A formal education isn’t always necessary to become an entry-level web developer. Some web developers have an associate or bachelor’s degree in website design or computer science, but others teach themselves how to code and design websites.
If you’re interested in becoming a web developer, here are some steps you can take.
1. Build web developer skills.
Employers and clients usually expect web developers to have certain skills that demonstrate their ability to deliver on website requirements. If you’re interested in a career as a web developer, these are some skills you can focus on to build a foundation for success.
-Technical skills: Coding, Responsive design, Version control, Visual design & Technical SEO.
-Workplace skills:Communication, Customer service, Detail-oriented, Organization, Problem-solving.
2. Consider a degree in computer science or web design.
While you don’t always need a degree to get a job in web development, it can certainly help. If you’re already in school (or considering earning a degree), some majors might be a better fit for your career goals than others. If you’re more interested in back-end web development, consider a degree program in computer science. If you feel more drawn to front-end development, you might opt for a degree in web design or user experience (UX).
3. Take a course in web development.
You don’t necessarily need formal training to work as a web developer. It’s possible to acquire the skills you need on your own. For example, you can take a course to learn programming languages like HTML, JavaScript, or CSS, and then put what you learn into practice on your own website.
By completing an online course in web development, like Web Design for Everybody: Basics of Web Development & Coding from the University of Michigan, you can build skills while completing development projects for your portfolio.
4. Build a portfolio of web development work.
As a web developer, your portfolio is often one of the most important parts of your resume. This collection of projects shows potential employers what you’re capable of creating. Include the types of projects that represent the work you’d like to do. If you’re including code, be sure to annotate it to show your thought process.
5. Get certified.
Earning a certification can validate your skill set to potential employers. You’ll find a range of general and vendor-specific options, including:
- Adobe Certified Expert (ACE)
- Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSD)
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Developer
- Zend Certified PHP Engineer
Conclusion
If you’re considering becoming a web developer, you can start learning today. Get an overview of web development from industry leaders and firms like Teckaa or any webs development institute around you.
