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Web Design and Development BA or BS

(Joint Major with the Communications Department)

The World Wide Web has driven a need for web designers and developers. People who understand both the art and the science of web development are particularly valued. Graduates will have a firm understanding of the principles of design as well as an understanding of the technical issues involved in the development of an active website. Students graduating from this major will have an advantage over traditional web designers because they will have both a clear understanding of the elements of web development and deep knowledge of the elements of design.

This major combines existing classes from the Communications and Computer Science programs to create a cohesive major in Web Design & Development. It seeks to draw students who are interested in integrating the two facets of website creation, rather than focusing on either the Graphic Design concentration or the Computer Science major.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Students design and author accessible websites with semantic code.
  2. Students employ iterative design processes.
  3. Students learn the core components of information architecture, usability, and user experience.
  4. Students design and develop for a variety of screens and devices.
  5. Students become proficient in the foundations of programming for the web
  6. Use collaborative leadership abilities to contribute effectively in a diverse team.

Major Requirements

Required Core Courses

The core classes focus on providing students with a foundation for the other steps in their major.

COMM 121Visual Communication

4
COMM 210Introduction to Graphic Design

4
CS 110Foundations of Information Technology

4
CS 112Introduction to Computer Science

4

Required Courses

COMM 240Typography

4
COMM 244Web Design

4
CS 221Database Management Systems

4
CS 321Web-Centric Programming

4

Electives

Students take two electives, one from each discipline.
CS 224Data Visualization

4
CS 227Computer Networks

4
CS 327Cybersecurity

4
CS 343Systems Analysis & Design

4
COMM 246Digital Imaging for Design

4
COMM 248Type and Image

4
COMM 333Responsive Design

4
COMM 340Advanced Design

4

Senior Seminar (Capstone)

Web Design and Development students choose a capstone experience:
CS 350Independent Study

4
CS 370Internship

8
COMM 370Internship

Variable
COMM 390Studio 5: A Communication Workplace

4

Independent Learning

Students may choose to take independent studies and internships from either the Communications Department or the Computer Science and Informatics Program. The choice will depend on the nature of the independent study or internship. Students may also opt to take COMM 390, “Studio 5,” for their independent learning requirement.
 
Degree Options: With the approval of their advisors, students may choose whether to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science, depending on which discipline they have chosen for the preponderance of their course work and independent learning.