2026 Most Affordable Online Web Development Degrees
Explore the cheapest online web development degrees below. They are ranked by tuition cost to help you find the best value. All online bachelor's degrees in web development are from institutionally accredited universities.
Key Takeaways:
- Austin Peay is the clear winner for affordability. At $8,028/year in-state, it's the cheapest option by over $1,100 — and even its out-of-state rate ($11,844) beats several schools' flat rates.
- 8 out of 11 schools offer the same tuition for in-state and out-of-state students.
All online web development bachelor's degrees are ranked by manually collected tuition.
2026 Most Affordable Online Web Development Degrees
| Rank | School | Program Length | Annual In-State Tuition | Annual Out-of-State Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austin Peay State University | 4 years | $8,028 | $11,844 | |
| University of Arkansas Grantham | 4 years | $9,150 | $9,150 | |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | 4 years | $9,900 | $14,970 | |
| Northwestern State University of Louisiana | 4 years | $10,548 | $10,548 | |
| Purdue Global | 4 years | $11,130 | $11,130 | |
| Liberty University | 4 years | $11,700 | $11,700 | |
| Middle Georgia State University | 4 years | $12,390 | $12,390 | |
| South College | 4 years | $12,525 | $12,525 | |
| Bellevue University | 4 years | $13,770 | $13,770 | |
| University of Arizona | 4 years | $15,750 | $15,750 | |
| Arizona State University, Online | 4 years | $17,400 | $17,400 |
: /semester
Why we like them: APSU’s online CSIT degree is the cheapest on our list and it anchors the concentration in a department that is among the largest in Tennessee, serving 600-plus majors, which gives you access to a deep course roster. All classes are taught by faculty who meet the APSU Faculty Qualifications Matrix, and every full-time professor holds a terminal degree in computing. Also, many faculty actively consult and engage in multidisciplinary research.
Beyond Tuition:
- Recommend Rate: 76%
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 45%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Undergraduate Online: 1,740 enrolled
: /credit
Why we like them: At UA Grantham, you receive a laptop at no additional cost as a degree-seeking enrollee, a distinct perk that reduces upfront technology expenses. Most courses start monthly and there is no application fee, so we see you benefiting from flexible entry points without added administrative costs. A stated 38-month time-to-completion, contingent on continuous progress, gives you a concrete timeline to organize work and life around. UA Grantham’s DEAC accreditation also signals distance-education quality.
Beyond Tuition:
- Recommend Rate: 60%
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 24%
- Retention Rate: 24%
- Undergraduate Online: 3,203 enrolled
: /credit
Why we like them: UMGC's online web development program has a three-track design that includes a rare augmented/virtual reality focus featuring courses such as Virtual Reality Design I, Augmented Reality Design I, 3D Modeling, and Virtual World-Building, so you build XR skills alongside front-end web competencies. There are embedded certificates in web design, digital design, or AR/VR. The MARS metaverse platform that provides access to 150-plus immersive environments, giving you simulated, social, and topically aligned learning spaces.
Beyond Tuition:
- Recommend Rate: 70%
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 30%
- Retention Rate: 53%
- Undergraduate Online: 44,794 enrolled
: /semester
Why we like them: At NSU, you study CIS inside an AACSB-accredited business school, which is a distinction that few online web-focused programs match, and one that assures you of rigorous oversight at the junction of technology, analytics, and management. We appreciate that you can choose a dedicated Web Development concentration while remaining in a business-and-IT framework that also offers Application Development, Networking & Systems, and Cybersecurity.
Beyond Tuition:
- Recommend Rate: 91%
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 45%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Undergraduate Online: 4,219 enrolled
: /credit
Why we like them: PG's bachelor's program is structured to develop both hard technical skills, such as system design, computing problem-solving, and secure tech integration, alongside softer professional competencies like communication, teamwork, and ethical decision-making. An interesting aspect of this degree is its flexibility through the ExcelTrack option, which allows students to move at their own pace, making it well-suited for working adults or those with prior knowledge who want to accelerate their studies.
Beyond Tuition:
- Recommend Rate: 76%
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 48%
- Retention Rate: 25%
- Undergraduate Online: 31,661 enrolled
: /credit
Why we like them: Liberty's online program has a highly specialized, career focus within the broader IT field. Rather than offering a general IT degree, it zeroes in specifically on web and mobile development, preparing students to build applications that function across multiple platforms and screen sizes. What further distinguishes it is Liberty's integration of Christian faith and values into the curriculum, reflected in its mission of "Training Champions for Christ," which appeals to students seeking an education rooted in a particular worldview.
Beyond Tuition:
- Recommend Rate: 75%
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 63%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Undergraduate Online: 39,168 enrolled
: /credit
Why we like them: MGA’s online BSIT offers a Web Applications Development concentration inside a 10‑path portfolio that includes cybersecurity, data analytics, networking, health informatics, entrepreneurship, and a FinTech track. So, in this way, you can study web development with a security‑forward sequence — Software Security, Data Structures and Algorithm Analysis, and Client/Server Systems Programming are baked into the web track — so you build more resilient apps than many design‑only programs encourage.
Beyond Tuition:
- Recommend Rate: 69%
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 26%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Undergraduate Online: 3,166 enrolled
: /quarter
Why we like them: At SC, you pursue a web design concentration embedded in a full IT curriculum that spans cybersecurity, networking, servers, systems administration, risk mitigation, and business systems analysis. We appreciate the explicit outcomes in virtualization (create, install, and configure virtual machines) and telecommunications design, plus hands-on database work that includes designing a relational database in Microsoft Access and writing SQL-style queries.
Beyond Tuition:
- Recommend Rate: 75%
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 37%
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Undergraduate Online: 3,778 enrolled
: /credit
Why we like them: At Bellevue, you enter an accelerated, cohort-based pathway where you register once and move through courses with the same group, so you build a reliable network as you advance. We find the nine-week, five-evenings-per-week MEAN stack bootcamp is quite immersive for an undergraduate program, asking you to deliver individual and team projects across separate development, QA, and production environments while managing code on GitHub.
Beyond Tuition:
- Recommend Rate: 75%
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 56%
- Retention Rate: 51%
- Undergraduate Online: 10,478 enrolled
: /credit
Why we like them: UA's applied computer program is focused on security in this field. You use Python for both offensive and defensive cyber tasks through hands-on scripting. You gain true multi-cloud mastery via separate, lab-driven courses for each major platform. We value the depth in modern infrastructure, which moves beyond basics into containers, microservices, software-defined architectures, and virtualization security using real tooling. UA has 450+ student reviews, and of that batch, 96% would recommend the school to others.
Beyond Tuition:
- Recommend Rate: 96%
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 66%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Undergraduate Online: 7,535 enrolled
: /credit
Why we like them: At ASU, you can accelerate further through a linked master’s option to the MS in Graphic Information Technology, allowing you to complete graduate study in as little as one additional year. We also appreciate the faculty strength drawn from the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, which showcases nationally recognized scholars. Finally, based on over 1,500 student reviews we've collected for this school alone, 93% of students here would recommend the school to others, a strong trust signal.
Beyond Tuition:
- Recommend Rate: 93%
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 68%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Undergraduate Online: 52,896 enrolled
The Hidden Skill That Makes Affordable Web Development Degrees More Valuable
"Empathy is likely the least valued technical skill for a developer working with web development viewing a design from the user's experience creates an experience that is both functional and enjoyable. Most technically-trained developers do not have formal training on developing empathy as part of their training.
Web development incorporates psychological principles that can produce measurable advantages. When developers understand how cognitive load, attention patterns, and the emotional response to designs affect user interaction they can create interfaces that convert at higher rates and keep users engaged for longer than technically-correct but psychologically-naive alternatives.
Three psychological principles that every web development student should learn about:
Cognitive Load Theory Aesthetics: [These] aren't simply based on visual appeal; rather, aesthetics are rooted in the brain's ability to process information.
The Psychology of Color: The emotional response created by color can be measured, and used to influence user decision-making and design choices.
The Behavioral Psychology of Motivation: What makes the interaction between the user and your website enjoyable versus merely functional?"
FAQs About Affordable Online Web Development Bachelor's Degrees
How Does OnlineU Rank the Most Affordable Online Web Development Bachelor’s Degrees?
To be considered, a school must offer at least one fully online bachelor’s degree in web development or a closely related field, such as web design, software development, or information technology with a web-focused curriculum. Schools must also hold institutional accreditation and report online enrollment data to NCES/IPEDS, maintained by the .
OnlineU evaluates affordability using a standardized, transparent methodology designed to support fair comparisons between the most affordable online web development degrees. Only schools that publish a global or clearly defined online tuition rate are included. Both partner and non-partner institutions are assessed using the same criteria, and advertising relationships do not influence rankings.
Final rankings are based solely on annual in-state tuition, with all costs manually collected and verified from official institutional sources to ensure accuracy.
What Is the Cheapest Online Web Development Degree in 2026?
The most affordable option on this list is Austin Peay State University, with an annual in-state tuition of $8,028. This is the lowest reported tuition among the ranked schools, making it a strong choice for cost-conscious students. However, out-of-state students pay more at $11,844, so residency can impact total cost.
Do Online Web Development Programs Charge the Same Tuition for In-State and Out-of-State Students?
Some online programs charge the same tuition regardless of residency, while others do not. Schools like University of Arkansas Grantham, Purdue Global, Liberty University, and Bellevue University offer the same rate for both in-state and out-of-state students. In contrast, schools such as Austin Peay State University and University of Maryland Global Campus have higher tuition for out-of-state students.
Which Schools Offer the Same Tuition for In-State and Out-of-State Students?
Several schools on this list offer flat tuition rates where all students pay the same regardless of location — including University of Arkansas Grantham, Northwestern State University of Louisiana, Purdue Global, Liberty University, Middle Georgia State University, South College, Bellevue University, University of Arizona, and Arizona State University Online. For students outside a school's home state, this can mean significant savings by eliminating the out-of-state cost premium.
Student Reviews of Online Web Development Programs
If you look at the reviews before 2021, you'll notice the positive responses and comments. Beginning in 2021, the instructional cadre became less skilled in personalizing the training experience based on the student. In the post by Bill, he gave a very good overview of the school's serious issues. The curriculum is very outdated -- mostly YouTube videos from miscellaneous contributors. The instructors are not allowed to update any of the curriculum plans -- instead, they are forced to use the materials... Read More
Review Date: 6/9/2022
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I started Colorado Tech University Online a few months ago. The staff seem pretty good! They are very courteous and helpful. However, my complaint lies within their online educational system. I'd had times where I got the answer correct, but the system said I Was wrong, but the answer it provided was the exact same thing. I've had times where the multiple choice answers didn't have the right answer, but when it gives solution it tells you the right answer. They provide online tutoring for free, using... Read More
Review Date: 10/24/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I really appreciate the staff that worked with me to get into the school! Very friendly and willing to help at a moments notice! Very detailed degree program that will get you ready for the rest of your life! Instructors are very knowledgeable and they give very good advice on what to do when you get out! Also my academic advisor was always trying to keep in touch to see how I was doing, they don't get you in the school and leave you out to dry.
Review Date: 9/19/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I have been attending Full Sail online for Web Development and Design. I will first say that I am not being bitter, my grades at the moment are very exceptional, as well as my attendance. What I am doing is addressing some things I have experienced so far. With that being said, my online experience with Full Sail has been below average. Communication with the instructors has been a little difficult. It seems like they are very quick to push you off to a web link or YouTube video instead of answering... Read More
Review Date: 6/10/2016
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I have been attend IU since September 2014. I have never had a major issue and what problems I have had have been resolved immediately. The instructors are professional, my AD has been there for me when I needed him. Ignore all the drop outs complaining, they want everything handed to them. With IU you have to work for it and it is hard work. My 3.91 GPA didn't come by luck, it's come by work. The school gives you lots of tutor options and the instructors have always been there for extra guidance,... Read More
Review Date: 5/18/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I agree with those who said UOP is a joke. All learning material was online, it looked like it was a bunch of blogs from India or someplace where the grammar is 10 times worst than mine! I was confused and unable to talk to the professor. I actually don't remember getting a response the very few times I would ask questions.
I do have to say that I did get calls from my adviser as my grades were dropping and he gave suggestions. However, at the time I tried some of them I didn't get any further assistance... Read More
I don't recommended this school at all as they don't have any real support available. Sure I had a half good adviser but they clearly aren't working together for the welfare of their students.. it seems like they are just clocking in hours.
Review Date: 1/21/2013
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I don't know what Baker is like now, but I found it to be excellent when I attended. I took me second undergrad degree there and actually found the instruction and course work to be more challenging and usefull than my first degree taken at a state university. And, when I entered the work force I found that my knowledge exeeded that of coworkers who graduated from high rated schools.
Review Date: 6/26/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This is a great private small engineering, business college. You can get the 1 on 1 help you need, it is in a very quite location, there are things to keep the students occupied and most of all they work with students to help begin their career after they graduate.
Review Date: 2/27/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
As a veteran who was running out of time with their own GIBill I was incredibly in awe of my school's ability to help me sustain it to the fullest. The faculty, staff and FA Advisors were incredibly knowledgeable in their areas of expertise and able to assist me with minimal to no issue. I was able to succeed even in courses where I surely thought I'd never get through with the assistance of their tutoring programs and with help from Career Services and my Program Director, I was able to find a full-time... Read More
Review Date: 3/7/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Reading through some of these one-star complaints would be almost comical if the university were able to disclose the records of the complaining students. The truth of the matter is, most students who attend this college do so under the impression that they will produce a Grammy-winning album without putting in the hard work necessary to perform at that level of success. This school is excellent, but only for people who are passionate about what they do and are willing to work hard to bring their... Read More
Review Date: 6/13/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No