Best Online Associate in Web Development Programs
An associate in web development degree prepares graduates for tech careers. Learn more about top-ranked online web development programs.
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At BestColleges.com, we believe in providing accurate and actionable information for students. Our writers, editors, and reporters are constantly asking themselves the question, ”What information is vital to students right now?” Answering this question is what drives us. Our mission is to inform students through straightforward, factual content informed by the latest data and trends.
The freelance Integrity Network at BestColleges is comprised of seasoned professionals who bring their expertise to almost every subject relevant to college students, including admissions, college majors, financial aid, and student mental health. Network members review and author content, pulling from their first-hand industry experience and ensuring content is as accurate and up-to-date as possible.
If you're interested in joining our Integrity Network, contact us at media@bestcolleges.com. Integrity Network members typically have a graduate or terminal degree and several years of relevant professional experience.
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An online associate in web development trains tech professionals for careers in a well-paying, growing field. After earning an associate degree, graduates often work as web developers, web designers, or user interface designers.
Web developers benefit from high salaries and strong job growth. According to May 2020 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), web developers earn a median annual salary of more than $77,000. This is substantially higher than the median salary across all occupations, which the BLS reports was $41,950 in May 2020.
The BLS also projects that the field will see faster than average job growth — 13% compared to 8% across all jobs.
Completing a two-year associate degree builds the knowledge and skills needed for many web development careers. And degree-seekers have many options to earn their degree. Students can earn their associate degree from an affordable community college.
In addition, many technical schools and four-year colleges grant associate degrees in web development. Top-ranked online schools also offer web development degrees. Online programs can provide flexibility and accessibility for students who work or have other commitments.
Our list ranks the best online associate in web development programs to help students find the right fit for their budget, schedule, and professional goals.
Popular Online Associate Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Accredited Online Associate in Web Development Programs
Brigham Young University-Idaho
Rexburg, ID4 yearCampus + Online
$4,536
$4,536
96%
79%
N/A
N/A
68%
43,023
Private
Yes
$4,536
$4,536
Rexburg, ID4 yearCampus + Online
$4,536
$4,536
96%
79%
N/A
N/A
68%
43,023
Private
Yes
Champlain College
Burlington, VT2 yearCampus + Online
$43,800
$43,800
62%
57%
$14,310
$14,310
70%
2,373
Private
Yes
$43,800
$43,800
Burlington, VT2 yearCampus + Online
$43,800
$43,800
62%
57%
$14,310
$14,310
70%
2,373
Private
Yes
Northern Wyoming Community College District
Sheridan, WY2 yearCampus + Online
$3,150
$9,450
N/A
43%
N/A
N/A
61%
3,596
Public
Yes
$3,150
$9,450
Sheridan, WY2 yearCampus + Online
$3,150
$9,450
N/A
43%
N/A
N/A
61%
3,596
Public
Yes
Dakota State University
Madison, SD4 yearCampus + Online
$7,616
$10,718
80%
77%
$5,999
$11,199
75%
3,241
Public
Yes
$7,616
$10,718
Madison, SD4 yearCampus + Online
$7,616
$10,718
80%
77%
$5,999
$11,199
75%
3,241
Public
Yes
Bismarck State College
Bismarck, ND4 yearCampus + Online
$4,167
$6,251
85%
58%
N/A
N/A
71%
3,771
Public
Yes
$4,167
$6,251
Bismarck, ND4 yearCampus + Online
$4,167
$6,251
85%
58%
N/A
N/A
71%
3,771
Public
Yes
Montgomery County Community College
Blue Bell, PA2 yearCampus + Online
$8,880
$13,320
N/A
62%
N/A
N/A
65%
8,596
Public
Yes
$8,880
$13,320
Blue Bell, PA2 yearCampus + Online
$8,880
$13,320
N/A
62%
N/A
N/A
65%
8,596
Public
Yes
Moraine Park Technical College
Fond du Lac, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,303
$6,455
N/A
47%
N/A
N/A
79%
3,074
Public
Yes
$4,303
$6,455
Fond du Lac, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,303
$6,455
N/A
47%
N/A
N/A
79%
3,074
Public
Yes
Georgia Northwestern Technical College
Rome, GA2 yearCampus + Online
$2,400
$4,800
N/A
65%
N/A
N/A
65%
6,141
Public
Yes
$2,400
$4,800
Rome, GA2 yearCampus + Online
$2,400
$4,800
N/A
65%
N/A
N/A
65%
6,141
Public
Yes
St Petersburg College
St. Petersburg, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$1,943
$7,774
N/A
67%
N/A
N/A
N/A
23,501
Public
Yes
$1,943
$7,774
St. Petersburg, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$1,943
$7,774
N/A
67%
N/A
N/A
N/A
23,501
Public
Yes
Cerro Coso Community College
Ridgecrest, CA2 yearCampus + Online
$1,380
$9,510
N/A
70%
N/A
N/A
45%
4,919
Public
No
$1,380
$9,510
Ridgecrest, CA2 yearCampus + Online
$1,380
$9,510
N/A
70%
N/A
N/A
45%
4,919
Public
No
What Can I Expect From an Online Associate in Web Development Program?
An associate degree provides foundational training in web development. Students generally complete 60 credits to earn an associate degree, which typically requires two years of full-time study.
Web development programs train learners in the programming languages, web frameworks, and other tools required to build websites. Majors also gain basic computer science and information technology training.
Online associate in web development programs let students complete coursework through a distance learning format. An online format may appeal to working professionals and students balancing school with other responsibilities. Degree-seekers will complete projects and assignments online, but may also complete an internship in their local area.
During an associate program, web development majors may complete general education requirements outside of their major coursework. For example, students in an associate of science program often complete general education courses in math, communication, and the natural sciences.
An associate of applied science (AAS) may require fewer general education requirements. However, AAS programs offer fewer transfer credits for those considering a bachelor ‘s degree.
Earning a web development degree online requires strong technical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Before applying to web development programs, prospective students must consider their learning needs.
Is an Associate Degree Not Right for You? Consider an Online Bootcamp for Web Development!
[bootcamp-widget]Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Associate in Web Development Program?
Web Development Fundamentals
Introductory courses train students in the foundational skills of web development. Students will often learn to code in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The course also covers user experience, SEO, and common web development frameworks.
JavaScript
Web developers rely on JavaScript to create interactive features on websites. The course introduces JavaScript syntax. Learners strengthen their JavaScript knowledge and begin creating websites and interfaces using JavaScript.
Database Programming
Websites connect with databases to store data, populate fields, and receive information from customers. This class covers database programming tools, control structures, and database security. Back-end web developers draw on these skills in their careers.
WordPress Development
WordPress is one of the most popular content management systems for websites. Students learn how to create interactive, dynamic websites using WordPress tools. The course also covers plugins and e-commerce tools. The training prepares learners for careers as WordPress developers.
Mobile App Development
Learners study application development for mobile platforms, including for the iOS or Android operating systems. The course covers common programming languages, design considerations, and testing requirements.
What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Associate in Web Development Program?
Applicants to web development programs must meet admissions requirements. These requirements vary depending on the school. For example, many community colleges offer web development degrees that do not require college entrance exam scores. Instead, applicants submit high school transcripts or GED test scores to gain admission.
At four-year schools that offer associate degrees, applicants may need to submit transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, letters of recommendation, and an application essay. When asking for recommendation letters, consider former instructors, current supervisors, or mentors.
Applicants with prior college experience also submit college transcripts. Many programs provide a transcript evaluation to determine transfer credits. Applicants can also ask about receiving credit for life or work experience. Most schools offer credit by exam and credit for military experience, for example.
What Can I Do With an Online Associate in Web Development Degree?
Career Outlook
Web development programs provide career training for this in-demand field. Graduates with an associate degree in web development can work in several roles related to web development. The degree prepares learners for careers as front-end web developers, back-end web developers, or full-stack web developers. Web development jobs offer a median annual salary of $77,200, according to May 2020 data from the BLS.
A web development degree also leads to opportunities as a web designer, UX/UI developer, WordPress developer, or mobile app developer. Many of these fields report average salaries well over the nationwide median and strong job growth. For example, web developers and digital designers will see faster than average growth from 2020-2030, according to BLS projections.
An associate in web development prepares graduates for in-demand roles. Learn more about web development careers.
Career Paths
Web Developer
Web developers build and maintain websites. They may specialize in front-end or back-end development, or work as a full-stack developer creating the site’s layout and interface while also working on back-end functions like database connections. Using programming languages like JavaScript, web developers design interactive features. Web developers work closely with clients, designers, UX writers, and product managers.
Median Annual Salary: $77,200
U/UX Designer
User interface and user experience designers create user-friendly interfaces for websites and mobile applications to improve useability and increase customer retention and satisfaction. They may create prototypes, test features, and modify page layouts based on user feedback. These professionals collaborate with web developers, designers, and product managers to create finished products.
Average Annual Salary: $65,710 (as of February 2022)
Web Designer
Digital designers and web designers create the look and feel of websites. They design the page layout, site functions, and user navigation tools. These designers rely on programming languages like HTML and CSS to create layouts and incorporate images, graphics, and interactive elements on sites. They also test interfaces for usability.
Median Annual Salary: $77,200
Computer Support Specialist
Computer support specialists help users and organizations manage their computer needs. They offer technical assistance based on specialized knowledge of a product or service. With a background in web development, specialists might assist users with website building tools or troubleshoot connectivity issues for organizations.
Median Annual Salary: $55,510
Web Development Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Continuing Education
The field of web development requires continuing education. As new technologies and programming languages emerge, tech professionals must stay current in the field. Many professionals enhance their skills through free classes, continuing education resources, and other tools.
Learners can also expand their knowledge through a certificate program or professional certification. While certifications demonstrate skills, often through an examination, certificates train students in related areas like mobile app development and UX/UI design. Many coding bootcamps offer continuing education training as well.
After completing an associate degree, graduates can also pursue their bachelor ‘s in web development. A bachelor ‘s degree can open the door to additional opportunities and a higher earning potential. Many colleges offer online bachelor ‘s programs in web development for students seeking a flexible learning environment.
How Do I Choose an Online Associate in Web Development Program?
Cost
The cost of an associate degree can vary from as little as $3,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the school. In general, public schools charge lower tuition rates, and an online learning format can save students money. In addition to looking at tuition costs, students need to research the truel program cost for earning an associate degree.
Program Format
Online associate programs offer several format options. Students can choose a synchronous or asynchronous format depending on their schedule. Synchronous classes hold live sessions with set meeting times, while asynchronous classes do not. Degree-seekers can also choose between a part-time or full-time option. Some programs also offer accelerated degrees.
Location
An online learning format means students can attend colleges located outside their region. However, choosing a program that ‘s nearby may benefit certain students. For example, learners enrolled in programs with on-campus requirements save money by choosing a local option. Local schools may also offer stronger industry connections in the region.
Accreditation
Students considering an online associate in web development should always choose an accredited college. Accredited schools meet high standards for academic quality and trustworthiness. Degree-seekers at accredited colleges also qualify for federal financial aid programs.
Student Support
Prospective students should also research online student services, including academic advising, tutoring services, and career services. These resources play a major role in helping students complete their degree and enter the job market. For example, college internships, alumni networks, and mentorship programs provide valuable resources for transitioning from school to the workforce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Associate in Web Development Programs
Is an associate degree in web development worth it?
An associate degree in web development builds the technical skills and knowledge required for careers as a web developer or web designer. During a web development degree, learners study programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. They also learn how to use different frameworks to design complex, dynamic websites.
After earning an associate degree, graduates benefit from above-average salaries. For example, web developers earn a median salary of over $77,000 per year. In addition, an online degree can pay off. Learners attending accredited online programs benefit from the same high academic standards as on-campus programs.
How fast can I get an associate in web development degree online?
Earning an associate degree typically takes two years for full-time students. Part-time learners often require three or more years to complete an associate degree. Some colleges may offer accelerated options that take less than two years.
Students can also shorten the time to degree with transfer credits. For example, many colleges award credit for passing examinations like AP tests or CLEP tests. Those with prior work or military experience may also receive credit toward their degree. Finally, students with a certificate in web development can ask about receiving transfer credit toward an associate degree.
Is an online associate degree in web development credible?
Many professionals considering an online degree wonder how employers will treat their credentials. Fortunately, an online degree from an accredited college meets the same high standards as an in-person degree. Accredited schools submit curriculum material, student learning outcomes, and faculty qualifications to earn accreditation.
Further, online programs offered at accredited schools often use the same teaching materials and assignments as in-person programs. Finally, many respected colleges award the same diploma to online and on-campus graduates.
How much money can I make with an associate in web development?
The earning potential for web development graduates varies depending on their career path. According to BLS data, web developers and digital designers made a median annual income of over $77,000 per year as of May 2020. Other career paths report a similar earning potential.
Professionals can increase their earning potential in several ways. A broader skill set can translate into higher earnings. For example, full-stack web developers often earn more than front-end or back-end web developers. Education also correlates with earning potential. Those with a bachelor ‘s degree often report higher salaries than those with just an associate degree.
Is an associate degree in web development in demand?
The demand for web developers continues to grow. According to BLS data, web developers will see a projected 13% increase in jobs from 2020-2030. That represents faster than average growth and translates into more than 25,000 new jobs for web developers.
The technical skills gained during a web development degree also translate into other in-demand fields. For example, graduates pursue careers in web design, UX/UI design, and mobile app development. With multiple high-demand career paths, an associate degree in web development offers a strong return on investment.
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