Although Web designers typically are hired with a bachelor's degree, an individual who wants to take Web design to a higher level may choose to get a master's degree in Web design. Many colleges and universities offer Web design at the master's degree level both on campus and online. Web designers are the creative masterminds behind the unique, appealing and functional designs we see when we visit a website. Here is some information on master's degree in Web design programs.
Types of Master's Degrees
Students interested in earning master's degrees in Web design have several from which to choose. Some of the programs may be in Web design, some might be in Web development, while others may be in Web design and development. It's important to remember that Web design and Web development are slightly different. The Web designer creates the designs for the website, but the Web developer is the one who puts the designs on the website and makes the site functional.
Depending on the school, the student may be able to choose from an on-campus program to an online program. A typical master's degree program can take two to three years beyond the bachelor's degree. Online programs give students the option to complete programs quicker or to take more time to earn the degree. Here are just a few of the many possible master's degrees in Web design a student may find.
- Master of Science in Information Technology – Web Design
- Master of Science in Web Design and Development
- Master of Science in Digital Media Design
- Master of Science in Web Design and Application Development
- Master of Arts in Web Design and Online Communication
What Students Learn
Students in web design master's degree programs learn more than just how to create a Web design. They learn the basics of computer programming, which is vital to Web designs and development. They also learn about traffic flow and leads and how to create a site that generates the highest amount of traffic. Some of the courses found in a Web design master's degree program include:
- Graphic design
- Database programming
- Fundamental of information technology
- Technical communication
- Website optimization
- Web media
- Mobile Web design
- Web business creation
At the end of the program, students may be required to complete a capstone project using what they've learned in the program. The project generally includes the creation of a Web design.
Career Opportunities with Master's in Web Design
Graduates of Web design master's degree programs may find the following career opportunities.
- Web designer
- Graphic designer
- Applications developer
- SEO specialist
- Multimedia specialist
- Web content manager
- Web designer and developer
- UX designer
- Multimedia programmer
Career Outlook with Master's Degree
Graphic designers are expected to see an employment growth of 4 percent from 2016-2026, and Web developers should see a growth of 15 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. According to an April 2018 wage report by Salary.com, Web designers earned annual wages ranging from $53,697 to $94,258 with the average wage at $74,054. The Web designers with the highest level of education and experience typically find the best job opportunities.
Related Resource: 25 Best Master's in Web Design Online 2018
With the way the Internet has become such an important part of our lives, online shopping and browsing have become a day-to-day pastime, thus making Web designers a hot commodity. Earning a master's degree in Web design can put the individual in a position for many lucrative and rewarding job opportunities.