Student-centric advice and objective recommendations
Higher education has never been more confusing or expensive. Our goal is to help you navigate the very big decisions related to higher ed with objective information and expert advice. Each piece of content on the site is original, based on extensive research, and reviewed by multiple editors, including a subject matter expert. This ensures that all of our content is up-to-date, useful, accurate, and thorough.
Our reviews and recommendations are based on extensive research, testing, and feedback. We may receive commission from links on our website, but that doesn’t affect our editors’ opinions. Our marketing partners don’t review, approve or endorse our editorial content. It’s accurate to the best of our knowledge when posted. You can find a complete list of our partners here.
How to Become a Web Developer Guide
By
Zach Skillings
Zach Skillings is the Scholarships360 Newsletter Editor. He specializes in college admissions and strives to answer important questions about higher education. When he’s not contributing to Scholarships360, Zach writes about travel, music, film, and culture. His work has been published in Our State Magazine, Ladygunn Magazine, The Nocturnal Times, and The Lexington Dispatch. Zach graduated from Elon University with a degree in Cinema and Television Arts.
Full BioLearn about our editorial policies
Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.
Full BioLearn about our editorial policies
Every time we go online, we benefit from the work of web developers. These professionals specialize in keeping websites and applications running smoothly. They perform the work upon which our digital society is built. If you’re interested in a career in this field, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to learn how to become a web developer.
Also see: What are the fastest growing careers?
1. Learn about the field
The first step to becoming a web developer is learning about what they do. Web developers build and maintain websites and other online applications. They’re responsible for turning a web designer’s vision into a functioning website. Developers often specialize in one of three areas — front-end development, back-end development, or full-stack development. Knowing which area you’d like to focus on is helpful as you move forward. Let’s discuss each specialization:
Front-end development
These developers work on the “client side” of websites, meaning any portion that users interact with. This includes things like layout, graphics, contact forms, and retail checkout tools. Anything you can see, click on, or scroll through is the work of a front-end developer.
Back-end development
Back-end developers work on the “server side” of development, meaning the behind-the-scenes elements that users don’t see. They specialize in the nuts and bolts of websites, optimizing things like the database, server, and network.
Full-stack development
Full-stack developers are familiar with both front- and back-end development. They view the creation process from both angles and have the skills needed to complete tasks on either side.
2. Obtain the necessary education
Web development is a flexible career with multiple entry points. That means there’s various education pathways you can take to launch your career in the field. Popular options include getting an associate or bachelor’s degree in computer science, or earning a certificate from a coding bootcamp. Some web developers are even self-taught.
We’ve listed the most common educational options below:
Coding bootcamp certificate
In recent years, coding bootcamps have exploded in popularity. These are intensive, short-term training programs that typically last between 2 and 6 months. Students are trained in a specific area of computer science such as web development, design, or information security. Bootcamps are great for students who know they want a job in web development. Most bootcamp graduates find work shortly after completing their programs. Plus, bootcamps are much more affordable than traditional college programs. Check out our guide on coding bootcamps to learn more.
Associate degree in computer science
An associate degree in computer science requires two years of full-time study to complete. Students gain foundational skills in programming, mathematics, computer organization, and database management. Unlike coding bootcamps, which train students in a specific area, associate programs provide a foundation for a larger range of computer science concepts. They’re better-suited for students who want some flexibility in their career choices. Associate degree programs can also be used as a stepping stone to earn a bachelor’s degree.
Bachelor’s degree in computer science
Computer science bachelor’s degree programs require four years of full-time study. These programs instill a deeper understanding of computer science concepts, more so than coding bootcamps and associate degree programs. While it’s possible to land an entry-level job with an associate degree or coding certificate, a bachelor’s degree can give you more of an advantage in the job market. Four-year degrees also open up more possibilities for career advancement down the line. The downside is that bachelor’s degree programs require a big time commitment and financial investment.
Don’t miss: Top 10 tips for finding your dream job
2. Pursue internships (optional)
Internships aren’t absolutely necessary, but they can help lead to full-time employment. Landing a solid internship provides vital work experience and looks great on a resume. Since web development is becoming an increasingly competitive field, you should do anything you can to boost your chances of employment.
Some programs provide internship placements, or require students to complete an internship prior to graduation. If not, you should do your best to find an internship on your own terms. Your school’s career resource center is a great place to start. Check out our guide on getting an internship for more tips.
3. Build a portfolio
Next to your degree or certificate, your portfolio is your strongest asset when applying for web development jobs. A good portfolio should highlight your best work and include a diverse range of projects. Capstone course projects, completed work from internships, and current side projects are all great items to include.
If you can, try to include testimonials from clients you’ve worked with as well. You can even tweak your portfolio according to specific jobs you’re applying for. Do some research on the company and the role you’re looking to fill, then refine your portfolio to remove unrelated samples and highlight your most relevant work.
4. Create a resume
Along with your portfolio, you’ll need a clear and concise resume to show to employers. An effective resume highlights the skills and qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates. Be sure to list programming skills, coding languages, industry certifications, and education and professional experience.
5. Find a job
At this point, you have everything you need to find a job and launch your career in web development. We know that the job search process can be long and time consuming. But with enough hard work and persistence, you’re bound to find a position that works for you. Good luck, future web developers!
Additional resources
Thinking about a STEM career? Check out our computer science major overview and all the other majors in our guide! Don’t miss our list of top coding bootcamp scholarships as well as top computer science scholarships. Make sure that you apply for all the scholarships you qualify for while on your academic journey!
Frequently asked questions about being a web developer
How long does it take to become a web developer?
Generally speaking, your chances of finding a good job (and advancing your career) increase with the amount of education you have. However, that’s not necessarily always the case. Be sure to do your own research and see what type of education is best for you.
Do web developers get paid well?
Can I be a web developer without a degree?
