Professionals with a bachelor’s degree in web design can help satisfy the growing demand for graphic designers, software developers, digital media specialists, web developers, user experience designers, and more. The curriculum prepares workers for creating the aesthetics, functionality, and style for a variety of websites and mobile applications. Graduates can work in fields such as business, technology, government, education, and marketing.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that comprehensive job growth for web designers will grow by 16% from 2022 to 2032. The BLS also reports that the median annual wage for these jobs is $92,750. Software developers earn a median annual salary of $130,160, and job openings in this field are expected to increase by 25% through 2032.
Students must typically complete at least 120 credit hours of coursework to earn a bachelor’s degree, translating to four years of full-time study. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average annual cost of undergraduate tuition is $7,998 at public schools and $34,923 at private institutions.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Web Design degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best8 Accredited Online Bachelor’s in Web Design Degree Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Southeastern University
Intelligent Score: 96.83In-state: $26,520
Out-of-state: $26,520
In-state: $13,365
Out-of-state: $13,365
SAT: 960-1170
ACT: 19-24
$399
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
University of Arizona
Intelligent Score: 96.52In-state: $10,990
Out-of-state: $33,273
In-state: $11,938
Out-of-state: $11,938
SAT: 1090-1350
ACT: 21-29
$500
Online
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
120
Southern New Hampshire University
Intelligent Score: 96.05In-state: $9,600
Out-of-state: $9,600
In-state: $18,810
Out-of-state: $18,810
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$330
Online, On-Campus
New England Commission of Higher Education
120
Champlain College
Intelligent Score: 95.87In-state: $64,010
Out-of-state: $68,575
In-state: $19,635
Out-of-state: $19,635
SAT: 1224
ACT: 28
$335
Online
New England Commission of Higher Education
120
Franklin University
Intelligent Score: 92.67In-state: $9,552
Out-of-state: $9,552
In-state: $16,080
Out-of-state: $16,080
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$398
Online
Higher Learning Commission
120
Liberty University
Intelligent Score: 91.67In-state: $14,791
Out-of-state: $14,791
In-state: $7,935
Out-of-state: $7,935
SAT: 1040-1250
ACT: 21-29
$390
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
University of Maryland Global Campus
Intelligent Score: 90.52In-state: $8,824
Out-of-state: $34,936
In-state: $13,158
Out-of-state: $13,158
SAT: 1270-1480
ACT: 30-34
In-State: $324
Out-of-State: $499
Online
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
120
Lindenwood University
Intelligent Score: 89.35In-state: $18,000
Out-of-state: $18,000
In-state: $9,450
Out-of-state: $9,450
SAT: 990-1180
ACT: 19-25
$495
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
120
How to Choose an Online Bachelor’s in Web Design Degree Program
Choose your area of study
This degree may be available as a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, or Bachelor of Applied Science. Also, many programs will allow you to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular niche in this field, such as user experience, software development, or information architecture. If you already know what you would like to do after you graduate, look for programs that closely match these career goals.
Research schools and programs
You should only consider institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
Once a school’s accreditation is confirmed, students can begin collecting information, such as:
- Are there prerequisite courses like mathematics, computer science, or design required?
- Who are the faculty members, and what are their qualifications?
- How do online students interact with classmates and faculty?
- Do online students have access to support services, such as technical support, academic and career advising, counseling, and tutoring?
To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
Prepare for tests and applications
Every school sets its own requirements and procedures for applying. Students can confirm the process with an admissions counselor to ensure they submit the suitable materials. Those applying to multiple programs may want to create a spreadsheet or checklist to keep track of deadlines and requirements.
Generally speaking, students will need to submit the following to apply to an online bachelor’s in web design program:
- Completed application and required fees
- Official high school transcript showing proof of graduation or a GED
- Letters of recommendation from teachers, employers, and mentors who can speak to your academic potential
- An essay or personal statement
- A resume or CV
Some schools still require SAT or ACT scores, although many institutions are implementing test-optional policies. Students should also check if there are other specific requirements, such as a minimum high school GPA.
Students with previous college credits from another institution should submit their transcript from that school to apply their credits to their new degree program.
Select your program
Ultimately, the number of schools a student applies to is a personal choice. If you plan to use multiple schools, keep in mind that most charge application fees and budget accordingly or request application fee waivers.
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
There are many ways to pay for your bachelor’s in web design degree. Some of the most common options include:
- Federal student loans
- Need-based scholarships and grants
- Merit-based scholarships and grants
- Federal work-study jobs
- Private education loans
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a prerequisite for determining eligibility for most types of financial aid. Students can contact their school’s financial aid office if they have questions about completing the FAFSA.
Other options include employer tuition assistance benefits, if you plan on working while enrolled in a bachelor’s program, and payment plans that allow students to pay tuition in installments rather than one lump sum at the start of the term. Some schools offer discounted tuition to veterans and active-duty military members, and many accept GI Bill benefits.
What Can You Expect from an Online Bachelor’s in Web Design Degree Program?
Students in an online bachelor’s in web design program can expect a core curriculum covering fundamentals like programming languages, web and graphic design principles, digital media, and coding design for mobile and web devices. Most programs strive to give students a balanced education in creative and technical skills.
Students should expect about half their courses to fall under the general education umbrella. General education requirements typically include English, a foreign language, math, physical or social sciences, and history. Once students move through these foundational-level courses, they may have an opportunity to specialize in a web design area such as user experience, front-end and back-end programming, or software development.
Programs may require students to complete an in-person or remote internship. There may also be a capstone project requirement, in which students execute a comprehensive final assignment demonstrating the knowledge and skills acquired in the program.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online bachelor’s in web design degree program
- Basic Web Design. Students learn how to design a website and organize design layouts. Instruction focuses on tools used for basic design. Topics covered include branding, imaging, color theory, typography, and workflow methods.
- Computer Graphics. This computer science course covers how to generate, create, and distribute images. Students also discuss differences in design strategies for mobile applications, desktop computers, and tablets.
- Adobe Dreamweaver. This class concentrates on Adobe software that aids web designers in constructing websites. Students learn how to navigate this tool effectively.
- JavaScript. Students familiarize themselves with the programming language JavaScript. They develop dynamic features for applications and websites.
- Writing for the Web. This course reviews different design strategies for desktop computers, mobile applications, and tablets. Students learn about HTML and CSS and typically create a website at the end of the course.
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor’s in Web Design Degree?
Career outlook
An online bachelor’s degree in web design helps students develop the necessary aptitudes for creating and maintaining functional, user-friendly websites. This degree combines technical and creative skills, which graduates can apply to a variety of roles, including web developer, software developer, website designer, graphic designer, and more.
Web designers work across industries, including retail, healthcare, business, tech, and media. They may work as in-house designers, building and maintaining websites for a particular company, or as part of a web design company that contracts with clients to create websites and apps. Another option is to work as a freelance web designer or software developer.
A bachelor’s degree is sufficient for most entry- and mid-level web designer positions. However, earning a master’s degree can prepare students for leadership and management roles.
Some of the most common occupations for workers with this degree include:
- Web developers and digital designers — Web developers create and maintain websites, including content and technical aspects. Digital designers develop and test website or interface layouts, functions, and navigation options and are responsible for the website’s look and functionality.
- Median annual salary: $92,750
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 16%
- New jobs projected: 19,000 per year
- Software developers — Create computer applications that allow users to do specific tasks and the underlying systems that run devices or control networks.
- Median annual salary: $130,160
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 25%
- New jobs projected: 153,900 per year
- Graphic designers — A degree in web design or graphic design will prepare you for a career creating visual concepts that communicate ideas to consumers. Graphic designers may also develop the overall layout and production design for publications such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and reports.
- Median annual salary: $58,910
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 3%
- New jobs projected: 22,800 per year
Online Bachelor’s in Web Design Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online bachelor’s in web design degree program?
The best way to get all the information about application procedures and requirements is to contact an admissions counselor. Begin by maintaining a checklist to stay organized regarding important dates and deadlines. Gather all materials needed: official transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, an essay, and a resume or CV.
Students can apply online through the school’s website or by completing a Common Application.
How much does an online bachelor’s in web design degree cost?
The average tuition for an undergraduate degree program is $7,998 at public universities and $34,923 at private institutions. Students should also expect to pay additional fees for things like technology, library resources, and healthcare services.
How long does it take to earn an online bachelor’s in web design degree?
The length of time it can take to earn a degree depends on the following factors:
- Total number of credits required. Most bachelor’s degrees require a minimum of 120 credits.
- Enrollment status. Full-time students can usually earn a bachelor’s degree in four years, while part-time students might take longer.
- Transfer credits. If students have previously earned college credits from another program, they may be able to apply them to their web design program and shorten their completion time.
- Program pace. Some schools offer an accelerated program where students can complete all the required courses in a condensed time frame.
Is an online bachelor's degree in web design worth it?
A bachelor’s degree in web design is an ideal fit for students looking to enter a field with a strong employment outlook and high earning potential. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the employment of web developers and designers will increase by 16% through 2032, translating to approximately 19,000 new jobs per year. The median annual wage for this field is $92,750, with the top 10 percent of earners making over $176,490 annually.
However, students should be aware that educational requirements for web designers vary by employer, with some giving preference to experience over formal education. Depending on the type of opportunities you’re seeking, you may be able to enter the field with an associate degree or a postsecondary certificate, which are typically less expensive and time-consuming than a bachelor’s degree.