A bachelor’s in web development teaches students to create and maintain websites, web applications, and other online experiences.
Pursuing this degree can lead to opportunities in a thriving industry as the digital world continues to evolve and expand. Opting for an online program grants flexibility, helping learners balance their studies with work or personal commitments.
Increasing reliance on digital technologies and growing demand for skilled web developers make earning this degree a timely choice. Our list of 2023's top online bachelor’s degrees in web development can help you excel in your career.
We also discuss what to consider when choosing a program, how much an online degree costs, and why accreditation is vital for your education.
5 Best Online Bachelor's in Web Development Programs
Use this guide to explore the five best online bachelor's in web development programs of 2023. We explain how we rank schools at the link below.
#1 Best Online Bachelor’s in Web Development 2023
Baker College
- Owosso, MI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Baker College exclusively offers degrees in fields with high career growth. With five Michigan campuses and an online division, Baker is the state's largest private, nonprofit college.
BS in Information Systems (Web Development Concentration)
The online bachelor's in web development from Baker College's College of Information Technology and Engineering can help students develop business and technical expertise. The curriculum includes classes in computer operating systems and maintenance, legal and ethical issues in information technology, and networking essentials.
Students also explore big data analytics, programming in Python, and database administration. The program's final year includes a 150-hour work experience class and a senior project. Baker's online classes feature extended reality learning.
The 120-credit program takes four years to complete. Students can complete required general education and prerequisite classes online or at Baker's campuses in Michigan.
Applying to Baker
Baker's admission requirements include an online application, a $30 application fee, and a copy of your high school transcript or GED certificate. Applicants may submit optional ACT or SAT scores.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $435/credit
- Required Credits: 120
- Program Length: 4 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Online Bachelor’s in Web Development 2023
Bellevue University
- Bellevue, NE
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Bellevue University (BU) in Bellevue, Nebraska, delivers on-campus and online programs with flexible learning formats. Each student works with a student coach, an enrollment counselor, and a financial counselor.
BS in Web Development
Bellevue University offers a 127-credit web development bachelor's program online. The school's generous transfer credit policy means that learners may be able to transfer their entire associate degree. Students can also receive credit for military training.
Skills covered include JavaScript, API development, TypeScript, and Agile methodologies. The curriculum requires classes in internet systems architecture, NoSQL, business environment for web professionals, and DevOps.
Students must also complete three Kirkpatrick Signature Series courses. Required for all BU enrollees, these classes cover tradition and change, American vision and values, and freedom and responsibility.
Applying to BU
Applicants must submit an online application, a $50 application fee, and official high school and college transcripts. Prospective students need a high school diploma, a GED certificate, or a homeschool letter of completion. The school does not require ACT or SAT scores.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $440/credit
- Required Credits: 127 credits
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Bachelor’s in Web Development 2023
Champlain College
- Burlington, VT
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1878, Champlain College in Burlington, Vermont, provides career-focused programs. The school emphasizes real-world learning and hires faculty with industry experience.
Web Design and Development Online Bachelor’s Degree
Champlain College's fully online bachelor's in web development caters to working professionals with transfer credits. The curriculum explores topics like Python, writing for the web, networking fundamentals, and ethical hacking. Students benefit from dedicated academic advisors and practitioner faculty.
Web design and development majors study topics like designing digital images for the web, usability in website and software design, and relational database design and SQL. A required 15-week practicum simulates working with a client on a project from start to finish. Students typically spend 10-17 hours per course each week.
Applying to Champlain
Admission requires a completed online application, short-answer essay questions, high school and/or college transcripts, and a resume.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
- Tuition: $335/credit
- Required Credits: 120
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Percent Online Enrollment
54%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#4 Best Online Bachelor’s in Web Development 2023
ECPI University
- Virginia Beach, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1966, ECPI University in Virginia Beach, Virginia, was one of the first schools to offer computer programming classes. The private university emphasizes industry-driven academic programs and practical learning.
BS in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Software Development (Web Design and Development Track)
Students can earn the online bachelor's degree in web development from ECPI University's College of Technology in as little as 2.5 years thanks to the school's year-round schedule. The program covers Python scripting, networking, and business fundamentals.
The curriculum covers topics like cybersecurity principles, programming, applied project management, and databases. Students gain skills in leadership, teamwork, communication, and ethical best practices. Other outcomes include expertise in cloud computing tools and secure software solutions.
Web design and development graduates may qualify for entry-level roles in web development, web design, and UX design.
Applying to ECPI
ECPI applicants must submit an online application. Virginia Community College System graduates with a GPA of 2.5 or higher receive guaranteed admission.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $8,712/semester
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 2.5 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous and asynchronous) or hybrid
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Bachelor’s in Web Development 2023
Arizona State University-Downtown Phoenix
- Phoenix, AZ
- 4 years
- Campus
A public research institution, Arizona State University (ASU) serves over 41,000 online undergraduates and more than 13,000 online graduate students. The school boasts more than 270 national and conference athletic titles.
Online Bachelor of Applied Science in Internet and Web Development
Arizona State University's online bachelor's in web development develops skills in front-end development, user-centered design, and visual design. Students learn to use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Coursework covers subjects like information design and usability, graphic industry business practices, and website and e-commerce strategies.
The 120-credit program requires 20 major courses, with each class lasting 15 weeks. Graduates can apply for entry-level roles as graphic designers, SEO specialists, and web developers. ASU Online does not charge out-of-state tuition, potentially making the web development degree more affordable for out-of-state students.
Applying to ASU
Applicants must hold an associate of applied science from a regionally accredited college. Prospective learners complete an online application, submit a $70 application fee, and send in transcripts.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $552/credit
- Required Credits: 120
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Out-of-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
What to Expect From Online Bachelor's in Web Development Programs
A key difference between in-person and online web development programs is the communication method. Online students communicate with their instructors and classmates virtually through email, video calls, and presentations.
Coursework does not change whether students pursue their degree in person or online. All students must complete their assignments, thoroughly learn the material, and pass their exams.
Online degrees in web development prepare students for careers just like in-person programs, with the added flexibility of remote learning.
How Is an Online Bachelor's in Web Development Different From an On-Campus Program?
Course delivery and communication among students and instructors look different for in-person vs. online web development bachelor's degree programs. Explore the core differences below.
Online vs. On-Campus Bachelor's in Web Development Degrees
| Online Web Development Degree |
On-Campus Web Development Degree |
| Online web development programs can accommodate more students, as classes take place virtually. |
The number of students in each class is limited. |
| Students earning a web development degree can often access course materials like lectures on their own schedule. |
On-campus classes offer limited flexibility, as students attend class on fixed schedules. |
| Online learning may best suit students who excel at written and visual learning. |
In-person classroom settings better cater to students who excel at auditory learning. |
| Online learners are often older than traditional students. Many online programs cater to working professionals trying to learn new skills or make a career shift. |
Many in-person students have not yet started their careers and are still earning their baseline education. |
| Networking with peers and instructors can be more difficult in online classes due to the lack of in-person interaction. |
Networking happens organically when students take classes in person. In-person courses create an environment for meeting peers and connecting with instructors that is difficult to replicate online. |
The pros and cons of earning an online bachelor’s in web development vs. an in-person web development degree vary. Students should consider the differences across in-person and online web development programs to assess which is the better fit for them.
How Is an Online Bachelor's in Web Development Different From a Bootcamp?
An online bachelor’s in web development offers broad, in-depth education. Full-time students can usually complete a bachelor's in four years. Web development bootcamps are intensive, short-term programs focused on practical skills.
Online bootcamps usually provide hands-on experiences and project-based learning. Online degrees may involve more traditional coursework, extracurricular activities, and networking opportunities. Online degree programs often provide better access to university resources and a more extensive alumni network, whereas bootcamps focus on rapid skill development.
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Delivery Formats for Online Degrees in Web Development
Distance learning programs can follow a fully online or hybrid format and may offer synchronous or asynchronous course delivery.
A hybrid model consists of both in-person and online coursework. Asynchronous courses do not take place in real time. However, students must complete work before the deadline. Synchronous courses require students and instructors to interact online in real time.
Online vs. Hybrid Degree Programs
| 100% Online Web Development Program |
Hybrid Web Development Program |
| The entire classroom is online, including interactions between instructors and students. |
Online learning supplements in-person classes. |
| Students and instructors most likely never meet person. |
Students and instructors meet face to face several times throughout the term. |
| Ideal for students prioritizing flexibility while trying to enhance their skill sets |
Ideal for students who want to make connections with their peers and instructors in person |
Asynchronous vs. Synchronous Degree Programs
| Asynchronous Web Development Program |
Synchronous Web Development Program |
| Coursework does not take place in real time. Students receive course material to complete at their convenience. |
Students and instructors interact online at the same time through text, video, or audio chat. |
| Classroom discussions take place over blogs or discussion boards instead of face to face. |
Classroom discussions take place on discussion boards and in the virtual classroom. |
| Ideal for students with full-time jobs or other commitments requiring a flexible schedule |
Ideal for students interested in remote learning and connecting with peers and instructors in real time |
Accreditation for Online Web Development Degrees
Attending an accredited school is crucial for a web development degree, as accreditation ensures educational quality and credibility. Institutional accreditation means the entire school meets standards set by recognized accrediting agencies.
Programmatic accreditation evaluates specific departments and programs. Web development programs, like other computing-related degrees, can receive programmatic accreditation through ABET.
Attending an accredited program may increase the value of your degree, enhance employability, and help you qualify for financial aid, professional certifications, and further education.
How Much Will an Online Bachelor's in Web Development Cost?
Tuition for an online bachelor's in web development typically ranges from about $335-$550 per credit. Educational costs can vary widely, influenced by factors like the following.
- School Reputation: More prestigious institutions often charge higher tuition rates.
- Public vs. Private: Public schools tend to charge lower tuition than private institutions.
- Student Residency: Many public schools offer lower tuition rates for in-state learners.
Other costs may include technology expenses, software subscriptions, and course materials such as textbooks. Online programs can often be less expensive than in-person programs, mainly due to reduced housing and transportation costs.
Some schools charge the same tuition for online and on-campus students. Others offer lower rates for online learners, and some extend in-state rates to out-of-state learners studying online.
Financial aid options for online web development degrees include:
- Scholarships and Grants: Universities, government agencies, and private organizations offer these non-repayable awards. Students can qualify based on merit, financial need, or other criteria.
- Federal Loans: These government-sponsored loans feature relatively low interest rates and flexible repayment options.
- Private Loans: Students can also borrow from private financial institutions, often at higher interest rates than federal loans.
Why Get Your Bachelor's in Web Development Online?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that web developers and digital designers earned a median annual salary of $78,300 as of 2021, with a total of 197,100 people holding those job titles.
The BLS projects 23% employment growth for these professionals from 2021-2031, greater than the average projected growth for all occupations. This projection indicates a rapidly growing job market with opportunities for new graduates. While becoming a web developer requires no specific degree, earning a bachelor’s may increase your chances of advancing in the career.
Web development graduates learn more than just coding. Read through the pros and cons of the degree below.
Pros of Getting Your Bachelor's in Web Development Online
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Web development careers offer advancement opportunities and above-average salaries.
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Technology's ever-changing nature always offers new projects and challenges to tackle.
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An online degree in web development makes it easier to start working while attending school.
-
Cons of Getting Your Bachelor's in Web Development Online
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Web developers must work long hours if a website or program breaks.
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Taking on several projects at once is often necessary.
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Online study provides fewer opportunities to connect with peers and instructors.
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Graduates face a competitive job market.
Get More Information on Web Development Careers
Selecting Your Online Web Development Program
Students should consider several factors when deciding which online degree in web development suits them. First, create a list of your top features. Then, search for programs that fit the criteria.
Some important factors for consideration:
- Dedication to Online Education: Evaluate the program’s commitment to delivering high-quality online education and support for remote learners.
- Cost/Financial Aid: Consider the program’s tuition and fees, as well as available financial aid and scholarships to help offset costs.
- Program Length: Determine if the program’s schedule aligns with your desired timeline for degree completion.
- Available Concentrations/Specializations: Look for a program with concentrations or specializations that match with your career goals and interests.
- University Resources/Career Services: Research the university’s resources, including career services and job placement assistance, to support your post-graduation success.
- Prestige/Reputation: Consider how the program’s and university’s reputation may influence your employability and prospects.
- Alumni Network: Assess the strength and reach of the university’s alumni network, which can provide networking opportunities and industry connections.
When you're ready to apply, find out if your top-choice schools use Common App. This popular online platform streamlines the college application process by allowing students to submit a single application to multiple institutions.
Explore More Programs in Web Development
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FAQ About Online Bachelor's in Web Development Programs
Can you get a bachelor's degree in web development online?
Many colleges and universities allow students to earn a bachelor's in web development online. Web development majors learn coding along with other tech skills.
How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree in web development online?
It typically takes four years to complete an online bachelor's in web development, depending on the program's structure and the student's pace of study. Part-time enrollment may extend this timeline.
Is web development a hard major to take online?
Pursuing a web development program online can be challenging and demands dedication and discipline. Access to resources, tutorials, and a supportive online community can help students succeed in this field.
Is an online web development degree worth it?
Yes, an online web development degree can be worth it for people seeking a flexible, cost-effective education. This degree can provide essential skills and knowledge for various tech industry careers.
