Web Design, Associate of Science Degree (A.S.)

Program Outline and Course Descriptions

The Associate of Science degree in Web Design prepares students for a career in the expansive web design industry. The goal of the program is to provide students with the opportunity to develop an eye for design and gain an understanding of the theories and technologies required to build and maintain effective web pages and other web-based solutions. The program includes training in page construction, coding and scripting techniques, principles of design, content creation, and usability design. Students learn the skills needed to leverage existing technologies and frameworks to build mobile-ready, responsive web sites quickly and easily.

GENERAL EDUCATION
ENG100 English Composition I 5
HUM200 World History 5
LAU100 College Orientation 5
MTH101 Introductory Algebra 5
PHY200 Physical Science 5
PSY140 Introduction to Psychology 5
Total General Education 30

 

PROGRAM CORE
WDD101 Internet Fundamentals 5
WDD110 Digital Graphics 5
WDD120 Intro to HTML/CSS Design 5
WDD135 Graphic Design Fundamentals 5
WDD155 Vector Graphics 5
WDD175 Intermediate HTML/CSS Design 5
WDD205 UI/UX Design Fundamentals 5
WDD215 Advanced HTML/CSS Design 5
WDD305 JavaScript Fundamentals 5
WDD315 JavaScript for Dynamic Interfaces 5
WDD345 E-commerce Solutions 5
BUS150 Entrepreneurship 5
MKT220 Principles of Marketing 5
PMT255 Project Management 5
Total Program Core 70 
Total Credit Hours 100

 

The academic year is defined as 3 Quarters and 36 quarter credits.

*Students enrolled in Nevada must take POL210 in addition to the courses listed in the program outline.

Upon completion of the Associate of Science in Web Design, students should be able to:

  • Develop web solutions aligned with client goals, applying strategic thinking and web design patterns through a complete production pipeline.
  • Construct responsive web solutions using HTML, CSS, and customized Content Management Systems.
  • Apply design principles and compositional theory to enhance digital content aesthetics.
  • Create and deploy web-based content that aligns with brand strategies.
  • Build and customize websites to meet industry specifications and standards across multiple devices.

The Web Design Associate of Science Degree program is 100 quarter credits and can be completed in two (2) years if the student attends all terms full time and consecutively.  

GENERAL EDUCATION

ENG100 English Composition I

This course focuses on developing strong writing and critical thinking skills through various forms of written communication. Students will learn to craft clear, well-structured essays, conduct research, and use proper citation methods. Emphasis is placed on organizing ideas, developing arguments, and refining grammar and style. By the end of the course, students will be able to produce well-reasoned, coherent written work for academic and professional purposes.

HUM200 World History

This course provides an overview of key historical events, civilizations, and cultural developments across the world. Topics include ancient civilizations, the Industrial Revolution, and modern global conflicts. Students will explore historical perspectives on social, economic, and political change. By the end of the course, students will be able to analyze historical trends and their impact on contemporary society.

LAU100 College Orientation

This course introduces students to the skills and strategies needed for success in college and beyond. Topics include goal setting, time management, effective study techniques, and critical thinking. Students will explore resources available to support academic and career growth while developing skills in communication, collaboration, and self-advocacy. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to navigate their academic journey with confidence and apply essential success strategies in both educational and professional settings.

MTH101 Introductory Algebra

This course introduces students to fundamental algebraic concepts, including equations, inequalities, functions, and graphing. Students will develop problem-solving skills through real-world applications of algebra, preparing them for more advanced mathematical concepts. By the end of the course, students will have a strong foundation in algebra to support future coursework in business, science, and technology.

PHY200 Physical Science

Students will explore the principles of physics and chemistry, including motion, energy, atomic structure, and chemical reactions. This course emphasizes real-world applications of physical science concepts. By the end of the course, students will be able to apply scientific reasoning to analyze natural phenomena.

PSY140 Introduction to Psychology

Students will explore fundamental concepts of psychology, including human behavior, cognition, development, and mental health. This course examines psychological theories and their real-world applications. By the end of the course, students will be able to analyze psychological influences on behavior and decision-making.

 

PROGRAM CORE

WDD101 Internet Fundamentals 

This course introduces students to overarching terminology and production pipeline web design offers. From the perspective of a small business, students work through steps of pre-production. The course culminates with students creating webpages using WordPress, an industry standard Content Management Systems.

WDD110 Digital Graphics 

This course introduces students to Adobe Photoshop, the fundamental graphics application and image editing software used in the computer graphics industry. Students learn the fundamentals of this software, and will study topics including selections, layers, masking, filters, image manipulation and correction, composition, painting, and optimization for the web. Students examine techniques for efficient editing, processing, and file handling. Topics in photo editing may be studied, including color enhancement, lighting correction, and overall retouching.

WDD120 Intro to HTML/CSS Design

In this course, students will learn how to reproduce common web design layout patterns to quickly create websites that are easy to understand and navigate. Students learn to create more complex multi column designs to make their pages easier to read and understand. Students learn the basics of wireframing and planning as they take first steps towards building custom layouts utilizing design patterns. Students review the anatomy of web pages and examine common workflows as well as build confidence via critiquing both their peers and ready-made examples.

WDD135 Graphic Design Fundamentals 

This course covers the fundamentals of graphic design, emphasizing visual communication, typography, color theory, and compositional rules. Students will use industry-standard software to create professional layouts, branding materials, and digital assets. Hands-on projects and in-class critiques will help beginners to understand how design elements work together to convey effective messages.

WDD175 Intermediate HTML/CSS Design

This course builds on foundational HTML and CSS skills, emphasizing the creation of visually appealing, responsive, and user-friendly web designs. Students will explore advanced HTML structures, semantic markup, and modern CSS techniques, including Flexbox and Grid for layout design. The course also addresses responsive design principles, media queries, and best practices for cross-browser compatibility. Students will learn to enhance websites with animations, transitions, and interactive elements using CSS. Additional topics encompass accessibility, SEO-friendly coding practices, and the integration of third-party fonts and icons. Through hands-on projects, students will develop professional-quality web pages that adapt seamlessly to various screen sizes and devices. By the end of the course, students will possess the skills to design and build well-structured, visually engaging websites using industry-standard HTML and CSS techniques.

WDD205 UI/UX Design Fundamentals 

This course introduces students to the core principles of User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) design. Students will explore the fundamentals of creating intuitive, user-friendly digital experiences by understanding design psychology, usability, and interaction design. The course covers key topics such as wireframes, prototyping, visual hierarchy, typography, and color theory. Students will learn about user research, accessibility standards, and best practices for designing responsive and mobile-friendly interfaces. Hands-on projects will allow students to apply UI/UX principles using industry-standard design tools like Figma or Adobe XD. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in UI/UX design, empowering them to create engaging digital experiences that meet user needs and business goals.

WDD215 Advanced HTML/CSS Design

This course emphasizes advanced web design techniques using HTML and CSS, prioritizing the creation of modern, high-performance, and accessible websites. Students will delve into advanced CSS methodologies, such as CSS Grid, Flexbox, and custom animations, to formulate complex layouts and interactive user interfaces. The course includes CSS preprocessors like SASS/SCSS, design systems, and best practices for maintaining and scaling code. Students will also study performance optimization techniques, responsive design for various screen sizes, and accessibility compliance. Additional subjects encompass integrating SVG graphics, advanced typography, and CSS frameworks like Tailwind CSS or Bootstrap. Through hands-on projects, students will produce professional-quality web designs that are visually stunning, highly functional, and optimized for speed and usability. By the end of the course, students will possess the expertise to create cutting-edge websites that adhere to industry’s best practices.

WDD305 JavaScript Fundamentals 

This course introduces students to the core concepts and syntax of JavaScript, the programming language used to create interactive and dynamic web content. Students will learn how to write and debug JavaScript code while understanding variables, data types, functions, loops, and conditionals. The course also covers working with arrays, objects, and basic DOM manipulation to modify web pages in real-time. Students will explore essential topics such as event handling, form validation, and error handling, and gaining the skills to build interactive web features. Through hands-on projects, students will practice using JavaScript to enhance user interfaces and develop web applications. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in JavaScript, enabling them to create dynamic websites and prepare for more advanced topics in web development.

WDD315 JavaScript for Dynamic Interfaces 

This course emphasizes using JavaScript to develop interactive and dynamic user interfaces for modern web applications. Students will learn advanced JavaScript concepts, including DOM manipulation, event handling, and AJAX, to create responsive, user-friendly interfaces. The course explains how to update content in real-time, validate user inputs, and dynamically load data from external sources without refreshing the page. Students will also investigate JavaScript frameworks and libraries like jQuery, as well as tools for managing animations, transitions, and user interactions. Hands-on projects will provide students with experience in creating fluid, interactive features such as real-time search, form validation, image galleries, and dynamic content loading. By the end of the course, students will possess the skills to create sophisticated, interactive web pages that deliver seamless user experiences.

WDD345 E-commerce Solutions 

This course explores the technical and programmatic foundations for building and maintaining e-commerce solutions tailored for web companies. Students will learn to develop robust, scalable e-commerce platforms that support features such as product management, shopping carts, secure payment processing, and customer accounts. The course covers essential programming concepts related to integrating front-end and back-end systems to deliver seamless e-commerce experiences. Students will engage with popular e-commerce frameworks, APIs, and platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento, with an emphasis on customizing and automating processes like inventory management, order fulfillment, and customer communication. Topics also encompass handling transaction security, implementing user authentication, and integrating third-party services like payment gateways, shipping providers, and analytics tools. Through hands-on projects, students will obtain practical experience in building custom e-commerce solutions and optimizing them for performance, scalability, and user experience. By the end of the course, students will possess a strong understanding of the programmatic aspects of e-commerce, preparing them to develop and manage complex e-commerce systems for web companies.

BUS150 Entrepreneurship

This course introduces students to the principles of entrepreneurship, including business planning, funding, and market analysis. Students will explore the challenges and opportunities of starting and managing a small business. By the end of the course, students will develop a business concept and apply entrepreneurial strategies to real-world scenarios.

MKT220 Principles of Marketing

Students will explore fundamental marketing concepts, including consumer behavior, branding, advertising, and digital marketing strategies. This course examines how businesses create value for customers and build competitive advantages. By the end of the course, students will be able to develop marketing strategies that align with business goals.

PMT255 Project Management

Students will learn project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and risk management techniques. This course covers industry-standard project management tools and best practices. By the end of the course, students will be able to create project plans and manage resources effectively.

Program Outline
GENERAL EDUCATION
ENG100 English Composition I 5
HUM200 World History 5
LAU100 College Orientation 5
MTH101 Introductory Algebra 5
PHY200 Physical Science 5
PSY140 Introduction to Psychology 5
Total General Education 30

 

PROGRAM CORE
WDD101 Internet Fundamentals 5
WDD110 Digital Graphics 5
WDD120 Intro to HTML/CSS Design 5
WDD135 Graphic Design Fundamentals 5
WDD155 Vector Graphics 5
WDD175 Intermediate HTML/CSS Design 5
WDD205 UI/UX Design Fundamentals 5
WDD215 Advanced HTML/CSS Design 5
WDD305 JavaScript Fundamentals 5
WDD315 JavaScript for Dynamic Interfaces 5
WDD345 E-commerce Solutions 5
BUS150 Entrepreneurship 5
MKT220 Principles of Marketing 5
PMT255 Project Management 5
Total Program Core 70 
Total Credit Hours 100

 

The academic year is defined as 3 Quarters and 36 quarter credits.

*Students enrolled in Nevada must take POL210 in addition to the courses listed in the program outline.

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the Associate of Science in Web Design, students should be able to:

  • Develop web solutions aligned with client goals, applying strategic thinking and web design patterns through a complete production pipeline.
  • Construct responsive web solutions using HTML, CSS, and customized Content Management Systems.
  • Apply design principles and compositional theory to enhance digital content aesthetics.
  • Create and deploy web-based content that aligns with brand strategies.
  • Build and customize websites to meet industry specifications and standards across multiple devices.
Program Length

The Web Design Associate of Science Degree program is 100 quarter credits and can be completed in two (2) years if the student attends all terms full time and consecutively.  

Course Descriptions

GENERAL EDUCATION

ENG100 English Composition I

This course focuses on developing strong writing and critical thinking skills through various forms of written communication. Students will learn to craft clear, well-structured essays, conduct research, and use proper citation methods. Emphasis is placed on organizing ideas, developing arguments, and refining grammar and style. By the end of the course, students will be able to produce well-reasoned, coherent written work for academic and professional purposes.

HUM200 World History

This course provides an overview of key historical events, civilizations, and cultural developments across the world. Topics include ancient civilizations, the Industrial Revolution, and modern global conflicts. Students will explore historical perspectives on social, economic, and political change. By the end of the course, students will be able to analyze historical trends and their impact on contemporary society.

LAU100 College Orientation

This course introduces students to the skills and strategies needed for success in college and beyond. Topics include goal setting, time management, effective study techniques, and critical thinking. Students will explore resources available to support academic and career growth while developing skills in communication, collaboration, and self-advocacy. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to navigate their academic journey with confidence and apply essential success strategies in both educational and professional settings.

MTH101 Introductory Algebra

This course introduces students to fundamental algebraic concepts, including equations, inequalities, functions, and graphing. Students will develop problem-solving skills through real-world applications of algebra, preparing them for more advanced mathematical concepts. By the end of the course, students will have a strong foundation in algebra to support future coursework in business, science, and technology.

PHY200 Physical Science

Students will explore the principles of physics and chemistry, including motion, energy, atomic structure, and chemical reactions. This course emphasizes real-world applications of physical science concepts. By the end of the course, students will be able to apply scientific reasoning to analyze natural phenomena.

PSY140 Introduction to Psychology

Students will explore fundamental concepts of psychology, including human behavior, cognition, development, and mental health. This course examines psychological theories and their real-world applications. By the end of the course, students will be able to analyze psychological influences on behavior and decision-making.

 

PROGRAM CORE

WDD101 Internet Fundamentals 

This course introduces students to overarching terminology and production pipeline web design offers. From the perspective of a small business, students work through steps of pre-production. The course culminates with students creating webpages using WordPress, an industry standard Content Management Systems.

WDD110 Digital Graphics 

This course introduces students to Adobe Photoshop, the fundamental graphics application and image editing software used in the computer graphics industry. Students learn the fundamentals of this software, and will study topics including selections, layers, masking, filters, image manipulation and correction, composition, painting, and optimization for the web. Students examine techniques for efficient editing, processing, and file handling. Topics in photo editing may be studied, including color enhancement, lighting correction, and overall retouching.

WDD120 Intro to HTML/CSS Design

In this course, students will learn how to reproduce common web design layout patterns to quickly create websites that are easy to understand and navigate. Students learn to create more complex multi column designs to make their pages easier to read and understand. Students learn the basics of wireframing and planning as they take first steps towards building custom layouts utilizing design patterns. Students review the anatomy of web pages and examine common workflows as well as build confidence via critiquing both their peers and ready-made examples.

WDD135 Graphic Design Fundamentals 

This course covers the fundamentals of graphic design, emphasizing visual communication, typography, color theory, and compositional rules. Students will use industry-standard software to create professional layouts, branding materials, and digital assets. Hands-on projects and in-class critiques will help beginners to understand how design elements work together to convey effective messages.

WDD175 Intermediate HTML/CSS Design

This course builds on foundational HTML and CSS skills, emphasizing the creation of visually appealing, responsive, and user-friendly web designs. Students will explore advanced HTML structures, semantic markup, and modern CSS techniques, including Flexbox and Grid for layout design. The course also addresses responsive design principles, media queries, and best practices for cross-browser compatibility. Students will learn to enhance websites with animations, transitions, and interactive elements using CSS. Additional topics encompass accessibility, SEO-friendly coding practices, and the integration of third-party fonts and icons. Through hands-on projects, students will develop professional-quality web pages that adapt seamlessly to various screen sizes and devices. By the end of the course, students will possess the skills to design and build well-structured, visually engaging websites using industry-standard HTML and CSS techniques.

WDD205 UI/UX Design Fundamentals 

This course introduces students to the core principles of User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) design. Students will explore the fundamentals of creating intuitive, user-friendly digital experiences by understanding design psychology, usability, and interaction design. The course covers key topics such as wireframes, prototyping, visual hierarchy, typography, and color theory. Students will learn about user research, accessibility standards, and best practices for designing responsive and mobile-friendly interfaces. Hands-on projects will allow students to apply UI/UX principles using industry-standard design tools like Figma or Adobe XD. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in UI/UX design, empowering them to create engaging digital experiences that meet user needs and business goals.

WDD215 Advanced HTML/CSS Design

This course emphasizes advanced web design techniques using HTML and CSS, prioritizing the creation of modern, high-performance, and accessible websites. Students will delve into advanced CSS methodologies, such as CSS Grid, Flexbox, and custom animations, to formulate complex layouts and interactive user interfaces. The course includes CSS preprocessors like SASS/SCSS, design systems, and best practices for maintaining and scaling code. Students will also study performance optimization techniques, responsive design for various screen sizes, and accessibility compliance. Additional subjects encompass integrating SVG graphics, advanced typography, and CSS frameworks like Tailwind CSS or Bootstrap. Through hands-on projects, students will produce professional-quality web designs that are visually stunning, highly functional, and optimized for speed and usability. By the end of the course, students will possess the expertise to create cutting-edge websites that adhere to industry’s best practices.

WDD305 JavaScript Fundamentals 

This course introduces students to the core concepts and syntax of JavaScript, the programming language used to create interactive and dynamic web content. Students will learn how to write and debug JavaScript code while understanding variables, data types, functions, loops, and conditionals. The course also covers working with arrays, objects, and basic DOM manipulation to modify web pages in real-time. Students will explore essential topics such as event handling, form validation, and error handling, and gaining the skills to build interactive web features. Through hands-on projects, students will practice using JavaScript to enhance user interfaces and develop web applications. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in JavaScript, enabling them to create dynamic websites and prepare for more advanced topics in web development.

WDD315 JavaScript for Dynamic Interfaces 

This course emphasizes using JavaScript to develop interactive and dynamic user interfaces for modern web applications. Students will learn advanced JavaScript concepts, including DOM manipulation, event handling, and AJAX, to create responsive, user-friendly interfaces. The course explains how to update content in real-time, validate user inputs, and dynamically load data from external sources without refreshing the page. Students will also investigate JavaScript frameworks and libraries like jQuery, as well as tools for managing animations, transitions, and user interactions. Hands-on projects will provide students with experience in creating fluid, interactive features such as real-time search, form validation, image galleries, and dynamic content loading. By the end of the course, students will possess the skills to create sophisticated, interactive web pages that deliver seamless user experiences.

WDD345 E-commerce Solutions 

This course explores the technical and programmatic foundations for building and maintaining e-commerce solutions tailored for web companies. Students will learn to develop robust, scalable e-commerce platforms that support features such as product management, shopping carts, secure payment processing, and customer accounts. The course covers essential programming concepts related to integrating front-end and back-end systems to deliver seamless e-commerce experiences. Students will engage with popular e-commerce frameworks, APIs, and platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento, with an emphasis on customizing and automating processes like inventory management, order fulfillment, and customer communication. Topics also encompass handling transaction security, implementing user authentication, and integrating third-party services like payment gateways, shipping providers, and analytics tools. Through hands-on projects, students will obtain practical experience in building custom e-commerce solutions and optimizing them for performance, scalability, and user experience. By the end of the course, students will possess a strong understanding of the programmatic aspects of e-commerce, preparing them to develop and manage complex e-commerce systems for web companies.

BUS150 Entrepreneurship

This course introduces students to the principles of entrepreneurship, including business planning, funding, and market analysis. Students will explore the challenges and opportunities of starting and managing a small business. By the end of the course, students will develop a business concept and apply entrepreneurial strategies to real-world scenarios.

MKT220 Principles of Marketing

Students will explore fundamental marketing concepts, including consumer behavior, branding, advertising, and digital marketing strategies. This course examines how businesses create value for customers and build competitive advantages. By the end of the course, students will be able to develop marketing strategies that align with business goals.

PMT255 Project Management

Students will learn project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and risk management techniques. This course covers industry-standard project management tools and best practices. By the end of the course, students will be able to create project plans and manage resources effectively.

We Have a Lot to Offer You!

We offer Associate and Bachelor of Science Degrees. The courses at Laurus College are taught online by experienced professionals from the field, and our college is known for its friendly learning environment and supportive staff and instructors who will feel like family.

You can even connect with faculty, classmates, and staff in person by visiting one of our locations: Atascadero, Chula Vista, Las Vegas, Oxnard, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Maria.

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