Web developer
Web developers use computer code to create and maintain websites and applications.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
You'll usually work as part of a development team and could:
- meet clients to work out what they need
- create plans and prototypes with the design team to decide how the website or application will fit together
- write code in different programming languages
- build databases and transfer information between databases using Applications Program Interfaces (APIs)
- use software to create the layout of buttons, links and pictures
Working environment
You could work in an office, at a client's business or from home.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could:
- become a manager, such as lead programmer or project leader
- specialise in an area, such as retail
- become a systems analyst or IT project manager in other areas of IT
- become a further education teacher
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to write computer programs
- persistence and determination
- analytical thinking skills
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to use your initiative
- maths knowledge
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
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
More Information
You could do a college course that might help you get a trainee developer job.
Courses include:
- Level 3 Certificate in Web Design and Development
- T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development
- Level 4 Diploma in Software Development
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
- 1 or 2 A levels, a level 3 diploma or relevant experience for a level 4 or level 5 course
More Information
You could 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:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
More Information
You might be able to start as a junior developer and do training on the job.
Career tips
You could build up your skills and knowledge using online learning resources for:
- programming languages
- project management
- software development methods
Further information
You can get more advice about working in computing from TechSkills and The Chartered Institute for IT.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.