The typical education needed to become a web developer is an associate’s degree in web design or a related field. Web developers need knowledge of both programming and graphic design.
Education
Educational requirements for web developers vary with the setting they work in and the type of work they do. Requirements range from a high school diploma to a bachelor’s degree. An associate’s degree in web design or related field is the most common requirement.
However, for more technical developer positions, such as back-end web developers, some employers prefer workers who have at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, programming, or a related field.
Web developers need to have a thorough understanding of HTML programming. The most recent version, HTML5, contains new features that web developers need to understand. Many employers also want developers to understand other programming languages, such as JavaScript or SQL, as well as have some knowledge of multimedia publishing tools, such as Flash. Throughout their career, web developers must keep up to date on new tools and computer languages.
Some employers prefer web developers who have both a computer degree and coursework in graphic design, especially if the developer will be heavily involved in the website’s visual appearance.
Advancement
Web developers who have a bachelor’s degree can advance to become project managers. For more information, see the profile on computer and information systems managers.
Important Qualities
Concentration. Web developers must sit at a computer and write detailed code for long periods.
Creativity. Web developers often are involved in designing the appearance of a website and must make sure that it looks innovative and up to date.
Customer-service skills. Webmasters have to respond politely and correctly to user questions and requests.
Detail oriented. When web developers write in HTML, a minor error could cause an entire webpage to stop working.
