Becoming a Full Stack Developer in New York
Full stack developers are the current talk of the tech industry. This emerging career path is suitable for versatile programmers, able to program both the visible parts of websites and the back-end portions, which are not visible to users. Programmers with this level of utility will need to have an in-depth knowledge of many different programming languages. Full stack developers are required to know both languages that tell the website what to display on the user’s screen, such as HTML, CSS and JAVA, as well as at least one language that improves website functionality such as PHP and RUBY.
Generally, in the past, web developers have focused on either front-end languages or back-end languages, requiring two or more programmers to work together to provide a client with a fully-functioning, eye-catching website. However, these days, full-stack developers are increasingly in demand, especially by big tech companies. Having the ability to work as a full stack web developer is also very useful to those who wish to work independently as freelancers, allowing one person to develop a website on their own.
New York State License and Training Requirements
There are no licensing requirements for web developers in New York State. Training for this in-demand career can range from obtaining a certificate to attending a master’s degree program; however, formal training is much less important than skill level and competence. For full stack web developers, training will be an essential consideration. Because of the need to learn multiple programming languages, a training program will likely be a necessity.
Training for Full Stack Web Developers in New York State
For those interested in becoming a full stack web developer, training programs focused on either front-end development or back-end development would be appropriate, as both skills need to be learned. Each set of skills can be built on through various training courses, many of which are available online. Some programs also offer full stack web developer training all in one place. A few possibilities in New York include:
- State University of New York, Plattsburgh offers a minor in Web Design and Programming, which can be taken as part of four different majors including Computer Science, Computer Security, Information Technology and Robotics.
- Full Stack Academy in New York City offers a program designed by industry experts with hands-on learning experience. Courses are offered on either a full-time, part-time or summer basis.
- Albany Can Code in East Greenbush aims to develop non-traditional talent in the tech industry. Grants are available for veterans, people with disabilities, unemployed and underemployed people as well as other demographics.
- Monroe Community College in Rochester offers training for front-end web developers. Courses include training in HTML, CSS, JAVA and other programs needed to work as a front-end developer.
Salary Expectations and Career Growth in New York
While the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not explicitly track salary information for full stack web developers, data for computer programmers and web developers reported an average annual salary of $92,500 and $82,910, respectively, in 2019.Indeed.com lists the average annual salaries for full stack web developers significantly higher at $112,986.
The employment outlook is similarly positive. While New York State specific data for growth is unavailable, those working as web developers can expect a 13 percent growth nationally between 2018 and 2028, according to Projections Central.
Opportunities for Full Stack Web Developers in New York State
Full stack web developers should find a plethora of opportunities in the field. Job possibilities include everything from working for a large tech company to running your own home-based business. Possible employers in New York include SIMULATE, The Princeton Group, Canoe Software and AETNA.