Web Design Programs in Tacoma, Washington

Getting a Web Design Bachelor’s Degree in Tacoma, Washington

A Web Design Bachelor’s Degree equips graduates with essential creative and technical skills needed for modern digital environments. This degree blends design principles, human-centered approaches, and web technologies to prepare students for careers in web development, UX design, and digital media. Multiple educational paths exist, ranging from Bachelor of Design programs to applied science degrees, each emphasizing a mix of theory and practical application.

About Tacoma, Washington

Tacoma, Washington is a culturally rich city known for its thriving arts scene and historic neighborhoods. Home to landmarks such as the Museum of Glass and the Tacoma Art Museum, Tacoma offers a dynamic backdrop for aspiring web design professionals. For more insights about the city, visit the City of Tacoma website.

Web Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Tacoma, Washington

While Tacoma does not host a large number of dedicated Web Design programs, students in the area have access to quality programs in nearby institutions:

  1. Pierce College – New Media and Digital Design (AAS)

    • Program Focus: Offers a fully online Associate of Applied Science in New Media and Digital Design with transfer options.
    • Admission Details: No SAT/ACT is required.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Main campus in Puyallup, WA at 15015 Pacific Hwy, Puyallup, WA 98372 (approximately 16 miles from Tacoma).
    • Program Page: Pierce College New Media and Digital Design

  2. Green River College – Software Development (BAS)

    • Program Focus: Provides a Bachelor of Applied Science in Software Development with tracks in web technologies and quality assurance.
    • Admission Details: Requires a prior associate degree or equivalent credits.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Located in Auburn, WA at 3400 184th Ave SE, Auburn, WA 98092 (approximately 22 miles from Tacoma).
    • Program Page: Green River College BAS in Software Development

  3. University of Washington – Interaction and Visual Communication Design (BDes)

    • Program Focus: Offers innovative Bachelor of Design majors in Interaction Design (IxD) and Visual Communication Design (VCD), featuring a portfolio-based admission process.
    • Admission Details: For freshmen, automatic admission requires completing DESIGN 166 (Winter 2024) with a GPA of 3.7 or higher; transfer applicants must submit a portfolio by May 31, 2025.
    • Address & Neighborhood: Situated in Seattle’s University District, WA 98195 (roughly 35 miles from Tacoma).
    • Program Page: University of Washington Bachelor Design Admissions

Web Design Employment Opportunities in Tacoma, Washington

Tacoma and its surrounding areas offer robust opportunities for web design professionals. Major tech companies and design agencies continually seek skilled graduates:

  • Amazon

    • Description: A global leader in e-commerce and cloud computing, Amazon offers numerous positions for web developers and digital designers.
    • Employment Opportunities: Visit the Amazon Jobs page.
    • Location Note: Although headquartered in Seattle, Amazon maintains significant operations within the region.

  • Microsoft

    • Description: Known for its innovative software solutions, Microsoft frequently hires web designers and UX professionals.
    • Employment Opportunities: Learn more on the Microsoft Careers page.
    • Location Note: Based in Redmond, Microsoft’s influence extends throughout the Puget Sound region.

  • Local Tech Startups and Digital Agencies

    • Description: Numerous emerging tech startups and boutique design agencies in Tacoma and nearby neighborhoods offer dynamic positions.
    • Opportunities: Check individual company websites and local job boards for openings.

For additional career insights and statistics, consult the job outlook page for Web Developers and Digital Designers on bls.gov.

Prerequisites for Web Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Eligibility for Web Design programs typically includes a high school diploma or equivalent, strong academic performance, and at times, a portfolio showcasing creative work. Specific requirements include:

  • University of Washington: Freshmen must complete DESIGN 166 (Winter 2024) with a minimum 3.7 GPA for automatic admission; transfer and post-baccalaureate applicants need to submit a portfolio by May 31, 2025.
  • Green River College: Applicants must have a prior associate degree or equivalent credits.
  • Pierce College: Does not require SAT/ACT scores for enrollment in its online AAS program.

In addition to academic prerequisites, prospective students should be aware of local and state educational oversight bodies:

  • Tacoma Public Schools: Oversees K-12 education in the area. More information is available on their official website or by calling (253) 571-1000.
  • Pierce County Office of Education: Supports county-wide educational initiatives; visit their official website and call (253) 798-6500.
  • Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC): Coordinates higher education policies in Washington; more details on their website or by calling (360) 753-7800.
  • U.S. Department of Education: Provides national education oversight. Relevant resources are available through the National Center for Education Statistics.

Web Design Industry Certifications

Enhancing credentials through industry certifications is a common path for web design graduates. Relevant certifications include:

  • Adobe Certified Expert (ACE): Recognizes proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud software, crucial for digital design.
  • Google UX Design Certificate: Validates skills in user experience design and practical application.

In addition, professional organizations reinforce the community and networking aspects of web design:

  • American Institute of Graphic Design (AIGA): Offers networking opportunities, job boards, and creative resources. More details can be found on the AIGA website.
  • Tacoma Design Community: Facilitates local meetups and collaboration among designers; visit their Meetup page.
  • Pierce County Tech Alliance: Supports regional tech workforce development. Check the tech section on the Pierce County Chamber website.

Additional institution-specific information includes:

  • University of Washington: Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Explore program specifics on their Bachelor Design Admissions page.
  • Green River College and Pierce College: Both are accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). For updates, verify details on the NWCCU website or NASAD website.
  • Pierce College New Media Lab: Offers courses at $2540 per term for WA residents. More information is available on the Pierce College New Media Lab page.

Get Started Today

Aspiring web design professionals in Tacoma have an array of local and neighboring programs and industry resources at their fingertips. With strong local educational oversight, competitive programs, and a thriving regional tech scene, now is the ideal time to take the next step. Contact your chosen school through the available inquiry forms and begin your journey toward a rewarding career in web design.