If you are intrigued by software development, web design, web programming, and operating systems, then a career in web development might be for you. Those interested in landing a senior tech development position might want to read our list detailing the best web development master’s degrees.
The best Master’s Degrees in Web Development cover topics like coding in various programming languages and web design fundamentals so that students can go on to high-level positions in web development. Find out more about the best web development master’s degree programs below.
What Is Web Development?
Web development refers to the front end development, design, and maintenance of a webpage or a website. Web developers use coding languages such as JavaScript, Python, HTML, Ruby, and CSS to create a well-functioning and user-friendly web page. They also work with web designers and UX/UI designers to create aesthetically pleasing and efficient websites.
Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Web Development?
You can get a Master’s Degree in Web Development at any college or university that offers graduate degrees in computer science and design. Schools that offer web development master’s degrees include public universities like Arizona State University and art academies like the ArtCenter College of Design.
What Schools Offer the Best Web Development Master’s Degrees?
- Academy of Art University
- Boston University Metropolitan College
- Fort Hays State University
- Lynn University
- Touro College
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Web Development?
The requirements for a web development master’s degree program will vary depending on the university, but all universities require a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Development, or a related field.
You are also expected to meet the university’s GPA requirement and might be asked to provide letters of recommendation. Depending on the type of degree you are pursuing, you may be asked to provide a copy of your resume or a professional portfolio of your relevant web design projects.
Web Development Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA of between 2.0 and 3.0
- Professional and academic letters of recommendation
- Professional resume
- Portfolio of relevant projects
How to Get a Master’s Degree in Web Development
To get a Master’s Degree in Web Development, you need to complete all credit requirements and pass any final examinations or project requirements. Not all web development master’s degrees require a capstone project or thesis, but if your program includes a thesis track, you will need to get your thesis approved to graduate.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Web Development?
You need between 30 and 50 credits for a Master’s Degree in Web Development. The credits will be made up of relevant coursework and around six credits of thesis research. If you choose a non-thesis program, you may be required to complete additional credits or an alternative project in order to graduate.
Web Development Degree Requirements
- Maintain a GPA between 2.0 and 3.0
- Complete a thesis or final project
- Complete 30-50 credits of coursework and research
- Do an internship or assistantship, if applicable
- Pay all tuition costs and associated fees
Best Web Development Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Academy of Art University | Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Interaction & UI/UX Design | WASC Senior College and University Commission |
| Arizona State University |
Master of Science in Computer Science (Arts, Media, and Engineering) | Higher Learning Commission |
| ArtCenter College of Design | Graduate Media Design Practice | WASC Senior College and University Commission |
| Boston University Metropolitan College |
Master of Science in Computer Information Systems, Web Application Development Concentration | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Fordham University |
Master of Science in Computer Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Fort Hays State University |
Master of Professional Development in Web and Mobile Applications Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| Touro College |
Master of Arts in Web and Multimedia | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Central Florida | Master of Science in Computer Science | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| University of Denver |
Master of Science in Information and Communications, Concentration in Web Design and Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| West Virginia University | Master of Science in Computer Science | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Web Development: Top Web Development Master’s Degree Programs
The list below describes some of the top web development master’s degrees in the US. Different schools have different specializations within the field, so you should choose the program that best suits your location, curriculum, financial situation, and career preferences.
What Is a Web Development Master’s Degree?
A web development master’s degree is a two-year graduate degree that covers web programming, web design, user experience and interface design principles, software development, and computer systems. Depending on your degree specialization you can also learn software engineering, database design, information security, and computer science.
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Web Development?
A Master’s Degree in Web Development is important if you are hoping to gain a more in-depth and advanced understanding than is possible in an undergraduate degree program. Earning this advanced degree can help you qualify for upper-level career opportunities. However, you do not need a master’s degree to begin your career in web development.
What Types of Master’s Degree Can You Get in Web Development?
The types of master’s degrees you can get in web development and related majors are Master of Science, Master of Arts, and Master of Fine Arts degrees. You will find Master of Science degrees in subjects like web application development and computer science. You can find Master of Arts and Master of Fine Arts degrees in subjects like web design and user experience and interface (UX/UI) design.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Science or Master of Arts in Web Development?
It is better to get a Master of Science in Web Development if you want to learn more technical skills related to computer science and programming. It is better to get a Master of Arts in Web Development if you want to learn more about user experience and interface design and aesthetics for web design.
However, both types of web development master’s degrees will teach you valuable skills and prepare you for advanced careers in the field. You will have to consider your own professional and educational goals when deciding whether to get a Master of Science or a Master of Arts in Web Development.
What Is the Difference Between a Web Development Master’s Degree and a Web Development Certificate?
The differences between a web development master’s degree and a certificate are their scope and length. A web development master’s degree is a graduate program that takes between one and three years to complete. During that time, students study advanced topics related to web development and usually have to complete a hands-on practicum or capstone project to graduate.
A web development certificate is a one-year program that covers one specific topic in a subfield of web development. A web development certificate program will teach best practices in web development and design.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Web Development?
It costs an average of $19,314 per year to get a Master’s Degree in Web Development, according to the National Center for Education Statistics information on graduate degree costs in 2019. Tuition will vary based on the program you choose, whether you pay in-state or out-of-state tuition, and what financial aid is available to you.
There are several financing options for your web development master’s degree, including scholarships, federal grants, and private loans. Make sure you consult with a representative from your chosen university to find out about available options that suit your needs.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Web Development Master’s Degree?
It takes between one and three years to get a web development master’s degree. The length of your Master’s Degree in Web Development will depend on the specific program you attend and if you are attending as a full-time or part-time student. The length may also differ depending on if you are attending a thesis or non-thesis program.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Web Development?
It is somewhat hard to get a Master’s Degree in Web Development because it is a graduate degree that teaches advanced concepts. How hard it is to get a web development master’s degree will depend on your previous experience and if you are choosing to attend a technical program or a creative program.
Why Should You Get a Web Development Master’s Degree?
You should get a web development master’s degree if you are looking for an academic path to career advancement. In a Master’s Degree in Web Development program, you will gain advanced skills in the field and be eligible for senior-level positions related to web development.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Web Development?
The courses you need to take in a master’s degree program in web development cover topics like front end development, programming languages, and graphic design. The specific courses will also differ if you are attending a Master of Arts or Master of Science program. Below are some common web development master’s degree program courses.
Website Design and Management
This course will teach advanced topics and techniques for webpage design. You will improve your ability to program using HTML and CSS. This course will combine hands-on projects, readings, and class discussions for a well-rounded web design course.
Introduction to Human-Computer Interaction
This course will cover the basics of how humans interact with computers. This course is relevant for user experience and interface design, which can be a key component of web development.
Front End Development
This course will cover using CSS, HTML, and JavaScript to create user-friendly digital experiences. Students will also learn about the terminology and jargon required to thrive in this industry.
Visual Design and Typography
This course covers some of the important design aspects that go into creating an aesthetically pleasing webpage. Students will learn how typography can help communicate ideas and also learn about the history of this art form.
Web Development Capstone Project
Most of the web development master’s degree programs on our list do not require a thesis. However, a capstone project will likely be required. These projects allow you to apply the skills you’ve learned in your web development program. The topic you cover in this project will depend on your program and areas of interest.
Continuing Education Paths for Web Development Master’s Degree Graduates
After getting your web development master’s degree, you can continue your education by pursuing a PhD, also known as a doctorate, or postgraduate certificate. A PhD in Computer Science would be the most common continuing education path for web development master’s degree graduates. A web development postgraduate certificate would allow you to specialize in a few topics.
Related Web Development Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Web Development Master’s Degree Programs
When trying to choose the best web development master’s degree program, it’s important to consider factors outside of just the reputation of the school you’re interested in attending. Factors like tuition, accreditation, and concentration options are important as well. Find out more about these factors below.
Concentration or Specialization Options
Since it can be difficult to find graduate programs dedicated to web development, it’s important to consider what concentrations are available for students in computer science programs. Boston University, for example, offers a web application development specialization for its computer information systems master’s program.
Tuition and Costs
It is extremely important to consider the tuition and costs of your preferred program before you apply. Tuition can be expensive and additional expenses like textbooks, housing, and transportation can increase that cost. Contact your school’s admissions or financial aid office to find out how much you should expect to pay and what financial assistance is available to you.
Accreditation
Independent accrediting bodies award accreditation to schools. Accreditation is important because it proves a school meets institutional standards for educational quality. Getting a degree from a non-accredited school will mean that your degree is not respected in the field.
Student Services
Ensure that the student services available on campus are geared towards graduate and undergraduate students. Although many graduate students are adults, it’s still important that support services for mental health and tutoring are available to them.
Graduation Rate
Graduation rates show how many students graduate from a specific school within a standard timeframe. Low graduation rates indicate that a school may not offer enough resources to facilitate student success.
What Is the Most Affordable Web Development Master’s Degree?
The most affordable web development master’s degree is the Master of Professional Development in Web and Mobile Applications Development offered at Fort Hays University. It is only the most affordable if you are an in-state student, with tuition assessed at $250 per credit for a 30-credit program. Tuition for the entire program costs a mere $7,500.
Salary and Job Outlook for Web Development Master’s Degree Graduates
The salary and job outlook for web development master’s degree graduates are both high. Most of the best web development master’s degree jobs have job outlook rates that are much higher than the average across all occupations. Many of the salaries for these jobs are over $100,000 a year.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Web Development Master’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a web development master’s degree. In general, master’s degree holders have a lower unemployment rate than bachelor’s degree holders, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Professionals with master’s degrees have a higher level of skill in their field and are generally more employable.
What’s the Average Web Development Master’s Degree Salary?
The average web development master’s degree salary is $71,000, according to PayScale. Your salary as a web developer with a master’s degree will vary based on your specific job title, location, level of professional experience, and the company you work for.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Web Development Master’s Degree?
The types of jobs you can get with a web development master’s degree include front end design positions like user experience designer and web developer. There are also more technical positions available to professionals with web development master’s degrees, like software engineers and application developers.
Web Development Degree Jobs
- User Experience Designer
- Web Software Developer
- Web Developer
- Computer Programmer
- Software Developer
Potential Careers With a Web Development Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Web Development?
You can make between $56,888 and $112,123 with a Master’s Degree in Web Development, based on the web development master’s degree jobs listed below. You may earn more or less depending on the company you work for and other qualifications you have.
Highest-Paying Web Development Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Web Development Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| User Experience Researcher | $112,123 |
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| User Experience Designer | $102,514 |
| Software Engineer | $101,735 |
| Application Developer | $97,174 |
| Computer Programmer | $93,000 |
| Web Software Developer | $82,357 |
| Web Developer | $77,200 |
| Digital Designer | $68,748 |
| Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Specialist | $56,888 |
Best Jobs for Web Development Master’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for web development master’s degree graduates are senior or managerial positions. These professionals can work in a wide variety of industries in and outside of tech, with their combination of digital design and technical skills.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Master’s Degree in Web Development Worth It?
Yes, a Master’s Degree in Web Development is worth it if you want to directly qualify for a managerial or senior web and software development position. This degree can help you land a high-paying job in information systems management, software development, or database design.
Additional Reading About Web Development
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Web Development Master’s Degree FAQ
No, a web development master’s degree isn’t necessary as you can enter this field with a bachelor’s or associate degree. You can also enter this job market with a web development bootcamp certificate or by taking online courses. The most important thing in this field is the skills you have.
A web development master’s degree can help you get senior positions in software engineering, database design, software development, or information assurance.
A web development master’s degree covers topics such as web programming, user experience and user interface (UX/UI) design, software development, and software engineering. Each curriculum varies according to the school and program you choose.
According to PayScale, the average salary of a web development master’s degree holder is $71,000. What you make will vary depending on your experience, the specific role you have, and the location of your company.
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.
