15 Best Affordable Web Design and Development Degree Programs (Bachelor’s) 2020

15. Grace College and Theological Seminary

Winona Lake, Indiana

Website

Grace College and Theological Seminary is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Fellowship of Grace Brethren Churches. It integrates Christian ideals into academic programs which have been ranked by U.S. News & World Report in a number of categories:

• Best Colleges for Veterans
• Best Value Schools
• Regional Universities Midwest

It has over 260 different practicum or internship opportunities on-campus and in the community. Students have a choice of a 3 or 4 year bachelor’s degree or a 4 year bachelor’s plus master’s. Undergraduates receive free textbook rentals. There are many financial aid, opportunities. Undergrad tuition is fixed at the first-year rate. Notable Grace alumni includes writer Richard Mayhue, author of the book “How to Study the Bible.”

Grace offers associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its 120-credit Web Design and Development major is available as either a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. It is offered by the Department of Visual, Performing, and Media Arts in the School of Arts and Sciences, combining the artistic and technical aspects of Web site development. Curriculum categories include:

• visual communication
• Web development
• marketing

Sample major courses (42 credits total) include:

• Art and Design Fundamentals
• Visual Communication Design
• Introduction to Computer Science
• HTML and Web Development
• Server-side Programming
• Client-side Programming.

14. Husson University

Bangor, Maine

Website

Husson University is a private, nonprofit institution. It serves students at three campuses in Maine, plus online. Husson is #1 for the lowest net price in the state for 4-year private colleges. U.S. News & World Report ranked Husson #1 in 2017-2018 for the least tuition and fees among private colleges in the state. U.S. News also ranked Husson in their Best Colleges: 2019 Regional Universities North list. Notable Husson alumni include country music songwriter James Flynn.

Husson offers associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Bachelor of Science in Integrated Technology (BSIT) – Web Design and Development concentration, is offered by Husson’s College of Business. It consists of 122-123 credits. Example core major courses include Introduction to Computer Programming and Project Management Techniques. The Web Media concentration includes courses such as:

• Web Imaging
• Web Design-Content Layer
• Web Design- Presentation Layer
• User Experience and Interaction Design
• Interactive Web Design

The skills gained in this BSIT program give graduates what they need to solve business problems with Web-based solutions.

13. University of St Francis

Joliet, Illinois

Website

University of St Francis is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. It serves students on four campuses plus online, incorporating Roman Catholic/Franciscan values into its academic offering. While female students outnumber males (64% to 36%), the student body is fairly diverse and open to various faiths. USF’s academic programs are recognized on top college ranking lists, including:

• U.S. News & World Report 
• Princeton Review 
• Money Magazine 
• Victory Media/G.I. Jobs 

Notable USF alumni include heavyweight Bellator MMA mixed martial artist Mike Wessel.

USF offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Web Application Development major combines the technical (Computer Science) and the creative (Communication Media Arts) aspects of Web development. Some sample courses include:

• Introduction to Information Technology
• Web Programming Languages
• Server Installation and Configuration
• EBusiness
• Digital Photography Editing
• Web Page Design
• Web Publishing and Platforms

The curriculum includes a Senior Project (Computer Science). An alternative is to pair a suitable bachelor’s program (typically within Communication and Media Arts majors) with a concentration in Web Design, which consists of four courses .

12. Mount Saint Joseph University

Cincinnati, Ohio

Website

Mount Saint Joseph University is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. It was founded as a Catholic university for women. It now serves coed students (61% female) on campus and online. More than 74% of students are commuters. Recognition for The Mount includes ranking lists published by:

• U.S. News & World Report 
• Washington Monthly 
• Victory Media/G.I. Jobs Magazine

The university included on the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll. It was also designated an Excellence in Assessment college/university. Notable Mount alumni include composer/instrumentalist Christopher Wilke.

The Mount offers associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Web and Mobile App Development program is offered as both a major (Bachelor of Science) and a minor. While the program leans toward the technical aspects of the Web, the program has two tracks:

• Technical
• Graphic Design

These are treated as minors. The core computing course requirements are the same for each track, consisting of 71-77 credits. Example courses include:

• Principles of Programming
• Database Design and Development
• Web Fundamentals and Standards
• Intro to Mobile Application Development

Students in the Technical track might find careers in one of the following roles:

• Back End Web and Mobile App Developer
• Content Management System Manager
• Database Administration/Mining/Analytics
• Database Designer/Administrator
• Front End Web and Mobile App Developer
• Human-Computer Interaction Specialist

11. SUNY Morrisville State College

Morrisville, New York

Website

Morrisville State College is a member of the public State University of New York (SUNY). It was founded as an agricultural college, and now serves students at two campuses, a learning center, plus online. Academic programs fall into a number of areas including:

• career
• technical
• liberal arts (transfer only).

The college encourages hands-on experience in some study programs. In fact, it has ranked in the top six nationally for undergrad internship programs, as per U.S. News & World Report. The magazine who also ranked the college in their 2019 Best Colleges categories of Top Public Schools and Regional Colleges North. SUNY Morris’s community service programs were recognized by their inclusion on the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll. Morrisville also enjoys the designation of being a Military Friendly School by Victory Media. Notable alumni of Morrisville include UFC mixed martial artist Jon Jones, who is the current Light Heavyweight Champion.

Morrisville offers associate’s and bachelor’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Information Technology: Web Development is delivered by the School of Science, Technology and Health Studies. It combines information technology with a strong background in:

• multimedia
• database design and management
• web security
• interface design and a multilingual command of programming

This combination of skills opens up job opportunities for multiple Web-related career roles. The curriculum includes a 12-credit internship that lasts a full semester. The college also hosts Global Game Jam, an annual, on-site, 48-hour computer game creation event. 

10. Graceland University-Lamoni

Lamoni, Iowa

Website

Graceland University-Lamoni is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Community of Christ. It serves students at two locations plus online. Its educational offering has much recognition, including on ranking lists published by:

• U.S. News & World Report 
• Princeton Review 
• Money Magazine 
• Forbes Magazine 
• Victory Media 

Graceland’s notable alumni include Pulitzer Prize winner Teresa Carpenter, a journalist and novelist.

Graceland offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Bachelor of Arts in Web Design (or as an 18-credit Minor option) is delivered by the Division of Visual and Performing Arts. It’ss described as a combination of “the elements of an art major and a computer science and information technology major.” Skills gained include those needed for Web-related creative work. The major portion of the BA consists of 38-42 credits. Example courses include:

• Computer Graphics for Art and Design
• Introduction to Graphic Design
• Introduction to Web Page Programming
• Database Concepts and SQL

Students also have a choice of Graphic Design Internship (3cr) or Internship in CSIT (1-3cr).

9. Lindenwood University

Saint Charles, Missouri

Website

Lindenwood University is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. Originally founded as a girls school, Lindenwood University (LU, est. 1827) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, and one of the oldest colleges/universities “west of the Mississippi River.” The university has earned recognition from Washington Monthly and U.S. News & World Report (2019: National Universities) for its academic offering. Notable Lindenwood alumni include multi-talented film and TV producer (Monster’s Ball, Empire, Star), director (Precious, The Butler) and actor Lee Daniels.

LU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Bachelor of Arts in Interactive Media and Web Design is delivered by the Communications Department at the Belleville campus. Typical careers for graduates of this program include:

• graphic designer
• social media manager
• web copywriter
• web page developer

Example courses include:

• Introduction to Computer Science: Javascript
• Media Design Foundations
• Internet and Web
• Web Design
• Capstone Interactive Media and Web Design

Program alternatives: BS Information Technology with a Web Design Cluster (three courses) and Advanced Web Design Cluster (four courses).

8. SUNY College of Technology Alfred State College

Alfred, New York

Website

SUNY College of Technology at Alfred is part of the public State University of New York (SUNY) system. Although the college highlights its overall value and affordability, it’s also known for:

• its educational quality
• suitability for military personnel and veterans
• student life

A number of these factors are reflected in many of the rankings Alfred State has been recognized in, including those published by:

• U.S. News & World Report 
• Best Value Schools
• Princeton Review 
• Money magazine
• WalletHub 
• Victory Media/GI Jobs 

Some of Alfred State’s alumni are also accomplished. A few such include:

• Thomas Golisano, billionaire founder of Paychex, husband of Hall of Fame tennis player Monica Seles
• Brandon (B.J.) Mendelson, comedian, author, and social media critic.

ASC offers associate’s and bachelor’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Bachelor of Technology in Information Technology: Web Development requires 124 credit hours, with 81 for program requirements. This is a program that Money Magazine ranked as #1 nationally in their 2018 Best Colleges for Your Money list. Key courses and electives include:

• Database Concepts
• Linux/Unix Admin and Scripting
• Web Applications
• Web Server Administration
•  a full-semester Info Technology Internship

Graduates will be able to find work as web administrators or web developers. However, because the degree has a strong IT foundation, students also should be able to become:

• database administrators
• IT managers
• network support specialists
• programmers
• project managers
• systems analysts
• user support staff
• technical sales reps.

Alfred State says 100% of students with this degree find employment. They will also be able to pursue an IT graduate degree.

7. University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Little Rock, Arkansas

Website

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is one of the largest universities in the state. It’s part of the public University of Arkansas System. The school is known for its flexible approach to education.It combines critical thinking with practical learning opportunities, including extensive internship options. UA Little Rock is also known for its affordability, student diversity, and the support available for service members, veterans, and their families. Among the university’s notable alumni are several state and federal politicians. However, career diplomat James Richard Cheek, U.S. Ambassador to Sudan under George H.W. Bush and Ambassador to Argentina under Bill Clinton, may be the most successful alumnus. 

The university offers associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Bachelor of Arts in Web Design and Development is a multidisciplinary program that combines:

• art
• design
• information science
• information technology
• mass communication
• writing

The degree requires 120 credit hours, with 85 for program requirements and electives. Key courses and options include:

• Mobile Web Design
• Non-Linear Editing
• Social Computing
• Vector Graphics
• Writing on the Web
• a Cooperative Experience capstone

The program suits students looking to create a foundation for their careers, or those employed individuals who want to either change careers or expand their existing skill sets. Graduates will be able to find work in:

• content management
• user experience
• web design.

6. University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh

Oshkosh, Wisconsin

Website

Founded as a teacher training school, University of Wisconsin-Oshkoshis a member of the public University of Wisconsin System. It serves students at three locations plus online. The university’s academic offering earned it spots in U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best Colleges lists  UW Oshkosh’s alumni enjoy careers in many areas, including:

• art and literature
• business
• education
• government/politics
• computer science and technology
• media
• sports

Notable alumni include jazz and blues musician/composer John Altenburgh.

UW Oshkosh offers associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Bachelor of Arts and Science (BAS) in Interactive Web Management is available with two emphases:

• Web and Mobile Development
• Web Presence Management

This is an interdisciplinary program that combines courses from several departments, covering a range of topics:

• Business
• Computer Science
• Information Systems
• Journalism
• Marketing 

Example courses include:

• Creating the Digital Future
• Introduction to Business
• Introduction to Computer Science and Programming
• Web Development

Graduates of this program may find themselves in one of a variety of careers, including:

• e-commerce social media management
• user experience design
• Web design
• Web development
• Search engine analytics and/or optimization.

5. University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

Stevens Point, Wisconsin

Website

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is a member of the public University of Wisconsin System. It serves students at three locations plus online. It is the first college/institution in state to attain 100% renewable electricity. U.S. News & World Report also ranked the university in several categories in its 2019 Best Colleges list. Notable UWSP alumni include actresses Kathy Kinney (The Drew Carey Show) and Andrea Anders (The Class).

UWSP offers associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) Web Development are delivered by the Department of Computing and New Media Technologies. Skills gained include the ability to “design and develop interactive products from websites and desktop applications to mobile apps and beyond.” Example courses include:

• Web Design and Development
• Principles of Computing
• Object-Oriented Programming

A capstone experience is one of a number of projects. These are both 66-credit degree completion programs, with the BA requiring eight credits of language courses.

4. Lewis-Clark State College

Lewiston, Idaho

Website

Lewis-Clark State College, a public institution, follows what it calls a three-mission model, encompassing:

• community college
• career/technical college,
• traditional academic

It also offers community support and outreach initiatives. This provides a pathway to higher education for students from differing backgrounds  with varying interests and goals. Not surprisingly, 73% are first-generation students. Overall, LCSC is well regarded as a regional college, particularly when it comes to practical experience opportunities and student support. This is reflected in their being ranked in U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best Colleges: Regional Colleges West list. The school’s notable alumni include Major League Baseball players, such as Keith Foulke, Boston Red Sox 2004 World Series closer. However, LCSC can also count celebrated writers among its number, including Aprilynne Pike, a New York Times bestselling author.

LCSC offers associate’s and bachelor’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Web Design and Development requires 120 credits, with 33 for upper-division BAS electives. Students must first complete the school’s AAS degree before entering the bachelor’s portion of the program. Students can use up to 50 credits from AAS program courses towards the BAS. Key courses and electives include:

• Advanced Web Design
• Multimedia Web Applications
• Web Authoring Systems
• an Internship in Computer Information Technology
• a Web Development Capstone

Potential career avenues for BAS graduates include:

• backend developers
• content strategists
• frontend developers
• UI designers/UX developers
• web designers; web developers
• website managers/administrators.

3. Weber State University

Ogden, Utah

Website

Weber State University is a public institution. It has a dual-mission model that gives every student the opportunity for an affordable, quality higher education. While the school has an open admissions policy for its lower-division courses, some bachelor’s programs do have admission requirements.  The dual-mission model attracts a large number of non-traditional students, WSU works to support each student to ensure they can succeed in their academic career and beyond. The university’s overall approach and academic offering is recognized in several categories of U.S. News & World Report’s 2019 Best Colleges ranking lists, including:

• Regional Universities West
• Business Programs
• Best Online Bachelor’s Programs

Some of the school’s notable alumni include:

• Damian Lillard, 4-time NBA All-Star point guard
• J. Willard Marriott founder of the Marriott hospitality empire
• Sarah Callister Sellers,2018 Boston Marathon runner-up

WSU offers associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Bachelor of Science (BS) in Web and User Experience requires 123 credits, with 42 for upper-level major requirements. Key courses and electives include:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Motion Graphics
• Server-Side Web Architecture
• User Interface Prototyping and Design
• a Web Development Capstone

The BS builds on the AAS degree, which students can apply to receive after completing the first two years of the bachelor’s program. The Web and User Experience BS utilizes various practical learning opportunities, including:

• studying abroad in Thailand and creating multimedia content for their tourism websites
• building and maintaining websites for community partners and non-profit organizations
• and internships

WSU also offers a Bachelor of Integrated Studies (BIS) with a 23-24 credit Emphasis in Web Technology.

2. Brigham Young University-Idaho

Rexburg, Idaho

Website

Brigham Young University-Idaho is a private, nonprofit institution operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Students do not have to be Mormon, but must adhere to an honor code, which includes regular church attendance and rules on abstinence, behavior, clothing, and language. BYU-Idaho is known for its value — combination of academic quality and affordability, which is recognized by U.S. News & World Report.

 Some of BYU-Idaho’s notable alumni include:

• Rulon Gardner,Olympic gold medal wrestler
• Stephanie Barclay, law professor and clerk for Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch
• Frank L. VanderSloot, multi-billionaire founder of wellness company Melaleuca

BYUI offers associate’s and bachelor’s level degree programs. Its Bachelor of Science in Web Design and Development requires 120 credits, with 36 for core courses and 15 for supplemental courses. Key courses and electives include:

• Advanced CSS; Database Design & Development
• Full Web Stack Development; an Internship
• a Capstone

The 15 credits for supplemental courses provide students with the choice to complete either a design-oriented UI/UX Certificate or a web-oriented Development Module. Various additional certificates, clusters, or minors may also be available. Possible career options include:

•  advertising
• content development
• corporate communications
• database design
• digital communications
• interactive design
• public relations
• project management
• web design
• web development.

1. Utah Valley University

Orem, Utah

Website

Utah Valley University is the largest public university in the state and  a member of the Utah System of Higher Education. Its continued enrollment growth over the past few years centers centers its open admissions policy and dual-mission model. This means UVU has the accessibility, affordability, and academic options of a community/technical college. It offers a smoother pathway to a 4-year or advanced degree. To create that smoother pathway, UVU provides support and resources that help ensure student success. Its academic offering has recognition from U.S. News & World Report, in several categories of their Best Colleges ranking list.  Some of the school’s notable alumni include:

• Actress A. J. Cook, known for her role as Jennifer “JJ” Jareau on Criminal Minds
• Ricky Lundell, grappling world champion and coach for such UFC fighters as Jon Jones and Ronda Rousey

UVU offers associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs. Its Bachelor of Science (BS) in Web Design and Development has two pathways:

• the Interaction and Design
• Web and App Development 

The degree requires 120 credits, with 47 for core requirements and 38 for the chosen emphasis.Key core courses include: :

• Digital Product Design
• Media Traffic and Analytics
• two Senior Capstones.

Key ID Emphasis courses include:

• Authoring for Virtual Reality Experiences
• an Interaction Design Colloquium.

Key WAD Emphasis courses include:

• Rich Internet Application Development
• Web Tools and Frameworks

Both emphases have internship options. ID Emphasis graduates can find work in digital product design, interaction design, or VR/AR content development. Those with the WAD Emphasis should be in line for web and app developer positions.