What it is
Web development & design is the craft of building websites and web applications — the front-end interfaces users see and the back-end systems that power them. It combines coding with design sensibility, and offers accessible entry into tech with a strong portfolio.
What you'll study
Web programs are project- and portfolio-driven:
- FoundationsHTML, CSS, JavaScript, and design principles
- Front endFrameworks (React, etc.), responsive design, UX/UI
- Back endServer-side programming, databases, and APIs
- CapstoneA portfolio of built sites and apps — the key to getting hired
Concentrations & focus areas
- Front-End DevelopmentUser interfaces
- Back-End DevelopmentServers & databases
- Full-Stack DevelopmentEnd to end
- UX/UI DesignUser experience
- Web / Content ManagementCMS & publishing
- E-CommerceOnline stores
Skills you'll build
- Web codingHTML/CSS/JavaScript & frameworks
- UI/UX sensibilityDesign for users
- Back-end skillsServers, databases, APIs
- Responsive designWorks on any device
- PortfolioDemonstrable built work
Careers & job titles
- Web developerFront/back/full-stack (~$98,540)
- Front-end developerUser interfaces
- Back-end developerServers & data
- UX/UI designerExperience design
- Web designerVisual & layout
- Freelance / agency rolesContract work
Job outlook & demand
The BLS projects web developers and digital interface designers to grow faster than average, driven by e-commerce, mobile, and the constant demand for web presence. Front-end, full-stack, and UX skills are especially sought; a strong portfolio drives hiring.
Pay: median, range & trajectory
Per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, web and digital interface designers had a median around $98,540, with web developers earning strong wages that rise with full-stack and UX skills. Freelance income varies; specialized and senior roles pay well above the median.
Degree levels it's offered at
Offered across these levels — click a level to learn about it:
A certificate, associate, or bachelor's — with a strong portfolio — is the path; the portfolio and demonstrable skills often matter more than the degree level.
Is it right for you?
You might thrive here if you are creative and technical, enjoy building things people use, and want an accessible, portfolio-driven route into tech.
Advantage: web development is very portfolio-driven — build real sites and apps, learn in-demand frameworks and UX, and you can enter without a traditional four-year CS path.
Explore further
Keep exploring:
Key facts
- FocusBuilding websites & web applications
- StudyHTML/CSS/JS, frameworks, back-end, UX/UI
- CareersWeb developer, front/back-end, UX designer
- OutlookFaster than average (BLS)
- Pay~$98,540 median (BLS); portfolio-driven
Where to learn more
Authoritative sources for careers and pay: