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Career Profile

Web developer

Web developers use technical and creative skills to build and maintain websites and applications by writing code, testing functionality, resolving technical issues, and optimising performance, security and user experience.
Average weekly salary
$2252
Future demand
Very strong
Most common education level
Bachelor degree

What does a web developer do?

If you have an interest in creating websites, then becoming a website developer might be your next best step. A web developer plays an essential part in creating and maintaining websites and applications. They build, test and deploy websites using programming languages such as JavaScript, HTML and CSS. Website development services can also include optimising pages for search engines, ensuring security measures are in place, as well as ongoing monitoring to fix any bugs or errors that occur.

Within this profession you could work freelance, at a website development company, or in-house for marketing firms, government institutions, private companies, and IT firms.

Is a career as a web developer right for me?

If you're a big fan of technology and enjoy finding creative solutions, a career in web development may be right for you. Web developers need a mix of technical and professional skills, a keen eye for detail when building and testing websites, and a commitment to continuously learning new technologies in a fast-evolving industry.

Other skills and attributes beneficial for this role include: 

Digital and technical capability
Proficiency in using technology, digital tools, and relevant software.
Communication
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
Analytical thinking
An ability to analyse and interpret information.

Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.

How to become a web developer

A degree in web development will equip you with the skills, knowledge and professional network you need to enter the workforce. During your studies you will learn the foundational languages of web development including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Internships, freelance work, and contributing to open-source projects are also great ways to gain practical experience and build your portfolio - all of which makes you more employable.  

Every journey is individual and there are several paths to reaching your web developer goals. Here is one pathway you could take to becoming a web developer: 

  1. Complete a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, software development or a related discipline.
  2. Develop skills in web technologies and programming languages such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript.
  3. Build a portfolio of websites, applications or other digital projects to demonstrate your skills.
  4. Gain practical experience through internships or web development roles.
  5. Continue developing your technical knowledge and skills as web technologies, platforms and industry practices evolve.

Accreditation and qualifications

UniSQ's Bachelor of Information Technology is accredited at professional level by the Australian Computer Society (ACS) and recognised internationally through the Seoul Accord.

How long does it take to become a web developer? 

The time it takes to become a web developer can vary depending on the path you choose to take. Undergraduate degrees in web development such as UniSQ's Bachelor of Information Technology typically take three years, however, if you choose to study part-time, this can increase the time it takes to finish the qualification.

Start your journey with UniSQ

Launch your web development career with a UniSQ degree and gain the technical, creative and problem-solving skills valued across the digital industry.

Information Technology degrees
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Responsibilities and work settings

Day-to-day responsibilities

Designing, building and maintaining websites and web applications.

Writing, testing and updating code using programming languages such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript.

Testing website functionality, performance and compatibility across different devices and browsers.

Identifying and resolving technical issues, bugs and security vulnerabilities.

Collaborating with designers, content specialists and other stakeholders to create effective and user-friendly digital experiences.

Where you might work

Digital business and marketing agencies

Cloud computing and IT infrastructure organisations

Cybersecurity firms and security operations centres

Data analytics and artificial intelligence organisations

Software development and technology companies

Media, publishing and broadcasting organisations

Arts and creative organisations

Web developer FAQs

Possessing a formal degree in information technology or a related field can significantly enhance your career prospects.

A university degree provides a comprehensive foundation in key principles and practices, promotes critical thinking, and is often favoured by employers for more competitive positions. At UniSQ, we offer a range of degrees in information technology. These degrees will equip you with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and network with others also entering the industry.

Salaries for web developers (including freelance web developers) vary based on factors such as location, experience, and workplace setting. Refer to the salary information on this page for further details.

Yes, web developers are in high demand. The need for businesses to maintain robust online presences and the ongoing growth of e-commerce and mobile applications contribute to the strong demand for web developers. Web developers are also sought after in the education and training, financial and insurance, information media, and telecommunications industries.

Stay in touch

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Disclaimer: UniSQ’s Career Finder is a guide only. While reasonable care is taken to ensure accuracy, career information may change over time. Career statistics are sourced from Your Career and Jobs and Skills Australia. © Commonwealth of Australia. Licensed under CC BY 4.0. Salary figures listed on this page are in Australian Dollars (AUD).