a leader in distance education, Arizona State University offers over 300 remote certificates and degrees, including an entirely online bachelor of applied science in internet and web development. The program's 120-credit curriculum prepares graduates for careers as SEO specialists, full-stack developers, and graphic designers.
Faculty deliver classes through accelerated, 7.5-week sessions, allowing students to graduate in under four years. Core courses include information design and usability; multimedia anchoring, scripting, and production; and image editing and manipulation. Students also learn advanced website and e-commerce strategies.
Prospective first-year learners must meet ACT or SAT score minimums, place within the top 25% of their high school graduating class, or hold a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Southeastern University
Lakeland, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$26,520
$26,520
43%
53%
Based in Lakeland, Florida, Southeastern University delivers 32 fully online undergraduate and graduate degrees. Distance learners can enroll in the school's bachelor of science in digital media and design program to develop core web development and strategic communication skills. Graduates find work as digital marketers, web editors, and photojournalists.
The curriculum includes major courses in mass communication law and writing for digital media. Students learn to effectively design advertisements with regard to layout and imaging principles. They personalize their degree plan through 30 guided and open elective credits.
This program does not require applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores. However, students do need to submit official academic transcripts, a personal reference, and a biographical essay. The university offers many funding opportunities, and over 85% of students receive a financial aid package.
$13,365
$13,365
66%
9,546
Private
Yes
$26,520
$26,520
Lakeland, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$26,520
$26,520
43%
53%
$13,365
$13,365
66%
9,546
Private
Yes
Based in Lakeland, Florida, Southeastern University delivers 32 fully online undergraduate and graduate degrees. Distance learners can enroll in the school's bachelor of science in digital media and design program to develop core web development and strategic communication skills. Graduates find work as digital marketers, web editors, and photojournalists.
The curriculum includes major courses in mass communication law and writing for digital media. Students learn to effectively design advertisements with regard to layout and imaging principles. They personalize their degree plan through 30 guided and open elective credits.
This program does not require applicants to submit ACT or SAT scores. However, students do need to submit official academic transcripts, a personal reference, and a biographical essay. The university offers many funding opportunities, and over 85% of students receive a financial aid package.
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ4 yearCampus + Online
$10,990
$33,273
85%
56%
The University of Arizona maintains its flagship campus in Tucson and provides distance education through the Desire2Learn platform. Distance learning options include an online bachelor of arts in information science and e-society that emphasizes the connections between digital information and modern work and social life. Designed as an interdisciplinary degree, the program prepares graduates for careers related to social media marketing and cybersecurity
Students take classes like digital storytelling and disruptive technologies. They also delve into digital crime and social media, learning about cyberattacks on personal, political, and organizational data. Participants also learn hacking techniques within an open-source context.
Arizona provides ample financial aid opportunities, including payment plans, merit scholarships, and awards for transfer students. Military personnel pay a reduced tuition price.
$11,938
$32,065
85%
45,601
Public
Yes
$10,990
$33,273
Tucson, AZ4 yearCampus + Online
$10,990
$33,273
85%
56%
$11,938
$32,065
85%
45,601
Public
Yes
The University of Arizona maintains its flagship campus in Tucson and provides distance education through the Desire2Learn platform. Distance learning options include an online bachelor of arts in information science and e-society that emphasizes the connections between digital information and modern work and social life. Designed as an interdisciplinary degree, the program prepares graduates for careers related to social media marketing and cybersecurity
Students take classes like digital storytelling and disruptive technologies. They also delve into digital crime and social media, learning about cyberattacks on personal, political, and organizational data. Participants also learn hacking techniques within an open-source context.
Arizona provides ample financial aid opportunities, including payment plans, merit scholarships, and awards for transfer students. Military personnel pay a reduced tuition price.
Champlain College
Burlington, VT4 yearCampus + Online
$42,564
$42,564
85%
54%
Champlain College is located in Burlington, Vermont, and serves about 4,500 students every year. Champlain offers several distance learning programs through Canvas, including a fully online bachelor of science in web design and development. Program graduates can pursue careers in computer programming, UX design, and frontend development.
Asynchronous classes span seven-week terms, allowing students to earn their degrees at an accelerated rate. Course topics include designing digital images for the web, financial management systems, and usability in website and software design. Learners develop applied skills in Python, SQL, PHP, JavaScript, CSS, and XML.
To enroll in this online bachelor's in web design program, applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA. They must submit a professional resume and provide short responses to 3-4 questions. All students can access federal funding, state grants, and private scholarships.
$14,310
$14,310
79%
4,137
Private
Yes
$42,564
$42,564
Burlington, VT4 yearCampus + Online
$42,564
$42,564
85%
54%
$14,310
$14,310
79%
4,137
Private
Yes
Champlain College is located in Burlington, Vermont, and serves about 4,500 students every year. Champlain offers several distance learning programs through Canvas, including a fully online bachelor of science in web design and development. Program graduates can pursue careers in computer programming, UX design, and frontend development.
Asynchronous classes span seven-week terms, allowing students to earn their degrees at an accelerated rate. Course topics include designing digital images for the web, financial management systems, and usability in website and software design. Learners develop applied skills in Python, SQL, PHP, JavaScript, CSS, and XML.
To enroll in this online bachelor's in web design program, applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA. They must submit a professional resume and provide short responses to 3-4 questions. All students can access federal funding, state grants, and private scholarships.
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH4 yearCampus + Online
$9,600
$9,600
94%
96%
Southern New Hampshire University is a comprehensive higher education institution that educates about 93,000 students each year, most of whom enroll online. SNHU offers a fully online bachelor of arts in graphic design and media arts with a web design concentration. With flexible start dates and the ability to apply up to 90 transfer credits toward the degree, distance learners can complete the program largely at their own pace.
Coursework includes desktop publishing, graphics and layout in print media, and advanced digital graphic design for the web. As part of the web design concentration, students develop the skills needed to effectively sell products and ideas to diverse consumers. Graduates find work as multimedia designers, production artists, and marketing specialists.
This program does not require candidates to submit ACT or SAT scores for admission. SNHU accepts applications on a rolling basis.
$18,810
$18,810
67%
134,345
Private
Yes
$9,600
$9,600
Manchester, NH4 yearCampus + Online
$9,600
$9,600
94%
96%
$18,810
$18,810
67%
134,345
Private
Yes
Southern New Hampshire University is a comprehensive higher education institution that educates about 93,000 students each year, most of whom enroll online. SNHU offers a fully online bachelor of arts in graphic design and media arts with a web design concentration. With flexible start dates and the ability to apply up to 90 transfer credits toward the degree, distance learners can complete the program largely at their own pace.
Coursework includes desktop publishing, graphics and layout in print media, and advanced digital graphic design for the web. As part of the web design concentration, students develop the skills needed to effectively sell products and ideas to diverse consumers. Graduates find work as multimedia designers, production artists, and marketing specialists.
This program does not require candidates to submit ACT or SAT scores for admission. SNHU accepts applications on a rolling basis.
Baker College
Owosso, MI4 yearCampus + Online
$9,960
$9,960
54%
69%
Based in Owosso, Michigan, Baker College delivers more than 50 online certificates and degrees through Canvas, including an entirely online bachelor of science in information systems with a web development concentration.
The 120-credit curriculum includes courses in database management and design, data analytics, and enterprise architecture. Students develop programming skills using languages like Java and C++. Participants round out their program by completing an integrative senior project.
Prospective students must complete an online application and submit official academic transcripts. However, Baker does not require standardized test results. The Online Learning Consortium recognizes this information systems program for its academic quality and accessibility.
$12,510
$12,510
61%
6,028
Private
Yes
$9,960
$9,960
Owosso, MI4 yearCampus + Online
$9,960
$9,960
54%
69%
$12,510
$12,510
61%
6,028
Private
Yes
Based in Owosso, Michigan, Baker College delivers more than 50 online certificates and degrees through Canvas, including an entirely online bachelor of science in information systems with a web development concentration.
The 120-credit curriculum includes courses in database management and design, data analytics, and enterprise architecture. Students develop programming skills using languages like Java and C++. Participants round out their program by completing an integrative senior project.
Prospective students must complete an online application and submit official academic transcripts. However, Baker does not require standardized test results. The Online Learning Consortium recognizes this information systems program for its academic quality and accessibility.
Franklin University
Columbus, OH4 yearCampus + Online
$9,552
$9,552
N/A
100%
Franklin University has offered flexible and affordable academics to working professionals for over 115 years. The school now offers an online bachelor of science in web development that teaches students the enterprise-level skills needed to build engaging websites and applications. Learners can complete a fully remote 124-credit curriculum or opt for blended learning, taking some classes at Franklin's campus in Columbus, Ohio.
Coursework covers topics like database management systems, graphic editing software, and JavaScript for programmers. Students delve into client-side and server-side development and learn to administer the Linux operating system. Participants may use 25 elective credits to customize their degree plan, taking advanced classes in the major or completing a complementary minor.
Providing transfer-friendly online bachelor's programs, Franklin accepts up to 94 transfer credits. Financial aid opportunities include government funding and institutional scholarships.
$16,080
$16,080
9%
5,926
Private
Yes
$9,552
$9,552
Columbus, OH4 yearCampus + Online
$9,552
$9,552
N/A
100%
$16,080
$16,080
9%
5,926
Private
Yes
Franklin University has offered flexible and affordable academics to working professionals for over 115 years. The school now offers an online bachelor of science in web development that teaches students the enterprise-level skills needed to build engaging websites and applications. Learners can complete a fully remote 124-credit curriculum or opt for blended learning, taking some classes at Franklin's campus in Columbus, Ohio.
Coursework covers topics like database management systems, graphic editing software, and JavaScript for programmers. Students delve into client-side and server-side development and learn to administer the Linux operating system. Participants may use 25 elective credits to customize their degree plan, taking advanced classes in the major or completing a complementary minor.
Providing transfer-friendly online bachelor's programs, Franklin accepts up to 94 transfer credits. Financial aid opportunities include government funding and institutional scholarships.
Lewis-Clark State College
Lewiston, ID4 yearCampus + Online
$6,982
$20,238
100%
52%
Located in Lewiston, Idaho, Lewis-Clark State College provides distance education through Canvas. LCSC's undergraduate catalog includes an online bachelor of applied science in web design and development. Graduates are prepared to oversee content management systems and website domains. Learners also develop the communication skills needed to work with teams in virtual and face-to-face environments.
To earn their online bachelor's degree in web design, students take classes like interactive web script, image editing and illustration, and web authoring systems. They gain hands-on experience by completing an internship and a capstone project. Program graduates can pursue careers as content strategists, UX developers, and web managers.
Applicants to this degree completion program must hold an associate degree in web design and development or another relevant field.
N/A
N/A
61%
3,856
Public
Yes
$6,982
$20,238
Lewiston, ID4 yearCampus + Online
$6,982
$20,238
100%
52%
N/A
N/A
61%
3,856
Public
Yes
Located in Lewiston, Idaho, Lewis-Clark State College provides distance education through Canvas. LCSC's undergraduate catalog includes an online bachelor of applied science in web design and development. Graduates are prepared to oversee content management systems and website domains. Learners also develop the communication skills needed to work with teams in virtual and face-to-face environments.
To earn their online bachelor's degree in web design, students take classes like interactive web script, image editing and illustration, and web authoring systems. They gain hands-on experience by completing an internship and a capstone project. Program graduates can pursue careers as content strategists, UX developers, and web managers.
Applicants to this degree completion program must hold an associate degree in web design and development or another relevant field.
Web Design Career Outcome and Salaries
Web designers are in high demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for web developers and digital designers will grow by 8% between 2023 and 2033, faster than the 4% average growth rate across all occupations. What’s driving growth? The expansion of e-commerce and the mobile web, which means more jobs for web designers.
Earning a bachelor’s in web design can prepare you to beome a web designer or digital interface designer. A bachelor’s in web design can also prepare you for web development careers or related roles in graphic design and UX design. Your digital product design skills can also qualify you for diverse content creation roles in multimedia design or web content creation.
| Jobs | Description | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Web designer | Designs websites, including layouts, interfaces, and graphics | $108,820 |
| UX designer | Develops interactive features that improve user experience in digital interfaces | $80,020 |
| Webmaster | Maintains websites and creates digital content, including supervising the addition of new content | $62,540 |
| Web developer | Codes websites to create functional and accessible content | $95,570 |
| Graphic designer | Designs graphics for advertisements, websites, and other outputs | $64,700 |
| Multimedia designer | Develops multimedia products, including videos and web designs | $60,480 |
| Digital interface designer | Creates digital interfaces, including interactive features and usability functions | $108,820 |
| Front-end developer | Codes features that users interact with on websites, known as the front-end of sites | $84,840 |
| Online content creator | Creates videos, infographics, and other content for websites | $54,730 |
| SEO specialist | Implements strategies to optimize search engine results | $53,700 |
What to Expect From an Online Web Design Degree Program
General Information
- Cost: According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), in 2021-2022, public school tuition cost an average of $15,200 per year, and private nonprofit schools charged $29,700.
- Program Length: Web design programs usually last four years for full-time students; faster options exist for those with transfer credits
- Program Format: Programs may be offered in an online or hybrid format, with asynchronous and synchronous options.
- Part-time or Full-time: Both are available.
- Transfer Credits: Many programs allow students to transfer up to 90 credits out of a 120-credit bachelor’s degree.
- Accreditation: Colleges and universities should maintain institutional accreditation; there are no programmatic accreditors for web design.
Prerequisites
You’ll need a high school diploma or the equivalent to qualify for admission to any undergraduate program. Some colleges require SAT or ACT scores. To qualify for financial aid, fill out and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Web design programs may also require prerequisite classes before declaring your major. Prerequisites might include introductory web design, web development, or interactive design courses.
Program Requirements
- Complete Major Courses: As part of your web design degree, you’ll take 30-40 credits of web design classes, including upper-division courses in web development, interactive design, and computer programming.
- Meet General Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree programs often require 30-50 credits of general education courses in the humanities, social sciences, and STEM. Transfer students can meet these requirements with credits from their previous schools.
- Choose a Concentration or Minor: You can choose a concentration or minor to focus your degree. A minor in information technology, communication, or business, for example, can complement your major.
- Build a Portfolio: You’ll graduate with a portfolio that showcases your skills to help you transition into the workforce.
Common Topics or Subjects Covered
- Digital Design: You’ll explore digital design techniques and software tools, including design theory, usability, and accessibility. In addition to strengthening web and mobile design skills, you’ll also learn about multimedia design.
- Programming: Web design programs incorporate programming courses that cover HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. These courses focus on the application of programming in web design and web development.
- Interactive Design: Learn how to create interactive digital media using scripting and programming languages. You’ll practice through usability reviews, digital media exercises, and group projects.
- Front-End Development: Strengthen your front-end development skills with an emphasis on creating usable, interactive websites.
Common Concentrations or Specializations Offered
- Graphic Design: Strengthen your graphic design skills with courses in typography, image editing, illustration, and multimedia design.
- UX Design: Focus on user experience while learning how to conduct user research, develop interactive interfaces, and improve user experience on websites and mobile apps.
- Web Development: Gain programming and web development skills to code websites, including front-end and back-end development. You’ll learn how to use development tools and programming languages to customize websites.
Skills Learned
- Digital Image Editing: During a web design degree program, you’ll learn how to edit and customize images using tools like Adobe Creative Cloud and other software. You’ll learn how to create high-quality images for different mediums.
- JavaScript: The internet runs on JavaScript, and web design majors learn how to use it to code websites and create interactive web features. You’ll also strengthen your HTML and CSS knowledge.
- Content Management Systems (CMS): Web designers interact with many types of CMS, and a web design degree program can help you build the skills needed to create sites using them, such as via WordPress.
Student Support Services Offered
- Academic Advising: Receive personalized support from academic advisors and access academic support services like the writing center or tutoring. Many colleges connect incoming students with an advisor who supports them throughout their program.
- Tech Support: Online learners can access tech support through their program, which can include help with online learning technologies. Some programs offer support with software programs used in digital design.
- Career Counseling: Prepare for the job market with career services, including career counseling, mock interviews, and job placement support. Programs may also provide information about graduate placements and employment.
Undergraduate Certificates for Web Design
An undergraduate certificate in web design can quickly introduce you to core concepts and skills. Most certificate programs require students to complete 15-30 credits, so you can usually finish a certificate in one year or less. You’ll take courses in digital design, interactive design, and web development. Some programs also let you choose electives to customize your certificate.
What can you do after a web design certificate program? You may qualify for entry-level roles as a web designer or digital designer, but many of these careers require a bachelor’s degree. At most colleges, you can apply the credits you earn during a certificate toward an undergraduate degree.
In addition to web design, you can find certificates in digital design, web development, and related areas.
Is an Online Degree in Web Design Worth It?
A web design degree can pay off. Plus, earning your degree online is a great way to advance your education with a flexible schedule.
During an online web design program, you’ll strengthen in-demand skills for careers in a growing field. You’ll also benefit from support services throughout your degree program. If you’re on the fence, consider an online web design certificate, which can introduce you to the subject as well as online learning. When researching programs, consider the total cost and your schedule to find the best fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Web Design Online Degree Programs
A bachelor’s degree in web design can prepare you for a career as a web designer. You can also major in related fields like web development, graphic design, UX design, and digital design.
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