Online Degree Programs in Web Development and Design

Would you like to architect a website by researching a potential target audience and selecting its content? Does developing and producing the creative elements of website, including images, sounds or videos, sound intriguing. If you can't attend traditional classroom-based programs, you can earn an associate or bachelor's degree in Web development and design online. Schools offering Graphics & Multimedia Management degrees can also be found in these popular choices.

What Will I Learn in an Online Web Development Program?

Distance learning programs in Web design and development teach you about the visual and programming elements of designing multimedia websites. Some online graphic design programs also contain Web-specific coursework that emphasizes the manual drawing of graphic images for use on the Internet. You'll learn the programmatic languages used to develop Web pages, style sheets, interactive content and multimedia applications. Tools and software used in these degree programs include DreamWeaver, Flash, JavaScript, MySQL and PhotoShop. Some common course topics include:

  • Sound and video editing
  • Designing forms
  • Writing algorithms
  • Creating animated and vector graphics
  • Publishing and updating Web content
  • DHTML, Perl, Java and Flash
  • Cascading style sheets
  • Dynamic and interactive Web applications
  • E-commerce

What Is the Difference Between the Degree Programs?

You can usually earn an associate degree in Web design and development within two years. The courses involved in these programs introduce you to fundamental Internet languages, protocols, tools and technologies. Both degree programs include some general education courses. A bachelor's degree program usually takes four years to complete. Advanced classes usually build on the basics to teach you ways to implement dynamic content and create interactive website elements, applications and games.

How Do Online Programs Work?

Most online programs allow you to earn your degree without ever having to visit the campus. Course materials could be transmitted through online platforms, such as Blackboard or WebCT, or through real-time virtual classrooms. You can view, download, print and submit your assignments and tests online. You'll communicate with instructors and classmates through chat, message boards or e-mail.

You might need to download or purchase the software necessary to complete your studies. Some applications, such as Adobe Acrobat Reader or QuickTime, are free and downloadable from the manufacturer's website. Other software, such as Microsoft Office, Adobe After Effects or PhotoShop, might be available through the school, though vendors often offer significant discounts to students to purchase the programs.

What Are My Career Options?

With a degree in Web design and development, you could manage a company website or intranet as an employee. You might also find employment with a website development firm that offers contract services for multiple clients, including individuals, corporations, government agencies or nonprofit organizations. If you're an entrepreneur, you could establish your own Web design and development business and market your talents to one or more companies.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, a 53% growth in job opportunities for Web administrators and developers was expected between 2008-2018 (www.bls.gov). The primary reasons given for this faster-than-average expansion in the field of website design were the growing reliance of individuals and businesses on Internet access, the implementation of innovative Web technologies and the need for website and data security from hackers, viruses and malware.

To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:

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