If customer experience, programming, and digital design are your strong suits, then the best Master’s Degrees in Web Design will help you attain a rewarding career. While most web design careers only require an associate or bachelor’s degree, a Master’s Degree in Web Design will help you land lucrative senior tech roles.
Graduate degrees allow students to gain a comprehensive understanding of essential concepts and skills in their chosen field. This article will cover the best web design master’s degrees and the jobs you can get with this degree.
What Is Web Design?
Web design is the visual and user experience design of a web page or a web application. It is a field that uses programming languages including HTML, JavaScript, and CSS to develop and design aesthetically pleasing and functional front ends of web pages.
Depending on your web design profession you can work in graphic design, software development, database design, or user experience (UX) design. Gaining a Master’s Degree in Web Design will help you become an expert in your chosen specialty.
Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Web Design?
The best colleges where you can get a Master’s Degree in Web Design are Carnegie Mellon University, Illinois Institute of Technology, University of Denver, and the University of Houston. These schools offer varying types of Master’s Degrees in Web Design, such as a Master of Science or a Master of Arts.
What Schools Offer the Best Web Design Master’s Degrees?
- Boston University
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Illinois Institute of Technology
- University of Denver
- University of Houston
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Web Design?
The admission requirements for a Master’s Degree in Web Design include a bachelor’s degree, a completed application form, and academic transcripts. Some programs will require students to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as a Bachelor’s Degree in Web Design or a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology.
Other Master’s Degree in Web Design requirements may include letters of recommendation, current resume, GRE or GMAT scores, personal statement, work experience, and a minimum GPA.
Web Design Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree
- Completed application
- Transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume
- Personal statement
- GPA of 2.5 – 3.5
- Work experience
- GRE or GMAT scores
How to Get a Master’s Degree in Web Design
You can get a web design master’s degree by enrolling in a master’s program and completing the required course requirements. A Master’s Degree in Web Design requires students to complete certain core and concentration courses. If you apply for a thesis program, your degree also requires you to deliver a thesis that matches your specialization and is approved by your advisor.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Web Design?
You need 30 to 45 credits for a Master’s Degree in Web Design. If you are studying full-time, web design master’s degree credit requirements typically take 18 months to two years to complete.
Web Design Degree Requirements
- Maintain a GPA of 3.0
- Complete at least 30 credits
- Complete and successfully defend a thesis
- Final project
- Internship program
Best Web Design Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Boston University | Master of Science in Computer Information Systems, Web Application Development Concentration | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Carnegie Mellon University | Master of Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Duquesne University | Master of Fine Arts in Digital Media: Interactive Design and Media | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | Master of Information Technology and Management with a Specialization in Web Design and Application Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| Lynn University | Master of Business Administration in Web Development Management | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | Master of Fine Arts in Visual Communication Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Touro College | Master of Arts in Web and Multimedia Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Connecticut | Master of Fine Arts in Digital Media and Design | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| University of Denver | Master of Science with a Concentration in Web Design and Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Houston | Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Best Schools for Web Design: Top Web Design Master’s Degree Programs
The best schools for web design master’s degree programs are offered by accredited colleges with up-to-date curricula and expert instructors. Furthermore, the best Master’s Degrees in Web Design will use hands-on training to teach students advanced knowledge and skills in the field of web design.
Read below to find out about the best on-campus master’s degree programs in web design, including the graduate program curriculum and career options. Use our list of best colleges for web design to accelerate your school search process.
Best Online Web Design Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Academy of Art University | Master of Arts in Interaction and UI/UX Design | Western Association of Schools and Colleges |
| Arizona State University | Master of Science in User Experience | Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools |
| California State University Fullerton | Master of Fine Arts in Art, Graphic and Interactive Design | Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission |
| Fort Hays State University | Master of Professional Studies in Web and Mobile Applications Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| Harvard University | Master of Liberal Arts in Digital Media Design | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Liberty University | Master of Science in Information Technology – Software Design and Management | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Maryville University | Master’s in Software Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Master in Information Technology – Web Design Concentration | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| University of Florida | Master of Arts in Web Design and Online Communication | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Wilmington University | Master of Science in Information Systems Technology – Web Design Concentration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Best Colleges for Web Design: Top Online Web Design Master’s Degree Programs
For those who prefer an online education, there are tons of online master’s degree programs that provide a web design education. Read below to learn more about the top online master’s programs in web design.
What Is a Web Design Master’s Degree?
A web design master’s degree is an advanced graduate degree that usually takes one to two years to complete and covers advanced web design and development subject areas. Overall, a Master’s Degree in Web Design solidifies your development, design, user experience, and website layout skills.
Depending on your career goals, you can earn an information technology web design master’s degree, a software development web design concentration, or a database architecture design degree. Any one of these options will open up advanced career opportunities.
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Web Design?
A Master’s Degree in Web Design is important if you want to apply for upper-level web design jobs. A bachelor’s degree or an associate degree will qualify you for entry-level positions, but a web design master’s degree will allow graduates to seek out advanced opportunities that offer better salaries and managerial jobs.
The main reasons why a web design master’s degree are:
- High starting salary
- Subject specialization
- Pathway to a doctoral degree
- Advanced career opportunities
- Creation of advanced design portfolio
What Types of Master’s Degree Can You Get in Web Design?
You can get the following types of Master’s Degree Web Design:
- Master of Arts in Web Design
- Master of Fine Arts in Web Design
- Master of Science in Web Design
- Master of Information Technology in Web Design
A Master of Arts in Web Design is the most common type of Master’s Degree in Web Design. While web design requires knowledge of technical expertise, a Master of Arts will cover technical aspects of web design as well as a more theoretical understanding of web design concepts.
Students who wish to focus on the technical elements and scientific nature of web design should pursue a Master of Science. However, a Master of Arts or a Master of Fine Arts will present graduates with a wider range of job opportunities.
Is It Better to Get a Master in Arts or Master in Fine Arts in Web Design?
It is better to get a Master of Arts in Web Design if you want a more general education and to enter into the workforce quicker. A Master of Fine Arts is a terminal degree and will allow graduates to teach at the college level without the need for a PhD.
A Master of Fine Arts will take longer to complete than a Master of Arts and therefore, the cost can be more. However, Master of Fine Arts students will have access to scholarships and financial aid to help them pay for their education.
What Is the Difference Between a Web Design Master’s Degree and a Web Design Certificate?
The main difference between a web design master’s degree and a certificate in web design is the number of credits required. A Master’s Degree in Web Design is a more complete degree and requires students to take more credits. A web design certificate can typically be completed in a year or less and focuses on a specific area of web design.
If you are looking to earn advanced roles in web design and have recently acquired a bachelor’s degree, then a Master’s Degree in Web Design will help you achieve this. If you are already working in a tech or design job, then a web design certificate will help you advance your career.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Web Design?
A Master’s Degree in Web Design costs an average of $19,792 per year, according to the most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). The cost of tuition varies depending on the university, program, and length. According to the same NCES report, a master’s degree costs an average of $26,597 at private institutions and $12,410 at public institutions.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Web Design Master’s Degree?
It takes an average of two years to get a web design master’s degree. The length of time it takes depends on whether you study full-time or part-time. Some schools offer accelerated programs that allow students to finish their degrees faster.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Web Design?
It is quite hard to get a Master’s Degree in Web Design because students are required to take advanced classes in various design and computer courses. Professional web designers must be proficient both creatively and technically. Furthermore, some web design master’s degree programs have strict requirements.
Why Should You Get a Web Design Master’s Degree?
You should get a Master’s Degree in Web Design if you want to directly qualify for senior web design jobs including senior web developer, user interface designer, and senior product manager. However, know that you can get a job in web design with an associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or even a bootcamp certification.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Web Design?
Master’s in Web Design courses will cover advanced topics in areas such as computer programming, UX/UI, computer science, and graphic design. A typical Master’s in Web Design course list will also include various electives.
UX/UI Design Principles
This course will typically use hands-on learning to teach students about the relationship between media and human perception. Design aesthetics and accessibility, style guides, software interface design, conceptual design issues, and technical research are all covered in this class.
Foundations of Web Design
Students will learn how to build responsive websites using CSS and HTML. In this course, students will typically use the school’s computer laboratory to design and build websites for desktop and mobile applications. They will also use style guides to help them conceptualize an efficient web design strategy.
Design Thinking and Methodology
This introductory course teaches students new and innovative approaches to design. Students will learn about the fundamentals of media design by using research, prototyping techniques, and ideation. Students will typically present a final design project and be able to reflect on any problem-solving and meaningful insights.
Visual Design Foundation
Students will learn about the foundations and history of design and explore the deep and rich global history of design. Students will study complex interrelationships between style, culture, and technology.
Programming for Designer
This course will serve as an introduction to programming for students with a strong design background. Students will use foundational elements of object oriented programming to apply their designs to computer software. Students will learn about classes, variables, control structures, and functions.
Continuing Education Paths for Web Design Master’s Degree Graduates
The best continuing education path to take with a web design master’s degree is to earn graduate-level certifications in a specific area of web design. This specialization and additional qualification will help graduates find lucrative and rewarding web design jobs. Students who wish to teach at the university level or apply for research jobs may seek a PhD in Web Design.
Related Web Design Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Web Design Master’s Degree Programs
The best web design master’s degree programs have affordable tuition, top accreditation, up-to-date curricula, and expert faculty, among other benefits. If you are interested in pursuing a Master’s Degree in Web Design you can use the following list of criteria to identify the best program for you.
Accreditation
Accreditation ensures an independent body oversees the program and its curricular content. Therefore, when selecting a web design master’s degree you must pick a school with a reputable and recognized accreditation. An accredited degree will help you stand out to future employers and ensure you get a high level of education from the program.
Curriculum Content
Web design is a tech field so students must be familiar with up-to-date technologies to maximize their potential as web designers. Ensure the school you choose provides an up-to-date curriculum and uses hands-on learning as part of its classes. If you are coming from a design background and want to focus less on the technical side of web design, consider if the curricular content matches this desire.
Faculty
When learning web design, you should choose a program that has expert faculty with industry experience. This will help you to learn the material more efficiently and give you access to a network of professional and expert web designers.
Format
Web design master’s degrees are offered in a variety of formats. For example, you can study online or in person, and full-time or part-time. If you have a lot of personal commitments or you wish to maintain a job while you study, make sure the course you pick is available part-time and online to ensure maximum flexibility.
Cost
If you are working within a tight budget you should keep your focus on public schools, as they offer lower tuition rates than private institutions. Online learning can sometimes offer cheaper tuition rates than in-person programs too. Most schools will offer scholarships and financial aid to help students who are on a budget, but you must be careful not to accumulate too much debt.
What Is the Most Affordable Web Design Master’s Degree?
The most affordable web design master’s degree on our list is the Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design offered by the University of Houston. This degree costs just $412.74 per credit for in-state students.
Salary and Job Outlook for Web Design Master’s Degree Graduates
Web design master’s degree jobs cover a wide range of industries and career paths. Those looking to enroll in a Master’s Degree in Web Design can choose from several specializations and concentrations, such as graphic design, software development, or digital marketing. A Master’s in Web Design salary is typically high if you choose a technical specialization such as software engineering or UX design.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Web Design Master’s Degree?
It is not very hard to get a job with a web design master’s degree because design jobs are in high demand. Web design graduates will receive a broad education and have strong skills in both technical and practical elements of design. This means you can pursue a more computer-oriented job such as a software designer, or a more creative design job like a graphic designer.
What’s the Average Web Design Master’s Degree Salary?
The average web design master’s degree salary is $71,000 per year, according to PayScale. This salary rate changes depending on your master’s specialization and choice of career. For example, according to the same PayScale report, the average salary for a UX designer with a master’s degree is $84,920. Salary will also depend on the level of education achieved and location of the role.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Web Design Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with a web design master’s degree range from technical computer-based jobs to design-heavy jobs. A Master’s Degree in Web Design will help you get high-level jobs in these various fields, such as senior and managerial positions. A bachelor’s degree or associate degree will typically only qualify you for entry-level positions.
Web Design Degree Jobs
- Software Designer
- Senior Game Designer
- Web Developer
- Graphic Designer
- User Interface (UI) Developer
Potential Careers With a Web Design Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Web Design?
You can make between $33,000 and $121,000 per year with a Master’s Degree in Web Design. The amount of money you earn with a web design master’s degree depends on your job title, location, and level of education. For example, if you have a graduate certification and a master’s degree, you will be able to increase your salary by obtaining lucrative positions.
Highest-Paying Web Design Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Web Design Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| User Interface Developer | $107,681 |
| User Interface Designer | $104,879 |
| Senior Video Game Designer | $101,473 |
| Database Designer | $99,484 |
| User Experience Designer | $98,816 |
| Product Designer | $84,316 |
| Senior Web Designer | $82,417 |
| Web Developer | $77,200 |
| Graphic Designer | $50,710 |
Best Jobs for Web Design Master’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for web design master’s degree grads cover a range of roles in web development. The most common jobs for grads with a Master’s Degree in Web Design include user experience designer, game designer, graphic designer, and software developer. Professionals with master’s degrees also have access to the senior levels of these roles.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Web Design Bootcamp vs Web Design Master’s Degree: Which Is Better?
The benefits of a Master’s Degree in Web Design versus a web design bootcamp certificate vary depending on your career goals and education preferences. For those looking for a short-term, cheaper alternative to get ready for an entry-level web design and development career, a bootcamp is the way to go. Below we compare the two educational options.
Benefits of a Web Design Master’s Degree
- Advanced and widely accepted degree. A Master’s Degree in Web Design is widely accepted and preferred across several senior positions. This degree showcases your expertise in the design and development field.
- A wide range of specialization options. Depending on your choice of career, you can pair your web design degree with another specialization. You can specialize in data science, software development, mass communication, graphic design, or animation.
- Lucrative career opportunities. A Master’s Degree in Web Design opens doors to several lucrative careers such as senior game designer, database designer, user interface designer, and senior software developer.
- Pathway to a doctoral degree. For those interested in entering the education or research sectors, a master’s degree will qualify you for a doctoral program.
- High salary rate. A Master’s Degree in Web Design allows you to apply for several senior positions across sectors like IT, business, and data industries, which come with high compensation rates.
Benefits of a Web Design Bootcamp
- Less time commitment. A web design bootcamp curriculum lasts only a few weeks to a few months so if you are in a hurry to get job-ready then this educational path is for you.
- In-demand skills. A web design bootcamp will provide you with in-demand industry skills including front end development, UX and UI design, and graphic design. This is especially useful if you already know what career path you want to take.
- Cheaper alternative. Unlike a Master’s Degree in Web Design, a bootcamp accepts high school graduates. You don’t have to get a bachelor’s degree to qualify for this educational path, making it a much cheaper alternative.
- Career services placement. Bootcamp graduates work at high-profile companies including Google, Facebook, and Amazon. Most bootcamps will provide you with extensive career services including resume critique, interview prep, and employer networking opportunities to help you land a job.
- Job guarantee. Some bootcamps also provide a job guarantee, where you get a full tuition refund if you fail to get a job within six months of graduation.
Is a Master’s Degree in Web Design Worth It?
Yes, a Master’s Degree in Web Design is worth it if you want to pursue senior-level web design jobs. A master’s degree will increase your salary and qualify you for high-level job opportunities.
Furthermore, earning a web design master’s degree is a pathway to a PhD in Web Design or a related field. This is the highest level of education you can earn and will allow you to pursue advanced research roles within the industry or to teach at the highest level.
Additional Reading About Web Design
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Web Design Master’s Degree FAQ
Yes, a Master’s Degree in Web Design is worth it for those looking to earn a senior design role or get a doctoral degree. A master’s degree can also help you earn a higher salary than an undergraduate degree.
Yes, a Master’s Degree in Web Design paired with a web development concentration can qualify you for a web developer position. However, know that you can also become a web developer by taking online courses or with a Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering, Software Development, or Computer Science.
Depending on your specialization, a web design master’s degree can help you get a job in mobile application development, graphic design, UX design, and game design. You can also work in a variety of industries such as tech, education, and finance.
No, a web design master’s degree isn’t a very popular education route in the industry as most jobs only require a bachelor’s or associate degree in web design. However, by earning a master’s degree you will stand out to future employers and be qualified for the highest–level web design jobs.
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