How Do I Become a Website Developer?
Web development is a very specialised job that involves writing code to make websites work. A career in this field can be rewarding and challenging.
To get started, you should familiarize yourself with the technologies and languages that are commonly used in web development. This is easier than you might think, as there are many free resources online and in books and video platforms.
Skills
Web developers use coding languages and tools to create websites, apps and other digital products. They also design and test sites to ensure they work properly across all browsers, desktop and mobile devices.
While most people work on the front-end of a website, it’s important for a web developer to have knowledge of back-end development as well. These skills include understanding how servers work, APIs, databases and cybersecurity.
It’s also helpful to have a familiarity with HTML and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). These two building blocks are vital for website development and help you create websites that look and function properly.
It’s also recommended that you participate in online coding communities such as GitHub and Stack Overflow to practice your skills and gain real-world experience. Additionally, you can pursue certifications through a coding bootcamp to enhance your career prospects and improve your chances of landing a job as a web developer.
Education
If you’re interested in becoming a website developer, there are several educational paths you can take. Some individuals choose to attend college to learn programming and web development, while others rely on self-directed education and online courses.
Depending on the path you choose, it may take up to a year or longer to become fully trained as a web developer. You can also consider a web development bootcamp, which provides an affordable alternative to conventional higher education programs.
The first step to becoming a website developer is to develop a solid understanding of HTML and CSS. These markup languages control the appearance and structure of websites, including the choice of fonts, colors and layout.
You can also build these skills through tutorials, online classes and by working on a variety of development projects for your portfolio. Participating in online coding communities such as GitHub and Stack Overflow can also help you get hands-on practice and feedback on your work.
Experience
Website developers are responsible for creating and maintaining websites. They also ensure that sites are functional and optimized for search engine visibility. Their responsibilities include writing code to create and integrate graphics, audio, and video; designing the site layout; and communicating with clients and other team members about design ideas.
Web developers usually work full time, but their schedule could be flexible. They may be self-employed or work for a website design and development firm that hires contractors.
To be a successful website developer, you need to demonstrate an understanding of the latest technology and programming languages, as well as an aptitude for problem-solving. One way to demonstrate your mettle is to create a portfolio of web-related projects, including a few that showcase your best efforts. It’s also a good idea to show off your process with the help of a well-designed case study or a storyboard. It’s important to remember that hiring managers don’t just want your portfolio; they want to see how you think.
Certifications
If you want to become a website developer, you may need to obtain certifications in specific coding languages. These can be beneficial for your career because they will show employers that you have the knowledge to perform the tasks involved.
There are several types of online certification courses available. Some of them are geared towards beginner developers and teach the basics of coding websites, while others are more advanced and focus on specialist aspects of web development.
Some online web development courses also offer a job guarantee, which ensures that graduates will find employment within 180 days of graduation. Other programs offer flexible payment options, which can help you keep your budget in mind.
Many community and technical colleges offer Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees in web development and design. These programs typically include classes in coding, computer programming, graphic design and desktop publishing. These programs are aimed at entry-level positions and require students to complete practical projects that will later feature in their professional portfolios.