Is it hard to learn Web Development online?

Before we discuss how easy it is to learn Web Development online, let’s quickly talk about the internet. The internet as we know it – the World Wide Web – was started in 1990 by Tim Berners Lee with just a handful of websites. By the start of 1995 there were about 10,000 websites in existence. By the start of 1997, there were 650,000. And now, in 2020, there are about 1.75 billion websites. So to say there has been an explosion in the need for web developers is an understatement.

Now, with the web being the first port of call for the majority of tasks we complete in our lives – from shopping, to doctor’s appointments, to booking holidays (how do you actually book a flight if not online?) – we can safely say that the demand for web developers will continue to increase in the coming years. The Australian Government is predicting strong job growth for Web Developers, and with a salary range from about $80,000-$130,000 a year, it’s a lucrative career path to take.

So, it is hard to learn web development online? No. Completing a recognised, relevant and employment-focused qualification like a Diploma of Web Development online through a reputed supplier is easier than ever before.

What does a web developer do?

Before we get into the nitty gritty, let’s look at what a web developer does. In a nutshell – you guessed it – they develop websites! They are responsible for understanding a client’s requirements, making suggestions for how those needs can be met, and producing a great-looking, functional website. Website construction can have very different requirements these days – for example, an eCommerce platform will require different architecture and design than a gaming site, or an online portfolio. Some web developers specialise in certain types of site, while others prefer to offer expertise across a range.

Web developers generally specialise in three ways:

• Front end developers are responsible for the site’s visual design and some functionality including graphics and application integrations.

• Back end developers handle the technical construction and information architecture of the websites, along with database and server logistics.

• Full stack developers do it all.

The skill sets between developers and developer types can vary as they choose certain niches, but there are common skill sets and assumed knowledge that anyone considering a career in web development needs to acquire. And that’s where an online Diploma of Web Development can help!

What should I look for in a course?

Not all online web development courses are created equal, so it’s important that you choose one that is recognised, and meets your needs. To take some of the guesswork out for you, we’ve created a list of some of the things you should check out before committing to your course.

Choose a reputable supplier

Do some research on your course provider before signing up to a course. Make sure they are a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) with courses designed in line with the Australian Qualifications Framework. Additionally, you may wish to check that the course is Nationally Recognised – though this is not essential for all courses, it is a seal of approval and a quick way to be sure that the course you are choosing exceeds required learning standards in that subject.

Vendor certifications

In Information Communications Technology – and certainly in web development – vendor partnerships and certifications are a big deal. Vendors are the product and service companies that deliver direct to consumers – think Microsoft, Amazon, Google. Because these vendor systems can be fairly distinct, being able to show that you are familiar – or even certified – with their platforms and processes is a huge advantage when it comes to finding a job. So be sure to check what vendor-aligned courses and certifications are possible with the course you choose.

Comprehensive course structure

As we mentioned at the start of the article, web development requires a wide range of skills – not all of them web based. So with that in mind, be sure to thoroughly look over the proposed structure for the course you’re considering and assess whether it will provide you not just with the technical skills, but also the people and real-world skills you will need when you start your job. Some of the subjects you might want in your course are copyright, ethics and privacy, application design, database design, verifying client business requirements and implementing security for applications.

Similarly, web development requires knowledge of a range of industry-standard softwares and programming languages such as Adobe Creative Cloud, WordPress / XAMPP, CSS / Bootstrap, and PHP / MySQL. Keep these details in mind as you examine course structures to ensure you come out with a well-rounded, relevant skill set.

Employability outcomes

If you’re considering learning Web Development online, then chances are you’ve already got some ideas about the career you’d like to pursue – or at least the skills you’d like to develop. In a way, the employability outcomes of your course are a mix of the sections we’ve just covered off – course recognition, vendor certifications and comprehensive course structure – but there are other factors at play too. Research your course provider to determine how embedded they are in the industry, who the teachers are and whether they offer pathways to employment opportunities at the completion of the course.

Flexibility

Learning Web Development online is all about flexibility. You should be able to study your way, wherever you are – with just a computer and an internet connection. You should have multiple lines of communication to your teacher/trainer such as SMS, phone, forums, and learning portals. You should be able to access real-time workshops, as well as recordings of them afterwards so that you can study and access any time it suits you. Your course should be set up to provide you the support you need to succeed, whatever your circumstances.

Diploma of Website Development at Lumify Learn

Lumify Learn’s Diploma of Website Development is one of the most popular courses to learn web development online.

The course is rigorously crafted to ensure students develop the range of technical and people skills that will allow them to enter the industry as a freelancer, or as part of a development team. The course is fully online, allowing you to tailor your studies according to your own personal needs and schedules. As a nationally-recognised course, Lumify Learn’s Diploma of Web Development is highly regarded and will kickstart your career.

To start your journey towards becoming a Web Developer, enquire with us today.