Web Design Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

Getting a Web Design Bachelor’s Degree in Des Moines, Iowa

A Web Design Bachelor’s Degree is a comprehensive program that equips students with skills in digital media, user experience design, and interactive development. Prospective students can choose from various educational paths including dedicated bachelor’s programs and transferable associate degree courses. In Des Moines, Iowa, aspiring web designers can benefit from a supportive academic environment and industry-focused curriculum that integrates both practical and theoretical components of web design.

For local students, educational oversight is provided by several agencies. Des Moines Public Schools (phone: (515) 242-7700, website) and Polk County Education Department (phone: (515) 286-3700) focus on K-12 and workforce development programs. At the state level, the Iowa Department of Education (website, phone: (515) 281-5294) and the Iowa Board of Regents (website, phone: (515) 281-3934) ensure higher education standards. Federal oversight is provided by the U.S. Department of Education (website) along with its Accreditation Database (link).

About Des Moines

Des Moines, Iowa’s capital and largest city, offers a blend of urban sophistication and Midwestern charm. Key neighborhoods such as the East Village and Downtown Des Moines house a number of cultural landmarks and creative hubs. Residents and visitors can explore local attractions and community events through the official city website.

Web Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Des Moines, Iowa

Although dedicated web design bachelor’s programs in Des Moines are limited, several institutions in and around the city provide related courses and transfer opportunities:

  1. Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)

    • Program: A.A.S. in Web Development (transferable to a four-year program)
    • Description: DMACC offers courses focusing on essential coding languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript along with e-commerce tools. This program is ideal for those planning to transfer into a bachelor’s program later.
    • Address: 14040 Cedar Hills Blvd, West Des Moines, IA 50266 (approximately 10 miles from downtown Des Moines)
    • Neighborhood: West Des Moines

  2. Drake University

    • Program: Digital Media and Design with integrated web design courses
    • Description: Located in downtown Des Moines, Drake University provides a comprehensive digital media curriculum that covers web design elements alongside creative technologies.
    • Address: 2500 University Ave, Des Moines, IA 50312
    • Neighborhood: Downtown Des Moines

  3. University of Dubuque

    • Program: B.S. in Computer Graphics/Interactive Media
    • Description: This bachelor’s program focuses on web design, multimedia authoring, and database systems. Students benefit from internship opportunities and portfolio development, preparing them for a career in web development.
    • Address: 1700 University Ave, Dubuque, IA 52001 (approximately 180 miles from Des Moines)
    • Neighborhood: Downtown Dubuque

Web Design Employment Opportunities in Des Moines

The Des Moines area is home to several major employers actively seeking skilled web designers:

  • Principal Financial Group

    • Description: A leading global financial services organization headquartered in downtown Des Moines. They often seek professionals with expertise in web design to enhance their digital platforms.
    • Address: One Park Plaza, Des Moines, IA 50309
    • Website: https://www.pfgc.com/

  • Wells Fargo

    • Description: With multiple branches in central Des Moines, Wells Fargo has a significant digital operations division that requires talented web designers to maintain and improve their online services.
    • Website: https://www.wellsfargo.com/

  • NorthStar Creative

    • Description: A design agency located in the East Village area, NorthStar Creative specializes in digital marketing and creative solutions, offering ample opportunities for web design professionals.
    • Website: https://www.facebook.com/northstarcreativeco/

For broader career insights and job outlook information for web designers, consult the job outlook page on the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Prerequisites for Web Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Applicants to web design programs are generally expected to have:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • SAT/ACT scores, which vary by institution.
  • A minimum GPA of 2.5, as seen with the University of Dubuque program.
  • Basic computer skills and a portfolio showcasing creative or technical projects may be required.

Web Design Industry Certifications

To bolster credentials, graduates and students can pursue multiple industry certifications, including:

  • Adobe Certified Expert (ACE): Validates expertise in Adobe Creative Suite.
  • Google UX Design Certificate: Enhances skills in user experience research and design.
  • Additionally, continuing education opportunities such as Iowa State University Extension’s Digital Media Workshops support professional growth in digital media fields.

Educational Regulatory and Accreditation Resources

Understanding the accreditation and oversight landscape is crucial when selecting a program. Key resources include:

Local and state-level bodies also play a role in ensuring educational excellence:

  • Iowa Department of Education and Iowa Board of Regents regulate higher education standards and oversee public university programs.
  • Polk County Workforce Development offers grants and training resources. Their initiatives can be explored through Polk County Workforce Development.

Get Started Today

With a variety of school options, supportive regulatory agencies, and numerous career opportunities, now is an excellent time to pursue a Web Design Bachelor’s Degree in Des Moines, Iowa. Prospective students are encouraged to explore program details and contact schools directly through the inquiry forms on their websites. Begin your journey in web design and open doors to a dynamic career in digital media.