Web Design and Development Degree

Start your career in web, mobile, or interactive media development

Career options

Digital media
Web design
Web development

Harper College's associate's degree in web development prepares you for a career developing websites, mobile experiences, and interactive user interfaces.

You’ll produce professional web solutions and learn about the technical aspects of website development. You'll also build a foundation in website design and create various communications and interactive web solutions. The program will also give you an introduction to graphic rich media, web and multimedia design technologies and front-end development.

A.A.S. degree program requirements

Choose one of two specializations: Web Development or Web Design and Interactive Media.

Web Design and Development—Web Design and Interactive Media

Program Overview

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This 60 credit-hour web curriculum prepares students for various positions in the field of web design and interactive media. Students will learn the technology behind today’s Internet and website design protocols by producing professional communications, innovative interactive web solutions, and understanding the technical aspect of interactive web design. Utilizing graphic rich media, web and multimedia design technologies and standards while learning front-end development, this degree path provides solid design and technology skills for an industry relevant experience.

This sequenced degree plan is one of two options that students may pursue to earn the Web Design and Development Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. While there are multiple specializations, this particular degree can be awarded only once.

FIRST SEMESTER:

Number	Course Title	Credits	Category
ENG 101	Composition I	3	AAS General Education
Description: Emphasizes the writing of expository prose. Introduction to the critical reading of nonfiction prose. IAI C1 900 Prerequisite: ENG 096 with a grade of P or other placement options: english-placement-grid.php ESL students need one of the following options: ESL 073 and ESL 074 with grades of B or better; ESL 073 and ESL 086 with grades of B or better; ESL 073 and ESL 099 with grades of B or better; ESL 073 with required writing placement test score; or ESL 074 with required reading placement test score. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
GRA 101	Introduction to Graphic Arts Technology	3	Program Requirement
Description: Provides students an overview of past, present and future graphic arts processes including graphic applications for design/layout, imaging, photography, prepress, print and finishing. Direction is provided on occupations in the Graphic Arts industry and the use of digital applications related to producing print materials. Provides a hands-on understanding of desktop publishing software through lab and lecture. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
GRA 103	Digital Imaging I	3	Program Requirement
Description: Covers fundamentals of professional digital image-editing software (Adobe Photoshop). Emphasizes skills to manipulate photos using current software tools and special effects filters. Explores program tools, color correction, channels, layers and masks. Computer skills are required for success in this course. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
MTH 103	College Algebra ¹	3	AAS General Education
Description: Emphasizes algebraic and graphical approaches. Topics include but are not limited to polynomial functions, rational functions, exponential functions, logarithmic functions and systems of equations. NOTE: This course does not fulfill the math requirement for the AA or AS degrees. Prerequisite: MTH 070 (Plane Geometry) with a grade of C or better or Geometry Waiver AND placement into college level mathematics. mathplacement.php Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 110	Internet Fundamentals	3	Program Requirement
Description: Introduces the fundamental skills and knowledge needed to use the Internet and build basic web pages. Students will learn and understand introductory functions of the web, Internet communications, and project management concepts. Social networking tools and the use of multimedia on the web will be explored. Industry career opportunities will be discussed. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025

SECOND SEMESTER:

Number	Course Title	Credits	Category
	AAS General Education elective⁺	3	AAS General Education
ENG 102	Composition II or
Description: Continues ENG 101. Reading literature and writing of various types of prose. Introduces methods used in writing investigative papers. IAI C1 901R Prerequisite: ENG 101 with a grade of C or better, or consent of instructor or department chair. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
SPE 101	Fundamentals of Speech Communication	3	AAS General Education
Description: Theory and practice of oral communications. Development of poise, confidence and skill in speech organization and delivery. Emphasis on frequent speaking, development of standards of criticism and selection and organization of material. IAI C2 900 Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
GRA 145	Wordpress and Mobile Technologies	3	Program Requirement
Description: Introduces the student to WordPress fundamentals to create basic web pages. Hands-on computer activity includes WordPress templates, dashboard and widget usage; blogging/posts; adding links, videos, photo galleries; creating user accounts and theme changes. Student will also learn to translate the WordPress full web site into a mobile website and will integrate with social media platforms. An introduction to UI (user interface) design will be explored for mobile applications. Prerequisite: GRA 101, WEB 110 or WEB 150 with a grade of C or better, or consent of coordinator. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 150	Web Foundations	3	Program Requirement
Description: Introduces the foundational skills needed to create web pages utilizing HyperText Markup Language (HTML), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), and an overview of the JavaScript language. Topics include Web design best practices, web site hosting, Internet protocols, graphics, media and security. Students utilize the skills learned to create a business-oriented web site project. IAI MC 923 Recommended: WEB 110 or CIS 106 or GRA 101 are strongly recommended courses in preparation prior to WEB 150. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 170	Web Ux Fundamentals and Prototyping	3	Program Requirement
Description: Provides the understanding of UX (user experience) and UI (user interface) fundamentals, and the needs for user research, journey maps, personas, usability testing, and workflow mapping. Emphasizes techniques of sketching to develop digital wireframe to create an interactive prototype of a business-oriented website. Uses current prototyping tools to match industry standards. Prerequisite: WEB 110 or WEB 150 with a grade of C or better, or concurrent enrollment in WEB 150. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025

THIRD SEMESTER:

Number	Course Title	Credits	Category
	AAS General Education elective⁺	3	AAS General Education
WEB 180	Web Multimedia	3	Program Requirement
Description: Introduces the nature and attributes of motion graphics in this project-based course. Through hands-on activities, students will learn to generate, manipulate, and embed still and motion graphics for their website design and other media delivery systems. Prerequisite: WEB 150 with a grade of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 190	Web Authoring Tools F	3	Program Requirement
Description: This course is only offered in the fall term. Utilizes current industry frontend frameworks and advanced Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) techniques to create responsive websites. This course is project-based and students demonstrate skills by creating a business-oriented web site. Prerequisite: WEB 150 with a grade of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 200	Web Scripting Foundations	3	Program Requirement
Description: Introduces the JavaScript programming language and its capabilities for developing user-centric websites in this project-based course. Through hands-on exercises, students will create web pages with interactive components and dynamically update data. Students demonstrate skills by creating a business-oriented web site. Prerequisite: WEB 150 with a grade of C or better AND math placement in MTH 101 or higher. mathplacement.php Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 240	E -Commerce Strategies and Technologies F	3	Program Requirement
Description: This course is only offered in the fall term. Provides the student with a foundation in the fundamentals of electronic commerce development. Software security, payment systems, promotion, and support strategies are considered. Website design and navigation considerations for shopability, sales, shipping/costs, etc., and marketing touch points are introduced to understand search engine optimization (SEO). Ad words, social media/email marketing and tools such as Google analytics, customer conversion, are understood. Identifying top ecommerce platforms and understanding the pros and cons are explored. Understanding basic web skills and WordPress/WooCommerce is necessary. Prerequisite: WEB 145 and WEB 150 with grades of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025

FOURTH SEMESTER:

Number	Course Title	Credits	Category
	Elective²	3	Program Requirement
MKT 180	Strategic Communication for a Digital World	3	Program Requirement
Description: Introduces the fundamental skills needed to develop Web-appropriate written content that can be leveraged for strategic marketing purposes on multiple digital platforms. Evaluates platform requirements and explains the nuances of multimedia writing. Presents techniques to identify success metrics, assess and report content performance and make data-driven recommendations. Recommended: ENG 101 or placement options into ENG 101: english-placement-grid.php Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 210	Web Accessibility S	3	Program Requirement
Description: This course is only offered in the spring term. Builds on web foundation skills taught in WEB 150 with a focus on development of useable and accessible web sites. Topics include Section 508 Accessibility compliance, the Web Accessibility Initiative guidelines, usability testing, and applications that test for adherence to coding syntax and accessibility recommendations. Prerequisite: WEB 150 with a grade of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 235	Interactive Scripting S	3	Program Requirement
Description: This course is only offered in the spring term. Builds on scripting skills taught in WEB 200 with a focus on advanced JavaScript techniques which include current libraries and frameworks to create highly functional web pages. Students utilize the advanced skills taught to create a business-oriented web site. Prerequisite: WEB 200 with a grade of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 299	Web Design Capstone S	3	Program Requirement
Description: This course is only offered in the spring term. Develops an understanding of industry expectations of a portfolio and interview skills. Provides hands-on experience to showcase their web design and development work along with creating self-branding assets. Communication strategies will be taught through mock presentations and interviews that demonstrate skills of many program requirements. Previous work will be reviewed and critiqued for portfolio use. Prerequisite: WEB 200 with a grade of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025

¹ - If a student places higher than MTH 103, they need to take a 3 credit-hour AAS General Education elective. See full list of AAS General Education Electives.

⁺ - ART 110 or ART 121 are recommended. At least one of the AAS General Education electives must meet the World Cultures and Diversity graduation requirement. See full list of AAS General Education Electives.

² - Electives: CIS 106, CIS 206, CIS 216, CSC 214, GRA 102, GRA 112, MKT 180, WEB 140, WEB 180, WEB 250 (S), WEB 285, WEB 299 (S).

Program learning outcomes

Demonstrate professional and effective communication and presentation skills in a visual communication industry.
Apply best practices of Web design.
Develop graphic rich media utilizing web and multimedia design technologies and standards.
Create interactive and responsive prototypes through sketching and wire framing.
Code and publish standards-compliant, accessible Web documents using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Evaluate Web sites for accessibility compliance and usability.
Describe e-commerce business concepts related to information technology, promotion and marketing, international issues, legal implications and ethical issues.
Complete a project to design, build, implement, and maintain a web site that meets client requirements.

Web Design and Development—Web Development

Program Overview

Print PDF

This 61 credit-hour technical curriculum prepares students for various positions in the field of web development. Students will learn the technology behind today’s Internet and website development protocols by producing professional web solutions and understanding the technical aspect of website development. Utilizing front-end design and back-end practices and programming, this degree path provides solid technology skills for an industry relevant experience.

F = Fall only course S = Spring only course U = Summer only course

FIRST SEMESTER:

Number	Course Title	Credits	Category
CIS 106	Computer Logic and Programming Technology	3	Program Requirement
Description: Provides students with a comprehensive introduction to computer programming using a currently popular programming language. Includes program logic, program structure, subroutines/functions/methods, variables, conditions, loops, arrays, files/data access, and object-oriented programming. A variety of programs are created throughout the course. Prerequisite: Math placement into MTH 101 or higher. mathplacement.php Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
ENG 101	Composition I	3	AAS General Education
Description: Emphasizes the writing of expository prose. Introduction to the critical reading of nonfiction prose. IAI C1 900 Prerequisite: ENG 096 with a grade of P or other placement options: english-placement-grid.php ESL students need one of the following options: ESL 073 and ESL 074 with grades of B or better; ESL 073 and ESL 086 with grades of B or better; ESL 073 and ESL 099 with grades of B or better; ESL 073 with required writing placement test score; or ESL 074 with required reading placement test score. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
GRA 101	Introduction to Graphic Arts Technology	3	Program Requirement
Description: Provides students an overview of past, present and future graphic arts processes including graphic applications for design/layout, imaging, photography, prepress, print and finishing. Direction is provided on occupations in the Graphic Arts industry and the use of digital applications related to producing print materials. Provides a hands-on understanding of desktop publishing software through lab and lecture. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
MTH 103	College Algebra ¹	3	AAS General Education
Description: Emphasizes algebraic and graphical approaches. Topics include but are not limited to polynomial functions, rational functions, exponential functions, logarithmic functions and systems of equations. NOTE: This course does not fulfill the math requirement for the AA or AS degrees. Prerequisite: MTH 070 (Plane Geometry) with a grade of C or better or Geometry Waiver AND placement into college level mathematics. mathplacement.php Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 110	Internet Fundamentals	3	Program Requirement
Description: Introduces the fundamental skills and knowledge needed to use the Internet and build basic web pages. Students will learn and understand introductory functions of the web, Internet communications, and project management concepts. Social networking tools and the use of multimedia on the web will be explored. Industry career opportunities will be discussed. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025

SECOND SEMESTER:

Number	Course Title	Credits	Category
	AAS General Education elective⁺	3	AAS General Education
CIS 143	Introduction to Database Systems	3	Program Requirement
Description: Provides students with a comprehensive introduction to database concepts. Primary focus is on the relational model of database management and querying databases using Structured Query Language (SQL). Existing relational databases are examined and manipulated, and new relational databases are created. Prerequisite: CAS 160 or CIS 101 or WEB 110 with a grade of C or better and math placement in MTH 101 or higher. mathplacement.php Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
ENG 102	Composition II or
Description: Continues ENG 101. Reading literature and writing of various types of prose. Introduces methods used in writing investigative papers. IAI C1 901R Prerequisite: ENG 101 with a grade of C or better, or consent of instructor or department chair. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
SPE 101	Fundamentals of Speech Communication	3	AAS General Education
Description: Theory and practice of oral communications. Development of poise, confidence and skill in speech organization and delivery. Emphasis on frequent speaking, development of standards of criticism and selection and organization of material. IAI C2 900 Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
GRA 145	Wordpress and Mobile Technologies	3	Program Requirement
Description: Introduces the student to WordPress fundamentals to create basic web pages. Hands-on computer activity includes WordPress templates, dashboard and widget usage; blogging/posts; adding links, videos, photo galleries; creating user accounts and theme changes. Student will also learn to translate the WordPress full web site into a mobile website and will integrate with social media platforms. An introduction to UI (user interface) design will be explored for mobile applications. Prerequisite: GRA 101, WEB 110 or WEB 150 with a grade of C or better, or consent of coordinator. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 150	Web Foundations	3	Program Requirement
Description: Introduces the foundational skills needed to create web pages utilizing HyperText Markup Language (HTML), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), and an overview of the JavaScript language. Topics include Web design best practices, web site hosting, Internet protocols, graphics, media and security. Students utilize the skills learned to create a business-oriented web site project. IAI MC 923 Recommended: WEB 110 or CIS 106 or GRA 101 are strongly recommended courses in preparation prior to WEB 150. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025

THIRD SEMESTER:

Number	Course Title	Credits	Category
	AAS General Education elective⁺	3	AAS General Education
WEB 170	Web Ux Fundamentals and Prototyping	3	Program Requirement
Description: Provides the understanding of UX (user experience) and UI (user interface) fundamentals, and the needs for user research, journey maps, personas, usability testing, and workflow mapping. Emphasizes techniques of sketching to develop digital wireframe to create an interactive prototype of a business-oriented website. Uses current prototyping tools to match industry standards. Prerequisite: WEB 110 or WEB 150 with a grade of C or better, or concurrent enrollment in WEB 150. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 190	Web Authoring Tools F	3	Program Requirement
Description: This course is only offered in the fall term. Utilizes current industry frontend frameworks and advanced Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) techniques to create responsive websites. This course is project-based and students demonstrate skills by creating a business-oriented web site. Prerequisite: WEB 150 with a grade of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 200	Web Scripting Foundations	3	Program Requirement
Description: Introduces the JavaScript programming language and its capabilities for developing user-centric websites in this project-based course. Through hands-on exercises, students will create web pages with interactive components and dynamically update data. Students demonstrate skills by creating a business-oriented web site. Prerequisite: WEB 150 with a grade of C or better AND math placement in MTH 101 or higher. mathplacement.php Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 240	E -Commerce Strategies and Technologies F	3	Program Requirement
Description: This course is only offered in the fall term. Provides the student with a foundation in the fundamentals of electronic commerce development. Software security, payment systems, promotion, and support strategies are considered. Website design and navigation considerations for shopability, sales, shipping/costs, etc., and marketing touch points are introduced to understand search engine optimization (SEO). Ad words, social media/email marketing and tools such as Google analytics, customer conversion, are understood. Identifying top ecommerce platforms and understanding the pros and cons are explored. Understanding basic web skills and WordPress/WooCommerce is necessary. Prerequisite: WEB 145 and WEB 150 with grades of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025

FOURTH SEMESTER:

Number	Course Title	Credits	Category
CSC 121	Computer Science I	4	Program Requirement
Description: The first in a sequence of courses for majors in Computer Science, Mathematics, and Engineering. Introduces a disciplined approach to problem-solving and algorithm development, in addition to an introduction to procedural and data abstraction. Covers: selection, repetition, and sequence control structures; program design, testing, and documentation using good programming style; block-structured high-level programming languages; and arrays, records, and files. IAI CS911 Prerequisite: MTH 070 (Plane Geometry) with a grade of C or better or Geometry Waiver; AND college-level placement in mathematics. mathplacement.php Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
	Elective²	3	Program Requirement
WEB 210	Web Accessibility S	3	Program Requirement
Description: This course is only offered in the spring term. Builds on web foundation skills taught in WEB 150 with a focus on development of useable and accessible web sites. Topics include Section 508 Accessibility compliance, the Web Accessibility Initiative guidelines, usability testing, and applications that test for adherence to coding syntax and accessibility recommendations. Prerequisite: WEB 150 with a grade of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 235	Interactive Scripting S	3	Program Requirement
Description: This course is only offered in the spring term. Builds on scripting skills taught in WEB 200 with a focus on advanced JavaScript techniques which include current libraries and frameworks to create highly functional web pages. Students utilize the advanced skills taught to create a business-oriented web site. Prerequisite: WEB 200 with a grade of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025
WEB 250	Server -Side Scripting S	3	Program Requirement
Description: This course is only offered in the spring term. Provides an introduction to server-side scripting and web data access using a currently popular server application platform and database. Includes variables, control structures, functions, arrays, files, and databases. Students utilize the advanced skills taught to create a business-oriented data-driven web application that uses data query language to access and update information. Prerequisite: CIS 143 and either CIS 106 or WEB 200 with grades of C or better. Class Schedule: Fall 2024 \| Spring 2025

¹ - If a student places higher than MTH 103, they need to take a 3 credit-hour AAS General Education elective. MTH 103 is required for CSC 121. See full list of AAS General Education Electives.

⁺ - At least one of the AAS General Education electives must meet the World Cultures and Diversity graduation requirement. See full list of AAS General Education Electives.

² - Electives: CIS 106, CIS 206, CIS 216, CSC 214, GRA 102, GRA 112, MKT 180, WEB 140, WEB 180, WEB 250 (S), WEB 285, WEB 299 (S).

Program learning outcomes

Demonstrate professional and effective communication and presentation skills in a visual communication industry.
Apply best practices of Web development.
Produce professional quality web solutions utilizing current web development techniques.
Code and publish standards-compliant, accessible Web documents using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Utilize a server-side scripting language and a database to create a dynamic Web site.
Evaluate Web sites for accessibility compliance and usability.
Describe e-commerce business concepts related to information technology, promotion and marketing, international issues, legal implications and ethical issues.
Implement appropriate program design, testing, and documentation methodology using current programming best practices.

Related programs

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Next steps

For more information about the web development courses at Harper College, contact Admission Outreach at 847.925.6700, or submit a request information form. You can also apply online.