Finding Graduate Jobs in Web Development

We live in an era where year on year the expansion of digital interactive media grows, especially as the IT and telecommunications fields move closer together.

As a result the demand for Graduate Web Developer Jobs continues to rise and this trend will continue for the foreseeable future.

Web developers create applications specifically for the World Wide Web. The applications generally utilise a server and a client (web browser). Web developers work in all sectors of industry, from commerce to local government to education.

What type of programming applications do you need to know to get a Graduate Web Developer Job?

Web developers often have knowledge of more than one programming language. The most common languages that Web Developers currently use include:

• On the server side; Java, C++, C# and .Ne

, are often utilised. Scripting languages, such as Perl, Javascript, Python, and traditional Shell Scripting are all still sought after skills and worth learning

PHP is now one of the most popular programming languages

On the client side; the popular technologies Web Developers use are Javascript, HTML and CSS

To collect information from web users, the popular relational database technologies utilised by Web Developers include MySQL, Oracle, and Microsoft SQL Sever. XML is also often used for document data transfer

As a Graduate Web Developer, you would also be expected to be familiar with one or more of the common web development packages, which include:

• Dreamweaver
• Photoshop
• Coldfusion
• Fireworks
• Flash
• Eclipse
• Visual Studio

What qualifications and experience do employers look for?

You do not necessarily need formal qualifications to become a Web Developer, but you will need a good knowledge of 'front end' concepts (how the site looks and functions for the user), and 'back end' systems (how it works).

Many new entrants into this industry now have a foundation degree, BTEC HNC/HND award or degree, which will usually be in an IT-related subject. Typically, the subjects include:

• Web development or web design
• Multimedia design
• Digital media development
• Web content management
• Business information systems
• Computer programming

Employers also appreciate a strong commercial understanding.

How do I get a Graduate Web Developer Job?

The most straightforward path to becoming a Web developer is through formal training (a BSCS or MSCS). Those that do not have Web development experience may start by developing small components or pieces of web applications with guidance from more senior developers.

Internships and contract positions are also a great way to get started in a Web Development career. The more hands on training, the better!

There are also many books available and lots of people develop their skills at home.

What kind of money can I earn?

• New entrants can expect to earn between £14,000 and £20,000 a year
• With experience, developers can earn up to £30,000 a year
• Senior developers/programmers can earn £40,000 or more

What are the most common career paths for Web developers?

Web Developers have a couple of possible career path options.

• One path would continue within a Development role, which would remain very hands on in coding
• The second option is to move into a Software Engineer role, which is less development and more complex, high-level design