Build a solid foundation for your web development career with essential skills focused on object-oriented programming (OOP), which is built around the concept of classes and objects.
web software developer student coding in class

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IT-Web Software Developer
Program Number: 101524
Your Degree: Associate Degree
Estimated Time to Complete: 64 Credits | Finish degree in 2 years
Delivery Method: 100% Online, Some Online/Some In Person
Area of Study: Information Technology
Estimated Program Cost: $11,496.68
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  • Program Overview

    Behind every website is a web software developer who worked with a team to program the way the site works, looks and is used. They bring designers’ and clients’ web dreams to life. They also ensure those sites are up-to-date and running well.

    The fundamental skills you’ll learn in Madison College’s Web Software Developer associate degree program will prepare you for employment as an entry-level web developer anywhere from start-ups and agencies to national companies and tech giants.

    Whether you’re looking to start, advance or change your career, this program will give you the training to help you reach your goals. No advanced skills needed—just basic computer knowledge and a passion for learning.

    Web Software Developer Program Goals

    The Web Software Developer program teaches the fundamentals of object oriented programming for traditional web development used in multi-page apps through the use of HTML, CSS, Java, PHP, C# and JavaScript.

    Real-world, Hands-on Learning

    Web Software Developer classes are held in lab environments, so you get hands-on experience in every class. You’ll use Madison College’s state-of-the-art online lab environment to simulate the infrastructures various industries and tech companies actually use. That same lab is available to you 24/7 from any computer. All you need is an internet connection to do your work from anywhere. 

    Madison College IT program students start coding on Day One.

    In the first year, you’ll learn the basics of web development. In the second year, you’ll learn advanced practices as well as skills to help you prepare for your career.

    Core classes teach technical skills in:

    • HTML and CSS
    • Multi-page apps
    • Java, PHP, C# and JavaScript
    • Object Oriented Programming
    • Cloud and SQL
    • Spring and WordPress libraries
    Sita, Madison College web developer student
    “I love the coding work. I really enjoy seeing how all the different classes work together. So, you'll see database stuff and the front-end stuff. The actual web coding all of a sudden comes together. That's some of the most exciting things for me.”
    Sita E.
    IT Web Software Developer student

    Final Semester Internship

    In addition to coursework, you will complete an internship with one of our industry partners. If you are already working full-time, you will have the option of a project. With this real-world opportunity, upon graduation you will have not only the knowledge but also the experience to enter the workforce with the confidence that employers notice.

    Flexible Course Offerings

    Students in the Web Software Developer program can attend full or part time.

    The core classes unique to the Web Software Developer program are offered only online or during the day.

    Web Software Developer classes are offered at our Madison Truax campus.

    If you start this program in the spring semester it may take 5 semesters to complete and classes are only offered in the daytime or online.

    What Makes a Great Web Developer?

    Discover what makes a great web developer – and explore Madison College’s associate degree and certificate programs in web development.

  • Program Courses

    Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester. 

    Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.

    First Semester
    10-107-111
    Exploration of Information Technology
    Learn about the different careers available in the vast field of Information Technology and examines the IT-Cloud DevOps Specialist, IT-Cyber Compliance Specialist, IT-Cybersecurity Specialist, IT-Data & Analytics Specialist, IT-Desktop Support Technician, IT-GenAI Front-End Developer, IT-Network Systems Administration, and IT-Web Software Developer career paths. Students create an individualized career path plan as the capstone project for the course.
    1 credit
    10-151-102
    IT Security Awareness
    Provides a basic survey of the importance of IT security awareness and data confidentiality. This course walks users through basic aspects of information security in a very broad, easy to understand way and explains the value of securing data. The course will also present best practices in access control and password policies. NOTE: Working knowledge of Microsoft Windows (computer literacy, proficiency with a mouse, file management) required.
    1 credit
    10-152-119
    Introduction to Programming Using JavaScript
    This hands-on programming course introduces fundamental software development practices using JavaScript. You’ll learn to think like a developer—designing algorithms, writing clean, modular code, testing thoroughly, and debugging effectively—while adhering to industry standards and best practices. Through a mix of design documentation, coding assignments, code reviews, and self-reflection, you’ll build from simple functions and variable management up to complete programs that solve real-world problems.
    3 credits
    10-152-120
    Website Development
    Introduces HTML, CSS, and essential web development techniques. Learn to create well-structured HTML documents and apply CSS styling to enhance the visual appearance of web pages. Through hands-on exercises, develop proficiency in building and styling web content, including text formatting, image integration, and form design. Emphasis is placed on debugging techniques and adherence to web accessibility standards to ensure the creation of accessible and standards-compliant websites. By the end of the course, students will have the skills to create web pages while adhering to industry best practices. Prerequisite: working knowledge of Microsoft Windows (computer literacy, proficiency with a mouse, File Explorer, and file/folder management), good reading and problem-solving skills.
    3 credits
    10-156-105
    AI Fundamentals
    Provides a basic survey of the importance of AI in the IT industry. This course will discuss broad aspects of AI including types, code generation, and how to validate the results from AI. The course will also present best practices for appropriate and responsible use of AI.
    1 credit
    10-156-124
    Introduction to Databases
    Introduces the student to relational database concepts using the Microsoft Access and MySQL database environments. Students then study concepts that lead to good relational database design including an introduction to normalization. Basic SQL statements are practiced also. Students are required to have a working knowledge of Microsoft Windows operating system (computer literacy, proficiency with a mouse, file explorer, and file management).
    3 credits
    10-801-195
    Written Communication
    Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.
    3 credits
    Second Semester
    10-152-111
    Java Programming
    Introduces programming and object-oriented design concepts using the Java programming language. Students learn all the Java programming basics and use a simple text editor as a development environment. Design concepts and programming tools will be integrated with an emphasis on practical business solutions.
    3 credits
    10-156-125
    SQL Database Programming
    Presents relational database concepts and teaches beginning to intermediate Structured Query Language (SQL) using MySQL. Students learn to create and maintain database objects and to store, retrieve, and manipulate data. Demonstrations, hands-on practice and authentic projects reinforce the fundamental concepts.
    3 credits
    10-152-130
    UIUX and Web Accessibility
    This course explores the fundamentals of user experience design (UX), user interface design (UX), and web accessibility. With a focus on user-centered design, students will conduct and analyze user research, build diagrams, and develop a working desktop prototype. Topics include design principles, UI evaluation techniques, design ethics, web inclusivity, and assistive technology. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) are investigated and applied with a coded website. Students will have an opportunity to earn two digital badges: Teamwork and Web Accessibility Fundamentals.
    3 credits
    10-152-166
    PHP Web Development with MySQL
    This course introduces the student to dynamic web page development using the PHP programming language. Students will learn how PHP works, how to effectively use many of its powerful features, and how to design and build their own PHP web applications. The popular MySQL open source database management software (DBMS) will also be introduced as a powerful backend for PHP websites.
    3 credits
    10-801-196
    Oral/Interpersonal Communication
    Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.
    3 credits
    Third Semester
    10-107-175
    Job Search Preparation
    Introduction to planning and organizing a search for careers in information technology. Activities include the development of a personalized job search plan, resume building, creating a social media presence and a mock interview.
    1 credit
    10-152-110
    Cloud for Developers
    In this course, you learn how to use the AWS SDK to develop secure and scalable cloud applications. Explore how to interact with AWS using code and also learn about key concepts, best practices, and troubleshooting tips.
    3 credits
    10-152-112
    Advanced Java Programming
    This course builds on foundational Java skills with a focus on application development, debugging and deployment. Students refine their problem-solving abilities by diagnosing and resolving common programming errors using debugging tools, logs, and test-driven development. Emphasis is placed on writing clean, maintainable code using core Java principles, object-oriented programming, and design documentation. Learners develop web applications, use MVC architecture, integrate databases with SQL, and deploy applications through Apache Tomcat. The course also covers file I/O, exception handling, the Collections framework, and professional version control using Git and GitHub.
    3 credits
    10-152-131
    Agile Practices
    This course teaches students the basics of Agile software development. Students learn how to communicate, plan, estimate, and track software projects as well as how to participate in various roles on software development teams. Students are also exposed to popular software architectures, cloud basics, and formal Scrum/Kanban principles.
    3 credits
    10-804-144
    Math of Finance
    This course takes an algebraic approach to solving financial problems. Topics include personal finance and retirement, mathematics of retailing, mathematics of banking and lending, and statistical applications. Major emphasis is placed on solving problems involving the time value of money by using a financial calculator. The material in this course develops a sound base for subsequent courses by using an analytical approach to problem solving.
    3 credits
    Elective
    3 credits
    Fourth Semester
    10-152-113
    Enterprise Java Programming
    The third class of the Java sequence explores advanced Java topics including JDBC, Servlets, JSPs, DAOs, object-relational mapping frameworks, web services, unit testing, logging, authentication, application build and deployment, version control, and agentic AI. Students will gain familiarity with the Amazon Cloud (AWS) environment as they deploy web applications in the cloud.
    3 credits
    10-152-132
    Web Software Developer Internship
    Opportunities for students to gain experience in Web software development through an internship in an actual information systems department. Students will seek internship opportunities and interview to be selected for internships. The student spends approximately 216 hours over the course of the semester at the internship site. If no internship is available, a special project may be substituted for the internship by consent of the instructor. Activities can include requirements gathering, software development, and testing of new and existing web software. In addition, students will share internship experiences with other students at the end of the term.
    3 credits
    10-152-168
    Advanced Javascript
    Students will build dynamic, full-stack web applications. Students will explore core concepts like functions, event handling, and DOM searching, then use AJAX and the XMLHttpRequest object to fetch and display data without reloading the page. Modern JavaScript features are introduced, including functional programming (map, reduce, filter), object-oriented programming, and asynchronous programming with Promises, the Fetch API, and async/await. Learners will also build simple back-end applications using Node.js and Express and get an introduction to serverless functions with AWS Lambda or similar platforms.
    3 credits
    10-809-199
    Psychology of Human Relations
    This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.
    3 credits
    Elective
    3 credits
    Complete one of the following: (Review Degree Progress Report for any additional options.)
    10-809-103
    Think Critically & Creatively
    Provides instruction about critical and creative thinking that is in high demand in all occupations. Models, theories, and processes provide the foundation for learning logical thinking strategies. Students will apply a systematic approach to problem solving by analyzing the problem, assessing possible solutions, and making effective decisions. In addition, students will generate ideas and analyze complex issues. This course assists students with developing a critical thinking mindset which is essential at every level of personal and professional life.
    3 credits
    10-809-166
    Introduction to Ethics: Theory and Application
    This course provides a basic understanding of the theoretical foundations of ethical thought. Diverse ethical perspectives will be used to analyze and compare relevant issues. Students will critically evaluate individual, social and/or professional standards of behavior, and apply a systematic decision-making process to these situations.
    3 credits
    Recommended Electives
    10-152-103
    C# Unity Game Development
    Students learn to develop 2D games using Unity and C#. An emphasis is placed on C# programming fundamentals and how code controls game behavior within the Unity engine. Students create interactive game projects using input, movement, physics, collision detection, prefabs, ScriptableObjects, object pooling, user interfaces, audio, animation, and other core Unity systems. Students also practice debugging, project organization, and building playable games while developing confidence working with the Unity Editor and C# code.
    3 credits
    10-152-108
    Serverless Cloud with React
    This class introduces students to Serverless cloud computing from a front-end web developer’s point of view. Learn React basics and gain experience with popular AWS Serverless cloud offerings including, authentication & authorization, API Gateway, Lambda, DynamoDB, and others. Awareness and experience with cloud native solution architectures are essential as your career progresses toward full-stack software development.
    3 credits
    10-152-121
    Advanced CSS
    This course equips students with hands-on experience in designing and developing professional business websites using modern web standards and advanced CSS techniques. Students will learn to optimize website performance, implement responsive and accessible design, and structure content using modular HTML approaches. The curriculum covers advanced CSS features including Flexbox, CSS Grid, custom properties (CSS variables), and the use of frameworks such as Bootstrap and Tailwind CSS.
    3 credits
    10-152-158
    JS Frameworks (Angular and React)
    Learn intermediate/advanced Angular programming for front-end development with JS/TS (JavaScript/TypeScript). Implement various FP (functional programming) concepts popular in modern JS development. Also experience real world team development with Git and GitHub, including branching, pull requests (PRs), merge conflicts, and more. React is also demonstrated and discussed. The skills taught in this class are generally applicable to all frameworks including Vue, Solid, and others.
    3 credits
    10-152-167
    Advanced PHP and MySQL Web Development
    This course prepares the student to implement professional PHP and MySQL web applications. Students will learn advanced techniques for session management, validation, and authentication. Students will also learn how to create and deploy a LAMP stack locally and remotely to a dedicated hosting platform. Advanced web application features such as PDO, content management using WordPress, customizing WordPress, and creating web services are discussed. Installation and customization of open source PHP web applications are also covered.
    3 credits
    10-152-200
    Foundations of Software Quality
    Learn to understand, verify, and validate the quality of software systems through the analysis and application of modern quantified techniques. Students will understand the terms and concepts which describe the fundamentals of quality assurance. Verification of software quality is addressed by exploring secure software development practices and test strategies including static, exploratory, and dynamic techniques. Validation of software quality is addressed by analyzing risk, coverage, and vulnerabilities. Validation is further refined through the critical analysis of intended vs. actual results and through understanding the contexts and perspectives of end-users.
    4 credits

  • How to Apply

    Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!

    If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.

    Apply Now – Secure Your Spot!

    This program has a limited number of seats available. We encourage early applications to secure your spot, but the program has not historically reached full capacity.

    Application Dates

    Fall 2026

    • Application open
    • Application completion deadline is August 31, 2026

    Spring 2027

    • Application open
    • Application completion deadline is January 15, 2027

    Fall 2027

    • Application available on October 15, 2026
    • Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027

    Admission Requirements

    All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.

    1. Admission Application

    The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.

    2. Education Completion

    Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:

    • High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
    • GED/HSED completion
    • College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
      • Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
      • At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
        • The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
        • Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
        • Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript

    All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.

    Additional Notes

    Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a program does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the program.

    Questions?

    Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.

    apply for admission

    Get Started!

    Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your IT-Web Software Developer career.

    It's Free to Apply

  • Transfer Opportunities

    UW System Schools

    UW Oshkosh
    The terms of the B.S in Leadership & Org Studies agreement are limited to students who complete selective A.A.S or A.A.A. degrees and are admitted to the Organizational Studies emphasis at UW-Oshkosh. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
    UW Whitewater
    This agreement establishes a cooperative relationship between the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (UW-W) and Madison College students in the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Cybersecurity-Cyber Operations Emphasis, in or after the fall 2022 term
    UW Whitewater
    University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (UW-W) and Madison College effective for students starting the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) - Computer Science-Applied Computing Emphasis, in or after the fall 2022 term

    Wisconsin Private Schools

    Edgewood University
    Guaranteed admission and transfer pathway from two IT programs at Madison College to Edgewood University
    Lakeland University
    Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.
    Milwaukee School of Engineering
    Completion of an A.A.S. Degree at Madison College after 2018, and meeting admission requirements for the Rader School of Business (RSOB) at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) can earn a B.B.A degree in Technical Sales at MSOE.

    Out-of-State Schools

    Franklin University
    Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree.

  • Career Outcomes

    Web Software Developer Program Outcomes

    After completing the Web Software Developer associates degree program at Madison College, you will be able to:

    • Write moderately complex web applications using current enterprise Java.
    • Write complex web applications using current JavaScript.
    • Design and implement relational databases and process data using SQL.
    • Perform entry-level analysis and design to build user-centric applications.
    • Build responsive and accessible websites using HTML and CSS.
    • Demonstrate an understanding of the ever-changing IT field and its job roles with emphasis on IT security as it applies to development.
    • Work as an ethical and reliable team member using software collaboration tools.

    Web Software Developer Careers

    Web Software Developer associates degree program graduates can find employment as an entry-level web developer.

    With additional education and/or work experience, you may find employment as web software engineer or web architect.

    • Graduate Summary

      Graduate Report Summary Overview

      		202320242025
      Number of Program Graduates212629
      Number of Surveys Sent212629
      Number of Surveys Returned141620
      Percent of Surveys Returned
      Available for Employment111318
      Percent Available for Employment78.6%81.3%90.0%
      Not in Labor Market
      Percent Not in Labor Market21.4%18.8%10.0%
      Available for Employment

      		202320242025
      Graduates Employed81016
      Percent of Graduates Employed72.7%76.9%88.9%
      Employed in Related Occupation769
      Percent Employed in Related Occupation87.5%60.0%56.3%
      Employed in Unrelated Occupation147
      Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation12.5%40.0%43.8%
      Employed - No Response000
      Percent Employed - No Response0.0%0.0%0.0%
      Seeking Employment332
      Percent Seeking Employment27.3%23.1%11.1%
      Reaction To Training at Madison College

      		202320242025
      Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4)3.63.43.5
      Number of Satisfaction Responses141620
      Very Satisfied (4)9811
      Percent Very Satisfied64.3%50.0%55.0%
      Satisfied (3)578
      Percent Satisfied35.7%43.8%40.0%
      Unsatisfied (2)011
      Percent Unsatisfied0.0%6.3%5.0%
      Very Unsatisfied (1)
      Percent Very Unsatisfied0.0%0.0%0.0%
      Primary Reason for Attending Madison College

      		202320242025
      Number of Primary Reason Responses141620
      Preparation for Getting a Job859
      Percent Preparation for Getting a Job57.1%31.3%45.0%
      Career Change6109
      Percent Career Change42.9%62.5%45.0%
      Improvement of Existing Skills011
      Percent Improvement of Existing Skills0.0%6.3%5.0%
      Preparation for Further Education001
      Percent Preparation for Further Education0.0%0.0%5.0%
      Personal Interest000
      Percent Personal Interest0.0%0.0%0.0%
      Other000
      Percent Other0.0%0.0%0.0%
      When Employment was Obtained

      		202320242025
      Number of When Employment Obtained Responses81016
      Before Enrollment124
      Percent Before Enrollment12.5%20.0%25.0%
      While Attending the College453
      Percent While Attending the College50.0%50.0%18.8%
      After Training at the College339
      Percent After Training at the College37.5%30.0%56.3%
      Location of Employment (related and unrelated)

      		202320242025
      Number of Employment Location Responses81016
      In College District7810
      Percent In College District87.5%80.0%62.5%
      In Wisconsin, Not in District004
      Percent of In Wisconsin0.0%0.0%25.0%
      Outside of Wisconsin121
      Percent Outside Wisconsin12.5%20.0%6.3%
      Employer Location Unknown001
      Percent Location Unknown0.0%0.0%6.3%
      Salary Trend
      Salary Trend202320242025
      Full Time Employment (Related Job)Full Time Salary Count346
      Average Monthly Wage$6,164$4,498$6,378
      Average Hourly Wage$35.84$26.15$37.08
      Average Work Hours per Week40.039.539.4
      Part Time Employment (Related Job)Part Time Salary Count121
      Average Hourly Wage$25.00$28.00$24.42
      Average Work Hours per Week15.019.017.5

    • Graduate Employers

      Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025
      Employer(s)Job TitleCity*State**Positions
      Dept Of CorrectionsIS Systems Development Specialist
      Fetch RewardsBackend Software Engineer
      NelnetIT Software AnalystLincolnNE
      Rock County IT DepartmentInternJanesville
      Singlewire SoftwareSoftware Engineer
      Skyward, IncSoftware EngineerStevens Point2
      T-MobileMobile ExpertSun Prairie

      * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.

      ** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.

      *** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu

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School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

Madison Truax Campus
Main Building, C2433

1701 Wright Street
Madison, Wisconsin 53704

schoolofstem@madisoncollege.edu
608.246.6990

Hours

  • Monday – Thursday: 8 am - 4:30 pm
  • Friday: 8 am - 4:30 pm (Phone and email only.)