When choosing between web design and web development programs, it is important to understand the difference between the two fields, the curriculum within each program and the computer technology requirements for online programs.
The Difference Between Web Design and Web Development
The terms 'web design' and 'web development' are often used interchangeably and are sometimes offered in the same degree program. Web design, however, refers to what's known as 'front end' design. Front end design focuses on the aesthetics, or the look and feel, of a website. Web designers are responsible for creating the graphical elements and layout of webpages. This is typically done using image editing programs such as Adobe Photoshop and markup languages such as HTML.
Web development refers to what is sometimes called 'back end' construction. Back end construction focuses on the coding and other technical aspects responsible for the functionality of websites. This is done through the use of coding languages such as XML, SGML, JavaScript and HTML. Web developers may also use the same design concepts as Web designers to build websites.
Online Web Design and Development Degrees
Online web design and development degrees are typically offered at the bachelor's degree level, resulting in a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) degree. While many programs combine education in both subjects within a single degree, some schools provide separate degrees for each subject.
Web Design Degrees
Web designers typically study topics such as:
- Digital illustration
- Multimedia design
- Webmastering
- Image editing
- Internet programming
- Animation
- Portfolio presentation
- Interface design
Job options for graduates with a degree in web design include:
- Web designer
- Web administrator
- Production assistant
- Multimedia designer
Web Development Degrees
Typical web development courses cover topics such as:
- Database applications
- Project management
- Programming
- Multimedia
- Computer graphics
- Web authoring
- E-commerce.
Possible jobs include:
- Web developer
- Programmer
- Webmaster
- Web database administrator
Technical Requirements
The basic technical requirements for online web design and development programs are likely to be similar. Online students need a personal computer with the following features:
- An updated operating system
- A certain amount of memory
- Office software
- Antivirus software
- CD/DVD drive
- Headphones
However, students may also need access to software that is specific to either web design or development, depending on what classes they take. For instance, web designers may need access to desktop publishing software, like Adobe InDesign. Web developers may need access to an integrated development environment (IDE) that is specific to a particular programming language, like Eclipse for Java or Spyder for Python.
The courses within undergraduate web design and web development degree programs differ, and they prepare graduates for different careers. The computer software and hardware requirements are typically similar, with some possible exceptions.
