Web Design Programs in Akron, Ohio

Getting a Web Design Bachelor’s Degree in Akron, Ohio

A Web Design Bachelor’s Degree in Akron, Ohio offers aspiring web designers the opportunity to gain both creative and technical skills. This comprehensive guide explains the different educational pathways—from bachelor’s and associate degrees to specialized certificate programs—while highlighting the available curriculum and career resources. Readers will learn about the schools, courses, and curriculum details essential for launching a career in Web Design.

About Akron, Ohio

Akron is a mid-sized city in Northeast Ohio known for its rich industrial history and modern cultural districts. Visitors and residents alike may explore urban parks, historic neighborhoods, and local landmarks. For more details about the city, visit the official Akron website. Whether you are new to the area or an established local, Akron offers numerous opportunities for creative and professional growth.

Web Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Akron, Ohio

Local and nearby institutions provide diverse Web Design programs to suit varying interests and career objectives. Below is a curated list of schools offering web design or related programs, along with program details, addresses, and neighborhood information.

  1. University of Akron

    • Program: BFA in Graphic Design
    • Unique Features: The BFA program focuses on visual communication design, including aspects of web and interactive media. It features an in-house design studio (Design X Nine) and encourages AIGA portfolio reviews.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 1 University Way, Akron, OH 44325; located in a central campus area that benefits from the lively cultural atmosphere of Akron.
    • Website: University of Akron

  2. Stark State College (Nearest Option)

    • Program: Associate Degree in Web Design and Development
    • Unique Features: This technical program covers important web development skills such as PHP, MySQL, and JavaScript. Although an associate degree, it provides a strong foundation in web design courses that can later be applied toward a bachelor’s curriculum.
    • Address & Neighborhood: The Akron campus is located at 1468 E Market St, Akron, OH 44311. For programs offered at the main campus in Canton, note that it is approximately 20 miles away, offering a practical option for students willing to commute.
    • Website: Stark State College

  3. Walsh University (Nearest Option)

    • Program: Web Design Degree
    • Unique Features: The program features courses in UI/UX design, front-end development, and business applications. Walsh University emphasizes practical experience through required internships and offers hybrid course options.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Main campus is located at 1 Walsh University Drive, North Canton, OH 44720, roughly 20 miles from Akron. This setting provides an accessible option for those willing to travel outside Akron for specialized coursework.
    • Website: Walsh University

Web Design Employment Opportunities in Akron, Ohio

Graduates with a Web Design Bachelor’s Degree can find diverse employment opportunities in Akron. Local companies and organizations value creative and technical skills to enhance their digital presence. Consider exploring opportunities at:

  • Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

    • Description: Headquartered in downtown Akron, Goodyear is a renowned manufacturer that often integrates digital design in its corporate marketing strategies.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located in downtown Akron.
    • Website: Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company

  • Summa Health

    • Description: This leading healthcare provider maintains a robust online presence. Summa Health employs web designers to enhance patient engagement and manage digital communications.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Headquarters at 3800 Fairlawn Rd, Akron, OH 44312, situated in a suburban neighborhood.
    • Website: Summa Health

  • FirstEnergy Corp

    • Description: As a major energy company with its corporate headquarters in Akron, FirstEnergy Corp often seeks professionals to maintain and enhance its digital platforms.
    • Address & Neighborhood: 40 South Main Street, Akron, OH 44308; located in the heart of Akron’s business district.
    • Website: FirstEnergy Corp

For additional career insights, review the job outlook page for Web Developers and Digital Designers on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Prerequisites for Web Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Applicants to Web Design programs typically need to meet several prerequisites:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) as required by the institution.
  • A portfolio review, especially for graphic design-intensive programs.
  • A minimum GPA requirement as determined by the school.

These requirements ensure that candidates are prepared to handle both the creative and technical components of the curriculum.

Web Design Industry Certifications

In addition to formal degree programs, web design students and graduates can pursue industry certifications to enhance their credentials:

  • Adobe Certified Expert (ACE): Validates proficiency in Adobe software used for design.
  • Google UX Design Certificate: Focuses on enhancing skills in user experience and interface design.

These certifications can complement a formal education and improve marketability in the competitive field of web design.

Additional Web Design Degree Requirements and Resources for Akron, Ohio

Official Educational Regulatory Bodies

  • Akron City Board of Education

    • Purpose: Oversees K-12 education in Akron, though it does not regulate higher education programs.

  • Summit County Board of Education

    • Purpose: Manages county-level educational initiatives, including career-technical education.

  • Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE)

  • U.S. Department of Education

    • Jurisdiction: Oversees national education policies and funding.
    • Website: U.S. Department of Education
    • Resources: Use the College Scorecard for detailed program outcomes.

State-Specific Degree Information

  • Available Degrees:

    • BFA in Graphic Design at the University of Akron
    • Associate Degree in Web Design and Development at Stark State College
    • Web Design Degree at Walsh University

  • Admission and Curriculum Requirements:

    • General requirements include a high school diploma, SAT/ACT scores, and portfolio review (for design-focused programs).
    • Core courses cover topics such as HTML/CSS, JavaScript, database management (SQL/MySQL), and design principles (UI/UX, branding).
    • Programs emphasize practical experience through internships and portfolio development.

  • Accreditation:

    • University of Akron’s BFA program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
    • Stark State College and Walsh University are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). For more details, visit CHEA.

Professional Organizations

  • American Institute of Graphic Design (AIGA)

    • Purpose: Advocates for design professionals, offering networking, job boards, and design competitions.
    • Website: AIGA

  • AIGA Akron Chapter

    • Purpose: Provides local networking opportunities for graphic and web designers in the Akron area.

Career Information

  • Job Prospects in Ohio:

    • Common Titles: Web Designer, UX/UI Designer, Front-end Developer.
    • Salary Ranges:
      • Entry-level: $45,000–$60,000/year.
      • Experienced: $70,000–$100,000/year.

  • Professional Development:

    • Consider pursuing certifications such as the Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) or Google UX Design Certificate.
    • Engage in continuing education through online courses via platforms like LinkedIn Learning or Coursera.

  • Institution-Specific Highlights:

    • University of Akron: Offers a BFA in Graphic Design with unique features like the in-house design studio and AIGA portfolio reviews.
    • Stark State College: Provides an Associate Degree in Web Design and Development with strong technical training in PHP, MySQL, and JavaScript.
    • Walsh University: Delivers a Web Design Degree that includes internship opportunities and hybrid course options.

Get Started Today

Aspiring web designers are encouraged to explore these educational opportunities and take the first step toward a rewarding career. Each program offers unique benefits in both coursework and practical experience. Contact your chosen school today through their online forms or admissions offices to begin your educational journey and secure a future in Web Design.