Web Developer

Some web developers work in the computer systems design and related services industry. Others are self-employed. Still others work in industries including publishing, management consulting, and advertising.

Some of the things web developers might do:

• Meet with clients or management to discuss the needs and design of a website
• Create and test applications for a website
• Write code for the website, using programming languages such as HTML or XML
• Work with other team members to determine what information the site will contain
• Work with graphics and other designers to determine the website’s layout
• Integrate graphics, audio, and video into the website
• Monitor website traffic

• Concentration. Web developers must sit at a computer and write detailed code for long periods.
• Creativity. Web developers often are involved in designing the appearance of a website and must make sure that it is appealing as well as functional.
• Customer-service skills. Webmasters have to respond politely and correctly to user questions and requests.
• Detail oriented. Web developers need to have an eye for detail, because a minor error in coding could cause an entire webpage to stop working.

The average pay for web and digital interface designers in the United States was $98,540 in May 2023 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The pay for web and digital interface designers depends on factors such as level of experience, education and training, geographic location, and specific industry.

About 21,800 new job openings for web developers and digital designers are projected each year, on average, over the next 10 years in the United States.

Overall employment of web developers and digital designers is projected to grow 23 percent from 2022 to 2032 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is much faster than the average growth rate for all occupations.

As retail firms expand their online offerings, demand for web developers will grow.

In addition, an increase in the use of mobile devices to search the web will lead to increased demand for web developers.

Educational requirements for web developers vary with the setting they work in and the type of work they do. Requirements range from a high school diploma to a bachelor’s degree. An associate’s degree in web design or related field is the most common requirement.

However, some employers prefer web developers who have both a computer degree and coursework in graphic design, especially if the developer will be heavily involved in the website’s visual appearance.

Discover some of the courses you will take pursuing a degree in Computer Science or Graphic Design.