Becoming a Web Developer

Web development is a broad term that incorporates all aspects of building a web site. The basic responsibilities of a web developer revolve less around the artistic design of the site and more around the technical aspects of making the site and its active contents functional, such as determining technical requirements and site architecture, and creating and testing prototypes.

Education, Training & Degrees for Web Developers

A bachelor's degree is usually the minimum requirement for a web developer in an organizational setting. There are a number of colleges that provide training in web development. Degree programs in web development impart training on web page building, basic web design principles, file transfer protocol, communication protocols, operating systems hardware and web development languages.

Find more information about online Technology degrees, certificates, and diplomas.

Job Responsibilities and Desired Skills for Web Developers

Web developers are usually employed based on qualification and knowledge of software. In order to be a successful web developer, a strong technical knowledge of the functioning of the web is required. The web developer will be called upon to understand a wide range of web site specifications such as product features and activities, as well as the software, communication protocols, programming languages, and various operating systems software and hardware which form the environment of the web site. Knowledge of database management software, diagnostic computer programs, web management software, encryption software, text editors, and Forms, MS FrontPage, Notepad, Crystal Reports, Dreamweaver, Adobe Photoshop, and Macromedia's Flash are all desirable, as is knowledge of computer languages such as C, C++, Java, HTML, XML, SQL, Visual Basic, VBScript, ASP, Java Script, and Active X, and of Internet protocols such as HTTP, FTP, TCP/IP, PPP, OTP, POP, STMP, SSL and S-HTTP.

Good communication skills are a must, as the developer will be required to provide clear, comprehensible and detailed descriptions of these features and functions and reports of their performance, often to individuals with little or no technical background.

Web Developer Salary Range and Employment Outlook

Experienced, well-trained and degreed web developers have a range of work options available to them, including working for a company, starting a company, or working freelance as an independent consultant.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, about 149,000 people were employed as web developers in 2004. The Labor Department projects a growth rate that is about average compared to all jobs.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average salary for web developers in 2004 was about $28.51 per hour, or $59,300 annually.

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