This article will teach you how to become a web developer and what skills you need.
We’ll also discuss the education requirements, job outlook, and salary of this career.
Web developers create websites by writing code in HTML, CSS, JavaScript (or jQuery), PHP or ASP.NET/C# using a variety of software programs such as Dreamweaver or Photoshop. You can specialize in any one of these languages or learn them all to be more versatile for potential employers.
Web developers are often required to have an understanding of databases too so they can program information into them on the backend side of things. The best way to learn is hands-on experience with online tutorials so that you can see firsthand what it would be like to work. You can begin by building a simple website or blog and add on from there.
What Does a Web Developer Do?
Web developers are in charge of developing the web page layout and design. This includes uploading information, adding graphics, and setting up different pages. Web developers also make sure that the site is compatible with all browsers and monitors.
They’re responsible for fixing any bugs on a website, looking at analytics to see how visitors use the site, making sure there’s enough security to protect it from hackers or viruses, and more.
In some cases they’ll be expected to work with other departments on a team-based project such as marketing or public relations teams who may need help designing their own pages or figuring out how best to promote your product/website online.
A typical day could include anything from checking software updates for compatibility issues, testing an app before it’s sent off to production, or sold on the market, showing newer employees how to do their own work, talking with customers over chat applications on any issues they’re having with your site/app design, troubleshooting social media bots that may be interfering with the way people use the website, etc.
Most developers work in an office, but that’s not always the case. A lot of it depends on what kind of business you’re working for and what you’re building.
How Much Does a Web Developer Make?
According to a study done by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), web developer salaries range from $55,000 per year on average up to $115,000 annually depending on experience level and location. Quality web developers can make even more depending on the work involved. Here are some salary statistics from a few popular tech hubs:
The highest earning web developers are located in San Francisco, California where they can make an average of $120,000 each year.
Higher than normal salaries are often paid to workers who specialize in development for mobile apps or video games.
What are the Educational Requirements for a Web Developer
A web developer will typically need some form of post-secondary education in order to get hired by an organization. The degree a web developer needs is dependent on the job they are qualified for.
In today’s diverse educational world you have many different options for where to get a degree. You can choose a traditional university route, community college, online degree, or web development BootCamp. All of these paths are now acceptable to most employers and provide ample opportunity.
Some employers continue to look for bachelor’s degrees, but entry-level positions are largely accepting of all these credentials.
What is the Job Outlook for Web Developer
Web developer jobs are in the top ten fastest-growing occupations according to O*Net Online. There is a demand for skilled web developers and the job outlook is expected to grow by 22% over the next decade.
The need for web developers has grown as people have begun using computers and other devices such as smartphones, tablets, and televisions more often than ever before.
With so much internet use, it becomes necessary for websites to be created that can function on all of these different gadgets which requires skilled individuals who know how each device works.
Web development has become an important part of many companies’ business plans because they need their website to work well with customers’ various technology preferences if they want them to buy from them instead of competitors. This has created a continuous need for web developers who can work with all different types of technology and create websites that function on many devices.
Conclusion
There is no one way to become a web developer. Whether you want to go the coding route or take the traditional educational path, there are plenty of options for learning and growing your skillset as a web developer. It’s important that you find an option that best suits your current situation and goals.
There are endless possibilities and there is always something new to learn in this ever-changing industry. If you work hard and stay dedicated, you’ll be on the fast track to a rewarding and fulfilling career. Good luck!