Web Design Programs in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Getting a Web Design Bachelor’s Degree in Colorado Springs, Colorado
A Web Design Bachelor’s Degree is tailored for those who wish to master both the artistic and technical aspects of creating dynamic digital content. These programs often emphasize graphic design, coding languages, and visual communication techniques. There are several educational paths available, including a Bachelor of Arts (BA) focusing on typography, digital color theory, and web development, an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) that blends technical skills with foundational design principles, and even non-degree Web Design & Development Diploma programs.
Before embarking on this educational journey, prospective students should be aware of the regulatory bodies that maintain academic standards in the region. In Colorado Springs, the Colorado Springs Education Department oversees K-12 education (contact: (719) 520-2000), while the El Paso County Education Department serves the county’s K-12 educational needs. For higher education, the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) and the Colorado Commission on Higher Education (CCHE) set state policies and accreditation standards (contact: (303) 866-2723). Additionally, the U.S. Department of Education oversees national accreditation standards and federal financial aid, with its Accreditation Database providing up-to-date verification details.
About Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, Colorado, is renowned for its dynamic arts scene and stunning natural landmarks such as the Garden of the Gods. This city offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. For official information, visit the City of Colorado Springs website. Home to diverse cultural neighborhoods and creative hubs, Colorado Springs serves as an ideal backdrop for students pursuing studies in web design and digital media.
Web Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Although specific Web Design bachelor’s degree programs are not found directly within Colorado Springs, there are several nearby institutions offering programs and courses that incorporate web design curricula. Below are three reputable options:
Colorado Technical University (CTU) – Colorado Springs Campus
- Program Focus: Offers digital media communications with integrated web design elements.
- Address & Neighborhood: 1500 E. Cheyenne Mountain, Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (located in the Cheyenne Mountain area).
- Website: Colorado Technical University
- Description: CTU emphasizes a curriculum that blends technical courses with digital design, providing students with practical web design skills while preparing them for careers in IT and digital communications.
Pikes Peak State College – Digital Media Program
- Program Focus: Provides courses in digital media and web design fundamentals as part of its broader curriculum.
- Address & Neighborhood: 1515 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 (situated in the downtown neighborhood).
- Website: Pikes Peak State College
- Description: This institution caters to students interested in multimedia and web design, offering a balanced mix of creative and technical coursework in an urban setting.
Art Institute of Colorado – BA in Graphic & Web Design
- Program Focus: Offers a Bachelor of Arts degree concentrating on both graphic and web design, including coursework on Adobe Photoshop, digital color theory, and web development frameworks.
- Address & Neighborhood: 2450 West 38th Avenue, Denver, CO 80211 (located in the West Colfax neighborhood; approximately 70 miles north of Colorado Springs).
- Website: Art Institute of Colorado
- Description: Although not in Colorado Springs proper, this program serves regional students with robust internship opportunities and extensive portfolio development resources.
Web Design Employment Opportunities in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs is home to a variety of organizations where web designers can thrive, from major defense contractors to creative government agencies. Notable employers include:
Lockheed Martin
- Website: Lockheed Martin
- Neighborhood: With offices located in the downtown area, Lockheed Martin offers positions for digital designers to support defense and aerospace communications.
Northrop Grumman
- Website: Northrop Grumman
- Neighborhood: Operating in the Colorado Springs region (often associated with areas such as Northgate), this global aerospace and defense firm regularly hires professionals with web design and digital media skills.
U.S. Air Force
- Website: U.S. Air Force
- Neighborhood: Located near the U.S. Air Force Academy in the Academy District, the organization employs web designers for internal communications, recruitment, and digital strategy initiatives.
For detailed career outlook information in the field of web development and digital design, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook page.
Prerequisites for Web Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Prospective students seeking a Web Design Bachelor’s Degree should meet several common prerequisites:
General Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- SAT/ACT scores (requirements vary by institution).
- A portfolio review is typically required, particularly for programs emphasizing graphic or web design.
Specialized Prerequisites:
- Some programs may require competency exams in Macintosh operations or related technical proficiencies.
Additionally, potential students should familiarize themselves with state-specific degree information. For instance, BA programs emphasize graphic elements combined with web development, while AAS and diploma options blend practical skills with theoretical knowledge. Core curriculum often includes Adobe Photoshop, Flash design, digital color theory, scripting languages, programming logic, and specializations such as UX/UI design and front-end development. Accreditation by organizations like the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) is also a key component—verify accreditation details via the U.S. Department of Education Accreditation Database.
Web Design Industry Certifications
Students and graduates looking to enhance their credentials in web design may consider several industry certifications, including:
- Adobe Certified Expert (ACE): Validates advanced skills in Adobe software tools essential for web and graphic design.
- Google UX Design Certificate: Demonstrates proficiency in user experience (UX) strategies and front-end design principles.
These certifications add significant value to resumes by showcasing a commitment to ongoing professional development. Additionally, organizations such as the American Institute of Graphic Design (AIGA) and Web Professionals Organization offer workshops, networking opportunities, and industry resources.
Get Started Today
The field of web design offers promising career opportunities, with positions ranging from Web Designer and UX Designer to Front-end Developer. Entry-level salaries range from $45,000 to $60,000 annually, while experienced professionals can earn between $70,000 and $90,000 per year. With robust academic programs available both locally and nearby, there has never been a better time to pursue a Web Design Bachelor’s Degree.
Prospective students are encouraged to explore these educational programs, review detailed curriculum and admission requirements, and consider industry certifications to enhance their career prospects. Contact your chosen institution’s enrollment office via their online forms today to begin your journey in web design.