Web developer
Web developers use computer code to create and maintain websites and applications.
Also known as: Front end developer, back end developer, full stack developer
- Starter salary£27,000 a year
- Experienced£60,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 39 a week
What you'll do
As a web developer, you could:
- meet clients to discuss what they need
- work out how the website or application will fit together
- create plans and prototypes with the design team
- write code in different programming languages
- build databases and transfer information between them using Applications Program Interfaces (APIs)
- create the layout of on-screen buttons, links and pictures that users need
- work with testers on prototypes to find and fix issues or 'bugs'
Working environment
You could work in an office, at a client's business or from home.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- the ability to write computer programs
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- analytical thinking skills
- complex problem-solving skills
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to use your initiative
- persistence and determination
- maths knowledge
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to become a web developer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- web design and development
- computer science
- digital media development
- software engineering
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
College
You can take a college course that might help you get a trainee developer job.
Courses include:
- computing
- web design and development
- software development
- T Level in Digital Software Development
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an apprenticeship, such as:
- Software Development Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Software Developer Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
- Digital and Technology Solutions Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
Work
You might be able to start as a junior developer and do training on the job.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could:
- be a lead programmer, project leader or product manager
- specialise in an area, such as retail or banking systems
- become a systems analyst or IT project manager in other areas of IT
- train students as a further education teacher
Career tips
You could build up your skills and knowledge using online learning resources for:
- programming languages
- project management
- software development methods
Guides for this industry
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