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16 Best Web Developer Certifications To Elevate Your Career

17 minute read | December 17, 2023
Sakshi Gupta

Written by:
Sakshi Gupta & reviewed by Akita Emmanuel

Sakshi Gupta

Reviewed by:
Akita Emmanuel

Ready to launch your career?

A career in web development is undeniably one of the most sought-after professions in today’s digital world. It’s a lucrative and exciting career, and though many become web developers after completing a more conventional college degree, it’s entirely possible to become a self-taught web developer too. 

Whichever route you go, know that the competition for web development positions is fierce, and so many web developers turn to certifications to enhance their learning and differentiate themselves in this crowded market. With this comes the question: which web developer certification should I pursue?

We’ve sifted through the noise and put together a list of the 16 best web developer certifications that have the potential to give you an unfair advantage in the job market. We look at their features and give you a set of criteria to look at when deciding which course to enroll in. Let’s get started!

Steps To Launching Your Web Development Career with a Certification

If you’re an aspiring web developer eager to embark on this thrilling journey, fear not! A plethora of resources awaits, empowering you to equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to turn your dream into reality.

Charting Your Course:

First things first, consider your learning style. Thrive in structured environments? Immerse yourself in web development bootcamps like Springboard, offering intensive programs that fast-track your progress. Prefer a more flexible approach? Explore best web development courses from esteemed institutions like the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), where you can learn at your own pace. Regardless of your choice, ensure the curriculum covers fundamental web technologies like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and delves into popular frameworks like React or Angular.

Honing Your Craft:

As you delve deeper, remember, practice makes perfect. Web development certifications, such as the Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD) or Certified Web Professional (CWP) credentials, validate your expertise and open doors to exciting career opportunities. But don’t just collect certificates; actively engage in web development practices. Build personal projects, contribute to open-source initiatives, and participate in online communities to hone your skills and showcase your talent.

Mastering the Tools:

Stay ahead of the curve by familiarizing yourself with rapid application development tools (RAD) like Visual Studio or Webflow. These platforms empower you to create websites and web applications more efficiently, streamlining your workflow and boosting your productivity.

Building Your Career:

With a solid foundation and a passion for web development, the possibilities are endless. Whether you aspire to become a freelance web developer, join a leading-edge business solutions company, or even manage your own website, your web development career is brimming with potential. Utilize the career services offered by your chosen learning platform or bootcamp to connect with industry professionals, refine your resume, and land your dream job.

Remember, the journey to becoming a skilled web developer is an ongoing process. Embrace the challenges, persevere through setbacks, and never stop learning. With dedication and the right resources, you can transform your passion for web development into a fulfilling and rewarding career, shaping the future of the internet one line of code at a time.

So, step into the exciting world of web development today and start building your online legacy!

Best Web Developer Certifications

Listed below are our 16 top choices in web developer certifications, which give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.

Springboard’s Software Engineering Bootcamp

As one of Springboard’s flagship programs, the Software Engineering Bootcamp teaches in-demand skills critical to excelling as a software engineer.

The bootcamp covers the fundamentals of full-stack development and incorporates an AI learning unit, helping students prepare for future software engineering technologies. A unique unit dedicated to AI for Engineers, focusing on Prompt Engineering, further emphasizes the course’s commitment to keeping up with industry trends, ensuring graduates are prepared for what’s to come.

The program also places immense value on individual support and personal growth. By placing students with a 1-on-1 industry mentor, Springboard molds you into a job-ready software engineer capable of tackling real-world challenges head-on. Students work on smaller projects, assessments, and capstone projects and can access interactive exercises, videos, and quizzes.

PRICE

$13,860 (Discounted price if paid upfront: $9,900)

RATING

4.6/5 on Course Report

FEATURES

  • Access to a 1-on-1 mentorship, coaching, and dedicated career services
  • 100% online
  • Curated curriculum in partnership with coding expert Colt Steele
  • Inclusion of AI for Engineers learning unit and AI interactive learning series
  • Emphasis on building a software engineering portfolio through project-based learning
  • Exposure to both front-end and back-end development techniques
  • Explores language models like GPT-3 and GPT-4 in-depth
  • Opportunity to work on 20 mini projects, two cumulative projects, and two capstone projects.
  • Collaboration and networking opportunities within the Springboard community

JOB GUARANTEE?

Yes

MENTORSHIP?

Yes

eCornell: Web Design & Development Cornell Certificate Program

The eCornell: Web Design & Development Cornell Certificate Program offers a front-end web development certificate that integrates the art of design with the science of coding. Under Cornell University’s brand, this program is structured to prioritize user-centric design and emphasize the importance of form and function balance. 

Before diving into code, students understand mental models and target audience personas. Then, they are introduced to the fundamentals of HTML and CSS and the basics of accessibility. Students also learn JavaScript, jQuery, and the nuances of data collection.

During the course, participants will be guided by Kyle Harms, a lecturer at Cornell Bowers College of Computing and Information Science.

PRICE

$3,650 or $675 per month

RATING

4.2/5 on G2

FEATURES

  • Design-first, code-second approach
  • Sequential learning methodology
  • Emphasizes accessibility best practices in web design
  • In-depth exploration of mental models and target audience personas
  • Introduction to visual design principles for creating attractive, functional websites
  • 60 Professional Development Hours (6 CEUs) upon completion
  • Designed for a broad audience, including aspiring web developers, designers, and entrepreneurs

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

No

Udacity: Front-End Web Developer Nano Degree Program

Through interactive projects, real-world scenarios, and personalized feedback, Udacity’s Front End Web Developer Nanodegree Program is a perfect learning journey for those looking to develop their skills in this field.

With this nano degree, students are pushed to apply their newfound skills in real-world scenarios and build a compelling portfolio as tangible evidence of their expertise.

The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge with practical application. Students learn about CSS layouts, JavaScripts, DOM, Web APIs, async apps, and the latest built tools for single-page web apps. By the end of the program, they undertake a capstone project where they craft a web app.

The panel of instructors (including Richard Kalehoff, Rachel Manning, Daniel Silber-Baker, and Alyssa Hope) bring years of experience to the table and give students the insight needed to succeed in the field and be industry-ready by the time they graduate.

PRICE

$249 per month

RATING

4/5 on E-student

FEATURES

  • Hands-on, real-world projects that allow learners to build a portfolio
  • An expert panel of instructors, including industry veterans
  • Career Services available
  • Learning support and mentorship throughout the program
  • An expansive library of skills, including Webpack, CSS, Flexbox, Sass, and 24 more

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

Yes

AWS Certified Developer – Associate

The AWS Certification demonstrates one’s thorough understanding of core AWS services, their use cases, AWS architectural best practices, and the capability to develop, deploy, and debug applications in a cloud environment.

The certification is ideal for students with a background in developer roles and a deep knowledge of high-level programming languages. It’s also great for those with experience in AWS technologies who understand the transition from on-premises to cloud or have dabbled in other cloud services. 

To get this certification, you must successfully pass the AWS Certified Developer – Associate exam (DVA-C02), which combines multiple-choice and multiple-response question formats.

PRICE

$150

RATING

N/A

FEATURES

  • Validation of skills in developing, deploying, and debugging cloud-based applications on AWS
  • Multiple-choice and multiple-response formats 
  • Access to a range of AWS Training and Certification resources to complement exam preparation
  • Free digital training, webinars, and practice question sets 
  • Recognized globally
  • Foundational step in the AWS Certification path

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

No

Meta on Coursera: Meta Front-End Developer Professional Certificate

On Coursera, you can earn a Meta Front-End Developer Professional Certificate that offers a learning path for those seeking a career in front-end web development. The course is tailor-made for beginners, requiring no prior experience or degree.

The curriculum is extensive, covering foundational areas like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and more advanced concepts like React, Bootstrap, and Figma. By the end of this program, students will have a deep understanding of front-end technologies and be able to showcase their skills through a real-world project—a front-end web application.

An added advantage is that the entire program is taught by the staff from Meta, providing an authentic and industry-aligned perspective. Students get a chance to prepare for real-world job scenarios with activities like coding interviews, problem-solving approaches, and developing portfolio-ready projects.

PRICE

Free with a Coursera subscription

RATING

4.8/5 on Upskillwise

FEATURES

  • Taught by Meta staff
  • Flexible self-paced learning structure
  • Hands-on projects after each course to test and showcase skills
  • Access to career resources, including resume review, interview prep, and career support
  • Shareable certificate
  • Financial aid availability
  • English instruction with subtitles in various languages, including English and Vietnamese

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

No

Meta on Coursera: Meta Back-End Developer Professional Certificate

Another Coursera certificate from Meta, the “Meta Back-End Developer Professional Certificate,” familiarizes students with back-end development technologies, including how to manage content with GitHub repositories.

The program includes a series of nine courses, with each course ending with a project that tests the participants’ understanding of the topic, ranging from the fundamentals of Python Syntax to cloud hosting and version control.

Its cornerstone project requires you to create a Django web app. The applied learning projects fortify the entire learning journey. This practical side offers learners a chance to implement their accumulated knowledge in real-world scenarios, from solving problems using Python to managing projects in GitHub.

PRICE

Free with a Coursera subscription

RATING

4.8/5 on Upskillwise

FEATURES

  • Expert instruction by Meta staff
  • Guidance on interview preparation for engineering roles
  • Access to Coursera’s job search guide, resume reviews, and interview prep tools
  • Shareable certificate that can be added to LinkedIn profiles or CVs
  • Flexible learning schedule
  • Subtitles available in more than 20 languages
  • Financial aid options available

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

No

CareerFoundry: Full-Stack Web Development Program

Lasting for almost ten months, the Full-Stack Web Development Program by CareerFoundry introduces students to foundational programming languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, and Python and to industry-relevant tools such as GitHub, Atom, or CodePen. Given the flexibility of this online program, students can continue with their jobs while pursuing the course.

CareerFoundry takes mentorship seriously, pairing students with active industry experts for one-on-one guidance on every assignment, ensuring personalized feedback and growth. In addition to the program’s core courses, students can explore Python for Web Developers or Cloud Computing for Web Developers.

PRICE

€8,075 (Pay upfront for a 5% discount) or €8,500 (Flexible payment options available)

RATING

4.6/5 on Course Report

FEATURES

  • 1:1 mentorship with active industry experts
  • Lifetime access to the course material
  • Stand-out portfolio development
  • Job preparation course with career coaching included
  • Learning flexibility
  • Regular, live events on relevant industry topics, including AI and automation

JOB GUARANTEE?

Yes

MENTORSHIP?

Yes

CIW Web Development Professional

The CIW Web Development Professional includes the entire web development process by integrating the foundational building blocks: HTML5, a front-end scripting language, a back-end programming language, and the know-how to integrate them within a database.

To get a Web Development Professional certification, you must pass three core exams:  CIW JavaScript Specialist, CIW Database Design Specialist, and CIW Advanced HTML5 & CSS3 Specialist.

It’s fair to mention that although previous versions of this certification required passing the CIW Perl Specialist exam, this is no longer a prerequisite due to its retirement. But for those who’ve already achieved it, the credential remains valid.

PRICE

$150 for each of the three exams required

RATING

4.7/5 on Edusum

FEATURES

  • Modular certification structure, allowing for step-by-step professional development
  • Recognized and valued in the corporate IT sector
  • Access to valuable resources and study materials
  • Legacy recognition for candidates who passed the retired CIW Perl Specialist exam

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

No

MIT xPRO: Professional Certificate in Coding: Full-Stack Development With MERN

MIT xPRO’s Professional Certificate in Coding: Full Stack Development with MERN is an advanced online certification program in collaboration with Emeritus. Students learn to use the MERN stack, including front-end and back-end development.

The course curriculum is divided into three primary modules: Web Development, Front-End Development/React, and Back-End Development. Each module is structured to provide a holistic learning experience emphasizing the real world.

Students will create a GitHub portfolio, showcasing their proficiency to potential employers. Beyond the technical aspects, the program teaches essential career preparation skills, guiding participants in areas ranging from crafting the perfect elevator pitch to acing interviews.

PRICE

US$7,650 (Discounted to US$6,808 with early enrollment)

RATING

4/5 on Course Report

FEATURES

  • Insights and hands-on coding demos from renowned MIT faculty
  • GitHub portfolio to share with potential employers
  • Organized into clear modules
  • Specialized guidance on web development career preparation and navigation
  • No prerequisites

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

No

W3Cx Front-End Web Developer Professional Certificate

The W3Cx Front-End Web Developer Professional Certificate is designed and curated by the renowned World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) and teaches students how to incorporate modern HTML5 tags, implement CSS best practices, and develop interactive web apps using JavaScript.

It focuses on fostering creativity, precision, and efficacy. Besides the theory, the course is packed with interactive examples so students get a practical understanding of the front-end development field.

PRICE

$895.50

RATING

9.1/10 on BitDegree

FEATURES

  • Inclusion of interactive examples for hands-on practice
  • Emphasis on web accessibility and internationalization
  • Self-paced learning, allowing flexibility
  • Expert instruction spanning five skill-building courses
  • Endorsed by industry leaders

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

No

University of Michigan on Coursera: Web Design for Everybody: Basics of Web Development and Coding Specialization

In collaboration with Coursera, the University of Michigan offers this valuable web development certification perfect for beginners and advanced professionals.

It’s taught by industry veterans such as Charles Russell Severance and Colleen van Lent, and provides a thorough overview of the core fundamentals of web design, namely HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript. Through its application-oriented approach, students craft mobile-responsive and universally comparative websites.

What’s beautiful about this certification program is its focus on inclusivity, offering accessible modules and learning materials for those with visual, auditory, or cognitive disabilities.

PRICE

Free with a Coursera subscription

RATING

4.8/5 on Upskillwise

FEATURES

  • Flexible learning schedule
  • Includes a capstone project
  • Practical application of the Document Object Model (DOM) for page modification
  • Techniques for designing responsive sites for various devices
  • Shareable certificate upon completion

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

No

Dr Angela Yu On Udemy: The Complete 2023 Web Development Bootcamp

The “Complete 2023 Web Development Bootcamp” on Udemy, crafted by Dr. Angela Yu, is a masterclass that transitions learners from novices to proficient full-stack web developers.

Unlike traditional courses, this bootcamp covers almost all aspects of web development within one program. It teaches tools and languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Node, React, MongoDB, Web3, and even DApps.

The course stands out because of the rigorous curriculum developed over four years with student feedback. Featuring a 4.8 average rating, it demonstrates the quality of content and teaching methodology employed by Dr. Angela Yu, the lead instructor from London’s App Brewery.

PRICE

$24.99

RATING

4.7/5 on Udemy

FEATURES

  • Over 62.5 hours of on-demand video tutorials
  • 70 articles and 110 downloadable resources
  • Lifetime access, accessible on both mobile and TV
  • Includes the best-selling “12 Rules to Learn to Code” eBook

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

No

Learning Tree International: Web Development Certification

Learning Tree International’s Web Development Certification validates one’s skills as a web developer. As part of the program, a strong emphasis is placed on making sure web developers are proficient in secure and efficient web development, two crucial aspects valued by employers today.

The certification explores current web application-building tools and technologies at various levels, from foundational to advanced. In addition to training, this certification offers learners valuable credentials, which is why web developers who earn this certification can make an average of $97,000 annually.

PRICE

Not publicly specified

RATING

N/A

FEATURES

  • Certifications in HTML5, JavaScript, CSS3, and other modern web technologies
  • All certifications are tracked in the My Learning Tree Account for easy reference
  • Learners can achieve 2-Course Certified Specialist or 3-Course Certified Expert status

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

No

DevMountain: Web Development Immersive Bootcamp Course

An example of the transformative power of technology education is DevMountain’s Web Development Immersive Bootcamp Course. This course is the perfect fit for students who wish to make a name for themselves in web development.

The bootcamp focuses on the React framework and library and introduces key tools and languages such as JavaScript, NodeJS, and PostgreSQL.

The curriculum is project-based and focused on both front-end and back-end development skills. The students can take the course online or in person, with the flexibility of full-time or part-time schedules.

PRICE

In-Person (Full-Time): $7,000

Remote (Online, Full-Time): $9,900

RATING

4.6/5 on Course Report

FEATURES

  • Options for full-time or part-time schedules
  • Project-based learning approach
  • Dedicated training for both front-end and back-end development

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

No

General Assembly: Front-End Web Development Course

General Assembly’s Front-End Web Development Course offers an in-depth exploration into coding, teaching students the fundamental building blocks of the web, interactivity mechanisms, and advanced topics like responsive design, APIs, and version control with tools like GitHub and Git.

Its curriculum was created by the General Assembly’s front-end advisory board and gives students access to a platform for networking with more than 80,000 GA alums.

The course format is also flexible and designed to fit the schedules of working professionals. Students can enroll in the 10-week evening course online or at one of General Assembly’s global campuses.

PRICE

Contact admissions for pricing in your area

RATING

4.3/5 on SwitchUp

FEATURES

  • Access to GA’s huge global alum network with 80K+ members
  • Self-paced preparatory lessons available post-enrollment
  • Expert web developers offering individualized instructor support
  • Networking events and workshops
  • Opportunities for tuition reimbursement

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

No

CWP Web Developer Certificate

The CWP Web Developer certificate requires candidates to have more than two years of relevant work experience, but no degree is necessary. It’s a valuable certificate, popular among senior web developers, lead developers, or web app developers.

The certificate offers benefits both to its members and to employers.

PRICE

Not publicly specified

RATING

N/A

FEATURES

  • Recognized across various web developer roles
  • Emphasis on practical work experience over formal education
  • Renewal system
  • Enhances professional credibility and employability

JOB GUARANTEE?

No

MENTORSHIP?

No

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What Makes a Good Web Developer Certification? Our Criteria Explained

To sift through the vast amount of web development certifications out there, we asked our panel of coding experts to determine a set of criteria that any certification should meet. Here’s what we think are the hallmarks of a web developer certification that’s worth it.

Curriculum

When researching the curriculum, make sure it isn’t just filled with fluff. What are the top two things to hunt for? First, does it cover the programming languages or frameworks you want to specialize in? If you’re excited about a career in JavaScript, you wouldn’t want to end up in a Python-only bootcamp. Secondly, compare the curriculums of different online courses. The more extensive, the better. 

Accreditation / Certification Value

Before enrolling in a course, ask yourself: Is the course accredited by some recognizable institution? In the tech world, reputation can be a game-changer. 

Even if it’s not accredited, you should aim to enroll in a course that’s reputable in the tech community or amongst employers. A quick tip: peek into where the alums are now. Did they land lucrative jobs or start awesome projects? That could be you if the certification holds weight.

Instructors’ Expertise 

Before enrolling in a course or certification program, make sure that the instructors are experts in their fields. They should have plenty of knowledge and experience within big companies and extensive knowledge of various programming languages. 

Flexible Learning Options

Life can be a whirlwind, especially if you’re juggling work, school, or both. That’s why the flexibility of a course is a huge plus. Different certification programs offer different schedules. These can be part-time, full-time, online, or even self-paced. Research them and choose the one that fits your own schedule.

Reviews and Ratings

Before you hit that enroll button, pause and dig into the reviews. What are other students saying? Is there a pattern in the feedback? While a negative review here and there is normal, the overall vibe should be positive. Get a feel of the experiences of others.

Making the Most of a Web Developer Certification

Ask yourself these questions to make the most of your journey.

How Does a Web Developer Certification Work?

A web developer certification is more than a piece of paper. A certification program is usually structured around a well-defined curriculum, where you are engaged in a mix of theoretical lessons, hands-on coding challenges, and real-world projects.

The objective is for you to become a competent web developer, ready to tackle any challenge once you get a job or change careers.

What Should You Expect To Learn From a Certification Program?

The curriculum usually covers the foundational elements of web development, ranging from understanding basic programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to more advanced topics like responsive design, back-end programming, and database management. 

A good certification program will also introduce you to best practices in web design, user experience, and even aspects of digital marketing. By the end of your journey, you should be capable of building functional, aesthetically pleasing, and user-friendly websites and have both the technical skills and the strategic mindset to drive meaningful change within an organization.

Are There Any Prerequisites for a Certification?

While some advanced courses might require a basic understanding of programming or prior experience in IT, many foundational courses are created for absolute beginners. 

These entry-level programs start from the very basics, making sure that anyone—irrespective of their background—can understand the concepts and build their coding skills from the ground up. 

To be sure the certification program aligns with your current skill level, take preparatory courses or engage in self-study. 

Web Developer Certification FAQs

We answer your most frequently asked questions.

What Is a Web Developer Certification?

A web developer certification formally recognizes your skills and abilities as a web developer. It’s generally provided by educational institutions, software companies, or professional organizations.

These certifications involve a combination of coursework, hands-on projects, and sometimes exams you must pass to earn the credential. The areas covered by such certifications range from foundational web development topics like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to more advanced subjects like full-stack development, responsive design, or specialized frameworks and libraries.

Is a Web Developer Certificate Worth It?

Yes. A web developer certificate is certainly an investment that has the potential to provide great returns, especially for those new to the field or looking to solidify their foundational knowledge. It introduces beginners to key concepts, tools, and best practices in web development. For professionals, it’s a credential that validates their skills, making them more marketable or aiding in their career progression. 

Can I Get a Job After Acquiring a Web Developer Certification?

Yes, acquiring a web developer certification can increase your chances of landing a job in the field, but it’s not the only factor employers consider. They also place a significant emphasis on practical experience, a portfolio of projects, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in a team.

What Kinds of Web Developers Are Most in Demand?

The demand for specific types of web developers can vary based on regional needs, technological advancements, and industry trends. 

Historically, full-stack developers—who are skilled in both frontend and backend development—have been highly sought after since they have a skill set that allows them to handle various aspects of a project. With the rise of sophisticated web applications and technologies, there’s also a growing demand for specialists like front-end developers focusing on user experience and interface or back-end developers who handle databases and server-side operations. 

Since you’re here…
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About Sakshi Gupta

Sakshi is a Managing Editor at Springboard. She is a technology enthusiast who loves to read and write about emerging tech. She is a content marketer with experience in the Indian and US markets.