- What is front end?
- Front end refers to the client-side or human-side of development—the functional, user interface parts of a website. Everything you see and can interact with when navigating a website (font, colors, menus, graphics, buttons, etc.) are considered front end. It is called front-end because it is the consumer facing part of a website.
- What is the difference between front end and back end?
- Back end refers to the database, server and application of a website and makes the user-facing side of a website possible. It’s the parts of a website users can’t see or access.
- What skills do you need to become a front-end web developer?
- Front-end web developers need to know three-main languages: HTML, CSS and JavaScript. Responsive design, interface design, user and device testing, static to dynamic content transition and quality assurance are core skills of front-end developers. Front-end developers should also have some knowledge of and experience with various frameworks and libraries. Problem solving, teamwork, communication and collaboration skills are also important.
- What does a front-end developer do?
- Front-end developers are responsible for a website’s user-facing code and making sure it looks good on all devices. Front-end developers use code such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript to implement a website’s design, identify specific user experience issues and recommend solutions. Front-end development can be a good career for technical individuals looking to leverage their creativity.
- Can Python be used in front-end development work?
- Python—an open-source programming language—can be used for both front-end and back-end development, but is more widely used in back end. The Front-End Web Development Certificate Program does not cover Python.
- Who is the Front-End Web Development Certificate Program designed for?
- This program is designed for career changers and early career professionals, with little to no experience or knowledge in web application development, who are looking to break into the tech industry. If you are seeking entry-level positions as a web developer or front-end developer, this program will provide you with the necessary skills and experience to succeed.
- Are there any prerequisites for the program?
- No, there are no prerequisites to start this program. The program is designed for those seeking entry-level positions in web development, so no prior knowledge or experience in the field is required, nor is it expected.
- How long will it take to complete the Front-End Certificate?
- The program consists of two online courses. Each course is offered twice each year. You can complete the program in as few as 20 weeks, but have up to 5 years to earn your certificate.
- What is the Front-End Web Development Certificate digital badge?
- Upon successful completion of the certificate program, you will earn a digital "Certificate" badge, a graphic verification of the skills you have mastered. You will also earn a digital badge for each successfully completed class in the program.
Our partner, Credly, will provide you with this digital version of your credentials. Digital badges are a great way to share your educational achievements and new competencies with employers, colleagues, friends and family via social platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. Digital badging is rapidly becoming the new standard by which adult learners visually communicate their professional development. Learn more about badges. - How much time can I expect to spend on coursework?
- The amount of time each student spends on coursework can vary, but generally speaking you can expect to spend about one hour of "studio time” with the instructors, six hours to work through the self-paced coursework in Canvas (lectures, assessments, etc.) and up to 10 hours of homework and projects. This online program blends asynchronous and synchronous instruction, so you will be studying at your own pace, with scheduled collaborative group projects.
- What jobs will the Front-End Certificate Program prepare me for?
- This program will prepare you for entry-level and junior roles in web application development, including: web developer, UI developer/front-end developer, web software developer, full stack web developer, and application developer.
- Do I need to take the required courses in a specific order?
- If you are entering the program with no basic web development skills, it is required that you take courses in the following order: Fundamentals of Front-End Web Development and Intermediate Front-End Web Development.
- How many academic credits will I earn upon completion?
- Upon successful completion of the certificate program, you will earn a total of 12 academic units.
- Are textbooks or materials required for the front-end courses?
- Readings and videos will be assigned and provided as part of the course.
- What are the technical requirements?
- You need to be able to type, understand how to use a web browser and have access to an up-to-date computer and WiFi. See our technical requirements for online programs for more information.
