Statista reports that there are over two billion websites worldwide, which suggests that web design is a promising field in the tech industry that continues to grow exponentially. The best online web design master’s degrees open up job opportunities to become a part of web design teams to design and build beautiful websites.
With an online Master’s Degree in Web Design, you can work as a web developer, digital designer, database designer, software design architect, and content designer. Plus, you can have a flexible schedule which is often unattainable with in-person degrees. Keep reading this article for our list of the best online web design master’s degrees and highest-paying web design master’s degree jobs you can get after graduation.
Where Can I Get a Web Design Master’s Degree Online?
You can get a web design master’s degree online from an accredited graduate college with an elearning campus. Some of the best colleges that offer a Master’s Degree in Web Design online are Arizona State University, California State University Fullerton, Harvard University, University of Florida, and Southern New Hampshire University.
What Schools Offer the Best Web Design Master’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- California State University Fullerton
- Harvard University
- University of Florida
- Southern New Hampshire University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Web Design Master’s Degree?
The admission requirements for an online Master’s Degree in Web Design program include filling out an application form, providing official transcripts from your undergraduate degree, and having an excellent GPA of 3.0 or above. The admission process can be done online for most universities.
Other common admissions requirements of online programs in web design are a statement of purpose, a personal essay, letters of recommendation, and an updated resume. Future students also have to submit GRE or GMAT scores to enroll in some programs.
Each program has different admission eligibility criteria. Students may have to take prerequisite online courses like introduction to programming languages or declare their family income to be eligible for financial aid. Ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements or contact an admissions representative for questions regarding any criteria.
Online Web Design Master’s Degree Admission Requirements
- An undergraduate degree
- An excellent GPA of 2.5 or better
- Official transcripts
- Two or more letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
How to Get a Web Design Master’s Degree Online
The best way to get a Master’s Degree in Web Design online is by completing all the university’s degree requirements. A Master’s Degree in Web Design is an advanced degree that teaches the most in-demand practical skills.
To get a master’s degree, students have to complete all the online coursework, learn programming languages, and understand the basics of web development to earn the degree. Find below the list of common degree requirements.
Web Design Degree Requirements
- Credit hours. Students need to complete 30 to 36 credit hours in web design degree programs. Many schools have a credit transfer policy that allows students to use credits from their previous institution.
- GPA. A 70 to 75 percent grade in core subjects is necessary to maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher. Alternatively, a minimum grade of C in all required topics is needed to qualify for graduation.
- Professional portfolio. Students have to create a professional portfolio demonstrating their skills by the end of the program. Some schools also have a review process where their portfolio is given a grade.
- Graduation fee. Students might have to pay a graduation fee, although not all schools ask for a graduation fee.
- Capstone project. Web design students often have a capstone project where they design a web or mobile application. They may also work on an interactive media design project.
- Course requirement. Students have to complete the core courses and any additional courses as per the university curriculum to get an online master’s degree.
Best Online Web Design Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Academy of Art University | Master of Arts in Interaction and UI/UX Design | The Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA), the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC), the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), The National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) |
| Arizona State University | Master of Science in User Experience | Higher Learning Commision (HLC) |
| California State University | Master of Fine Arts in Art, Graphic and Interactive Design | Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) |
| Harvard University | Master of Liberal Arts in Digital Media Design | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Information Technology and Management- Web Design Specialization | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Liberty University | Master of Science in Information Technology- Software Design and Management | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Master in Information Technology – Web Design Concentration | New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) |
| University of Denver | Master of Science in Information and Communications Technology – Web Design and Development | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| University of Florida | Master of Arts in Web Design and Online Communication | The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Wilmington University | Master of Science in Information Systems Technology – Web Design Concentration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) |
Best Schools for Web Design: Top Online Web Design Master’s Degree Programs
The best online schools for a web design master’s degree offer hands-on training on web design and development to teach you the most in-demand skills and prepare you for furthering your career. If you are just starting your school search, our comprehensive list of best online web design master’s degrees will help you narrow down your selection.
What Is an Online Web Design Master’s Degree?
An online web design master’s degree is an advanced academic degree awarded by an accredited institution to a graduate student. A master’s degree isn’t a prerequisite to getting a mid-level or senior position but is preferred by many employers. Unlike a traditional degree, an online degree offers flexibility and accessibility to students.
It is best suited for students who have already completed an undergraduate degree and are looking to specialize in web design. A master’s degree is an excellent way to work on hands-on projects in web development and design. It teaches students in-demand technical skills like object oriented programming languages, database design, and UX/UI design.
Most universities also offer one-on-one career services to graduate-level students. You can prepare to enter the workforce through mock interviews and build a professional portfolio with the help of your professors.
Online vs In-Person Web Design Degrees
The primary difference between an online and in-person Master’s Degree in Web Design is the mode of learning. Online web design degrees are designed for students who like a self-paced learning environment. Students can plan their own schedules and attend lectures when they want.
An in-person web design degree has a more disciplined approach. Students have to visit the campus and attend classes as scheduled by the university. When attending an in-person degree, students benefit from campus facilities like the library, technology lab, and canteen.
Not every online or in-person degree is a good fit for you. To help you decide which degree can assist you in career advancement, below is a list that presents the benefits of both online and in-person degree types.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Master’s Degree in Web Design
- Geographic and schedule flexibility. Online degrees are a great option for students who want to work and learn simultaneously. Students are free to design their own schedules and take classes from anywhere in the world.
- Lower overall expenditure. You don’t have to spend money on the commute, public transport, meals, and other college fees for an online degree. Plus, some of the online degrees have lower tuition per credit than regular programs.
- Career services. Universities offer personalized student career services to students enrolled in distance learning programs. These include mock interviews, one-on-one career counseling, and writing resumes.
- Career-focused skill development. Most web design online degrees are designed to teach students the most in-demand tech skills required to land a job. They usually don’t include theoretical concepts and emphasize hands-on training.
- No commuting. Students don’t have to spend time commuting or going from class to class. With an online program, students only need an Internet connection and a computer to attend classes and complete coursework.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Master’s Degree in Web Design
- Social skill enhancement. Going to a university every day can enhance social and communication skills and lead to better networking.
- Access to campus resources. Universities offer campus facilities like the library, wellness center, counseling, and even in-house food courts to its students.
- Disciplined study approach. Every college follows a schedule for classes that can help students in structured learning. The disciplined learning environment fosters focus and motivation.
- Extracurricular activities. You can participate in many activities like sports or theater when you go to college. Many colleges have clubs to help students develop new hobbies.
- Program variety. Although online programs are becoming popular, traditional courses offer a wide variety of programs.
What Types of Online Master’s Degrees Can You Get in Web Design?
The types of online Master’s Degrees in Web Design you can get include a Master of Arts (MA), Master of Fine Arts (MFA), Master of Liberal Arts (MLA), and Master of Science (MS). These degrees offer an in-depth understanding of the creative skills required to enter the web design industry. It is an excellent option for those who want to become a UI/UX designer, digital designer, or graphic designer.
In contrast, a Master of Science in Web Design teaches technical skills such as object-oriented languages and advanced web design and development skills. If you want to pursue a career in web development, you should consider an MS degree.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Arts or Master of Science in Web Design?
It is better to get an online Master of Science Degree in Web Design as it helps you learn web development skills. Software development is one of the best tech jobs in the US, and by learning technical skills like front end and backend development, you can work as a software developer to design and develop web-based applications.
However, the type of degree you choose depends on your career goals. A Master of Arts or a Master of Fine Arts degree can prepare you for any career in the design industry. You can be a digital media designer, a graphic designer, or work as an illustrator.
Both Master of Science and Master of Arts usually have 30 credit hours of coursework and offer hands-on experience to help students learn technical and fundamental skills of web design. After a master’s degree, students can also enroll in a web design bootcamp and upskill themselves to get a competitive advantage in the job market.
How Much Does a Web Design Master’s Degree Cost?
Online master’s degree programs in web design from a public institution in the US cost $12,171, according to a survey by the National Education Statistics Center. A master’s degree program in web design from a private institution has a higher tuition fee and can cost anywhere from $14,208 to $27,776.
However, these are not recent figures. As per our in-depth research, web design master’s degrees in 2022 can cost you $500 to $1,600 per credit. You also have to pay the application fee, technology fee, enrollment fee, and graduation fee, along with the tuition.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Web Design Master’s Degree Online?
It takes approximately 15 months to two years to get a Master’s Degree in Web Design. Most universities require students to complete 30 to 39 credits to qualify for graduation. However, since online programs are flexible, students can customize the program length.
If you want to finish early, learn about the transfer credit policy. Many universities allow students to take prerequisite courses during their undergraduate programs. Moreover, an online accelerated Master’s Degree in Web Design can take a year or less to complete.
Are Online Web Design Degrees Respected?
Yes, online degrees in web design are respected the same as any traditional master’s degree. Distance learning has become popular in the past few years, with as many as seven million US students enrolled in online courses, according to the 2019 enrollment data provided by NCES.
Many accredited institutions offer an online degree program, making them more respectable. Some schools like Arizona State University don’t even mention whether you graduated with an online or in-person degree. Web design is a growing field with a demand for skilled people. An online degree in web design can help you get high-paying tech jobs in the US.
Is Web Design Hard to Learn Online?
No, it is not hard to learn web design online. You can easily learn web design by creating a study plan and following it. Online programs offer technical and student support to help you understand the subject and gain hands-on experience.
Online programs provide access to recorded lectures, projects, and other learning resources to help you learn. You can also reach out to instant feedback systems to get a one-on-one review of your project.
Web Design Bootcamp vs Online Web Design Master’s Degree: Which Is Better?
A web design bootcamp is better than an online web design master’s degree if you want to gain career-focused design skills in a short time at a lower cost of attendance. Bootcamps have emerged as a popular way of learning tech skills without any prior background.
However, unlike a degree program bootcamps do not have institutional accreditation. Whether you should attend a bootcamp or an advanced graduate degree depends on your career goals. Below is a list of the benefits of attending an online degree and bootcamp to help you understand the right fit for you.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Web Design Master’s Degree
- Advanced and widely accepted degree. A Master’s Degree in Web Design is widely accepted and preferred in senior positions. This degree showcases your expertise in the design and development fields.
- Specialization options. Depending on your choice of career, you can pair your web design degree with another specialization. You can specialize in data science, software development, mass communication, graphic design, or animation.
- Lucrative career opportunities. A Master’s Degree in Web Design opens doors to lucrative careers like a senior game designer, database designer, user interface designer, and senior software developer.
- Pathway to a doctoral degree. For those interested in entering the education or research sectors, a master’s degree qualifies you for a doctoral program.
- Access to high salaries. A Master’s Degree in Web Design allows you to apply for senior positions in the IT, business, and data industries, which come with high compensation rates.
Top 5 Benefits of a Web Design Bootcamp
- Less time commitment. A web design bootcamp curriculum lasts a few weeks to a few months. If you are in a hurry to get job-ready skills, then this educational path is for you.
- In-demand skills. A web design bootcamp provides in-demand industry skills, including front end development, UX and UI design, and graphic design. This is especially useful if you already know what career path you want to take.
- Cheaper alternative. Unlike a Master’s Degree in Web Design, a bootcamp accepts high school graduates. You don’t have to get a bachelor’s degree to qualify for this educational path, making it a much cheaper alternative.
- Career services placement. Bootcamp graduates work at high-profile companies, including Google, Facebook, and Amazon. Most bootcamps provide extensive career services, including resume critique, interview prep, and employer networking to help you land a job.
- Job guarantee. Some bootcamps also provide a job guarantee, where you get a full tuition refund if you are unable to get a job within six months of graduation.
Why You Should Get a Web Design Master’s Degree Online
You should get a web design master’s degree online if you want to study at your own, flexible schedule while obtaining a graduate-level education. It is especially beneficial for working professionals looking to learn the theory and practical knowledge of web design.
Online degrees are more affordable than in-person campus degrees, and you don’t have to worry about incurring transportation and student wellness fees. Moreover, online degrees can enhance your self-motivation to study and learn on your own.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Master’s Degree Program in Web Design?
The best courses to take in an online Master’s Degree in Web Design should cover key skills, including design principles and techniques, programming languages, and research. Always thoroughly check the curriculum of any program you plan to enroll in. We’ve created a list of essential courses to look for in a web design master’s degree program.
Interactive Media Design
Through interactive media design, students learn techniques to design multimedia applications through graphic design, motion graphics, and web technologies. Moreover, they’ll learn visual effects applications and acquire hands-on experience in 3D modeling.
Web and Mobile Application Development
Students learn technical skills to design, develop, test, and maintain web-based applications. They also learn how to combine client-side technologies, server-side technologies, and backend technologies for storing server-side data.
Object Oriented Methods and Programming
Your master’s degree program should offer an in-depth understanding of advanced object oriented methods and programming. Here, students learn programming languages like Java, C++, C#, Python, and JavaScript. They also work on projects to get real experience of working as a professional web developer.
Interface Design
User interface design (UI design) teaches students how to develop attractive and pleasing websites and web-based application layouts. Students learn how to create a product that has animation, responsiveness, and interactive design to engage users.
User Experience Research
This is a research-based subject where students learn how to use actionable data and make informed decisions. User experience researchers usually work with the entire tech team to gather data and understand customer behavior.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Web Design Master’s Degree Graduates
Th best path to take with an online web design master’s degree is to enroll in a doctoral program. A doctoral program is ideal for students who want to have a career in academia. Alternatively, you can join a web design bootcamp or a certificate course to sharpen your skillset.
Related Online Web Design Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Web Design Master’s Degree Programs
Some of the things to look for in an online web design master’s degree program include tuition fee costs, the curriculum offered, and the career choices you will have after you complete the program. Below is a list of common factors that you should consider before enrolling into any online program.
Cost of Attendance
When applying for a master’s degree online, check the university website for the entire cost of the program. This will help you make an informed decision about whether the degree fits your budget or not. Also, consider the technology fee, student support fee, and other expenses while estimating the cost of the entire program.
Online Curriculum
Web design is an ever-changing field. It is crucial that you learn career-focused skills that can help you land a job with a competitive annual salary. Thoroughly examine the entire curriculum, specifically the core courses, to see if the program aligns with your career goals or not.
Career Options
Learning outcomes of a program can play a decisive role in selecting a degree program. Students can speak to the admission representative to understand the career options available for them after graduating. They can also understand continuing education paths.
Education Requirements
If you don’t have a background in computer science or any STEM-related field, then you should check the education requirements for entering the program. Many schools admit students from different fields into advanced degree programs if they attend the prerequisite courses.
Student Support Services
Career support services can immensely help students prepare for job interviews, build professional portfolios, and write resumes. Many universities also conduct mock interviews and group career counseling to help students.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Web Design Master’s Degree?
The most affordable online web design master’s degree is offered by the University of Florida and it is the Master of Arts in Web Design and Online Communication. The total cost of the degree is $22,191, and students have to pay $599.75 per credit for the program.
The University of Florida is one of the most affordable universities in the US. The university has the same tuition fee policy for in-state and out-of-state residents. If you are unsure of how to finance your degree, check the scholarship and financial aid options available at the university.
Can I Get a Web Design Master’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get a Master’s Degree in Web Design online for free. Universities offer exclusive learning resources to students studying online, which must be paid for to access. Although, there is a wide range of free web design courses and certificates on Udemy and Coursera.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Web Design Master’s Degree Graduates
If you are interested in pursuing a career in web design, you should also learn about the job roles in this field. We’ve prepared a list of the best jobs, growth outlook, and salaries to help you get started.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Web Design Master’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with an online web design master’s degree. Web design is a field with plenty of career opportunities for skilled master’s degree grads. Moreover, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 13 percent growth in web developers and digital designers’ jobs between 2020 and 2030, which is faster than most professions.
Web designers are likely to receive higher salaries as they gain more experience. You can also work as a freelance web designer and take up remote work opportunities during the weekends. No project in web design is similar, which makes the field even more enjoyable.
What’s the Average Online Web Design Master’s Degree Salary?
The average online Master’s Degree in Web Design salary is $71,000 per year, according to PayScale. The median salary of web designers is based on factors like skills, state, years of experience, company, and job responsibilities.
In addition, students with a solid background in programming languages and a Master’s Degree in Computer Science with a web design specialization can make $83,000 yearly, based on PayScale information. That said, students can also earn a competitive salary after graduating from a web design bootcamp.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Web Design Master’s Degree?
Some of the jobs you can get with an online web design master’s degree include software developer, user experience researcher, and database designer. There is a high earning potential for web design master’s degree grads.
Web Design Degree Jobs
- Software Developer
- UX Designer
- User Experience Researcher
- Web Developer
- Digital Designer
Potential Careers With an Online Web Design Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Web Design Master’s Degree?
You can earn $77,200 to $110,140 per year with an online web design master’s degree. The salary increases with experience and the skillset you possess. For instance, a visual designer is likely to earn more than a web designer in the US. Keep reading to find out the best jobs for web design graduates.
Highest-Paying Online Web Design Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Web Design Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| User Experience Researcher | $96,234 |
| UX Designer | $77,720 |
| Web Developer | $77,720 |
| Digital Interface Designer | $77,720 |
Best Jobs for Online Web Design Master’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for online master’s degree grads in web design include user experience, development, and design jobs. Web design master’s degrees lead students toward jobs with a competitive salary. Below is a list of potential career outcomes for web design graduates and some of the highest-paying jobs in the tech industry.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Web Design Master’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online web design master’s degree is worth it. Web design is a fast-growing industry in the US. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for web designers and developers is faster than the national average. An online graduate program in web design can open doors for a successful career in tech.
As the Internet becomes more crucial to working environments, more career opportunities are becoming available. There are plenty of freelance opportunities available for web designers outside of the traditional job market.
Additional Reading About Web Design
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Online Web Design Master’s Degree FAQ
You can get a Master’s Degree in Web Development at Boston University, Fort Hays State University, University of Phoenix, Baker College, and the University of Denver. A web development master’s degree will help you get a high-paying job as a web developer.
Yes, you can become a web designer without a degree. You can learn the basics of web design and gain technical skills like programming languages, visual design, and user experience through bootcamps.
To become a web developer, you can either get an undergraduate degree or enroll in a web development bootcamp. You will learn programming languages like JavaScript, CSS, and HTML, accompanied by learning APIs, jQuery, Ruby, and Node.js.
A web developer in the US is paid more than a web designer. The average salary for web developers in the US is $60,715 each year. In contrast, a web designer in the US earns $52,534 yearly. That said, the salary of both of these creative professionals depends on the skills they have. Web designers can earn more than web developers if they possess a more advanced skillset.
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.
