How to Become a Web Developer

To pursue a career as a web developer, you will have to learn the skills necessary to create and maintain websites. Some web developers opt to earn a degree in computer science or a related field, while others may take courses to learn specific skills like programming or digital design. In some cases, you can learn the necessary skills through hands-on experience.

Regardless of your path, you’ll need the ability to turn someone's vision into a functioning reality as a web developer. Discover more about the role of a web developer and the crucial technical and workplace skills necessary to pursue this career. 

What web developers do

Web developers create and manage websites for various organisations. Some specialise in the technical side of the website (also called the back end), working with databases, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to support the website's function. 

Front-end developers typically spend more time working with the creative side of the website, using graphic design and code editing tools to make the website functional for users. 

Full-stack developers work with both front-end and back-end tasks. Web and digital interface designers develop appealing websites through carefully selected fonts, colours, and graphics.

The work of web developers extends beyond the actual creation of the site. During a workday, developers may perform any of the following tasks:

• Meet with clients to discuss the needs, design, and functionality of a website

• Create and test applications, interfaces, and navigation menus

• Write code

• Work with a team to determine what information a site will contain

• Determine layout with graphics and other designers

• Integrate graphics, audio, and video

• Monitor website traffic

• Create prototypes and mockups

• Design and develop graphics

Technical and workplace skills to develop

Web developers must develop a set of technical skills to create websites. They include the markup language HTML, programming languages like JavaScript and SQL, and multimedia publishing tools like Flash. You must also develop specific workplace skills to become a web developer.

Workplace skills

Being a successful web developer requires more than knowledge of programming languages and web design. These character traits and interpersonal skills are also essential:

• Communication skills: Web developers must communicate effectively with their co-workers and clients, including asking questions and explaining ideas. Although web developers spend considerable time working alone, they need to communicate with the people whose vision they are implementing.

• Creativity: Websites should look good and be easy for users to navigate.

• Customer service: Since web developers create websites for others, they should respond politely to questions and requests from their supervisors and clients.

• Detail-oriented: Web developers need the ability to focus for long periods and write code precisely. A single symbol in the wrong space can affect a website’s layout and function.

• Problem-solving: When a website does not work correctly, developers must locate and correct errors in the code.

Technical skills

To be a web developer, learning at least one commonly used tool can help you land a job. JavaScript, HTML, and CSS are amongst the most popular programming languages used in the world, according to Statista, and more than half of developers rely on them to do their work. Python, SQL, and Java are the top five [1].

Being fluent in popular programming languages is helpful, but knowing how to work with less commonly used languages may help you land a job. The following are additional programming languages to consider:

• Node.js

• TypeScript

• C#

• Bash/Shell

• C++

• PHP

• C

Quick tip from an expert

Dez Udezue, a software engineering manager at Meta and a 16-year industry veteran, suggests that early-career developers focus on their immediate job tasks. "Hyper focus on the direct manager over the technology stack. They influence growth a lot, especially in the early part of their career," he says. Several engineers also emphasise that you'll naturally expand your knowledge of frameworks and coding languages over time as you complete new projects, participate in bootcamps, or continue your education.

Degree programmes to consider

Earning a degree in computer science or a related field is one path towards a career in web development. Many web developers have a bachelor's degree in computer programming or mathematics. Coursework typically includes computer programming, coding, graphic design, and maths classes.

Certification programmes for web developers

Having a career as a web developer without a degree is possible. You can learn the necessary skills through certification programmes and hands-on experience. In an online certification programme, you take courses similar to those in a degree programme, such as creating content with HTML and design elements. You may also take individual courses to learn a specific programming language and develop your skills independently.

Take the next step

Web development is an exciting career prospect that you can prepare for in various ways, including getting your degree, learning on your own, earning certifications, and taking online courses. Continue learning about the field and building your skill set. 

If you're ready to take the next step towards a career as a web developer, you can start your new path today. Explore the web development courses on Coursera, ranging from introductory classes to programming languages designed for everyone, from beginners to advanced learners. Get an overview of basic web development skills with Introduction to Web Development by UC Davis on Coursera.