Looking for the best web design schools in Nebraska? Whether you’re seeking a degree, certificate, or flexible online program, we’ve gathered top institutions in the state – including the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Bellevue University, and Metropolitan Community College. Here’s what you can expect from each.
- Nebraska offers diverse web design programs at institutions like the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Bellevue University, and Metropolitan Community College, each providing unique strengths such as comprehensive graphic design foundations, flexible online courses, and accessible entry paths.
- Web design programs in these institutions typically include core courses covering HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, alongside elective courses and hands-on projects to ensure students gain practical, real-world experience.
- Extensive support services, including internship opportunities, job placement assistance, and financial aid, significantly enhance student career prospects and make higher education more accessible.
Top Web Design Programs in Nebraska
Nebraska boasts a diverse range of institutions that cater to web design enthusiasts. Some of the options include:
- University of Nebraska–Lincoln: offers comprehensive programs in web design
- Bellevue University: offers flexible online offerings for web design
- Metropolitan Community College: offers accessible options for aspiring web designers
Aspiring web designers in Nebraska have numerous paths to choose from.
Here’s an in-depth view of what each of these top schools provides.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) stands out with its robust graphic design programs, offering both a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in graphic design. These programs cover a wide array of subjects, including typography, composition, and drawing, ensuring that students gain a solid foundation in both traditional and digital arts. Specializations in photography and digital arts further enrich the curriculum, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests.
Students at UNL learn to integrate graphic design principles into web design, preparing them to create visually appealing and functional websites. The program emphasizes best practices for modern web browsers, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for the evolving digital landscape.
Bellevue University
Bellevue University offers a highly flexible and practical approach to web design education through its online Bachelor of Science in Web Development. This program is designed to prepare students for the demands of the industry by emphasizing real-world projects and hands-on learning. Key courses include the Fundamentals of Web Development, which covers essential topics like web standards, accessibility, and coding languages such as HTML and CSS.
Graduates of Bellevue’s program are well-prepared for careers as full-stack developers, software developers, and software engineers. The curriculum’s focus on practical, real-world applications ensures that students not only learn the theory but also how to apply it in professional settings.
Metropolitan Community College
For those seeking a more accessible and flexible entry into web design, Metropolitan Community College offers both certificate and associate degree programs in web design. The Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology Web Development program includes courses in key areas such as web application development, Photoshop, Interface Design, Dreamweaver, and Internet Scripting.
The college’s open enrollment policy makes it an attractive option for a wider range of students, providing a practical and affordable pathway into the web design field. With the help of the admissions team, this inclusive approach ensures that more students can gain the skills needed to succeed in the digital arena.
Admission Requirements for Web Design Schools
Prospective students need to familiarize themselves with the admission requirements for web design programs. Generally, these requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent and standardized test scores like the ACT or SAT. However, specifics can vary significantly between institutions, thus we will delve into the details for each school.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln
At the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, admission to the graphic design program requires meeting general university entrance criteria, which include a 3.0 cumulative high school GPA or an ACT score of 20 or higher. Applicants must also complete specific academic units in English, mathematics, social studies, natural sciences, and foreign languages. Additionally, new freshmen are encouraged to submit official ACT/SAT scores for scholarship consideration.
Transfer students need a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0, with at least 12 completed semester credits. Some programs may also require a portfolio showcasing the applicant’s design skills. International students must achieve a minimum TOEFL score to demonstrate English proficiency.
Bellevue University
Bellevue University offers a flexible admission process that is particularly accommodating to transfer students and military personnel. The university accepts previously earned credits towards the web development degree, and military benefits can be applied to assist veterans in pursuing their education.
Metropolitan Community College
Metropolitan Community College requires a high school diploma or GED for most of its programs. Additionally, students may need to complete placement tests in math and English to determine the appropriate course levels for their skill sets.
Curriculum and Course Structure
Web design programs usually offer a curriculum balancing technical training with creative problem-solving to produce well-rounded, industry-ready students. We will examine the defining elements of these programs – the core courses, elective options, and hands-on projects.
Core Courses
Core courses form the backbone of any web design program, covering fundamental skills like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. These classes are essential for building and styling web pages, providing students with the technical foundation needed for success.
Elective Courses
Elective courses allow students to tailor their education to their interests. Options may include cloud computing, advanced JavaScript libraries, typography, and an art history course. These courses enhance a student’s ability to manage and deploy web applications efficiently, understand effective type design, and gain insights into the evolution of design styles.
Hands-On Projects
Hands-on projects are crucial for applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Some examples of hands-on projects include:
- Designing websites
- Creating mobile apps
- Developing software programs
- Building physical prototypes
- Conducting scientific experiments
These projects help develop practical skills and often involve client-based assignments and collaborations.
Faculty and Resources
The educational experience in web design programs can be significantly shaped by the quality of faculty and resources. We will highlight the instructor expertise, state-of-the-art learning resources, and essential collaboration tools available to students.
Experienced Instructors
Students benefit from learning under experienced instructors who are active in the design community. For instance, some benefits of learning under experienced instructors are:
- They bring real-world experience and industry insights to the classroom
- They are often active in the design community
- They can provide valuable networking opportunities
- They can offer guidance and mentorship to students
These instructors enrich the learning experience and help students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the design industry.
Learning Resources
Access to state-of-the-art facilities and software is crucial for web design students. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln offers:
- Computer labs equipped with the latest graphic design software, including the Adobe Creative Suite
- High-end digital printing
- Digital cameras
- Wacom tablets
- Other professional-grade equipment
Students can utilize these resources to enhance their learning experience and get their questions answered.
Collaboration Tools
Collaboration tools such as Slack and Zoom are essential for facilitating communication and project management among students. These platforms help students work together on projects, share ideas, and maintain effective communication skills with instructors.
Career Services and Job Placement
Career services are pivotal in equipping students for the job market. Extensive career support is offered by web design schools in Nebraska, encompassing internship opportunities, job placement assistance, and showcasing of alumni success stories.
Internship Opportunities
Internships provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities. Many programs in Nebraska partner with local businesses and advertising agencies to offer internships. For example, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln collaborates with local agencies, providing students with practical job experience.
Sandhills Global is one such partner, offering internships where students engage in the entire design process from concept to coding and rollout. These internships are invaluable for building a professional portfolio and gaining real-world skills.
Job Placement Assistance
Job placement assistance includes services like resume workshops, interview preparation, and career counseling. Dedicated career advisors at Nebraska’s web design schools help students navigate job searches and apply for relevant positions, ensuring they are prepared for the job market.
Alumni Success Stories
Hearing from successful alumni can be incredibly inspiring. Graduates from Nebraska’s web design programs have gone on to work in prominent tech companies or started their own design firms.
Notable alumni include Aakriti Agrawal, who co-founded Girls Code Lincoln, a nonprofit aimed at inspiring young girls in technology and leadership.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
The accessibility of education heavily relies on financial aid and scholarships. In Nebraska, 87% of first-time students receive some form of financial aid. We shall explore the various available options – university scholarships, federal and state aid, and private scholarships.
University Scholarships
University scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden on students. For example, the University of Nebraska offers the Mary E. and Elmer H. Dohrmann Scholarship for first-year students and the Cecilia Day Scholarship for upper-class students.
Graduate students can apply for the David A. Klarner Fellowship for Computer Science, which supports up to two recipients concurrently.
Federal and State Aid
Federal and state financial aid programs provide grants, loans, and work-study opportunities to help students finance their education. These programs are essential for making higher education more accessible.
Private Scholarships
Private scholarships, such as the Garmin Computer Engineering Scholarship, offer additional financial support to students. This scholarship awards three recipients annually, helping to alleviate the cost of education.
Student Life and Extracurricular Activities
The college experience is enhanced by active engagement in student life and extracurricular activities. UNL supports over 500 student organizations, providing vital out-of-class experiences. These activities help students build a network, develop soft skills, and enhance their overall educational journey.
Student Organizations
Joining student organizations like the American Institute of Graphic Artists (AIGA) Students in Design group offers professional development and networking opportunities. Membership provides benefits such as entry into design competitions, scholarships, and exposure to a broader spectrum of design practices.
Campus Events
Campus events, such as design symposiums, guest lectures, and studio art exhibitions, enhance the learning experience.
Events like the Design + Social Justice Symposium organized by UNL provide students with insights into the role of graphic design and visual communication in promoting civil and human rights, as well as the responsibilities of a graphic designer in this context.
Networking Opportunities
Networking opportunities are crucial for career development. Participation in organizations like AIGA helps students connect with industry professionals, stay updated with trends, and improve their job prospects after graduation