Web Design and Programming

Major: Web Design and Programming

Program Overview: This program combines creative web design with technical programming skills to prepare students for careers in developing modern, responsive, and user-friendly websites and web applications. The curriculum covers both front-end and back-end development, UI/UX design principles, and the latest web technologies, ensuring graduates are equipped to meet the demands of Turkey's growing digital economy.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Master HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for front-end development.
• Learn UI/UX design principles to create intuitive and visually appealing interfaces.
• Develop back-end programming skills using languages like Python, PHP, or Node.js.
• Understand database management and integration with web applications.
• Gain expertise in responsive design and cross-browser compatibility.
• Explore web frameworks (e.g., React, Angular, Vue.js, Django, Laravel).
• Learn version control (Git) and collaborative development workflows.
• Apply SEO best practices and web performance optimization techniques.

Core Courses:

1. Introduction to Web Technologies
   • Overview of web development, internet protocols, and web standards.
2. Front-End Development
   • HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, and modern front-end frameworks (React, Angular, Vue.js).
3. UI/UX Design
   • Principles of user-centered design, wireframing, and prototyping with tools like Figma or Adobe XD.
4. Back-End Development
   • Server-side programming with Python (Django/Flask), PHP (Laravel), or Node.js (Express).
5. Database Management
   • SQL (MySQL, PostgreSQL) and NoSQL (MongoDB) databases for web applications.
6. Full-Stack Development
   • Integrating front-end and back-end technologies to build complete web applications.
7. Web Security
   • Best practices for securing web applications and protecting user data.
8. E-Commerce and CMS Development
   • Building e-commerce sites and working with content management systems (WordPress, Shopify).
9. Web Performance Optimization
   • Techniques for improving site speed, accessibility, and SEO.
10. Practicum in Web Development
    • Real-world projects or internships with web development agencies or tech companies.
11. Capstone Project
    • Design and develop a fully functional website or web application from scratch.

Assessment Methods:

• Website design and development projects
• Coding assignments and debugging exercises
• UI/UX design portfolios
• Database-driven web application projects
• Performance optimization reports
• Capstone project presentations

Recommended Tools & Resources:

• Front-End: VS Code, Figma, Adobe XD, Bootstrap, Tailwind CSS
• Back-End: Python (Django/Flask), PHP (Laravel), Node.js (Express)
• Databases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB
• Version Control: Git, GitHub, GitLab
• Books:
  • HTML and CSS: Design and Build Websites by Jon Duckett
  • Eloquent JavaScript by Marijn Haverbeke
  • Learning PHP, MySQL & JavaScript by Robin Nixon

Prerequisites: Basic computer literacy and interest in coding/design. No prior programming experience required.

Program Duration: 2 years (associate degree) or 4 years (bachelor’s degree), including hands-on projects.

Certifications: Graduates can pursue certifications such as:

• CIW Web Design Specialist
• W3Schools Certifications (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
• Google UX Design Professional Certificate
• FreeCodeCamp Certifications (Responsive Web Design, JavaScript Algorithms)

Career Paths:

• Front-End Developer (specializing in UI/UX and client-side development)
• Back-End Developer (focusing on server-side logic and databases)
• Full-Stack Developer (handling both front-end and back-end development)
• Web Designer (creating visually appealing and functional websites)
• UI/UX Designer (focusing on user experience and interface design)
• E-Commerce Developer (building online stores and payment systems)

Why This Major?

Web design and programming is one of the most in-demand skills in today’s digital world. This program prepares students for a dynamic career in tech, where they can work as freelancers, join startups, or contribute to established companies in Turkey and beyond. With the increasing need for digital presence across industries, graduates will find ample opportunities in web development agencies, IT departments, and digital marketing firms. The program’s hands-on approach ensures students build a strong portfolio to showcase their skills to potential employers.