Hi I want to be a website developer and what is the desireable way to get training to become a website developer (the best). College? If so, what degree should I obtain? BS IN CS, BA in CS, MIS, CIS, IT, or etc? If so, would I need to double major in art or minor?
OR
Should I just get an online training or certificate or go to a community college or some other route?
Thank you, serious answers please.
June 20th, 2010 on 12:26 pm
It really depends on what you want to do. These days, websites are not just about code, but visual presentation, information, data, and compatibility.
If you wish to be a web developer/coder, then a degree in computer science will likely suit you best.
If you wish to be someone who creates the graphic layout, the font style, the visual feel of the site, then maybe a degree in visual arts and graphics might be best.
If you want to run the company that makes websites, then a CIS degree is better because it offers some computer classes and business classes.
If you really want to know what you need to learn, try and find an internship at a company that does what you want to do. If you can’t find that near you, look for a company that does what you want and ask if they will consider creating an intern position for you.
I do web development and I’ve taken things from my math classes, art classes, business classes, and psychology classes to do my job. Over time, you create this mental toolbox you can draw upon to help you solve your customers problems.
It depends really on your abilities. I work with programmers who can’t draw a straight line and others who can paint a masterpiece but have a hard time doing OO programming. But most importantly, it appears you know that learning takes time and effort.
Good luck to you.
PS. I’d stay away from certification until you finish school or get a job that requires them. In this market(US), only the people selling the training are making any money on certificates.