Learning web development will open the door to multiple career opportunities in the tech industry. You can find work as an independent developer or apply for a web development job at a company. Associate Degrees in Web Development are often the fastest routes to ensuring you land an entry-level role. Plus, web development associate degree programs accept a wide range of students.
In this article, you will learn what being a web developer is all about and how you can choose the best web development associate degrees to suit your lifestyle. We will list the best Associate Degrees in Web Development and give you a glimpse of some of the best jobs to shoot for in the industry.
What Is Web Development?
Web development is a field of software development that deals mainly with the design of websites and web-based applications. This includes applications for the Internet or web applications for a company’s intranet.
Intranet applications are meant to be solely used by members of specific organizations. They include anything from single-page static applications to complex and dynamic applications. All of these are things that a web developer can create.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Web Development?
The best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Web Development are Mesa Community College, Blackhawk Technical College, Dakota State University, and Illinois Central College. However, there are many other colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Web Development as well.
Most commonly, students can get an associate degree from two-year community colleges. Although, as noted above, some four-year universities also offer associate degree programs. In addition, many colleges today offer web development associate degree programs online.
What Schools Offer the Best Web Development Associate Degrees?
- Mesa Community College
- Dakota State University
- Illinois Central College
- Hudson Valley Community College
- Blackhawk Technical College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Web Development?
The admissions requirements for an Associate Degree in Web Development include having a high school diploma or GED. Some schools also set a minimum grade point average, which could range from 2.0 to 3.0. However, community colleges do not traditionally set strict admissions requirements like universities in the United States. Further, in-state residents are more likely to be admitted than out-of-state students.
There are typically no required languages for an Associate in Web Development because these programs will teach you everything you need to know about programming. However, it is important to note that Associate in Web Development requirements may differ from program to program.
Web Development Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- A complete online application form
- Proof of immunizations (only required in some states)
- Payment of application fee
- Placement tests or standardized tests
How to Get an Associate Degree in Web Development
You can get a web development associate degree by completing a two-year program. If you want to get an Associate Degree in Web Development, you will first need to be accepted to a school. Thankfully, there are many schools that offer web development associate degree programs.
The best way to get a web development associate degree is to attend a community college full time for two years. Many of these programs do not require you to have existing knowledge about web development in order to begin a program. However, upon graduating, you will be able to either enter the workforce or continue studying at a four-year university.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Web Development?
You need 60 credits for an Associate in Web Development. In fact, 60 credits is typically the standard across all associate degree programs. That being said, some degree programs may require students to have upwards of 65 credits for an Associate Degree in Web Development in order to qualify for graduation.
Web Development Degree Requirements
- Around 20 credits of general education courses
- At least 60 complete credit hours
- A minimum of a C- grade point average
- Completion of courses on coding and programming
- Completion of a capstone project or internship program
Best Web Development Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Bismarck State College | Associate of Applied Science in Web Page Development and Design |
Higher Learning Commission |
| Blackhawk Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Web Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| Brigham Young University-Idaho | Associate of Applied Science in Web Design and Development | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Dakota State University | Associate of Science in Web Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| Grand Rapids Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Graphics/Web Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| Gwinnett Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Website Design and Development | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Hudson Valley Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems, Web Design and Programming Track | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Illinois Central College | Associate of Applied Science in Web Systems | Higher Learning Commission |
| Iowa Western Community College | Associate of Applied Studies in Computers: Web Design and Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| Mesa Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Web Development | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Web Development: Top Web Development Associate Degree Programs
The best schools for a web development associate degree are those that offer a comprehensive web development curriculum. In addition, the best web development associate programs combine educational experience and real-world experience in a two-year degree program to prepare you for a career as a front end web developer.
After graduating from one of the top web development associate programs, you can use your transfer credits to pursue higher levels of education. The list below contains details about the best schools for an Associate Degree in Web Development as listed in the table above.
What Is a Web Development Associate Degree?
A web development associate degree is a two-year degree that will provide you with foundational knowledge and technical skills in the field of web development. An Associate Degree in Web Development will prepare graduates to continue their studies at a four-year university or directly enter the workforce.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Web Development?
An Associate Degree in Web Development is very important because it can act as the first step toward a successful career in web development. If you want to work professionally as a web developer, it is important to get the proper training, such as an Associate Degree in Web Development.
In addition, one of the reasons that a web development associate degree is important is that it allows you to explore the educational field of web development and decide which areas interest you most. Then, when you move on to a bachelor’s degree, you will already know what areas you would like to specialize in.
What Types of Associate Degree Can You Get in Web Development?
You can get two types of Associate Degrees in Web Development, which are either an Associate of Science or an Associate of Applied Science degree. Though there are many different types of associate degrees, these are the two that are most relevant to the field of web development.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Applied Science or an Associate of Science in Web Development?
It is better to get an Associate of Science in Web Development because it leaves you with the greater possibility of continuing on to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Web Development or a similar field of study. The difference between an Associate of Science in Web Development and an Associate of Applied Science in Web Development is that the former is focused more on providing students with the theoretical and technical knowledge they need to study at a four-year university.
On the other hand, an Associate of Applied Science degree focuses on technical skills and getting students job-ready. You may find that many of your credits from this type of program do not transfer well to universities. That being said, an Associate of Applied Science in Web Development is better for getting a job if you only plan to study for two years.
What Is the Difference Between a Web Development Associate Degree and a Web Development Certificate?
The main difference between a web development associate degree and a certificate in web development is that the former holds much more value to employers. Typically, the course content and graduation requirements for an associate degree are much more comprehensive than they are for a certificate. When you get an Associate Degree in Web Development, employers know that you have gained essential knowledge and skills.
When considering whether to get a certificate or a degree, it is important to consider your educational and employment goals. If you want to continue to study at a four-year university, then getting an Associate Degree in Web Development is the better choice. In addition, you should get a web development associate degree instead of a certificate because having a degree may help you earn more if you decide to enter the workforce right after graduation.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Web Development?
A web development associate degree costs anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 a semester. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average tuition for a two-year degree from a public college is $3,377 per year. Public institutions are usually more affordable than private institutions, which have an average cost of $15,828 per year.
In addition, the Associate Degree in Web Development costs will vary depending on whether you are an in-county, in-state, or out-of-state student. An institution’s reputation and the experience level of faculty may also factor into varying tuition costs.
Web Development Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Web Development Degree
The best way to pay for your web development associate degree is upfront. However, not all prospective students can afford to pay the entire tuition at once. Other financing options include securing financial aid for an Associate Degree in Web Development. This could come in the form of federal Pell grants, federal direct loans through FAFSA, and scholarships. In addition, students can also opt to take out private loans to pay for their associate degrees.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Web Development Associate Degree?
It takes two years to get an Associate Degree in Web Development. Most associate programs consist of at least 60 credits. As such, if you take 15 credits a semester over the course of four semesters, you will be able to finish the entire program in just two years.
However, how long it takes to get an Associate Degree in Web Development will also highly depend on whether you attend the program on a full-time or part-time basis. The Associate Degree in Web Development program length can be much longer if you only take one or two classes each semester.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Web Development?
An Associate Degree in Web Development is easy to get relative to other degree options. That being said, getting a web development degree is hard for those who do not enjoy traditional education or attending classes. As an Associate Degree in Web Development is still a higher education degree, it will take a lot of studying and hard work to complete the program.
In addition, a web development associate degree is hard when compared to alternatives such as certificate programs. Getting an associate degree will take at least two years of studying. Plus, students are often required to maintain a certain GPA in order to be eligible for graduation.
Why Should You Get a Web Development Associate Degree?
You should get a web development associate degree because it can help you launch your career journey. The benefits of getting an Associate Degree in Web Development include gaining the essential knowledge and skills to enter the field of web development.
In addition, other benefits of an Associate Degree in Web Development are that you can continue on to study at a four-year university and that you will be able to learn about other fields of study. Though you may be enrolled in a web development program, you will also likely learn about search engine optimization, cyber security, and more. If you already have an associate degree, the benefit of getting a second Associate Degree in Web Development is that you can further specialize and enhance your skills.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Web Development?
Associate Degree in Web Development courses include topics surrounding web design, programming, and database functions. In addition to general education courses, there are many technical courses required for a web development associate degree.
Courses in an associate program for web development will help students learn the necessary technical skills to work as web developers. Learn more about these classes in the Associate Degree in Web Development course list below.
Introduction to JavaScript
This course serves as a foundational introduction to important JavaScript concepts and terminology. It may cover topics such as syntax, programming logic, and how to debug code. Through this course, students will learn how to write code in the JavaScript programming language.
Object Oriented Programming Fundamentals
For this course, students will work on object-oriented designs. They will learn the best way to use object-oriented designs and logic tools, as well as how to debug these programs.
Web Accessibility and Usability
This course helps students learn how to build accessible websites. Students will learn how to use different design concepts to accommodate those with visual, auditory, cognitive, mobility, and speech disabilities. They will learn how to fulfill legal requirements as well as how to make sites user-friendly for a range of people.
Web Server and Web Application Security
This course will teach students the basic principles of installing web servers as well as web server administration. Students will learn how to secure web servers and discover the tools that can assist them in managing web servers.
Web Content Management Systems, SEO, and Analytics
This class teaches students how to use web technologies for a real-world business. Students will gain familiarity with common content management systems while also learning how to install and use plugins. They will also learn the importance and meaning of business concepts related to web development.
Continuing Education Paths for Web Development Associate Degree Graduates
The best continuing education path to take with a web development associate degree is to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Web Development. After completing an Associate Degree in Web Development, you should be able to transfer directly into the third year of a bachelor’s program. However, it is important to choose a four-year university that will accept your transfer credits from your associate program.
Related Web Development Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Web Development Associate Degree Programs
The best Associate Degree in Web Development programs offer students the necessary skills and knowledge for a successful career in web development. You can expect to learn a variety of technical skills from programming to cyber security when completing a web development associate degree. If you are wondering how to choose a web development associate program, take a look at some of the key factors to consider below.
Accreditation
Attending a school that is properly accredited is crucial for both your employability and the potential of continuing your education. If a school is not recognized by a third-party accreditation organization, there is a high chance that other schools and employers will not trust that their curriculum prepared you adequately.
Flexibility
Finding a school that lets you take classes at times, or in ways, that work for you is crucial. Many schools offer evening, weekend, or even online classes to accommodate a wide range of students. Having a flexible course schedule allows you to carry on living your life while also furthering your education.
Curricular Content
There is no use attending a program that doesn’t teach you what you want or need to know. Before enrolling in any program it is important to check out the program coursework. Make sure that the curriculum will cover the topics you want to learn about.
Continuing Education Options
If you think that you might want to continue studying at a four-year university at some point, it is important to make sure that your associate degree credits are transferable. Many two-year schools even have well-established partnerships with four-year institutions to make the transfer process a breeze for students.
Faculty Credentials
When attending college, students want to know that what they are learning is both useful and factual. As such, checking the faculty credentials of a college you want to attend can help you ensure that you are learning from experts in the field. You may not want to learn web development from a professor who hasn’t actively worked in the industry since the 1990s, as a lot has changed since then.
What Is the Most Affordable Web Development Associate Degree?
The most affordable Associate Degrees in Web Development are typically those that are offered online or taken in the state where you reside. Better yet, in-county residents often receive much lower tuition rates than other students.
For example, one of the most affordable Associate Degrees in Web Development comes from Mesa County Community College. At this college, county residents have to pay just $85 per credit. However, out-of-country residents pay a tuition rate of $441 per credit. Opting for an online program, which often comes with a reduced tuition rate, is also a great way to get an affordable Associate Degree in Web Development.
Salary and Job Outlook for Web Development Associate Degree Graduates
There is a wide range of web development associate degree jobs that are available to graduates. As Associate Degree in Web Development jobs are centered around the tech industry, they pay quite well. Learn more about these jobs and the typical Associate Degree in Web Development salary below.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Web Development Associate Degree?
It is easy to get a job with a web development associate degree. After graduating from an associate degree program, employers know that you have the necessary technical skills and knowledge to excel in an entry-level web development role. With that, it is also best to be well prepared for the application process. This includes having a professional resume and practicing for your interview.
What’s the Average Web Development Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with an Associate Degree in Web Development is around $55,000 per year, according to PayScale. However, as graduates enter the workforce and gain more experience, the web development associate degree average salary will expand accordingly. After you have been working for a number of years and have gained more expertise, you can expect to earn significantly more.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Web Development Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with a web development associate degree include working as a web developer, a UX designer, a front end developer, and more. Thankfully, there are a variety of good-paying, entry-level jobs that are available to those with an Associate Degree in Web Development. Check out other possible jobs to get with a web development associate degree below.
Web Development Degree Jobs
- Web developer
- UX designer
- Back end developer
- Frontend developer
- Web designer
Potential Careers With a Web Development Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Web Development?
You can make between $40,000 and $85,000 with an Associate Degree in Web Development. Since web development is a technical field, you will generally be compensated well. However, to reach the higher end of the pay scale, you will need to stay current on evolving technologies and build a professional portfolio.
Once you are able to gain experience, you will be trusted to take on more complicated projects. With this, having a proven history of successful projects will help you increase your earning potential.
Highest-Paying Web Development Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Web Development Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Web designer | $77,200 |
| Web developer | $77,200 |
| Entry-level backend developer | $67,407 |
| Entry-level full stack developer | $65,523 |
| Entry-level UX designer | $65,268 |
| Entry-level Java developer | $62,153 |
| Entry-level front end developer | $61,734 |
| Entry-level Python developer | $55,214 |
| Entry-level JavaScript developer | $51,626 |
| Entry-level webmaster | $49,910 |
Best Jobs for Web Development Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for web development associate degree grads are those that pay well and offer graduates the opportunity to use their new skills. As a graduate with an Associate Degree in Web Development, you can work in a variety of industries, not just the tech sector. To learn more about available positions, check out our detailed breakdown of the best-paying web development associate degree jobs below.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Associate Degree in Web Development Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Web Development is worth it if you want to enter the web development field without spending four years and tens of thousands of dollars studying. Getting an Associate Degree in Web Development will allow you to enter the workforce after just two years of studying.
In addition, it also leaves you with the option of continuing on to a four-year degree at a later day if you choose to do so. Overall, a web development associate degree is worth it because it provides a key stepping stone to a successful career as a web developer. Through an associate program, you will learn all of the essential technical skills to begin working.
Additional Reading About Web Development
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Web Development Associate Degree FAQ
A Bachelor’s Degree in Web Development, Web Design, or Computer Science is the preferred education requirement for web development jobs. Some employees may demand a master’s degree for management roles and some may be willing to accept an associate degree for entry-level positions.
The requirements for working as a web developer include having visual design, user interface, and programming skills. You need knowledge of front end development and backend technologies if you intend to become a full stack web developer. You will also need excellent writing skills in addition to technical skills.
Entry-level professional web developers receive an annual salary that ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 depending on the job description and location. Education also influences the salary since most bachelor’s degree holders tend to earn more than associate degree holders for the same entry-level positions. The average salary for all web developers is $77,200, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Yes, web development is an excellent career in 2022 and beyond. There are increasing job opportunities for people with web development skills, and learning web development paves the way for many other high-paying tech careers. This field currently has a 13 percent job outlook, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which is faster than the average job growth across all occupations.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
