Web Development Training Guide

Which Types of Jobs Are Available For Those Interested in Web Development?

Mixing form with function and aesthetics with technology, Web development majors are interested in the latest tools and technologies they can use to make professional, functional Web sites. Often learning specific technologies such as PHP development, Web developer jobs can be found in large and small companies alike, as well as on a freelance basis for skilled Web site designers.

Web developers take charge of day-to-day Web site development, design, and creation for their clients. A day in the life of a Web developer might start with meetings, as they learn what the company needs implemented or updated on the Web site. The afternoon could be spent developing, designing, and testing different site design options, working individually or on a team of developers to create a flawless design.

Freelance Web design jobs may be available to skilled individuals who wish to supplement their income or work from home. Freelance work is generally more challenging, as designers and developers must impress potential clients through their portfolio, resume, and word-of-mouth recommendations.

Formal Training Required to Work in Web Development

Though a certification program or associate's degree may offer adequate preparation for developers hoping to upgrade or make their skills current, a bachelor's degree is typically recommended for Web developers who wish to find salaried employment.

Coursework in typical Web development degree programs may include instruction in Web architecture, principles of e-commerce, and advanced Web application development. For PHP developers and other specializations, additional coursework helps add current skills to the developer's ability, increasing their value to the job market.

Students are often expected to complete projects reflecting real-world design and development objectives. Both teamwork and individual effort are often encouraged, and students often use the result of their completed projects in their development and design portfolios.

After graduation, workers tend to keep their Web development skills current through coursework, training programs, and Web development certifications. Many employers cover the cost of such educational programs with the goal of keeping their employees' skill sets current.

The Typical Career Path of Someone Interested in Web Development

Web development jobs are typically reserved for graduates of Web development and related degree programs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that hiring managers for Web development careers generally require a bachelor's degree in a computer-related field among applicants. For some Web development jobs, related experience and Web development certifications may be adequate.

Workers in Web development have a high level of technical knowledge and skill. Web developers thrive in team scenarios, though they are also adept at working independently to achieve their goals, particularly if they work as freelancers. A Web developer may specialize in one type of work, such as e-commerce, and make an effort to keep his or her technology skills and certifications current within that specialization.

The promotion and advancement structure of Web developers varies according to their goals. Developers with management skill or interests might move into the business management side of the company, while those with strong technical skills and interest can develop those skills and advance to upper-level developer positions. Individual personalities and goals can help determine career paths for Web developers.

Job Outlook and Salary Information for Those Interested in Web Development

Web developer salary varies by location, experience, job description, and education. The BLS notes that network systems and data communications analysts, including Web developers, earned median annual wages of $73,250 in 2009. With jobs in computer systems design expected to grow an impressive 45 percent from 2008 to 2018, the healthy Web developer salary comes with real job growth potential.

In the related career of desktop publishing, workers earned median annual wages of $36,470 in 2009. However, job prospects for desktop publishers are expected to decline 23 percent between 2008 and 2018 as more workers learn basic desktop publishing skills and integrate them into their work. Advanced Web development training should be preferable to basic design courses.

In general, demand for skilled Web administrators and Web developers is expected to be strong. Those with specialized skills such as PHP developers should see the best opportunities for employment, and a growing number of Internet users mixed with a growing reliance on e-commerce is expected to mean favorable growth for the career.