When looking for accredited web design degree programs in Colorado, students may hesitate to choose a school located in a state that’s home to more outdoor careers than technological fields. However, Colorado offers a bevy of technical schools and community colleges that provide a wide range of career options including web design and development. Outlined below are quality schools with multiple web design offerings.
Arapahoe Community College
Multimedia and Graphic Design Department
Arapahoe Community College strives to lead the way for community college education in Colorado and upholds this mission by offering more than 100 associate degrees and certificates in various fields and concentrations. As the first community college in the Denver area, the school holds a historic place in the community while serving the needs of more than 21,000 students across three modern campuses. For those seeking accredited web design degree programs in Colorado, Arapahoe Community College’s Multimedia and Graphic Design Department offers several degrees at the certificate and associate levels, and the department’s overall ambition is to prepare students for creative roles in technical fields.
Web Design Certificate
The Multimedia and Graphic Design Department offers a Web Design Certificate that allows students to hone their design skills with a technologically based curriculum using a hands-on approach to instruction. In order to qualify for admission to the program, students need to pass a competency placement exam on Macintosh operations, and those who don’t pass the exam may need to take preliminary courses to meet the minimum enrollment requirements. The school encourages students to use the web development certificate as an add-on to the Associate of Applied Science Degree in Multimedia, Graphic Design, and Illustration; however, the program can be completed as a standalone certificate. Students need to complete 30 semester hours in courses that cover a broad spectrum of design subjects such as Adobe Photoshop, Flash design, and digital color theory. Because the school values a direct education-to-workforce approach, students may be contacted within six months of graduation to verify employment status.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA)
Contact
5900 South Santa Fe Drive
Littleton, CO 80120-1801
Phone: (303) 797-5865
Email: tom.demoulin@arapahoe.edu
Website: http://www.arapahoe.edu/departments-and-programs/a-z-programs/multimedia-and-graphic-design/web-design-certificate
Art Institute of Colorado
Graphic & Web Design Department
The Art Institute of Colorado is part of the nationwide network of for-profit schools under the Art Institute banner that offers a wide range of creative degrees for students who wish to combine creative ambition with applicable real-world instruction. Students looking for accredited web design degree programs in Colorado will find several new options offered by the Graphic & Web Design Department at the Art Institute of Colorado, and each program addresses difference design needs. Both graphic and web design center on the same core principles of design, but students will choose print or digital media during their second year of study.
Graphic & Web Design Associate of Applied Science
The goal of the Graphic & Web Design Associate of Applied Science is to prepare students for a practical career in the field of visual design using their inherent creativity skills and contemporary technological coursework. Students begin with basic courses in color, design, composition, and technology before pursuing more advanced topics specific to their concentrations. Courses may include subjects such as illustration and interface design, and students have a wide variety of choices when it comes to customizing their degrees. In terms of technology, students will receive instruction in areas such as handheld devices, cameras, scanners, and relevant software. The A.A.S. degree requires 90 quarter hours over the course of six quarters or 24 months, and the department encourages a hands-on approach to instruction. Students will learn from experienced instructors the advanced graphic design skills that will enable them to pursue careers in graphic design, production art and other similar fields.
Graphic & Web Design Bachelor of Arts
For students seeking accredited web design degree programs in Colorado, the Art Institute offers a Graphic & Web Design Bachelor of Arts that provides detailed, hands-on instruction and a variety of relevant industry courses designed to challenge students creatively and academically. Like the associate’s degree, the bachelor’s degree combines real-world instruction with a theoretical approach to visual arts. Unlike the A.A.S., the B.A. includes more advanced training and internship opportunities. As bachelor’s students, candidates will find that the demands for the program are more rigorous and that instruction is more focused on specific aspects of the graphic design industry. The program requires 180 credit hours spread over 12 quarters or 45 months, and courses range in topics from typography to web development. Those who complete the Graphic & Web Design Bachelor of Arts program may find gainful employment at an entry-level position in the field of visual print or digital design.
Related Resource: https://www.topwebdesignschools.org/faq/what-is-a-good-minor-to-complement-a-degree-in-web-design/
Web Design & Development Diploma
Getting a full degree in web design may not be necessary depending on a student’s previous experience. For those interested in certificate programs in lieu of accredited web design degree programs in Colorado, the Art Institute offers a non-degree route such as the Web Design & Development Diploma. This program teaches students how to build, design, redesign, and maintain websites for companies and individuals using an approach centered on understanding how a website effectively communicates various types of information. While the school does not list specific hour requirements on its program site, the course catalog reveals that 48 credit hours are offered by the department for a web design diploma with classes on topics such as scripting languages, fundamentals of audio, and programming logic. The Web Design & Development Diploma takes on average 12 months to complete, and the school boasts a 91 percent success rate for students pursuing and finishing the diploma.
Web Design & Interactive Communications Diploma
When it comes to the field of web design, staying on top of the latest design and infrastructure trends is important to maintaining a viable career, and students who complete a Web Design & Interactive Communications Diploma at the Art Institute will gain a foothold in the ever-changing world of web and graphic design. Like the web development diploma, the web design diploma enhances a student’s abilities by teaching her how to properly maintain and design an effective website for various clients. This diploma differs from other degrees and certificates in that students will not earn a degree but may still be qualified to seek entry-level positions as web developers. The interactive concentration of this diploma enables students to learn about mobile technology and to develop interactive systems for enhancing the mobile experience. Most students in the program finish the diploma in 12 months, and courses depend on academic advisement.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA)
Contact
1200 Lincoln Street
Denver, CO 80203
Phone: 303-837-0825
Website: http://new.artinstitutes.edu/areasofstudy/Graphic-and-Web-Design/detail/42/4
Colorado Mountain College
Art, Design & Multimedia Communication
Located in Glenwood Springs, Colorado across several different campuses, Colorado Mountain College offers students seeking accredited web design degree programs in Colorado ample room to explore their talents and interests in the technological field. In 2013, the school ranked within the top 20 community colleges across the nation for success rate according to a report compiled by College Measures in conjunction with CNN Money. Upon completion of the certificate programs listed below, students will be given a Certificate of Occupational Proficiency in Graphic Design as outlined by the Career and Technical Education or CTE requirements developed by faculty and industry professionals.
Graphic Technology I Certificate
The Graphic Technology I Certificate offers students the opportunity to advance their careers without earning an actual degree. The school values a work-based approach to academics which means that students who enroll in any of the college’s associate or certificate programs will gain valuable hands-on experience in the real world. The graphic design certificates will help prepare students for careers in print media and electronic publishing. Grade requirements include earning a C average or P for Passing on all required courses, and at least 80 percent of the courses must involve a letter grade. Because the certificate programs are designed to provide real job experience, the Certificate I program requires 12 hours of coursework along with 270 hours of contact. Courses include topics such as an introduction to computer graphics, an introduction to multimedia, typography and layout, and basic web design.
Graphic Technology II Certificate
Like the Part I certificate, the Graphic Technology II Certificate prepares students for careers in the digital media realm. Part II of the graphic technology certificate focuses more on design. Courses in this program cover subjects such as an introduction to computer graphics, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign and Adobe Photoshop. Students need 12 credit hours and 270 contact hours in order to fulfill the requirements for graduation, and grades must average a C or better to move forward in either program. Because the graphic technology certificates include coursework that forms part of the requirements for an associate’s degree in graphic design, students can choose to apply certificate credits toward an A.A.S degree. Each certificate program is offered at a different campus: Part I is offered at Roaring Fork while part II is offered at Summit. Students should also bear in mind that neither certificate program is eligible for federal student aid.
Accreditation
- Academic Quality Improvement Program (AQIP)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA)
Contact
802 Grand Avenue
Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
Phone: (970) 945-8691/(800) 621-8559
Email: joinus@coloradomtn.edu
Website: http://catalog.coloradomtn.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=6&poid=563
Community College of Aurora
Computer Department/Art & Design Department
As the Gateway to the Rockies, the city of Aurora, Colorado offers plenty of reasons for students to enroll in the Community College of Aurora. The college is celebrating its 31st year as of 2013 and combines a small-town university feel with larger growth opportunities in the Denver metro area. Community College of Aurora offers two accredited web design degree programs in Colorado along with several certificates on various computer information and design subjects as described below. Students in the Computer Department or Art & Design Department will pursue different courses of study leading to a career in this ever-growing technological industry.
Web Tools Certificate
Offered at the Lowry campus of the Community College of Aurora, the Web Tools Certificate program is conducted under the school’s Computer Department and is intended for students with a background in professional web design. Students must complete at least 18 credit hours in courses such as Adobe Photoshop, an introduction to programming, and business topics for creative professionals. The program also requires a three-hour prerequisite course called Introduction to Multimedia. Students have the option to complete this program in what the school calls a “hybrid” method whereby part of the courses are taken online, but classes are also offered on the Lowry campus in a traditional setting. The program will help people who wish to enter into the design field get some experience in design software tools and functionality as well as provide a strong footstool for other degree programs. For students with limited time, this one-year program offers a quick resource for web design education.
Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design
Students who search for accredited web design degree programs in Colorado will find the perfect opportunity at Community College of Aurora in its Art & Design Department. The department’s key focus is to prepare students for a career in web design by developing their critical thinking skills and technical abilities through comprehensive and rigorous coursework on relevant topics. The Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design degree requires 60 total hours of which 21 are general education courses in basic college-level subjects, 33 are core curriculum classes and six are electives. Topics include subjects such as topography, visual concepts of multidimensional planes, and creativity and visual thinking. Classes may be taken on campus or off using the school’s “hybrid” approach. The overall objective of the A.A.S. program is to help students create a portfolio of work that they can show to potential employers while learning the skills that are in high demand in today’s graphic design market.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Contact
16000 East CentreTech Parkway
Aurora, CO 80011-9036
Phone: (303) 360-4700
Email: Enrollment@CCAurora.edu
Websites:
- http://www.ccaurora.edu/catalog/web-tools.htm
- http://www.ccaurora.edu/programs-classes/departments/art/graphic-design
Northeastern Junior College
Business Department
Situated in the small but populous setting of Sterling, Colorado, Northeastern Junior College offers those looking for accredited web design degree programs in Colorado the opportunity to combine a web design degree with practical business applications. The college also prides itself on being the largest two-year residential college in the state, and residents of the school will find ample opportunity to explore a wide variety of technical education programs including those in the realm of web development. Under the direction of the college’s Business Department, the Associate of Applied Science Business with a focus in Web Design allows students to hone their skills as future graphic artists.
Associate of Applied Science Business: Web Design Emphasis
Northeastern Junior College takes a business approach to a field that commonly falls under art and design departments in other schools, and students hoping to secure jobs after graduation will appreciate the school’s commitment to practical methodology. The Associate of Applied Science Business degree with an emphasis on Web Design is designed for students who want to enter the workforce directly after college. Most students who pursue an A.A.S. program are not interested in completing additional degrees at four-year schools. The degree requires 60 total credit hours divided into 15 general education credits, 23 business core credits, 18 web design credits, and four credits of electives. Courses cover business topics such as basic accounting skills and communications while the web design courses address topics like motion graphics software and web authoring. Upon completion of the program, students will earn an associate’s degree in business that enables them to pursue entry-level fields in web design and related careers.
Accreditation
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA)
Contact
100 College Avenue
Sterling, CO 80751
Phone: (970) 521-6600
Email: Brenda.Rhodes-Martinez@njc.edu
Website: http://www.njc.edu/Academics/Business
Red Rocks Community College
Multimedia Graphic Design Department
Founded in 1969, Red Rocks Community College stands at the foot of the Rocky Mountains and offers students more than 150 degree and certificate programs in a wide range of fields and specialty areas. For students seeking accredited web design degree programs in Colorado, the school offers several options under its Multimedia Graphic Design Department including two levels of certificates that enhance a student’s career options for the future. Those who pursue degrees or certificates at this illustrious community college will enjoy small class sizes, a variety of course offerings and extra-curricular opportunities and a thorough technical program that prepares them for life beyond academia.
Web Design Certificate
Web design remains a powerful tool for enhancing one’s resume in today’s high-tech business workforce, and the Web Design Certificate offered by the Multimedia Graphic Design Department of Red Rocks Community College will enable students to stand out from the crowd of amateur web designers. The program requires 15 credit hours for completion, and courses cover subjects such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and digital color theory. The department hopes to train students who can effectively create and maintain web pages for a diverse range of clients while helping them understand the finer points of web design and development. Students who successfully complete the Web Design Certificate will be able to recognize the significance of appropriate website design, user interface, and page layout techniques. The department also encourages students to obtain this certificate in conjunction with a traditional associate’s degree in order to maximize student comprehension and future job potential.
Advanced Web Design Certificate
Students at Red Rocks Community College have the option to continue their studies once they earn a Web Design Certificate by pursuing the Advanced Web Design Certificate. In fact, in order to begin the advanced certificate, students need to be enrolled in or have completed the program for the first certificate. The Advanced Web Design Certificate requires the following courses for a total of 15 credit hours: Complete Web Scripting on JavaScript, Digital Video Editing on Final Cut Pro, Internet Media, Sound Design on Apple Logic Pro, and Videography I. Students will learn a variety of useful skills related to web design including HTML editing, production techniques such as video and animation, pre- and post-production concepts, and motion graphics. At the end of the program, students will be awarded an advanced certificate that propels them forward in their pursuit of web design careers. Both certificate programs allow students to enhance their industry abilities.
Accreditation
- North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement
Contact
Lakewood Campus
13300 West Sixth Avenue
Lakewood, CO 80228
Phone: (303) 914-6600
Website: http://www.rrcc.edu/multimedia/degree.html
Westwood College
School of Design
Westwood College was established in 1953 in Denver and has grown to encompass 14 campuses spread out over five states as well as a virtual, online-only campus. The school centers on a workforce approach which means that students who enroll in any of the college’s programs will gain valuable work experience that could help them jumpstart careers in a wide range of fields. Available at the North Campus and South Campus in Denver, the Graphic Design Associate Degree is offered by Westwood College’s School of Design and enables students to complete a degree that will help them secure positions in the rapidly growing field of web development and design.
Graphic Design Associate Degree
For those seeking accredited web design degree programs in Colorado, the Graphic Design Associate Degree offered by the School of Design at Westwood College satisfies the need for theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on instruction. Educational objectives for the program include being able to create high-quality design compositions, utilizing different illustration techniques, developing interactive media, and understanding copyright concerns and guidelines. Students will enjoy classes taught by industry professionals on a variety of topics such as fundamentals of web design, drawing and perspective, and digital photography. Because classes are taught by people with successful real-world careers, students may find ample opportunity to make valuable connections for work outside of the classroom. Specifics about program length depend on a student’s exact career path, but the department notes that students can complete the degree in 17 months using an accelerated track. This degree program awards an associate’s degree that will be useful for students on a web development career path.
Accreditation
- Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS)
Contact
North Campus
7350 North Broadway
Denver, CO 80221
South Campus
3150 South Sheridan Boulevard
Denver, CO 80227
Phone (888) 227-6710
Website: http://www.westwood.edu/request-info-new/locations/colorado/graphic-design-degree
As web design continues to play an important role in the modern world, those with the right skills can expect lucrative careers with advanced opportunities. Students who pursue one of the aforementioned programs will gain valuable hands-on experience for their future careers. From expedited certificate programs to in-depth associate’s degrees, students seeking accredited web design degree programs in Colorado will find a variety of options to meet their professional, academic, and scheduling needs.
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