How to Become a Web Developer

Employers increasingly value capable web developers with in-demand technical abilities. How exactly does a person acquire and build those skills?

Fortunately, aspiring devs can take several pathways to the profession. The general steps to becoming a web developer include learning key technical skills and building a portfolio. You can acquire the necessary abilities through formal education, professional practice, or self-directed learning.

This career prep guide explains how to become a web developer in complete detail. Explore various learning options, certifications, experience requirements, job search tips, and more.

What Is a Web Developer?

A web developer uses programming languages to design and develop websites and applications. These professionals may emphasize front-end development, which focuses on creating the visual aspects of the website that users can see, or back-end development, which relates to site functionality. Some web developers work in a full stack, combining front-end and back-end development.

Computer systems design, publishing, and digital marketing agencies employ web developers. Developers interact with writers, graphic designers, and animators to integrate aesthetic elements into websites.

What Are the Education Requirements for Web Developers?

Web developers need skills and knowledge in HTML, CSS, Javascript, and other programming languages and tools. Aspiring professionals can gain those skills and information through self-directed study, coding bootcamps, certificate programs, and/or web development degrees.

Educational requirements vary. Depending on the role, some employers may require a degree or other formal education in a specific field. To advance into management positions, web developers often need bachelor's degrees, and postsecondary teaching or research positions typically require doctorates.

Experienced developers may not want to repeat the basic skills taught in an associate degree and might pursue certificates or advanced bootcamps. Similarly, aspiring professionals with bachelor's degrees can consider certificates or master's degrees.

Throughout their careers, web developers need to stay on top of new tools and technologies, computer languages, and frameworks. Some web development professionals take advantage of continuing education opportunities, while others pursue advanced degrees or computer science certifications.

How Much Prior Experience Do New Web Developers Need?

Web developer career requirements do not always include experience. However, many certifications require at least two years of experience to qualify. Employers may also expect applicants to possess experience with certain products. Top-paying senior developer jobs typically demand more experience than entry-level positions.

According to Payscale, web developers with 20 or more years of experience earn 35% more than the average developer. Promotion to a management role may require five years of experience and a bachelor's degree.

Abilities can determine a web developer's professional success, and developing marketable skills in complex areas such as JavaScript, CSS, SQL, and jQuery takes time. Aspiring web developers can develop their skills in bootcamps, higher education, and/or internships.

Certifications for Web Developers

Certifications validate a tech professional's skills as assessed by trusted third-party agencies. They can supplement other forms of education, such as diplomas or degrees, or function as standalone credentials.

Some employers prefer or require certifications — especially for senior roles and positions with advancement potential — while others consider them optional.

Tech insiders often say that holding relevant certifications can boost your chances of landing a job. However, these credentials can lengthen your career prep timeline, and some credentials require renewal.

Some web developer certifications focus on niche areas of technology, such as cloud development or user experience (UX) specializations. Others may simply cover front-end, back-end, or full-stack web development.

Examples of widely recognized web developer certifications include:

• International Web Association Certified Web Professional: IWA's signature web development certification covers multiple specializations. These range from entry-level associate credentials to skills-focused specialist and master certificates — including the CWP web developer certificate.
• Learning Tree International Web Development Certification Paths: Learning Tree's internationally recognized web development certifications cover three main credentials: specialist HTML5, expert HTML 5, and responsive web design.
• IBM Cloud Professional Developer: Cloud computing continues to grow rapidly due to its enterprise-level appeal. IBM's cloud professional developer certification covers cloud applications, integration, data service, and cloud security for web developers looking to expand their expertise.

How Do I Become a Web Developer?

Emerging web developers often prepare for their careers through education, such as bootcamps, certificate programs, and formal degrees. Bootcamps and diploma or certificate programs typically teach targeted skills on compact timelines to equip students with the skills to pursue entry-level employment.

Learners seeking more educational depth and exposure to broader topics may prefer degree programs. Completing two-year associate degrees allows graduates to pursue employment or continue their education at the bachelor's level. Four-year bachelor's programs generally serve as the minimum standard for access to job opportunities with growth and advancement potential.

Self-directed learning offers a less common option. Individuals wondering how to become web developers without formal education must weigh additional considerations. The sections below explain in greater detail.

Steps to Becoming a Web Developer

Diploma-Based Learning

1. Consider Bootcamps and Non-Degree Programs. Bootcamps typically cover about 12-16 weeks of full-time learning. Non-degree certificate and diploma programs run for variable lengths, but most have shorter completion timelines than associate degrees.
2. Develop Skills. Some bootcamps and non-degree programs focus on targeted skills, such as front-end or back-end development. Others cover the "full stack" of front-end and back-end skills, programming languages, and other web development proficiencies.
3. Build a Portfolio. As you move through the program, you will work on assignments and projects to showcase to potential employers.

Degree-Based Learning

1. Choose Your Degree Path. Undergraduate associate and bachelor's degrees begin with introductory topics and gradually increase in complexity. Graduate programs generally appeal to knowledgeable and experienced learners looking to build advanced skills in niche areas.
2. Take Advantage of Unique Opportunities. Degree programs, particularly campus-based programs, support peer and faculty interactions. These networking opportunities, along with connections made in internships, may be valuable in the job marketplace.
3. Enter the Job Market. Take advantage of campus-based job fairs, recruitment events, and career services to connect with career opportunities.

Self-Directed Learning

1. Learn the Basics. Begin by familiarizing yourself with the fundamentals of web development.
2. Research and Learn Critical Skills. Target specific technical skills to develop by looking into current industry trends and in-demand proficiencies among employers.
3. Develop through Practice. Use resources like free online learning modules, paid courses and programs, and massive open online courses to build advanced skills.
4. Get Certified. Validate your abilities to employers by earning one or more widely recognized web development certifications. In the absence of a diploma or degree, certifications can take on greater importance.

Should I Become a Web Developer?

Web development is a well-paying career with intriguing professional challenges. Starting in web development can take just a few months of bootcamp training and does not always require lengthy formal education. The field can also provide opportunities for flexible, remote work. But web development is not for everyone.

The best web developers are determined problem-solvers with strong attention to detail and an interest in lifelong learning. They also love to code and can spend hours doing uninterrupted computer work.

Web developers must stay on top of the new languages, trends, and tools that are constantly emerging in their industry. These professionals may need to enroll in online courses, attend conferences, and read relevant journals to keep their skills current.

Web developers who maintain their technical competence can become lead developers who mentor junior employees and create scalable systems.

Professional Spotlight: Mark Himmelman, Owner of Cyber Hive Media

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What prompted your journey to become a web developer?

My college courses covered a broad spectrum of software development in database architecture, security, web, etc. What spoke to me the most was working on visual products that users can interact with.

The more I learned about web development, the more I loved it as a career. I really enjoyed fine-tuning my skills with cleaner code, SEO best practices, page speed performance, and user experience.

If you work in a particular industry, what prompted this choice. and/or how did it evolve?

I work primarily in the digital marketing space as well as web/mobile app development. My first job in the industry was working on a mobile and web application. From there, I went into the marketing industry, and that became a huge passion for me. I was fascinated to learn what really went into a good website beyond just writing code, like implementing thoughtful and data-driven strategies.

What educational path did you take to become a web developer? Did you pursue additional education at any point? What was your educational experience like?

I studied information technology with a major in software development. Being a developer requires ongoing learning in order to keep your skills relevant in the ever-evolving world of tech.

I have taken many courses throughout my career to learn more about new trending technologies, which has helped me quite a lot. At the beginning, the learning curve was definitely a challenge. As time went on, things became easier to learn because you can apply your coding knowledge and experience to new technologies.

Did you have to pass any certifications or tests to enter the field or progress in your career?

In my experience, companies prefer to see that you have some education under your belt, as well as a portfolio to showcase your skills. Along with my college diploma, I also had a portfolio of projects I worked on during my time in school, which is what helped me get my first job in the industry. Once I started to gain real-world experience, my career as a web developer grew pretty quickly.

What advice do you have for individuals considering becoming web developers?

My advice is to first figure out what kind of web developer you want to be. Web developers cover the front end, back end, full stack, etc. Once that is decided, I would definitely recommend taking some courses or going to college/university. Having a good mentor is also extremely valuable.

Any high or low points worth mentioning about becoming a web developer?

One thing that really stood out for me was company culture. Most companies in the development industry pride themselves on the work environment they provide for their staff.

"At the beginning, the learning curve was definitely a challenge. As time went on, things became easier to learn because you can apply your coding knowledge and experience to new technologies."

I have seen benefits such as annual education budgets, monthly team building events, snacks and drinks once a week, catered lunches, etc. One place even had a private chef who cooked everyone breakfast and lunch.

Mark Himmelman

Mark Himmelman is the owner of Cyber Hive Media. He tackles all facets of digital marketing, including web design and development, for various clients. Himmelman has always enjoyed building things from scratch as a careful problem-solver. He spent a lot of time in his childhood building websites for fun — creating unique and funny content for each project.

Mark studied at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology, earning an IT diploma with a major in software development. He loves the opportunity to create visual products for clients and users to engage with and enjoy. Mark finds joy in creating interactive websites that appeal to different audiences.

The Job Hunt

Cold calls and resumes rarely get results, especially for professionals seeking technical positions. Successful web developers often launch their careers by completing freelance projects and showcasing their work in portfolios. Candidates can use their portfolios to draw attention from prospective employers or as a supplement to their traditional resumes.

Like other careers, web development relies on personal networks and professional organizations. Developers can meet hiring managers at computer conferences, in professional organizations, and through mentors. Top networking organizations include the International Web Association and the Computer and Communications Industry Association.

• Indeed: Featuring 250 million unique visitors each month, Indeed is one of the largest sites for job-seekers. The platform includes career advice and resources, along with open job listings.
• Y Combinator: This website features jobs at startups backed by Y Combinator. Web developers can connect with founders, attend virtual events, and search job posts.
• Authentic Jobs: Web developers and computer professionals can search for internships, part-time jobs, full-time positions, and remote work on this employment service site.
• Krop: Build a creative portfolio, find a job, or search through the resume database on Krop, a job board and portfolio site for creators.

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