How To Become A Web Developer
A web developer is responsible for creating websites. They use their knowledge of programming to create a website that meets a client’s needs. Web developers need to have a broad array of computer skills in order to do their job.
In order to become a web developer you will need a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate field such as computer science. You will also to have a sufficient working knowledge of programming languages such as JavaScript and SQL.
Why Become A Web Developer
The Internet has become the daily place of interaction in the modern era. If people want to know what restaurant to eat at, where to find a doctor, what services a local business provides, to connect with friends on social media, or any other need, people often head straight to a website. Web developers are in high demand to create websites that serve the needs of a business, but are also well designed.
Web developers meet with clients to discuss their needs for the website. They plan the outline for the website and what functions it will have. They write code for the website using programming languages. They use applications to design various functions on the website, such as video playback, an online store and more. Web developers work as part of a team to create websites for clients.
Web Developers should possess the following qualities and skills:
- Enjoys working with computers
- Problem solver
- Critical thinking skills
- Mathematical skills
- Creativity
- Detail Oriented
- Innovative
Web Developer Work Environment
Web developers work for web design and development companies. These may be large companies, with hundreds of employees. Web developers who work for larger firms may have many more clients.
They also may work as part of a team on a client web development project. Web developers may choose to be independent contractors or start their own firm.
In this case, they often work on smaller teams or on their own. They spend much of their time on the computer. This is a job that can be done from a remote location.
Web Developer Salary
The median salary for web developers was $66,160 in 2016.
Web developers often work for large web development companies. In this setting, they may be able to acquire a higher salary. Web developers who have several years of experience and education often have higher salaries. Some web developers work on their own, or start their own firm. In this case they charge their own rates and decide their own salary.
Also, some web developers charge by the hour, instead of having a yearly salary. Those web developers that have more clients will be able to receive a higher salary than those with fewer clients.
Average Web Developer Annual Salary
$74,110
The average annual salary for web developers is $74,110 a year. Salaries start at $36,830 a year and go up to $122,320 a year.
Average Web Developer Hourly Wage
$35.63
The average hourly wage for a web developer is $35.63. Hourly wages are between $17.71 and $58.81 an hour.
Stats were based out of 125,890 employed web developers in the United States.
Highest Paying States For Web Developers
- 1. Washington $44.35 / hr $92,260 / yr
- 2. District of Columbia $41.66 / hr $86,660 / yr
- 3. Virginia $41.29 / hr $85,870 / yr
- 4. California $40.51 / hr $84,270 / yr
- 5. New York $39.60 / hr $82,360 / yr
Top Paying Cities For Web Developers
- 1. San Francisco, CA $54.76 / hr$113,910 / yr
- 2. San Rafael, CA $48.91 / hr$101,740 / yr
- 3. Seattle, WA $46.71 / hr$97,160 / yr
- 4. San Jose, CA $45.45 / hr$94,540 / yr
- 5. Washington, DC $44.79 / hr$93,170 / yr
Data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Web Developer Career Outlook
Employment for web developers is expected to increase by 15 percent from 2016 to 2026. This is a much faster rate of growth than other professions in the United States. Altogether, there will be about 25,000 new jobs created within this field within the next 10 years.
Web developers will continue to be needed in the future. Technology remains a vital part of how humans connect with each other. Almost all businesses have websites as a means of providing information. Websites also serve as a location for selling products online, selling tickets to events, hosting chat forums, and other business needs.
In recent years there has been more mobile web use, so web developers need to be savvy on many different platforms.
Web Developer Degree
In order to become a web developer you need a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Degrees such as computer science, computer programming, web design and more are well suited for this career. During your degree program, you will take classes and work on a variety of projects. It takes four years to complete and receive your bachelor’s degree.
Many employers prefer candidates who have knowledge of programming languages, such as JavaScript and SQL. They must have knowledge of the latest software programs. An understanding of HTML is key.
Web Developer Coursework
Many of the courses in a typical web development program focus on programming skills and the basics of computer technology. Below are listed some of the classes that are taken in a typical degree program for web developers.
HTML: HTML is the basic markup language for creating web pages on the World Wide Web as well as web applications. It is the essential language for web development and design. With HTML, it is possible to create paragraphs, add links, and photos to web pages, plus much more. Students will become more familiar with HTML. Together, HTML, CSS and JavaScript, which are both mentioned below, make up the triad of languages that are considered the basis of the Internet. All students must learn these languages to become a web developer.
CSS: Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) is important for web developers to be familiar with. CSS sets the visual components for the programming languages used. CSS explains how each web page will look, how fonts will look, the layout of the page, colors, and more.
JavaScript: JavaScript is a high-level programming language used on the World Wide Web. It is used to make web pages interactive. It is used to make animated content on a web page. It is used to submit data into a web page, for example, filling out forms or posting status updates on social media networks. Students will learn how to program in JavaScript in this class.
Web Developer Career Path
The computer industry is one of the fastest growing fields in the United States. If you love computers, there are many professions to explore within this field. It is possible to start in an entry-level position, and then proceed into more advanced positions.
Below are examples of careers that many people advance into from web development.
| Career | Overview | Responsibilities | Education Required | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Project Manager | Project managers oversee a team on a development project for a specific client. | Their responsibilities include deciding a plan for website creation, assigning roles, and making sure the team is on track. | A bachelor’s degree is required for this position, plus extensive knowledge of programming languages, as well as management experience. | A good choice for somebody who is interested in management and leadership roles. |
| Senior Web Developer | An advanced position on the web development team. | Senior web developers are expected to manage their own projects, and entry-level web developers often come to them for guidance. | A bachelor’s degree, plus several years of experience in the industry. | More independence in the role and the flexibility to take on your own projects. |
Related Web Developer Careers
A web developer is one of many careers in the computer field. If you are interested in this profession, there are many other careers to consider. The following is a brief list of other related careers.
Computer Programmer: Computer programmers write and test the code that runs various software programs.
Software Developer: Software developers create applications and software programs on computers. Creating applications on mobile phones has become popular in recent years.
Graphic Designer: Graphic designers use their creativity for marketing and advertising purposes. They create designs, logos, advertisements and brochures for businesses.
