How to Become a Web Developer

Web Developer Key Stats
Education	4+ Years
Job Outlook	13%

Web Developers are professionals who are experienced in designing, building and creating a wide range of websites.

They use their knowledge of programming languages in order to create websites in the readable manner that the public sees.

They are responsible for assuring a website is performing at its expected capacity and design it in in a way that is readable and attracts users.

Individuals who want to become a Web Developer will have a strong knack for using technology, have strong mathematical skills and have personal characteristics in order to succeed in this profession.

Some helpful skills to have in this field include: attention to detail to help with writing in HTML code, creativity to help with design and having the physical stamina to write code for long stretches of time.

Education Requirements to Become a Web Developer

Individuals who want to become a Web Developer will need to attend a postsecondary school in order to enter this profession.

Exact educational requirements will vary by employer, but for the most part, individuals who complete an associate’s degree will be able to qualify for entry level positions.

Individuals pursuing an associate’s degree are encouraged to study web design or a related field in order to become a Web Developer at the entry level.

However, individuals who are pursuing advancement opportunities or work in a more technical field are encouraged to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

Individuals pursuing a bachelor’s degree have the option to complete a degree in computer science, programming or a closely related field in order to enter this profession.

During their undergraduate career, individuals are encouraged to focus on programming language such as HTML coding in order to build functional websites.

Web Developer Job Description

Web Developers work for clients who need a new or remodeled website that complements their marketing plan and company mission.

Web Developers can begin on a project from its inception with the design and creation of a website.

This stage of website development includes the visual representation of a website including the look of the site.

Using HTML coding, developers will also work on the functionality of a website assuring it is user friendly and easy to use.

In addition, these professionals will create websites focusing on their technical aspects including speed, performance, capacity and the amount of internet traffic a specific can handle.

Some Web Developers may also be responsible for create website content, the material an internet is able to read.

Web Developers will consistently have their clients in mind including the look that reflects their company and the traffic that commonly uses their website.

Some common duties can include the following:

• Meet with clients to determine expectations and requirements for the website including the look
• Use HTML or XML coding to write code for the website
• Work with other professionals to determine the needed website content for the website
• Work with graphic artists or designers to determine the layout of a website
• Upload graphics, audio or video onto the website

Web Developer Salary and Career Path

In 2012, the median salary for Web Developers was approximately $62,500 per year with some individuals earning up towards $105,200.

Exact wages will depend on a variety of factors including years of experience, educational background and geographical location.

Many Web Developers also work on a full time basis.

The job outlook for Web Developers is expected to perform at a faster than average rate when compared to other professions.

Job opportunities for this field are expected to increase at a 20 percent growth through the year 2022.

This growth is attributed to the growth in ecommerce and online retail and purchasing.

The development of websites for mobile devices is also reflecting on the projection.

Job opportunities for individuals entering the field as Web Developers are overall good.

Individuals with knowledge of multiple programming languages and digital multimedia tools have the best job prospects.

Website Developers use a combination of creativity and HTML coding in order to design, create and manage a variety of websites for their clients.

The duties range from the creation to monitoring of performance assuring their clients are receiving the best website for their monetary investment.

Individuals with a love for computers and creation of websites are the best suited for this career.

The below information is based on the 2023 BLS national averages.

• Annually
• Monthly
• Hourly

* Salary information based on the May 2023 Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) Survey for Web Developers and Digital Interface Designers, OCC Code 15-1257, BLS.
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a web developer do?

Web developers create websites and are responsible for the site’s technical aspects and overall look.

Some web developers also create content for the websites.

As a web developer, you will meet with clients to understand their exact requirements, create and test applications for the website, write code in HTML, XML or another programming language.

You will also have to collaborate with graphic artists to determine the website’s layout and integrate graphics and other elements to the website.

Web developers may also monitor website traffic and work to improve the website’s performance and capacity.

As a web developer, you will need good coding skills, as well as creativity, customer-service skills, concentration and attention to detail.

How much does a web developer make?

As a web developer, you can make anywhere between less than $40,000 and more than $120,000 a year, depending on your experience, expertise, and employer.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for web developers was $69,430 as of May 2018.

How much does it cost to become a web developer?

Web developers need both coding and graphic design skills.

The exact educational requirements vary depending on the employer and their job description.

You can find employment with a high school diploma if you have good technical skills but some positions may require a bachelor’s degree or associate’s degree in web design or a related field.

Tuition costs vary depending on the school you choose and the program itself.

For example, an associate’s degree in web design will typically cost you somewhere between $10,000-$20,000.

What is the demand for web developers?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment for web developers is projected to grow 13 percent from 2018 to 2028.

Web developers will be particularly needed to build e-commerce websites as online purchasing is expected to continue to grow.

Developers may also have to develop sites that work on mobile devices.

Job prospects are expected to be good especially for developers who know multiple programming languages, such as HTML, XML, JavaScript or SQL.

If you also have graphic design skills and you are familiar with using photo editing software, your chances of finding employment as a web developer will increase.

How long does it take to become a web developer?

If you want to become a web developer you should start by learning HTML programming.

If you also know JavaScript, SQL or other programming languages your employment prospects will be even better.

Most web developers hold at least an associate’s degree in web design, which can be obtained after approximately 2 years of post-secondary studies.

However, some positions may also require a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field- which can be obtained after 4 years of schooling.

In conclusion, if you have good programming and graphic design skills, you can start creating websites and building your portfolio as soon as you finish high school but in order to have better job prospects, you should also complete a post-secondary program in web design, computer science or a related field.