The Best Training for
Web Development in 2021
Web development is one of the hottest jobs on the market as companies rapidly expand to meet an online customer base. The best web development schools and programs provide quality software development education experiences to help you join the field.
If you’re interested in a web developer education, there are plenty of schools and coding bootcamps that teach many popular programming languages. Although these programs range from several months to a few years, all of them will teach you everything you need to succeed.
Rundown: The Top 15 Web Development Programs in 2021
Many of these programs grant degrees in web development, and others only grant certificates, but it’s important to choose the program that fits your budget and web development goals.
Below are the top 15 programs for web developers. The tuition data for these programs has been sourced from the school’s websites. The costs listed below reflect the annual rate unless otherwise stated. Bootcamp costs reflect the entire program unless otherwise stated.
School | State | Programs and Cost | Certifications |
---|---|---|---|
Bellevue University | NE | Bachelor of Science in Web Development $430 per credit $250 per credit (military preferred cost) |
N/A |
Coding Dojo | CA, ID, IL, TX, WA | Onsite Immersive Bootcamp $15,745 Online Immersive Bootcamp $15,745 Online Part-Time Accelerated Bootcamp $7,495 Online Part-Time Flex Bootcamp $7,745 Self-Paced Bootcamp $1,950 for two months $3,850 for four months |
N/A |
Franklin University | OH | Bachelor of Science in Web Development $398 per credit $250 per credit (current service members) $526 per credit (international students) |
N/A |
Fullstack Academy | NY | Full-Time Coding Bootcamp $17,910 Part-Time Flex Coding Bootcamp $15,980 Grace Hopper Program $17,910 Online Coding Bootcamp $17,910 Summer of Code $16,910 Future Code Free |
N/A |
Galvanize | AZ, CA, CO, NY, TX, WA | Software Engineering Immersive $17,980 Software Engineering Online Immersive $17,980 Software Engineering Part-Time Online $17,980 |
N/A |
General Assembly | AZ, CA, CO, FL, GA, IL, KY, OH, OR, MA, MI, MN, MO, NA, NC, NY, PA, TN, TX, UT, WA |
Software Engineering Immersive $14,950 Software Engineering Flex Immersive $14,950 Part-Time Front End Web Development $3,950 Part-Time JavaScript Development $3,950 Part-Time Python Programming $3,950 Part-Time React Development $3,950 |
N/A |
MIT xPRO | MA | Web Development with JavaScript $2,500 Professional Certificate in Coding: Full Stack Development with MERN $6,950 Professional Certificate in Coding: Women’s Cohort $6,950 Front End Development With React $2,500 Backend Development $2,500 |
N/A |
Rochester Institute of Technology | NY | Bachelor of Science in New Media Interactive Development $52,030 Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering $52,030 |
N/A |
Southern New Hampshire University | NH | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science $320 per credit |
N/A |
Springboard | Online | Software Engineering Career Track $10,350 |
N/A |
Thinkful | AZ, CA, CO, FL, GA, IL, MA, MI, MN, NC, OR, PA, TX, WA |
Software Engineering $16,000 Part-Time Software Engineering $16,000 |
N/A |
Tulane University | LA | Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Interactive Design $524 per credit |
N/A |
University of Hartford | CT | Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Web Design and Development $40,490 |
N/A |
University of Miami Coding Bootcamp | FL | Coding Bootcamp $10,495 |
N/A |
The University of Texas at Austin Coding Bootcamp | TX | Coding Bootcamp $12,495 Part-Time Coding Bootcamp $11,995 |
N/A |
How to Pick the Best Software Engineering School for You
The best web development program for you will depend on your budget, schedule, and goals in the field. Coding bootcamps have the fastest turnaround and a lower cost than the bachelor’s degree programs.
However, the longer study time with a bachelor’s degree will allow you to build out a more robust understanding of web development. In addition, the degree may impress potential employers.
Budget
You could take free courses to get started in web development, but a modest investment could give you the professional instruction you need for a better footing. Your education budget will determine which course is right for you. You can always pursue a more advanced degree with financial aid later in your journey.
Schedule
The right program for you depends on your schedule and current responsibilities. Every bootcamp and many of the colleges listed above have online options that can work with a full-time work schedule. If you want to attend an in-person program, coding bootcamps usually have immersive programs that move faster.
Goals
If you want to start working as a web developer as soon as possible, then a coding bootcamp may fit your needs. If you want the freedom to advance to a more managerial role as your web development career progresses, you may want to get a bachelor’s degree. You’ll have to weigh your goals with your current situation.
The Best Web Development Schools of 2021
We’ve listed the best web development schools and programs for 2021 below. When available, we’ve also linked to listings published on this site with reviews from real students so you can read what to expect from the programs.
Bellevue University
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Web Development
Accreditation
The Higher Learning Commission
Online Options
Online only
Bellevue University in Nebraska was built on a foundation of providing adult education. Around 78 percent of the student population is 25 and over, and 90 percent of students are enrolled in distance education, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). So, it’s clear that this school caters to career changers.
In the Bachelor of Science in Web Development program, you’ll learn how to use JavaScript, one of the most popular programming languages today. It is a more science and tech-based program, so you will learn hands-on skills to apply in any computer science position.
Bachelor of Science in Web Development Curriculum
Web development
Internet systems architecture
Enterprise JavaScript
Node.js
NoSQL
RESTful APIs
Angular with TypeScript
DevOps
MEAN Stack
Coding Dojo
Programs
Immersive Bootcamp
Part-Time Accelerated Bootcamp
Part-Time Flex Bootcamp
Self-Paced Bootcamp
Accreditation
None
Online Options
All courses above
Coding Dojo is one of the biggest names in the coding bootcamp space. Students in the full-time software development program learn three different stacks in Python, MERN, and C#. Students in other programs have less comprehensive options, but all students have lifetime access to the course materials in case they need a refresher.
Immersive Coding Bootcamp Curriculum
HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
Python with MySQL, Flask, Ajax, APIs, and jQuery
MongoDB with Express, React, Node.js, Advanced JS, NPM, and Socket.IO
C# with .NET Core, NancyFX, ASP.NET Core, MySQL, Dapper, Entity Framework Core, Azure & AWS, and Microsoft Cognitive Services
Franklin University
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Web Development
Accreditation
The Higher Learning Commission
Online Options
Online only
Distance learning is the norm at Franklin, and around 80 percent of students at this university take online courses according to the official website. This program combines elements of web design and development to help you make beautiful websites. There’s also a primer on freelancing to prepare you for a wide array of jobs.
Bachelor of Science in Web Development Curriculum
Database management systems
Graphic editing software
JavaScript
Linux administration
Freelancing
Advanced web development
Capstone project
Fullstack Academy
Programs
Full-Time Coding Bootcamp
Part-Time Coding Bootcamp
Grace Hopper Program
Online Coding Bootcamp
Summer of Code
Future Code Fellowship
Accreditation
None
Online Options
Online Coding Bootcamp
Fullstack Academy is a rigorous bootcamp that prides itself on an inclusive range of programs. The Grace Hopper program is designed to help non-men break into tech, and the Summer of Code program is designed to teach undergraduates the principles of coding. In addition, the Future Code Fellowship lets qualified applicants attend its program for free.
Although this bootcamp has several unique ways for students to take its core curriculum, the software development principles are the same across programs. Fullstack Academy is a great choice to learn web development.
Full-Time Coding Bootcamp Curriculum
HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
Front end vs backend development
Databases with SQL and PostgreSQL
Personal web or mobile application project
Capstone app team project
Galvanize
Programs
Software Engineering Immersive
Software Engineering Part-Time
Accreditation
None
Online Options
All courses above
Galvanize is a nationwide coding bootcamp that offers both full-time and part-time options. Due to Galvanize’s recent acquisition of Hack Reactor, you’ll be studying in a course that combines the experience and hiring network of two strong tech learning institutions.
The web development courses follow a straightforward curriculum designed to help you quickly grasp the tools of the trade. You can choose an immersive or part-time course depending on your schedule.
Software Engineering Curriculum
Fundamentals of computer science
Full stack JavaScript
Application design and development
Career preparation
General Assembly
Programs
Software Engineering Immersive and Flex
Part-Time Front End Web Development
Part-Time JavaScript Development
Part-Time Python Programming
Part-Time React Development
Accreditation
None
Online Options
All courses above
General Assembly is another nationwide bootcamp with a wealth of courses for students at all stages of their web development journey. This option offers full-time and part-time bootcamps on various topics, along with several one-day camps and programs that teach niches.
Though you have many options from General Assembly, the software engineering courses are the most comprehensive. If you want to become a web developer, this is the best choice for you.
Software Engineering Curriculum
Front end development
Full stack development
Front end frameworks
APIs
MIT xPRO
Programs
Professional Certificate in Coding: Full Stack Development with MERN
Professional Certificate in Coding: Women’s Cohort
Front End Development with React
Backend Development
Accreditation
None
Online Options
Online only
MIT xPRO allows you to learn web development from materials developed by real MIT faculty. These MIT professors have taught hundreds of students and worked with companies like Accenture, Ford, Microsoft, Motorola, and more. This bootcamp includes a women-only cohort option where all learning facilitators, mentors, and career support staff are female.
The Full Stack Development with MERN Course incorporates all of the information you need to learn web development. This program is a great choice for a high-quality education.
Full Stack Development with MERN Curriculum
HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
Front end development with React
Backend development with MongoDB, ExpressJS, Node.js, and DevOps
Rochester Institute of Technology
Programs
Bachelor of Science in New Media Interactive Development
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering
Accreditation
Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET
Online Options
None
Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) was the first university in the US to offer a software engineering degree in 1996. While the curriculum has evolved since then, it still offers a great foundation in software development. The New Media Interactive Development degree offers a forward-thinking curriculum with elements of web design, game design, and more.
Both programs offer a co-op portion where students work a real job as part of their education. This makes RIT one of the few schools that compensate students for their learning time.
New Media Interactive Development Curriculum
Interactive media
Discrete mathematics
Website design and implementation
Undergraduate co-op
Media app development
Southern New Hampshire University
Programs
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Concentration in Software Engineering
Accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
Online Options
Online only
Southern New Hampshire University is one of the more recognizable names in online education. This university offers several concentrations in its computer science degrees, but the software engineering track is the only one with web development applications. This program offers a bachelor’s degree at a lower cost than many competitors on this list.
Computer Science Software Engineering Concentration Curriculum
Programming languages
Software security
Full stack development
UI/UX design and development
Emerging systems architectures and technologies
Software code reverse engineering
Springboard
Programs
Software Engineering Career Track
Accreditation
None
Online Options
Online only
This online-only bootcamp offers a part-time structure and a job guarantee. The job guarantee means that if you don’t land a qualifying position within six months of graduation, Springboard will pay back your tuition. With a strong curriculum and one-on-one career coaching, you’ll get a fair shot of landing the web development job of your dreams.
Software Engineering Career Track Curriculum
HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Git, DOM manipulation
Backend with Python, Flask, and SQL
Node.js and Express fundamentals
React and Redux
The Coding Boot Camp at UT Austin
Programs
Coding Bootcamp
Accreditation
None
Online Options
Online due to COVID-19
Some of the biggest companies in tech are relocating to Austin. As companies like Oracle, Tesla, and more settle into the city, you can learn web development from a university with plenty of recognition. In just a few months, you can take advantage of the changing tech landscape with a certificate of completion from UT Austin.
Coding Bootcamp Curriculum
HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
jQuery
Bootstrap
Node.js
MySQL
MongoDB
Express.js
React
Thinkful
Programs
Software Engineering
Part-Time Software Engineering
Accreditation
None
Online Options
Online only
As a nationwide bootcamp, Thinkful offers a hybrid model of education. Students receive live instruction from talented teachers with career mentorship and learning assistance when they need it. Students also gain access to a robust alumni and hiring network in their community to help them launch their careers.
Software Engineering Curriculum
HTML, CSS, JavaScript, APIs, and React
Node.js, Express, PostgreSQL, Knex, REST
Recursive algorithms and advanced data structures
Agile methodology
Tulane University
Programs
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Interactive Design
Accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Options
Online only
This post-graduate certificate course stands out from other options. This program is designed for people with bachelor’s degrees who may want to upskill with interactive design skills. Even if you have a degree that isn’t tech-related, you’ll be able to design, deploy, and manage your own site after only 30 credit hours of study.
Interactive Design Curriculum
Digital illustration and imaging
Web design and development
JavaScript
Digital portfolio
Media arts internship
University of Hartford
Programs
Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Web Design and Development
Accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
Online Options
None
This Connecticut-based university offers this program to teach students how to build attractive websites, mobile applications, and desktop games. This bachelor’s degree teaches students the skills to land a job anywhere in the new tech economy, from graphic design to Internet marketing.
Multimedia Web Design and Development Curriculum
UI design
Communications
Programming
Data visualization
Computer and network administration
Web services
Senior capstone
University of Miami Coding Bootcamp
Programs
Coding Bootcamp
Accreditation
None
Online Options
Online due to COVID-19
This course from the University of Miami provides flexibility for working people to train in web development. Students learn a full stack curriculum through real-world projects, which allows them to build a resume that will impress potential employers. Along with the curriculum, students receive career instruction to make them competitive candidates.
Coding Bootcamp Curriculum
HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Bootstrap, and React
Databases with MySQL and MongoDB
Backend development
Python, Java, AWS, and C#
How Much Can You Earn as a Software Engineer?
Web developers and digital designers can make a median salary of $77,200 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You can find work in these positions with many of the programs listed above, or by earning a Bachelor of Science in Web Design or Information Technology.
Within this field, there are plenty of niches where you can earn a living. If you feel like one of these roles suits your preferences, one of the programs listed above can help you get there.
The Highest-Paying Web Developer Roles
Why You Should Be a Web Developer in 2021
You should become a web developer this year because it is a growing tech job. The world needs web developers now more than ever. You’ll be entering a field with plenty of job security as companies continue to expand their online offerings. You have several ways to enter this field as well, from comprehensive degree programs to quicker coding bootcamps.
The future of this field is bright too, with software development jobs expected to grow by 22 percent by 2029, according to the BLS. With strong momentum that isn’t expected to slow any time soon, 2021 seems like the perfect time to become a web developer.