More and more people in Canada are retraining with the hopes of finding a well-paying, flexible job. Website development ticks all the boxes. Individuals in this field are accustomed to excellent salaries, flexible working hours, and remote working opportunities.
With so many people flocking to Google to find out everything they can about the pathways to becoming a website developer, it is no wonder there is a lot of confusion. What exactly is website development? How does it relate to software development? Are the two related, and are there benefits to learning both disciplines? Most important of all, do you need a degree?
Come with us as we explore the world of web programming.
What Is a Web Developer?
If you are confused about the purpose of web developers, you are not alone. True to their name, web developers (also known as web application developers and web programmers) build and maintain websites.
There’s a bit more to it than just that. Developers also ensure that the site is aesthetically pleasing and easy to navigate. This facet of website programming is called User Experience (UX). Once the site is built, developers are responsible for tracking, analyzing, and improving the website’s performance.
Types of Web Programmers
Developers usually fall into four categories.
- Front-end developers – Front-end website programmers focus on the user interface. To you and me, that’s the visuals. As part of this role, programmers design the layout of each page as well as the website as a whole, embed graphics, and insert HTML and JavaScript into the site.
- Back-end developers – Back-end website developers write the code that forms the website. They are responsible for maintaining and improving the code and will also have to debug any issues.
- Full-stack developers – Full-stack website developers are both front-end and back-end developers. These all-rounders can manage every aspect of website development and maintenance.
- Webmasters – Webmasters manage the finished website. They check links and ensure that each page is working as it should.
Average Web Developer Salary in Canada
According to Talent.com, web programmers earn an average of $61,296 annually. Of course, there is a lot of variation between the four types of jobs listed above.
What Is a Software Engineer?
A software developer (also known as a software engineer, programmer, or even a software gardener) creates and maintains software for underlying operating systems, networks, and platforms.
Similarities and Differences Between Web and Software Roles
If you are not in the tech world, it is easy to confuse these two career paths. In a Venn diagram, the cross-over would include the following:
- Coding languages – The same coding languages and programming principles appear in both web and software jobs.
- Problem-solving – Problem-solving is a key component of both disciplines.
- User-friendly design principles – Web and software engineers share the goal of creating user-friendly end products.
Now for the differences:
- Web programmers create web-based applications, meaning e-commerce, mobile development, and website projects.
- Software engineers create software that forms the backbone of underlying operating systems.
How to Become a Web Developer?
There is no exact route that you have to follow to become a website programmer in Canada. Individuals take lots of different paths to end up in this career.
That being said, here is the traditional route to web programming.
- Earn a degree in computer science, coding, or a related field.
- Gain experience in the field of website programming. You can do this in several ways, including gaining an internship.
- Build your portfolio. Most employers would expect to see an online website that showcases your work.
But what about people who do not want to go to university to pursue their dream careers?
How to Become a Web Developer Without a Degree?
A bachelor’s degree in a related field is one of the ways that you can fast-track your journey to becoming a web programmer. If you do not have a degree and do not have the time or inclination to get one, there is another possibility.
You can gain relevant qualifications from a trusted provider. This shows employers that you know the basics and (if you take an advanced course) are proficient at even the hardest aspects of being a website developer.
How to Become a Software Engineer Without a Degree?
To become a software engineer without a degree, you need to follow the same steps. The only difference is that you need to focus on coding systems and networks instead of website-based applications.
Should I Learn Software Engineering Too?
As we have seen, there is a lot of cross-over between website and software developers. By gaining a qualification in the software side of coding, you can also create a reputation for yourself as an all-rounder.
Now more than ever, companies are searching for talented individuals who can handle all of their coding needs. If you gain a qualification in software engineering and website programming, you will broaden your horizons considerably. This is especially useful for people who want to become their own boss in the future, as it will give them even more marketable and transferable skills.
AOLCC Training – Your Fast Track to a Successful Career
The Academy of Learning was created to provide individuals in Canada with a pathway to their dream career without the obligation of going back to university for a bachelor’s degree. Our programs cover eight provinces in Canada, meaning millions of hopeful students can access the qualifications they need to embark on a new career.
Our Software and Web Developer diploma will give you all the skills and certifications you need to pursue your dream career. Students who graduate from this program can apply for various software development roles, including web programming, UI/UX development, front-end developer, software developer, Javascript developer, and more. You must have a Grade 12 or equivalent or Mature Student Status to be eligible for this certification.
Contact us for more information.