In this guide, we’ve highlighted accredited certificate in web design and development programs that provide flexibility, quality instruction, and the potential to advance your career. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced professional, these programs can help you achieve your goals in this exciting field.
Why Trust Us
The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.
- Analyzed over 2,000 national, accredited, and nonprofit colleges and universities
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- Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources
How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Web Design and Development 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.
Best 13 Online Certificate in Web Design and Development 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

UMass Lowell
Intelligent Score: 99.9In-state: $15,791
Out-of-state: $35,779
In-state: $14,014
Out-of-state: $14,014
SAT: 1200-1390
ACT: 27-32
$390
Online, Hybrid
New England Commission of Higher Education
18

University of California, Irvine
Intelligent Score: 98.76In-state: $11,442
Out-of-state: $41,196
In-state: $11,442
Out-of-state: $11,442
SAT: 1310-1530
ACT: 30-35
$386
Online
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
15

Rappahannock Community College
Intelligent Score: 97.17In-state: $18,320
Out-of-state: $24,323
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
In-State: $154
Out-of-State: $330
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
12

Georgia Northwestern Technical College
Intelligent Score: 95.57In-state: $15,543
Out-of-state: $17,943
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
In-State: $100
Out-of-State: $200
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
24

Bismarck State College
Intelligent Score: 94.17In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
Resident: $260
Non-Resident: $303
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
12

Champlain College
Intelligent Score: 93.95In-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
18

St. Petersburg College
Intelligent Score: 92.41In-state: $19,485
Out-of-state: $26,089
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
In-State: $111
Out-of-State: $386
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
18

University of Denver
Intelligent Score: 91.99In-state: $52,596
Out-of-state: $52,596
In-state: $52,596
Out-of-state: $52,596
SAT: 1170-1360
ACT: 26-31
$806
Online
Higher Learning Commission
16-24

Daytona State College
Intelligent Score: 91.76In-state: $15,630
Out-of-state: $24,518
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
In-State: $68
Out-of-State: $276
Hybrid
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
35

Riverland Community College
Intelligent Score: 91.53In-state: $17,930
Out-of-state: $17,930
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: 1120
ACT: 24
$208
Online
Higher Learning Commission
29

Cerro Coso Community College
Intelligent Score: 86.59In-state: $24,523
Out-of-state: $32,653
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
Resident
$46 Non-Resident: $388
Online
Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
28

Lone Star College
Intelligent Score: 86.22In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
In-District: $96
Out-of-State: $269
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
104

Peninsula College
Intelligent Score: 85.2In-state: $20,489
Out-of-state: $20,489
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: Not Required
ACT: Not Required
Resident
$143 Non-Resident: $159
Online
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
15
What You Should Know About an Online Certificate in Web Design and Development Program
Information systems security and cloud essentials are similar computer science certifications you might want to consider. Because certifications tend to take minimal time to complete, it may be worth earning multiple complementary certificates.
Only apply to schools approved by a DOE-recognized accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). If your school isn’t accredited, you may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
The requirements for web design and development programs vary. Some require you to have job experience in the industry to be eligible for the program.
To advance your web design and development career, you may need licensing and certifications for certain software. Luckily, certification for specific software is often included in web design and development certification programs.
Finding the Right Online Program
Here are some questions to ask when researching online certificate in web design and development programs:
- What tests are required for this online certification? There will likely be tests to prove competency in the materials and skills you’ll need to know as a web developer. You may also need to take certification tests in specific programming languages and software.
- How long does it take to complete this online certification? Certification programs generally take much less time to complete than degree programs. At most, programs last a couple of years, but many can be completed in just a semester.
You should research the application process for any programs you’re considering. Take note of any deadlines so you don’t miss out on your top choices.
Your current employer may offer tuition benefits or pay for you to become certified. Make sure to research your financial aid options well in advance so that you have time to perfect any applications.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Certificate in Web Design and Development Programs
What career opportunities are available with an online certificate in web design and development?
Most graduates with this certificate become web developers or digital designers. Web developers create and maintain websites, ensuring functionality, speed, and a seamless user experience. Digital designers focus on visual elements, creating engaging layouts and interactive features. These roles often collaborate on projects ranging from e-commerce platforms to mobile apps.
With the tech industry’s rapid growth, the demand for skilled professionals in this field is set to rise, adding approximately 16,500 new jobs annually over the next decade.
Are online certificate in web design and development programs as credible as on-campus programs?
Yes, these online certificate programs are often just as credible as on-campus options. They typically offer identical curricula and are taught by the same faculty members, ensuring that online students receive the same quality education as their in-person peers. This makes online learning a credible alternative to traditional classroom settings.
Accreditation further enhances credibility. Programs offered by accredited institutions meet established educational standards recognized by employers and other academic programs. All the programs we recommend are from accredited institutions, assuring that the certificates earned are valid and respected in the industry.
How long does it take to complete an online certificate in web design and development program?
These certificates typically take one to two years for full-time students, as most programs require 15 to 30 credits. Part-time learners, however, may take longer to finish due to their reduced course load. Most online programs anticipate part-time learning, though, and they’re often designed with flexibility in mind — making them ideal for working professionals or those managing other commitments. This allows students to progress at their own pace, balancing their education with personal and professional responsibilities while still gaining the skills needed for this career.
Are there specialization options within online certificate in web design and development programs?
Yes, online certificates in web design and development often offer specialization options. Programs typically fall into two categories: generalized certificates and specialized graduate certificates.
Generalized certificates are longer and provide a comprehensive web design and development foundation, which is ideal for beginners. Specialized graduate certificates cater to professionals seeking more significant expertise in specific areas, such as web-enabled information systems, advanced website design and management, or website usability design.
What is the cost of an online certificate in web design and development?
The cost of these programs varies depending on the institution and program structure. Most require 15 to 30 credits, with costs per credit ranging from $150 to $800. Some institutions also offer flat-rate pricing.
With total costs varying this much, contacting your school’s financial aid office is important to understand the total investment required. Financial aid counselors can also provide information on scholarships, grants, or other assistance options to help offset costs, making the program more accessible.