Earning a degree in web development and design through an accredited distance learning program can provide the skills and knowledge necessary to land a rewarding job working online. You can earn an online associate's degree, offered by 2-year community colleges and technical schools, or a bachelor's degree from a 4-year college or university offering online programs. Basic skills and knowledge are gained through online courses like:

• Web Standards Design
• Intellectual Property & Law
• Mobile Media Design
• Flash Design & Animation
• Concepts of Object Oriented Programming
• Rich Media Optimization

You'll also receive more specialized training through chosen electives like: JavaScript, E-Commerce on the Web, Digital Media Delivery, and Flash. Many distance learning programs also include internships at local design firms and co-curricular opportunities on campus to provide students with hands-on experience before entering the workforce.

Web Development vs. Web Design

When choosing an online degree program it's important to consider what you'll be doing after graduation. While many people use the terms "web design" and "web development" interchangeably, they are actually two very different areas of website production. Web developers are concerned with the back-end of a website, that is, the programming and structure that determines how the site works technically. Good web developers will a strong understanding and working knowledge of programming languages and scripts like HTML, CSS, JavaScript and PHP. Web design, on the other hand, refers to the part of the website that is seen by the public. A web designer is responsible for how a site looks and how consumers interact with it. Good web designers know how to use the principles of design to create a site that not only looks great, is user friendly and easy to navigate.

After graduation students holding a degree in web development & design will have access to a number of career paths. Online undergraduate degrees offer the knowledge and skills necessary to land most entry-level positions in the web industry. Available jobs may include those at design firms, corporations or even as a freelance designer or web developer.