Career roadmap
How to Become a Web Developer
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a web developer, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a web developer: (1) learn the fundamentals, (2) build projects, (3) learn a framework and Git, (4) get experience, (5) specialize. Most people need about 6 months to 4 years. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a web developer
Learn the fundamentals
HTML, CSS, JavaScript and how the web works.
Build projects
Create real sites and apps, and publish the code on GitHub.
Learn a framework and Git
React or a similar framework, plus version control and deployment.
Get experience
Freelance, intern, contribute to open source or build sites for local organizations.
Specialize
Front-end, back-end, full-stack, accessibility or performance engineering.
Education and training requirements
BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, often in computer science or a related field. Many developers instead learn through bootcamps, online courses and self-study and are hired based on portfolios.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 6 months to 4 years |
Certifications and licenses
- Portfolio of projects: The most important hiring credential in web development.
- Meta Front-End Developer Professional Certificate: An online program covering front-end fundamentals.
- freeCodeCamp certifications: Free, project-based certifications.
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner: Cloud fundamentals for deploying web applications.
Skills to build now
Start with html, css and javascript, a front-end framework such as react, and responsive design, and practice problem-solving and attention to detail. Learning the web developer vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Junior Web Developer: Build features with guidance.
- Web Developer: Own features and projects.
- Senior or Full-Stack Developer: Lead technical decisions.
- Tech Lead, Engineering Manager or Agency Owner: Lead teams or run a business.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Web Developer training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do web developers need a degree?
Not always. Many are hired based on skills and portfolios, though a degree is common and preferred by some employers.
How long does it take to learn web development?
Many people become job-ready in six months to two years of focused study and project work.
How long does it take to become a web developer?
Most people need about 6 months to 4 years of training. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, often in computer science or a related field. Many developers instead learn through bootcamps, online courses and self-study and are hired based on portfolios.
Do you need a degree to be a web developer?
Not necessarily. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, but many web developers are self-taught or bootcamp-trained and get hired on the strength of a portfolio.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 15-1254 (Web developers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Web developers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.