Web Development Programs in Chicago, Illinois

Getting a Web Development Degree in Chicago, Illinois

Web development is a dynamic and essential field in today’s digital landscape. From creating websites to developing web applications, web developers play a critical role in shaping the online experience. If you’re considering pursuing a Web Development degree in Chicago, Illinois, this guide will provide essential information about local educational options, employment opportunities, and resources to help you get started.

About Chicago, Illinois

As the third-largest city in the United States, Chicago is a hub for technology, business, and innovation. Known for its stunning skyline, cultural diversity, and vibrant neighborhoods like the Loop, River North, and Hyde Park, Chicago offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring web developers. To learn more about the city, visit the official website of the City of Chicago.

Web Development Programs in Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is home to several renowned institutions offering Web Development degrees and training programs. Below are three top schools in the city:

  1. DePaul University

    • Program: Bachelor of Science in Web Development, Master of Science in Web Development
    • Description: DePaul University, located in the Loop, offers comprehensive programs focusing on front-end and back-end development, web design, and advanced programming. Students have access to hands-on projects and internship opportunities.
    • Website: DePaul University Web Development Programs

  2. University of Illinois Chicago (UIC)

    • Program: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Web Development Specialization
    • Description: Located in the University Village neighborhood, UIC provides a robust Computer Science program with a specialization in Web Development. The curriculum includes courses in web technologies, database systems, and user experience design.
    • Website: UIC Web Development Specialization

  3. City Colleges of Chicago – Harold Washington College

    • Program: Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Web Development
    • Description: Situated in the Loop, Harold Washington College offers an affordable and accessible program for students to gain foundational skills in web development. The program covers HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and database management.
    • Website: City Colleges of Chicago Web Development

If you’re looking for additional options outside Chicago, consider Franklin University’s online Web Development degree programs, which are accessible to Illinois residents. Visit Franklin University.

Web Development Employment Opportunities in Chicago

Chicago’s thriving tech scene offers numerous employment opportunities for web developers. Here are some notable companies based in the city:

  1. Braintree (a PayPal company)

    • Location: Merchandise Mart, River North
    • Description: Specializing in payment solutions, Braintree employs web developers to build secure and scalable platforms.
    • Website: Braintree Careers

  2. Grubhub

    • Location: West Loop
    • Description: Grubhub, a leader in online food ordering, relies on web developers to enhance its user interface and platform functionality.
    • Website: Grubhub Careers

  3. ThoughtWorks

    • Location: West Loop
    • Description: A global technology consultancy, ThoughtWorks hires web developers for innovative projects spanning various industries.
    • Website: ThoughtWorks Careers

For additional career insights and job outlook information, explore the Bureau of Labor Statistics page on Web Developers.

Prerequisites for Web Development Programs

Most Web Development programs in Chicago require the following prerequisites for admission:

  • A high school diploma or GED
  • Minimum GPA (varies by institution)
  • SAT or ACT scores (for undergraduate programs)
  • Basic computer literacy and technical skills
  • For graduate programs, a bachelor’s degree in a related field and professional experience may also be required.

Web Development Certification Options

In addition to earning a degree, obtaining professional certifications can enhance your career prospects. Here are some popular certifications for web developers:

  1. Certified Web Developer (CIW)

  2. AWS Certified Developer – Associate

  3. Google Professional Cloud Developer

  4. Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate

These certifications demonstrate your expertise in specific technologies and frameworks, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a Web Development degree in Chicago, Illinois, opens doors to a fulfilling and lucrative career in the tech industry. With a range of programs, certifications, and job opportunities available, now is the perfect time to take the next step. Contact a school today to learn more about their Web Development programs and begin your journey toward a successful career in this exciting field.

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