Web Design Programs in Joliet, Illinois
Getting a Web Design Bachelor’s Degree in Joliet, Illinois
Pursuing a Web Design Bachelor’s Degree in Joliet, Illinois offers a pathway to a rewarding career where technical expertise meets creative expression. A Web Design Bachelor’s Degree typically emphasizes a blend of design theory, programming fundamentals, and digital media skills. Educational pathways vary, with some programs offering a concentrated focus through majors such as a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Systems (Web Design Concentration) while others enrich core curricula with specialized courses in front-end development, back-end development, and UX/UI design. For comprehensive guidance, prospective students should review the educational requirements set by local regulatory bodies such as the Joliet City Government and Will County Government, as well as state and federal oversight through the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) and the U.S. Department of Education.
About Joliet, Illinois
Joliet, located in Will County, Illinois, is rich in history and modern growth. As part of a dynamic region with thriving industry and cultural landmarks, Joliet is known for its scenic downtown, historical museums, and community events. For more information about the city’s initiatives and landmarks, visit the official Joliet City website.
Web Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Joliet, Illinois
While Joliet offers a range of educational opportunities, prospective students looking for a Web Design Bachelor’s Degree can explore both local and nearby programs:
Joliet Junior College (JJC)
- Program: Associate in Applied Science with a focus on Web Development.
- Address: 610 E. Jefferson St, Joliet, IL 60436 – Located in downtown Joliet.
- Overview: JJC offers technical training that includes web accessibility certification, cloud server administration, and project-based learning. Although primarily focused on an associate degree, JJC provides a foundation that can be built upon through transfer agreements with bachelor’s programs.
- Website: Joliet Junior College
Saint Xavier University (SXU)
- Program: Bachelor of Arts in Computer Information Systems with a Web Design Concentration.
- Address: 1700 W. 95th St, Chicago, IL 60643 – Situated in the Chicago neighborhood of Gage Park, approximately 30 miles from Joliet.
- Overview: SXU emphasizes real-world projects through its RIZE platform, small class sizes, and faculty mentorship, preparing graduates for careers in front-end and back-end development, as well as UX/UI design.
- Website: Saint Xavier University
University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC)
- Program: Bachelor’s degree programs incorporating digital media design and new media studies.
- Address: 1200 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607 – Located in the Near West Side neighborhood, about 40 miles from Joliet.
- Overview: UIC offers comprehensive design curricula with opportunities for interdisciplinary studies. It integrates technical coursework and creative projects to prepare students for specialized roles in web design and digital communication.
- Website: University of Illinois at Chicago
Web Design Employment Opportunities in Joliet, Illinois
Graduates armed with a Web Design Bachelor’s Degree can find opportunities not only in Joliet but also in the greater Chicago metropolitan area. Local and regional employers range from technology giants to specialized design agencies:
Accenture
- Overview: A global consulting firm that frequently hires skilled web designers for digital transformation projects.
- Address: 111 West Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601 (located in the Loop, approximately 40 miles from Joliet).
- Employment Opportunities: Accenture Careers
Google
- Overview: A leader in technology and innovation, Google’s Chicago office offers roles that require a deep understanding of web design and user experience.
- Address: Chicago office in the West Loop, about 50–55 miles from Joliet.
- Employment Opportunities: Google Careers
Microsoft
- Overview: Microsoft embraces digital innovation and often recruits web design professionals to drive its digital marketing and user interface projects.
- Address: Microsoft’s Chicago-based locations are within the city’s core business districts, at an approximate distance of 40 miles from Joliet.
- Employment Opportunities: Microsoft Careers
For industry outlook and career projections, refer to the Bureau of Labor Statistics: Web Developers and Digital Designers.
Prerequisites for Web Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Enrollment in a Web Design Bachelor’s Degree program generally requires:
- A high school diploma or equivalent.
- Submission of SAT or ACT scores (requirements vary by institution).
- A minimum GPA ranging between 2.5 and 3.0.
- Portfolio submissions demonstrating prior work or creative projects may be required, particularly for specialized programs.
Web Design Industry Certifications
To enhance professional credentials, students and graduates might consider pursuing industry certifications such as:
- Adobe Certified Expert (ACE): Validates proficiency in Adobe’s suite of creative applications.
- Google UX Design Certificate: Focuses on user experience design principles and practical applications.
These certifications can complement academic credentials and signal competency to prospective employers.
Additional Resources and Regulatory Bodies
Prospective students should be aware of local, county, state, and federal resources that support higher education in Illinois:
Official City Educational Regulatory Body:
- Joliet City Government
- Website: cityofjoliet.org
- Contact: (815) 724-4000
- Joliet City Government
Official County Educational Regulatory Body:
- Will County Government
- Website: willcountyillinois.com
- Contact: (815) 740-4600
- Will County Government
Official State Educational Regulatory Body:
- Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE)
- Website: ibhe.org
- Contact: (217) 557-7359
- Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE)
Federal Education Oversight:
- U.S. Department of Education
- Website: ed.gov
- Career Projections and Data: Bureau of Labor Statistics
- U.S. Department of Education
Additional resources include:
- Illinois Workforce Development: For grants, training, and career advancement opportunities. Visit Illinois Workforce Development.
- Joliet Junior College Career Services: Offering job placement and internship support. Visit JJC Career Services.
Get Started Today
The journey towards a successful career in web design begins with solid education and real-world experience. With a clear pathway provided by local and regional educational institutions, supportive regulatory resources, and industry-recognized certifications, aspiring web designers are well-equipped to enter a field with robust job prospects. Consider exploring your program options and contacting your chosen school through their inquiry forms today. Your future in web design awaits!