How Do You Become a Web Developer?
To become a Web Developer, you should have an understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It’s also recommended to learn about CSS and CSS frameworks. Developing these fundamental web development skills will give you the foundation and logic for communicating with programming langua
become a Web Developer in five steps:
- Learn web development fundamentals
- Choose a development specialization
- Learn key programming languages for web development
- Work on projects to develop your Web Developer skills
- Build a web development portfolio
1. Learn Web Development Fundamentals
The best first step to becoming a Web Developer is to start learning web development fundamentals, including an understanding of HTML (Hypertext Markup Language), CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), and JavaScript.
Many aspiring Web Developers are now using coding bootcamps to fast-track the learning process. Coding bootcamps have thrived because they are short, immersive, and focused on outcomes and employment – their goal is to develop job-ready skills as efficiently as possible, making them an increasingly worthwhile investment for a would-be Web Developer. According to the job site Indeed, four out of five companies in the U.S. have hired a graduate from a coding bootcamp.
In fact, the practical advantages of coding bootcamps are only getting clearer over time. For one thing, the field of web development naturally attracts people from all other fields, many of them making mid-career transitions – people for whom a clear and efficient path to skills expansion is a top priority. Further, employers increasingly value skills and experience over education, placing anyone who can prove their abilities on more equal footing with Developers holding a college degree.
It’s important to note that Web Developers – more than most other fields – must be committed to ongoing learning to stay on top of changes in web development and programming languages, tools, and trends. This makes mid-career retraining a must whether or not it’s the line of work you started out in.
2. Choose a Development Specialization
As you continue to grow your skills, you’ll need to choose an area of specialization. But what are the types of web development? All Web Developers are categorized into three main types:
- Front-End Developer. A Front-End Developer works on the “client-side” of web development, meaning any portion of the site or app that users interact with. This can include a site’s layout, design, and the way users interact with it.
- Back-End Developer. A Back-End Developer works on the “server-side” of web development. This is focused on the way a site functions and can include databases, servers, networks and hosting, and more.
- Full-Stack Developer. A Full-Stack Developer is familiar with both front-and back-end development and works with both sides of a website.
3. Learn Key Programming Languages for Web Development
Whatever your area of concentration, you’ll need to know how to use a handful of different programming languages for web development and web design. So, what are the most common programming languages?
Three families of programming languages form the basic tools involved in virtually all aspects of web development:
- HTML (Hypertext Markup Language)
- CSS (Cascading Style Sheets)
- JavaScript
Of course, the list goes on – these are just the beginning. In fact, web development is such a diverse and varied field that the list of all the tasks it can include (and all the coding languages and markup languages you might use to accomplish them) is too long to fit in this space. Fortunately, as a specialist, you can find and concentrate on the ones that work best for you.
4. Build Projects to Develop Your Web Developer Skills
With a grasp of the basics in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and a foundation of programming skills, you’re ready to begin building. As you go, you’ll gain experience using an ever-growing set of Web Developer skills. Some of these are technical skills, or “hard” skills, like programming in SQL or Python, using the jQuery library of functions for more efficient programming, or using tools like Git for version control. The best way to improve these web development skills is simply to start messing around – the more you use them, the better you’ll be.
There are also a number web design skills that are useful for Web Developers to have, with an understanding that responsive design is perhaps the most crucial. While Web Developers are not typically tasked with the overall site design, it’s an advantage for Developers to also have a solid understanding of common design principles. Front-End Developers, in particular, program the screens that users interact with – and they can be far more successful with a good grasp of user-centered design.
5. Build a Web Development Portfolio
A riveting Web Developer portfolio that shows off your strongest skills is your best tool when applying for web development jobs. There are three things to keep in mind when building a portfolio that will stand out from the pack.
First, your Web Developer portfolio should include a diverse selection of web development work. You don’t want to use every project you’ve ever worked on – your professional portfolio should be a highlight reel that not only demonstrates your best work, but shows your versatility. You want to be selective and highlight your best work, but your selection should be diverse enough that it demonstrates a solid understanding of the various elements of the position. When applying for Web Developer jobs, do a bit of research into the company and the role you’re looking to fill – then refine your portfolio even further, editing out unrelated examples and spotlighting your most relevant work.
Second, think about what makes you and your work unique. Emphasize the web development skills that most make you stand out – not just in the work you include in your portfolio, but in how the portfolio itself is presented. If you’re applying for design-related roles, for instance, your portfolio website should have a solid front end – a great user experience with a beautiful interface. And if you’re applying for a Web Developer role, ensure that your portfolio is displayed on a flawless site. That means no messy code.
Third, show your process. Employers aren’t looking only at the quality of work you produce, but at how you approach problems. Don’t be afraid to frame each example as a case study, providing a narrative of your thought process and the problem you were trying to solve with the project. Showing background on how your projects were created will help Recruiters and Hiring Managers make sense of your work, and say more than just a standalone piece. This is also a great opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills – an important part of excelling in a position.
Is Web Development a Growing Field?
Yes, the web development field is booming. There are more than 1.3 million Developer jobs available in North America, and more than 47,000 new development jobs were created in the last two years, with the market expected to grow an additional 15% in the next 5 years. For these reasons, Mondo found “Web Developer” the most in-demand job title in tech and one of its top-paying jobs.
What Is the Salary of a Web Developer?
According to job site Indeed, the average salary for Web Developers in the United States is $71,531, with Senior Web Developers averaging $95,325. That makes web development one of the most lucrative positions that do not require a degree.
How Can I Become a Web Developer Fast?
Coding bootcamps have become an increasingly popular option for aspiring Web Developers as they provide a hands-on learning experience and the chance to develop job-ready skills – in as little as 12 weeks.
Traditionally, many Web Developers have started with higher education in software engineering, computer science, or related fields. However, it’s also possible to come from a completely different industry. In fact, a growing number of professionals are taking steps later in their careers to learn development from scratch either by becoming self-taught or pursuing a diploma with a coding bootcamp. In fact, BrainStation’s Digital Skills Survey found that 55 percent of development respondents began their career in a different field and 58 percent have only been programming for five years or less.
What Is Needed to Become a Web Developer?
Here are some of the things you’ll need to learn to become a Web Developer:
- Foundations: To become a Web Developer, you should develop a comprehensive understanding of how the web works. This will deepen your HTML and CSS knowledge to build and style more advanced static web pages, using frameworks such as Flexbox. It will also help you establish problem-solving practices and logic to understand advanced programming concepts.
- Programming fundamentals: Foundational knowledge of JavaScript and object-oriented programming should be a starting point for aspiring Web Developers, as it will improve your ability to write and build components.
- Front-end frameworks: It’s important for aspiring Web Developers to learn how to use React, a JavaScript framework, to build complex and dynamic web pages and professional-level user interfaces.
- Web servers: To become a Web Developer, you’ll need to know how to build servers using a modern back-end framework and how to develop custom APIs and serve static websites and files.
- Server-side programming: It’s important for Web Developers to have an understanding of Server Side Rendering and Templating Engines, which are used to create empty page templates populated with dynamic data, such as a series of product pages for an eCommerce store.
- Databases: Aspiring Web Developers will also have to understand core concepts around data and learn how to manage databases and data on a web server.
As in other tech fields, it’s important for Web Developers to network and to keep learning, as programming languages and techniques change frequently. Apart from coding bootcamps, web development courses, panel discussions, and workshops, you can also stay current by contributing to an open-source commons, such as GitHub or Bootstrap.
And of course, to become a Web Developer, you will need a portfolio of completed projects for your job search. Regardless of your specific interests, it’s important to showcase your versatility to ensure clients from various industries get a sense of your abilities.
How Many Programming Languages Should I Know?
A simple question with a complicated answer. It’s complicated because it depends, like so many things in life, on multiple variables. Are you a beginner Web Developer or a pro? What types of projects do you work on, or want to work on? And what does the future hold?
If you’re a new Web Developer, it makes sense to start with the basics—but on the other hand, a certain amount of specialization can set you apart from your competitors. Ultimately, the solution is to determine which languages are useful in your field, with the degree of specialization that’s right for you, and are growing in popularity rather than falling out of it.
To get a handle on these trends, BrainStation conducted a survey of the current digital landscape. Based on the answers from thousands of professional respondents, we’ve put together an overview to help guide you toward the programming language you should begin learning now.
The More Programming Languages You Know, The Better
If you’re a Web Developer, take comfort in the fact that you’re in a growth industry. The market for Web Developers is expected to grow by another 15 percent by 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor. Because of this rapid growth, the field has seen an influx of relatively new talent; 58 percent of our survey respondents said they’ve been working in development for five years or less.
Our survey also revealed that the more experience Web Developers have under their belt, the more likely they are to work in full-stack development, and the broader their range of specialties. The takeaway: for a Web Developer to move forward in their careers, it’s crucial to continue learning new and more specialized languages—which, ironically, make them less specialized, and better able to collaborate with or manage teams working at more stages of a broader range of projects.
The Most Popular Coding Languages
Another paradox: when it comes to languages, a small number crop up almost everywhere—and yet the long tail of highly specialized and esoteric languages is just as important.
Asked which programming languages they use currently, respondents overwhelmingly pointed to JavaScript (80 percent), with SQL (47 percent), Python (35 percent), and Java (27 percent) rounding out the leaderboard. Consider these the basics: if you’re a Web Developer, one or more of these is a virtual necessity, no matter what your area of expertise.
Respondents also identified JavaScript and Python as the most enjoyable languages to work in, which not only explains their popularity but also suggests that their popularity in the future is reasonably assured.
Most remarkable, even with a list of no less than 17 programming languages to choose from, 33 percent of respondents checked “Other”—making it the third most common response, and proving that while the industry may have its favorites, there’s still plenty of demand for more obscure languages.
Fastest-Growing Languages
As new applications emerge, we should expect the list of most frequently used languages to change. Asked what will have the biggest effect on their industry over the next five to 10 years, a large majority of respondents (78 percent) chose artificial intelligence and its subset of machine learning as the biggest opportunities for growth.
Other trends they’re anticipating: the Internet of things (54 percent), augmented reality (53 percent), and blockchain (41 percent). But while they’re anticipating these technologies will gain prominence, only a minority of Developers have worked with them directly—83 percent of respondents have yet to work on AI platforms or blockchain tech, and 80 percent have no experience with IoT devices.
In fact, blockchain tech is still so new that intermediate-level respondents were more likely to have experience working with it than senior-level Developers—but this was still only one in four. These figures suggest that blockchain tech is an area beginners should brush up on to improve their chances of advancement—and Senior Developers should learn to ensure they stay relevant.
What Languages Should a New Web Developer Learn?
Given the “Big five” areas where growth is expected to happen—AI and machine learning, IoT, AR, and blockchain—what languages should you learn? While the answer depends, to some extent, on which of these five areas you choose to focus on, the same three names came up again and again: C++, Java, and Python.
Within each of the aforementioned concentrations, more languages crop up in addition to these three. In Blockchain: Ruby and Solidity. In IoT: C, JavaScript, and PHP. In AI and machine learning: R, Lisp, and Prolog. And in AR: C#, JavaScript, and Swift. But in every case, C++, Java, and Python are among the leaders.
These are the languages people are using today to work in what they’ve identified as development’s most burgeoning fields. What about tomorrow? There’s no surefire way to predict the future, but we can look at which languages are growing in use the fastest. One way to do this is to compare search queries—a proxy for measuring which languages people are currently learning. Over at Github, a compilation of search queries suggests that the fastest-growing languages are relatively new—as you’d expect.
In 2018, Java-compatible Kotlin grew the fastest year-over-year, more than doubling. HashiCorp Configuration Language (HCL) for cloud infrastructure, the JavaScript superset language TypeScript, Microsoft’s automation framework PowerShell, and systems programming language Rust round out the top five.
But not far behind, in the eighth position, is Python. Despite its popularity, Python still managed to chalk up 50 percent year-over-year growth—the sign of a true juggernaut on the rise.
What Makes a Good Web Developer?
According to BrainStation’s Digital Skills Survey, 50 percent of executives say they will be doing the most hiring in development. Interestingly, though, our respondents also found development the most difficult field to hire for, and as the demand for these skills increases, it will only become more challenging.
What should companies be looking for? And how can aspiring Developers stand out when entering the market?
To start, consider the following definition, which provides a well-rounded picture of a good Developer:
“Writes working code, that has been tested for correctness, in the time allocated, following accepted best practices, in a way that can be easily maintained and enhanced, in collaboration with their team, and continuously improves their knowledge and skills throughout their career.”
Let’s take a closer look at these ideas to see what makes a good Developer.
A good Web Developer must:
Write Working Code
Computers are extremely precise, digital machines. The slightest deviation from what a computer expects means that code won’t compile, won’t run or will crash. The whole point of programming and building software is to write code that the computer successfully processes, producing the desired result. In other words, a good Web Developer has to write code that works.
He or she has a sharp eye for details and is constantly scanning code for anything that looks “off.” They write clean code that is well structured and uses tools to identify potential errors before the code runs.
Write Code That Works Correctly
Just because the code works, doesn’t mean it works correctly. Getting the code to work is only the first hurdle.
Code that doesn’t work correctly is as useless as code that doesn’t work at all, and potentially more dangerous. Wrong results can have consequences, from mundane (and occasionally humorous) UI annoyances that frustrate end-users and inhibit their productivity — to the disastrous with loss of life or business revenue.
All errors missed by Developers will cause program crashes, system failure, data corruption, security breaches, or turn away users who expect reliability. These errors become increasingly expensive to fix as they find their way into production and are discovered by end-users. Just as physical structures require thorough testing to ensure they are “up to code,” software requires the same stringent standards.
A good Developer, therefore, adopts a test-driven mindset, actively imagining all scenarios where errors can occur, how they should be handled, and writing tests that prove the code is correct.
Respect Timelines and Deadlines
Computers represent the promise of efficiency and productivity. They allow users to accomplish and understand more. Developers work within this fast-paced world using computers to bring this productivity and efficiency to reality.
A side-effect of this world is the expectation of having everything done now. That pressure comes from managers, clients, users, and the business climate of getting to market first. That can create a lot of pressure, and Developers are only human.
Estimating time on projects is a difficult task, as there are many unknown and unexpected problems that come up when building complex software. There is always a temptation to underestimate and overlook the true details required to complete tasks. Yet underestimating time to delivery is dangerous, creating stress and burnout, the pressure to cut corners, and negative feelings from all stakeholders in the project.
It is important to identify all details possible for a project, have a realistic perspective of the amount of work that can be accomplished, and reasonably overestimate timelines to account for the unknown and unexpected. Communication is key when timelines start slipping and making sure that everyone is aware of difficulties ahead of time helps to handle and avoid missing deadlines.
A good Developer sets reasonable expectations, communicates openly about unexpected roadblocks, and maintains the trust of their team and other stakeholders.
Follow Web Development Best Practices
Once the code works (and works correctly), then it needs to be written in the best way possible. Whatever approach the Developer has taken in writing the code, it should be weighed against the solutions of the larger Developer community. A unique, novel approach may be an innovative solution–or it may lack considerations that other Developers have discovered over the years.
Writing software is a complex process with a rich history of many minds thinking about the best way to solve common problems. The result is numerous best practices.
Following these best practices saves time because problems don’t need to be resolved (instead, existing solutions just need to be applied appropriately). This allows Developers to build “on the shoulders of giants.” Further, as different Developers contribute over time, there is a common understanding that any new Developer on a project can readily understand.
There are two levels of best practices: industry-wide and company-wide. Company-wide practices will generally be a subset of industry-wide practices but adapted for the specifics of a company’s software domain, and the preferences of the Developers.
A good Developer learns the best practices of their company and applies industry-wide best practices to save time and improve the overall quality of the code.
Write Code That Is Easily Maintained and Enhanced
The code compiles, runs, and has been tested for correctness. Things look good, but…how easy is it to change the code in the future? What happens if a new feature needs to be added?
Engineer and Author Martin Fowler says: “Any fool can write code that a computer can understand. Good Programmers write code that humans can understand.”
While a computer can run any valid code, ultimately the code is maintained by humans. At some point, a Developer is going to have to read, understand, and modify code that may have been written by another Developer (who may no longer be part of their team or company).
Software development is a social endeavor, with many people working and relying on the codebase. Questions such as “How much is obvious from the code? How much needs to be explained? How quickly can the code be scanned and understood?” all help a Developer remember that they are not writing code for themselves.
A good Developer writes high-quality code that other Web Developers can easily understand and modify.
Collaborate With Their Team
While a Web Developer spends much of their time interacting with a computer, the reality of their work environment is social. It’s important to respect the team, know the roles, and responsibilities, and what’s expected. Big picture questions ensure the Developer is properly aligned to the company and their role: “What is the vision/mission/values of the company? What is the product suite offered by the company? Who are the customers? Who do problems get reported to?”
Knowing these details allows a Developer to grow within the context of their specific company or situation. A good Developer will, therefore, spend the time needed to understand the company’s best practices and standards. They will also improve the development process in ways that save time and increase productivity. Most importantly, they will have to have a positive attitude that makes the workplace more productive and supportive.
A good Developer recognizes that their career and reputation is their responsibility. They strive to be a pleasure to work with, and always find ways to make the workload of their team lighter and more efficient.
A Good Web Developer Is Continuously Learning
Technology is always evolving, which is part of what makes it so exciting. While some principles and approaches of computer science have remained for decades, areas of software development are constantly changing. Some software domains are more stable, others are more volatile. Legacy software is entrenched with older technology that requires more maintenance with little innovation, while emerging domains may require frequent rewrites every few years as things change.
That’s not necessarily a problem if it is embraced. Knowledge in domains like data science, UX design, product management, digital marketing, and SEO, can strengthen a Developer’s overall understanding of technology, helping them relate and work with colleagues and clients across departments and industries.
A good Web Developer, in short, is a lifelong learner that is always looking to expand their knowledge and skills, year over year.
Web developers are at the forefront of the Internet age. The websites we browse, the gifts we order and the news we peruse online are all made possible by the web developers who design, build and implement Internet websites. They are heavily involved in website creation, from helping design aesthetic properties such as layout and color, to technical considerations such as how to design a website to handle a given amount of Internet traffic.
Not only is the web development field exciting and on the forefront of the digital age, but it’s also a growing field. This guide will explain how to become a web developer, what skills and education are needed, different career paths, current market trends, and what people can expect as a web developer professiona
What Does a Web Developer Do?
Web developers are responsible for designing and developing websites and website applications. Using a variety of programming languages and web technologies, web developers manage site functionality, implement application features, and integrate security measures.
Front-end developers (also known as client-side development) use a variety of programming languages and frameworks such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript to build the exterior look and features of a site. Back-end developers use programming languages such as Python and Ruby to design, build and integrate applications from front-end development into the back end—in other words, they make the features on the site operate. Individuals with skills in both front- and back-end development are known as “full-stack developers.”
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Web Development Salaries
Web development salaries have steadily been on the rise during the past five years and are projected to continue increasing. Robert Half Technology estimates earnings for web development professionals will increase by an average of approximately 5.6 percent in 2016:
| Occupation | 2016 Salary Increase |
|---|---|
| Senior Web Developer | 5.7% |
| Web Developer | 5.8% |
| Front-End Web Developer | 6.1% |
| Web Administrator | 4.5% |
| Web Designer | 6.0% |
| E-Commerce Analyst | 5.7% |
Specialized skill sets also impact potential earnings according to Robert Half Technology. Based on a review of salary data, the company projects that web developers with in-demand skills can see upward of a nine percent increase in annual salaries.
| Skill Set | Salary Increase |
|---|---|
| SharePoint | 9% |
| Virtualization | 8% |
| Web Services | 8% |
| C# | 7% |
| LAMP | 7% |
| .NET | 7% |
| PHP | 7% |
| Content management system | 6% |
| Java | 6% |
| Ruby on Rails | 6% |
| Java EE/J2EE | 5% |
| Python | 5% |
| ASP | 4% |
| AJAX | 3% |
| Cold Fusion | 3% |
| DCOM/COM/ActiveX | 3% |
Overall, the salaries for web developers range from approximately $60,000 to more than $125,000. This range is due to a number of factors, such as experience, location, and field of practice. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the national median salary at $63,490, while Robert Half Technology’s survey places median salaries substantially higher, at $97,750.
Steps to Becoming a Web Developer
Web development is a flexible professional field, one that affords prospective students multiple ways to gain the training and experience necessary to begin their careers. Below is an overview of steps interested individuals can take to enter this career field.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, an associate degree is the most common minimum educational requirement for employment. However, Robert Half Technology notes that a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is traditionally necessary for career advancement. More recently, coding boot camps such as Code Academy and App Academy have emerged as short-term, intensive training options for students to gain career-specific coding skills that can boost their chances for employment.
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Web Development Degrees & Concentrations
Matching Web Developer Career Goals to Web Development Degrees
| Career Goals & Educational Needs | Certificate | Associate | Bachelor | Master’s | Online |
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I am currently working in the computer or Internet industry, but I would like to learn advanced principles, theories and concepts for developing web pages. |
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I need a formal degree in web development, but I don’t have the time or money to get a bachelor’s degree. I want something that will teach me only what I need to know without being required to take loads of general education classes. |
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I would like to obtain an education that will fully prepare me with practical and theoretical web development concepts as well as serve as a stepping stone for graduate education later in my career. |
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I would like to get a degree or certificate in web development, but I need the flexibility to take classes on my own schedule and be able to learn at my own pace. |
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I just want to learn how to program, build and design web pages and I want to learn this as soon as possible. I don’t need a degree, just something that will teach me how to create web sites. |
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Web Development Degree Levels
Students looking to acquire formal education in web development have four typical avenues available: certificate, associate, bachelor’s or master’s degrees. Professional requirements and goals, as well as the student’s background, will help dictate which path to take. The following section will give a brief overview of each of the four educational possibilities and what students can expect when enrolled.
Web Development Certificates
The certificate option is designed for targeted educational training and is intended for students who need practical and fundamental knowledge relating to web development. Prior programming and computer technology experience can be helpful, but may not be required. Some certificate programs may even serve as a stepping stone to an associate degree in web development.
Programs lengths can last from a few months to several years, depending on the course load and curriculum commitment from the student. Potential classes include:
Introduction to Coding
This class provides a foundation in computer programming and teaches the basic principles of how computers use software.
Skills Gained
Learning programming basics, such as syntax, functions and code structure
Understanding of hexadecimal and binary numbers
Fundamentals of computer networks
JavaScript Programming
Building off basic web programming such as HTML, JavaScript is a more advance web programming language that allows for the creation of interactive web pages.
Skills Gained
Designing a web application
Implementation and testing client and server solutions
Learning user-interface principles
HTML Programming
Students will learn the basic language of the Internet, including the theoretical principles of HTML and fluency in the HTML programming language.
Skills Gained
Syntax and principles of HTML coding
How to embed other web programming languages
The ability to create web pages with desired elements and requirements
Intro to Web Design
This course teaches students about all elements needed to successfully create a web page. From computer hardware requirements to principles of computer networking to commonly used Internet coding languages, students will gain an overall understanding of web page design.
Skills Gained
How web page design elements translate to hardware requirements
The interaction of several web programming languages and how they produce desired web pages
Maintaining and updating web pages
Associate Degrees in Web Development
The associate degree is a popular track for aspiring web developers. Usually lasting two years, the associate degree can also serve as a base for a future bachelor’s degree. In addition to learning extensive web development, computer science and information technology concepts, students will also take general education classes to obtain a well-rounded education.
Most associate web developer programs will cover common subjects, such as these:
Website Graphics
This focuses on graphics and how they’re used in website design. Both aesthetic and technical considerations will be discussed.
Skills Gained
Industry standard graphic formats
Compatibility issues between web browsers when displaying graphics
How to manipulate graphics for website use
e-Commerce
Students will learn to create websites for businesses, taking into consideration the needs unique to businesses.
Skills Gained
Principles of customer service websites
Effective web page techniques for marketing
Create effective electronic storefronts for businesses
Web Page Multimedia
In addition to the use of graphics, students will learn about animation, video and objects and how they can be used when creating websites.
Skills Gained
Manipulation of multimedia for effective web page presentation
Overview of different types of multimedia
When and how certain types of multimedia should and can be used
Database Management
An introduction to database concepts, principles and design. Computer science concepts will be covered.
Skills Gained
Familiarity with SQL for database management
Understanding the underlying computer science principles of databases and how they work
Identification and experience with different database platforms
Web Development Bachelor’s Degrees
A bachelor’s degree provides a comprehensive education for web development and design, as well as an extensive general education background. The typical bachelor’s degree takes four years of full-time study to complete and covers a variety of subjects, such as the four listed below:
Website Usability
This course teaches students the basic principles of what makes a website easy to use.
Skills Gained
How we obtain and interpret information
Strategies for designing websites in an organized way for ease of use
Learning about web interface technologies and how they can be implemented
Social Media and Collaboration
Students are exposed to web-based interaction and collaboration technologies and then learn how to apply those technologies to a given objective or purpose.
Skills Gained
Differentiating between Web 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0
Learning how collaboration online services work
The fundamentals of social media communications
Optimizing Websites
Techniques used to improve web traffic, streamline efficiency and monitor website performance are covered in this class.
Skills Gained
How to optimize websites for a given goal, such as marketing
How to secure a website based on its purpose
Methods used to monitor websites and quantify its performance
Advanced Web Design
Complex and advanced web creation techniques will be taught in this class. The website process from start to finish will also be explained.
Skills Gained
How to utilize a storyboard to plan a website
Website creation within a budget
Techniques and tools for monitoring a website’s performance
Master’s Web Development Degrees
The master’s degree is generally the highest degree an individual can receive in web development. This is well suited for web developers who seek advanced or specialized knowledge, or those who are already in a computer technology related industry but would like to shift their focus to web development.
Program lengths vary but many master’s degrees may be obtained in under two years. Classes available vary depending on the program and the particular classes chosen by the individual student; however, the following classes are among the most common.
Content Management Systems
This course explains how content management systems work and how they can be used to streamline the creation of web content.
Skills Gained
The theoretical principles for creating a content management system
Basics of database management and creation
Tailoring content management system features to a given application
Digital Communications
Students will learn how communication theories apply to the digital and Internet age.
Skills Gained
Apply communication principles to improve website effectiveness
Understanding of mass media and how it’s used
Understanding of the theoretical principles of digital communications and how they work
Web Development for Servers
Creation of web applications for servers using specialized programming languages.
Skills Gained
Utilizing programs such as PHP and SQL to create server web applications
Web application security
Implementation of server principles when developing server based web applications
Capstone Project
The final step before completing the master’s degree, the capstone project pulls together major concepts covered in prior classes to provide an opportunity to demonstrate the students’ understanding of web development.
Skills Gained
Be able to manage a web project from start to finish
Work on a website project applying real-world principles and considerations
Handle all aspects of website creation from design to monitoring and maintenance
Components of a Successful Web Developer Career: Skills, Tools, and Technology
Skills
Central to the success of a web developer are strong technical coding skills, and how to implement them within the context of Internet conventions and web applications. Beyond technical expertise, web developers must also have the right blend of soft skills in the workplace, including the ability to communicate clearly as well as a mindset geared to analytical problem-solving. Below is a list of common technical skills and competency areas that are important in web development.
Not a programming language, but the foundational element of any website. Includes the core elements of how a page should look.
CSS manages the way a page looks and serves as the guiding style instructions for a website—from fonts to color.
CSS frameworks are used to structure and develop websites. They provide custom style guides that are used to help developers maintain industry best practices. Examples include Bootstrap and Foundation.
A programming language that controls how websites and dynamic web applications operate.
Modern websites must adapt to mobile device use, requiring an understanding of responsive web design.
When building a site, developers must manage the progress of their projects. Version control software, such as Git, allows developers to maintain and track changes to their code.
Web developers need to understand how pages are rendered in a browser in order to identify bugs and improve performance.
When coding, bugs will be introduced into the system. Web developers should have familiarity with testing processes used to identify those bugs, and software frameworks such as Jasmine.
Depending on their professional specialty, web developers should be proficient in programming languages and frameworks such as Ruby on Rails, Python, or PHP.
Certifications are ubiquitous in the information technology industry. Once regarded as the standard-bearer for professional development and credibility, the thinking about credentials is slowly shifting. Employers typically do not regard them as highly as experience, and they are not required to get a job. Nonetheless, certifications do offer useful professional content, and web developers can use certification programs to enhance knowledge and gain expert status in a particular area of development or with a specific product. Following are a few of the available certifications:
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Adobe Certified Expert (ACE).
Adobe offers multiple specialization tracks through its Adobe Certified Expert credential, allowing professionals to earn certification on a single Adobe product or pursue an ACE Specialist or Master certification. The Specialist certification demonstrates the candidate’s knowledge of an Adobe product, and requires the successful passing of a current examination and an elective course within the certification track. The Master certification measures the candidate’s knowledge of Adobe’s complete suite of web tools and requires successful passing of individual exams for each product within the suite.
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Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer: Web Applications.
Microsoft provides a range of certification tracks within its MCSD program. The MCSD: Web Applications survey qualifies candidates for positions as web developers or web administrators. MCSD certification requires the successful passing of three examinations: Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3; Developing ASP.NET MVC Web Applications; and Developing Microsoft Azure and Web Services.
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Zend PHP Certification.
An industry-recognized certification, Zend PHP Certification measures a web developer’s knowledge of PHP 5.5. Exam topics range from PHP basics to web features, and security to object-oriented programming. Candidates must successfully pass a 70-question, computer-based examination to earn the Zend PHP certification designation.
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W3Schools Certification.
W3Schools offers several certification tracks in web development, such as HTML, HTML5, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP. Each certificate is designed to test the candidate’s knowledge of the foundational principles and concepts of each professional area. To earn a certificate, candidates must pass an Internet-based examination that consists of 70 multiple choice or true/false questions.
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CIW JavaScript Specialist.
Sponsored by CIW, a vendor-neutral web technology and certification program, the JavaScript Specialist designation demonstrates knowledge of JavaScript language essentials, JavaScript code development, and JavaScript website implementation. To earn the certification, candidates must achieve 75 percent on a 90-minute exam consisting of 55 questions.
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Amazon Web Services Certified Developer – Associate.
The AWS Certified Developer certification is for individuals who develop and maintain applications on the Amazon Web Services platform. Candidates must have at least one year of experience working with AWS applications, an understanding of at least one programming language, and proficiency in designing Amazon application solutions. The examination is 80 minutes long and includes multiple choice and multiple answer questions.
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Certified Ruby Programmer.
Sponsored by the Ruby Association, this certification is designed for professionals who design and develop Ruby-based systems. The current certification designates the acquisition of basic skills that cover the fundamentals of Ruby programming, including execution environment, grammar, libraries, and object orientation. Candidates must successfully pass a 50-question, multiple-choice examination that lasts 90 minutes.
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Professional Scrum Developer.
Offered by Scrum.org, the Professional Scrum Developer certification is for professionals who develop software using Scrum. The assessment examination covers core concepts of Scrum, including theory and principles, framework, programming and standards. The one-hour exam requires a passing score of 85 percent.
Tools and Technology
In building websites and web applications, web developers rely on a variety of tools for each step of the process. The below details major categories of technology that developers may use on a day-to-day basis.
Software application that is used to create, manage, modify, store and extract data from a database.
- Hadoop
- MySQL
- PostgreSQL
Text-based editors are used for writing, storing and editing code.
- Text++
- Atom
- Vim
Software used to manage code development, allowing developers to track and remove changes to the source code during application development.
- Git
- Bazaar
- Subversion
The software application used to facilitate software development. Typically includes source code editors, automation and debugging tools, and a graphical user interface.
- NetBeans
- DreamWeaver
- Aptana
Software frameworks are used to support website, application, and resource development with particular programming languages.
- Zend
- Code Igniter
- Django
Programming languages used in the development of websites and applications.
- C++
- Python
- Java
Web application frameworks provide a default structure for building websites, databases, web applications or web services.
- Ruby on Rails
- Drupal
- JavaScript
Software used to manage coding issues and identify and remove bugs from a website, application or computer system.
- Firebug
- Xdebug
- Insight
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Career Trends in Web Development
In terms of the demand for IT skills, web development is near the top of the list. In a 2015 industry report, 28 percent of respondents reported that web development was the most important skill they needed for their organizations. There is an insatiable need for web applications in today’s information-driven economy, and as industries such as mobile, big data, cloud computing, security converge, both established companies and start-ups are hard-pressed to find talented developers to meet business demands. A talent gap exists across web development, particularly for Java developers and application developers, according to HR services provider Ranstad. It should come as no surprise the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 20 percent career growth in the field between 2012 and 2022.
Related Careers
Employers across every industry, notes Robert Half Technology, are seeking developers of all sorts: web, software, and mobile. Individuals with programming skills in .NET, PHP and responsive design skills are in particularly high demand. Below is a list of web development careers that are growing and offer opportunities for individuals with the appropriate skills and experience.
User Experience Designer
A user experience designer (UX designer) is a relatively new role within the tech industry. These individuals are tasked with understanding how a technology product or website feels to the user. With skills in user analysis, architecture modeling, and prototyping, UX designers develop website or product layouts and specifications. Design-conscious companies such as Apple are at the forefront of a movement in the technology industry creating massive demand for talented UX designers.
Mobile Application Developer
Mobile application development skills are at the top the most-wanted list of IT skills, according to a 2015 ComputerWorld industry survey. Mobile application developers design and build websites and applications for use on mobile devices, such as the iPhone. The mobile industry is fueling the need for individuals with front-end development talent and back-end integration skills. Surveys from Gartner Inc. and Red Hat both predict a severe shortage of mobile developers nationwide by the end of 2017.
Web Administrator
A long-standing role in the technology sector, web administrators have experience with Internet protocols (e.g. HTTP, TCP/IP) and web technologies. They work in web services to manage internal and external corporate web pages; identify and correct server or web page issues; perform application data backups; and monitor network systems, such as firewalls.
Information Architect
Information architecture is concerned with how information is organized on a website and how effectively a website can access and communicate that information. With knowledge of audience and business needs, information architects define the structure and navigation of a website, taking into account usability, user requirements, and overall design. A rapidly emerging field, information architecture combines the technical expertise of programming with the user experience to implement usability best practices.
Database Developer
Data analytics—or big data—has created many career opportunities for development and programming professionals. More and more companies are relying on data analysis to make business decisions, and consequently require individuals with specialized programming skill sets to manage and interpret that information. Using database programs such as Microsoft SQL Server or Oracle, database developers design back-end website integrations and applications for use in e-commerce, and develop database structures. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is preferred, and employers typically seek out individuals with experience in Internet technology.
Spotlight Careers
The thriving tech industry is creating new career opportunities within web design and application development. The increasing importance of responsive design on mobile devices, the rise of social media, the adoption of online shopping and e-commerce, cloud computing, and managed services (e.g. online banking) have all spurred demand for skilled and qualified web development professionals. Below are a few spotlight web development careers that span business to design, and development to user experience.
Front-End Developers
Median salary: $90,000Front-end designers combine knowledge of user interface best practices with CSS and programming skills to design functional, appealing websites and mobile-based applications. With an eye for clean design, front-end developers translate technical requirements into user-friendly websites and applications. Job growth is projected to surpass 20 percent between 2012 and 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics; front-end developers with some back-end knowledge will likely be in the greatest demand.
Software Developer
Median salary: $110,875Software developers are detail-oriented problem solvers who have a foundational understanding of programming languages and frameworks. They develop software programs and applications, and often serve in project management roles, directing an entire development process from planning to coding to product release. A bachelor’s degree is typically preferred, but candidates with an associate degree and technical experience can also succeed in the field. Demand is surging nationwide, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 23 percent growth in the field by 2022 and 45 percent within the computer systems design industry.
E-Commerce Analyst
Median salary: $102,875Combining analytical and marketing skills with experience in Internet technology, e-commerce analysts identify business needs and user requirements, and make recommendations for the design and implementation of e-commerce solutions on websites. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or marketing (with IT experience) is typically required, but companies seeking high-level analysts traditionally prefer candidates with an MBA. The need for analysts is on the upswing, with 43 percent job growth projected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics between 2012 and 2022.
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Job Growth, Prospects, and Outlook for Web Developers
Led by tech leaders such as Google, Facebook and Twitter, the hiring landscape in web development is being driven by the need for innovative web applications and technologies. A healthy start-up industry and the expansion of emerging fields including e-commerce, mobile, social media, big data, and cyber security, are also fueling growth. In particular, notes Robert Half Technology, hospitality and financial services are expected to be hot sectors for web developers as both industries need to provide reliable, secure online services to clients.
What Do Related Occupations Make?
Development is a hot topic—whether in software, web applications, websites, mobile applications, or computer hardware. Some of the most sought-after IT skills, according to ComputerWorld’s 2015 survey, include application development, security, and database development. Individuals with experience and skills in these areas can command salaries that surpass $100,000 per year. Below is a list of some of the top paying related careers”
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Related Occupations: What You Need to Know
Employment research points to the same conclusion: individuals with programming and development skills are highly valued. A degree in web development can position graduates for career success not only in that specific field, but also across other professional areas, such as the following:
Computer Programmer
8%$82,690
Bachelor's Degree
Network Systems Administrators
12%$79,770
Bachelor's Degree
Computer Network Architects
15%$100,710
Bachelor's Degree
Computer Hardware Engineers
7%$110,650
Bachelor's Degree
Computer Systems Manager
11.70%$136,280
Bachelor's Degree
Networking Support Analyst
6.9%$66,140
Associate Degree
Information Security Analyst
37%$91,600
Bachelor's Degree
Graphic Designer
7%$50,670
Bachelor's Degree
Web Development Degree & Web Developer Career Resources
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
As the world’s largest non-profit computing society, the ACM’s mission is to help professionals in the computing world with educational and career improvement opportunities.
IEEE Computer Society
When it comes to computers and the Internet, the IEEE Computer Society is at the forefront, providing professional development and educational programs to its members, as well as information to help promote and advance technology.
International Web Association (IWA)
A leading non-profit organization dedicated to establishing certification, ethical and instructional standards for web developers and other web professionals.
Webmonkey
An online site filled with tools to help web developers create websites. From software to glossaries to tutorials, this site provides information to guide web developers in creating online content.
WebProfessionals.org
This is a membership-based organization that facilitates networking between its members. Additionally, WebProfessionals.org provides several certifications for web professionals.
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