Best Online Associate in Web Development Programs

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.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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

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)

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 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

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.

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