Associate in Web Development Program Guide
Updated September 26, 2023
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Associate degrees in web development help tech-savvy individuals launch their careers quickly. These two-year programs teach students to use programming languages, apply design skills, and develop website applications. Web development graduates benefit from an in-demand industry with numerous employment opportunities.
According to PayScale, those with associate degrees in web development earn an average annual salary of $54,000 as of August 2021.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a faster-than-average 8% employment growth for web developers and digital designers from 2019-2029. Web developers also earn strong wages. According to PayScale, those with associate degrees in web development earn an average annual salary of $54,000 as of August 2021.
This page provides information on what to expect from an associate in web development. Keep reading to learn about admission requirements, degree concentrations, tuition rates, and typical coursework.
What to Expect From Two-Year Web Development Degree Programs
Getting an associate in web development develops in-demand skills, allowing graduates to compete for exciting careers in the tech industry.
Most programs prepare students for specific roles in the tech industry, but associate programs also provide a strong foundation for further education. Web development associate degrees help students build portfolios of sketches, projects, and web applications to take their careers in different directions.
Students typically spend two years completing 60 credits in web development coursework. Degree-seekers learn to plan and manage projects, implement features, and provide solutions to common problems. Most programs offer concentrations in front-end, back-end, and full-stack web development.
Top Web Development Associate Degree Programs
| School | Admission | Type | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bunker Hill Community College | Apply online | Program Length: 4 semesters Delivery Format: 100% online or on campus |
Tuition: $220/credit (in state); $232/credit (New England Regional Student Program); $426/credit (out of state) |
| Eastern Iowa Community College District | Open-enrollment | Program Length: 6 months Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous) |
Tuition: $1,995/program |
| Southern Arkansas University Tech | Online admission form | Delivery Format: 100% online | Tuition: $108/credit (in state); $156/credit (out of state) |
| Butler Community College | Open enrollment High school completion or a GED |
Program Length: 3 terms Delivery Format: Online, on campus, or hybrid |
Tuition: $76/credit (in county); $97/credit (in state); $157/credit (out of state) |
Top Online Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary by school. Most associate-level web development programs require each applicant to have a high school diploma or GED certificate. Some schools feature open enrollment, while others maintain GPA minimums and require SAT or ACT scores. Other common admission requirements include:
- Official transcripts
- Professional resumes
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statements
Prior education, certificates, and work experience may also increase candidates' admission opportunities. Individuals who have completed tech bootcamps should include them on their resumes. Applicants may have an advantage if they have experience in coding or using programming languages like HTML and JavaScript.
Prospective students need to pay program application fees that typically range from $50-$100. Applicants with financial needs or active military status may qualify for fee waivers.
Degree and Concentration Options
Web developers build functional websites that also appeal to customers. Learners often concentrate their studies on the front-end user experience, back-end server, or full-stack development. Each concentration requires coding and programming but aligns with different career pathways.
- Front-End Development: This concentration focuses on programming languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build the customer side of websites and applications, including aesthetics.
- Back-End Development: Enrollees develop their skills in Python and Ruby to integrate the front end of the website with the functionality of the back end. Back-end developers also write code that communicates database information to the browser.
- Full-Stack Development: Full-stack development encompasses both front-end and back-end development. A full-stack developer may work in databases, graphic design, and UI/UX management.
Comparing Similar Degrees
Technology professionals provide services and solutions in an ever-changing industry. The training and degrees for computer science careers vary by specialization.
Associate programs can prepare tech workers for many entry-level positions or higher education. Some of the most popular degrees include an associate in web development, computer science, and information technology. Earning a bachelor's degree in computer science can also open doors to higher-paying tech careers.
| Degree | Program Length | Courseload | Focus | Admission requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate in Web Development | 2 years | 60 credits | Professional approaches to web development products and services | High school diploma or GED certificate |
| Associate in Computer Science | 2 years | 45-60 credits | Foundational training in general computer science functions | High school diploma or GED certificate |
| Associate in Information Technology | 2 years | 60 credits | Professional approach to IT installation, maintenance, and problem-solving | High school diploma or GED certificate |
| Associate in Computer Programming | 2 years | 60 credits | Foundational training in designing and building computer programs | High school diploma or GED certificate |
| Bachelor's in Computer Science | 4 years | 120-140 credits | Exploring math, computer architecture, programming, and other fundamentals of computer science | High school diploma or GED certificate, or an associate degree in a related field |
Since most associate degrees take about two years to complete and share similar credit loads, candidates should select their programs based on their career goals. Some associate degrees prepare learners for immediate entry into the workforce. Others provide a knowledge base for further education.
Degrees like an associate in web development or information technology teach the skills and credentials that can help graduates secure employment. Associate degrees in computer science and programming often act as building blocks for future bachelor's and master's degrees.
- Discover the Top Associate Degrees in Computer Science
- Learn More About Bachelor's Programs in Computer Science
- Get an Overview of All Computer Science Degrees
- Explore Other Web Development Degrees
Popular Web Development Courses
Associate in web development programs vary in requirements, but most curricula include fundamentals in math and computer science. Prospective web developers also need a strong foundation in programming languages, database management, computer programming, and cybersecurity.
Basic computer courses typically include lectures and experiential learning. Students may also complete group projects. Common web development courses include:
- Programming Languages: Introductory programming language courses focus on basic language constructions, including syntax, semantics, and parsing. Students learn to use these languages to build websites and develop solutions to problems. Web developers use these skills in front-end and back-end development.
- Database Management: Basic database courses focus on designing, developing, and handling databases. Learners practice writing and executing structured query language statements that manage data. Students may also learn to extract information for business reporting requests and analyze table designs for redundancy.
- Computer Programming: This foundational course introduces learners to programming principles, concepts, and techniques. Enrollees can apply their programming skills to write basic code statements and expressions. Computer programming courses may also cover business communication and networking.
- Cybersecurity: Associate-level cybersecurity courses teach students to secure and safeguard computer networks. Learners apply various security protocols for common attacks and vulnerabilities. These courses may also focus on applied cryptography, risk management, and cyberintelligence.
How Much Will an Associate Degree in Web Development Cost?
Education costs vary by region and school prestige. Other factors can also affect tuition rates, like an institution's public vs. private status and a student's state of residency.
For the 2018-2019 school year, NCES reports an average cost of $11,389 for tuition, fees, room and board for full-time undergraduate students in two-year programs.
The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) collects, analyzes, and publishes educational statistics, including the net price of attendance at postsecondary institutions. For the 2018-2019 school year, NCES reports an average cost of $11,389 for tuition, fees, room and board for full-time undergraduate students in two-year programs.
To lower overall educational costs, web development students can pursue financial aid through scholarships, fellowships, grants, and student loans.
Is Getting an Associate in Web Development Worth the Time?
Investing in tech education can pay off in the long run. People with web development associate degrees can immediately enter the workforce. Those with both education and practical web development experience can negotiate for higher salaries.
Earning an associate in web development can provide a pathway to careers in web development, computer programming, and web design. With additional education, certification, or work experience, graduates can also pursue positions as video game designers and software developers.
To learn more about computer science careers, review the job titles below and check out salary figures from PayScale as of August 2021.
Web Developers earn an average annual salary of $60,290
Computer Programmers earn an average annual salary of $64,810
Web Designers earn an average annual salary of $51,630
Video Game Designers earn an average annual salary of $66,390
Software Developers earn an average annual salary of $72,590
Read More
Choosing the Right Web Development Program
Searching for the right school requires careful research. Individuals pursuing an associate in web development should consider the following factors:
- Accreditation: Independent accrediting agencies ensure that postsecondary institutions provide high-quality academic instruction. Schools should hold regional accreditation. Top associate programs in web development maintain ABET accreditation.
- Program Length: Most web developer associate programs take two years to complete, but many schools offer accelerated tracks to help students finish their degrees more quickly. Alternatively, some students may prefer to study part time to balance work and family obligations.
- Future Education Opportunities: While associate graduates can immediately pursue employment, they may eventually seek bachelor's degrees in web development or other similar fields. Some schools offer immediate acceptance or waive some admission requirements for applicants with associate degrees who meet GPA requirements.
Should You Get Your Associate Degree Online?
Tech students enjoy flexible learning opportunities. Online degrees allow learners to complete their work from anywhere with an internet connection. Enrollees can often watch lectures, complete assignments, and take assessments on their own schedules.
Professionals who plan to work while pursuing their education may benefit from online, asynchronous programs that require no set meeting times. This style of instruction may allow learners to study in accelerated, standard, and part-time formats. Online students save on transportation costs compared to traditional on-campus students.
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Learn More About Web Development
How to Become a Web Developer
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Salary and Career Outlook for Web Developer
If you're interested in pursuing a career as a web developer, follow this link to learn about salary and employment rates by region.
Day in the Life of a Web Developer
Follow this link to learn more about front-end and back-end development tasks that web developers complete each day.
Web Development Degree Programs
If you're interested in pursuing tech education, read this guide on what to expect from web development degree programs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Web Development
Is it worth studying web development?
Studying web development prepares graduates for careers in a fast-growing industry. Earning an associate degree can lead to exciting careers in web development, computer programming, and web design.
Do most web developers have a degree?
Educational requirements for web developer positions vary by company. According to the BLS, degree requirements range from a high school diploma to a bachelor's degree.
Can you get a web developer job with an associate degree?
Yes. An associate in web development degree prepares graduates for many employment opportunities. Skills like coding and using programming languages are useful across the industry.
What can I expect as a salary with a web development associate degree?
Tech professionals with associate in web development degrees can expect to earn an average annual salary of $54,000 as of August 2021, according to PayScale.
Featured Image: Deagreez / iStock / Getty Images Plus
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