The Best Online Web Development Courses, Classes, and Training

Web development is a good career to start today with the high demand for professionals. If you’re considering a career in web development but aren’t sure where to begin, online web development courses may be the answer. The best web development courses online are an excellent way to acquire the skills you need.

Web development courses are in high demand these days, especially as homebound folks look to expand their marketable skills. In this guide, you will learn everything there is to know about online web development courses, including the top schools and programs available. An online course, class, or training program could be what you need to take the next step and break into tech. 

A web developer course teaches students programming languages, web design, computer science basics, and other skills to make them job-ready. Online courses provide a lot of flexibility for people who want to learn web development and earn a professional certificate so they can get started in the field. 

Read on to learn more about what you can expect in a web development course and discover some of the best courses out there, including online web development courses free of charge to help you expand your skills and save money.   

What Is Web Development?

Web development is the process of researching, designing, and maintaining a website, as well as ensuring that users have a positive experience. The process includes web design, web content development, client-side scripting, server-side scripting, and network security configuration. 

With web development skills, you can build modern web applications, enhance website user experience, and even learn how to build mobile applications. There is a wide range of careers that you can access when you learn development programming. Modern web development is just the beginning of your learning path.

Questions to Ask Yourself Before Attending an Online Web Development Course

Which Aspects of Web Development Would You Like to Learn?

Deciding whether to pursue front end development, backend development, or full stack development is a crucial consideration when choosing from the best web development courses online. Considering which aspects of web development you’d like to focus on will help narrow down the wide range of options available.

Someone who enjoys creating the design and the styling of websites may prefer to only study front end development. However, studying a full stack program might be the best idea, especially if you want to improve your chances of getting hired quickly. Professionals who can do both the front end and the backend work are typically more desired than those who specialize. 

What Can You Learn in a Web Development Course?

In a web development course, you will learn programming languages like Python, C, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, just to name a few. You will learn to build a responsive website with web applications.

You can also take specialized courses that will prepare you for specific kinds of web development. For example, you can take a full stack developer course if you want to learn both backend and front end web development, meaning you develop web apps for both client and server software. Understanding the server-side of web development will make you a more well-rounded programmer overall.

Learning how to code a website is still a highly-marketable ability. Depending on who your friends are, it may feel like everyone is starting to learn to code. But, in the grand scheme of things, coding is an uncommon and profitable skill that will make you extremely employable. 

What Can You Learn in a Web Development Course?

In a web development course, you will learn programming languages like Python, C, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, just to name a few. You will learn to build a responsive website with web applications. 

You can also take specialized courses that will prepare you for specific kinds of web development. For example, you can take a full stack developer course if you want to learn both backend and front end web development, meaning you develop web apps for both client and server software. Understanding the server-side of web development will make you a more well-rounded programmer overall.

Learning how to code a website is still a highly-marketable ability. Depending on who your friends are, it may feel like everyone is starting to learn to code. But, in the grand scheme of things, coding is an uncommon and profitable skill that will make you extremely employable. 

What Kind of Web Development Courses Are There?

Schools and companies within and outside of the United States offer courses in a variety of different formats. The vast majority of courses are online and some are even free online classes. 

That said, some are only accessible after paying a hefty price. You might even find a course including career development and job placement services. Below is our list of the most widely-available web developer courses out there.

Should You Attend a Coding Bootcamp to Learn Web Development?

Yes, you should attend a web development bootcamp because coding bootcamps are designed to equip students with in-demand skills in a specific field. Most bootcamps also offer career services like resume workshops and job placement, which means you’re more likely to find a job after graduation. 

The Best Online Web Development Courses: An Overview

There are hundreds of online web development courses and classes out there that you can choose to learn from. However, not all of them cover relevant topics and provide the hands-on training required to become an expert web developer. The table below highlights a few of the best online learning platforms to receive web development online training.

The Best Online Web Development Classes, Courses, or Training

The best web development courses online offer students flexibility in learning and attentive instruction. Below are some of the best online courses for web development as well as the best web development tutorials today.

Web Development Course Online | BrainStation

• Learning Format: Online training
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: HTML, static web pages, visual studio codes, CSS, Google Chrome

This live course is offered by BrainStation, a well-known coding bootcamp. The course is designed to teach students how to create websites using HTML and CSS. Students will gain hands-on experience and apply their newly acquired skills to create a website for their portfolio.

The instructors who teach the courses are experienced industry professionals and experts in the field. The curriculum is designed to equip students with current, practical, and in-demand skills. It covers topics such as HTML, CSS visual styling, flexible layouts, web components, responsive design, and advanced web concepts.

Key Takeaway: This course includes hands-on training that will help students build their portfolios and earn a certificate for LinkedIn and other platforms.

Full Stack Web Development Program | CareerFoundry

• Learning Format: Online training
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: HTML, CSS, JavaScript basics, Node.js, React, React Native

This course from CareerFoundry is designed to equip students with relevant skills, tools, and processes to become professional web developers. The school provides students with one-on-one expert mentors and tutors to students in order to provide feedback. The course includes a job guarantee, so you can get your money back if you don’t find a job. 

Students can also take advantage of career services to help them prepare for the job market and stand out in interviews. Throughout the program, students will work on real-world projects that will help them build portfolios and gain a competitive advantage in the job market. The curriculum covers topics in front end development and full stack immersion. 

Key Takeaway: Students gain hands-on experience during the program to help build their portfolios through real-life projects.

Web Development | Codecademy

• Learning Format: Online course
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: JavaScript, Node.js, SQL, Express.js, React, TDD

The web development course by Codecademy is designed to help students with no coding knowledge or experience start a career in web development. The program will start by equipping students with skills in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, followed by backend and APIs. 

Students will be able to build the backend of a web application and create their own API by the end of the program. Throughout the program, students will work on projects that will be included in their portfolios to show potential employers. The course also includes career guidance to assist students in determining their career paths.

"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"

Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot

Find Your Bootcamp Match

Key Takeaway: The course is the perfect choice for those on a budget, and you can still get a certificate when you finish.

Professional Certificate in Front End Web Developer | edX

• Learning Format: Online course
• Level: Intermediate
• Subjects Covered: HTML5, CSS, JavaScript, web graphics

This course is designed by the W3C (World Wide Web Consortium) and aims to teach students the skills needed to create interactive and responsive user experiences. The course focuses on HTML5, CSS, and JavaScript. Each module or class includes interactive examples that allow students to put what they’ve learned into practice.

Key Takeaway: This course focuses on web design, which makes it a great choice if you want to focus on the aesthetic aspects of web development.

Web Development Bootcamp | Ironhack

• Learning Format: Online
• Level: Beginner, Intermediate
• Subjects Covered: React, CSS, JavaScript, HTML

This bootcamp offered by Ironhack is an immersive, nine-week program designed to teach the skills necessary for students to find work in the tech industry. Ironhack offers payment options to help students achieve their goals, including installment payment plans and deferred payment plans.

The Ultimate Full Stack JavaScript Developer Bundle | Mosh

• Learning Format: Online self-paced course
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: SQL, React, Node.js, JavaScript, Angular

This course is intended to provide students with all of the skills required to become full stack developers. It combines theory and practice, covers both the front end and the backend, and includes real-world examples and exercises. The modules include SQL, JavaScript, and Angular.

Key Takeaway: The course offers a certificate of completion that can be added to your CV and LinkedIn profile.

Web Development Course Online | Shaw Academy

• Learning Format: This is a full course that includes hands-on training
• Level: All levels
• Subjects Covered: JavaScript, Bootstrap, PHP, jQuery, AJAX

This course will teach students how to build websites and web applications and train them in front end and backend set-up and coding. Students will learn the structure and components of websites, the purpose and function of front end and backend development, generating an appealing and responsive website, and database setup.

Key Takeaway: This course is approved by Austin Peay State University and gives students a certificate of completion at the end of the program.

Introduction to Web Development | Pluralsight

• Learning Format: Online self-paced
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, GitHub, Node.js

This introductory course from Pluralsight is perfect for people just entering the world of web development. It provides the skills and knowledge to newbies to coding and career switchers who want to learn web development concepts to see if it’s the right career path for them. Pluralsight offers a 10-day free trial after which the course costs $29 per month. 

Coding for Beginners 1: You Can Code! | Skillshare

• Learning Format: Online self-paced course
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: Scratch, Python, web development

This course is designed for absolute beginners in coding who want to focus on a specific coding language. It is a foundation course that will introduce students to coding concepts and start with foundation-level theory, pseudo coding, and practical exercise. 

Students will be given tests, assignments, and a project to create an app in Scratch and Python. Students will be able to design their own websites at the end of the program. After completing this course, students can choose to take another course that covers other top languages for web development.

Key Takeaway: This course is beginner-friendly to help students who have no prior knowledge of coding.

Front End Web Developer Boot Camp | The Tech Academy

• Learning Format: Online bootcamp
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, project management

This course is offered by The Tech Academy, a well-known bootcamp in the industry. The program focuses on front end web development and equips students with skills in three programming languages: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The program is one of the most affordable that the bootcamp offers and also works on a shorter schedule. 

The course covers computer and technology basics, software development, version control, HTML and CSS, JavaScript, project management, and a live project. Students are allowed to participate in a job placement course at the end of the program to help them prepare for the job market.

Key Takeaway: This course offers hands-on training that can be a great way for beginners to learn.

Front End Web Developer | Udacity

• Learning Format: Online
• Level: Intermediate
• Subjects Covered: CSS, JavaScript, the DOM, web APIs, HTTP requests, Sass

This course by Udacity focuses on front end development only, unlike the full stack course listed below. The aim of this course is to equip students with the skills to create dynamic and stunning websites and applications. Students will gain a basic understanding of necessary topics to turn them into front end developers.

Full Stack Web Developer Nanodegree | Udacity

• Learning Format: Online training
• Level: Advanced
• Subjects Covered: SQL, data modeling, API, identity access, server deployment

This program is intended for advanced developers who already have programming knowledge and experience. It will equip students with the relevant skills to build database-backed APIs and web applications. This course includes topics such as SQL and data modeling, API development and documentation, identity access management, and server deployment and containerization.

Key Takeaway: This nanodegree program’s hands-on training will help students in gaining the knowledge they need to become full stack web developers.

The Complete 2022 Web Development Bootcamp | Udemy

• Learning Format: Online bootcamp
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: HTML5, JavaScript, CSS3, Bootstrap, front end development, APIs

This is a comprehensive course designed for learners of all skill levels, including complete beginners. This program will equip students with the skills necessary to start careers as web developers, including skills in HTML5, front end web development, Node.js, APIs, SQL, and backend web development.

At the end of the program, students will be able to build any website, have a portfolio to showcase to employers, and be fluent in programming. The course is updated regularly with new content and web development projects to improve the course. It is one of the most comprehensive web development courses available on the Udemy platform.

Key Takeaway: Students will gain practical experience and work on projects that can be used to develop their portfolios and demonstrate their abilities to prospective employers.

The Web Developer Bootcamp 2022 | Udemy   

• Learning Format: Online self-paced
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, HTTP, Node, Express, MongoDB, the DOM, front end development, back end development, databases

This Udemy course is an up-to-date, fully loaded course to develop the skills necessary for front end and backend development. This course aims to make full stack developers out of all who study it. It offers 63.5 hours of videos and over 62 coding exercises to test your knowledge and give you hands-on experience.

The Complete Web Developer in 2022 | Zero to Mastery

• Learning Format: Online self-paced
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Node, React, machine learning

Learn to code from scratch and get hired after completing this web development program. Zero to Mastery promises the most up-to-date content in order to get its students ready to work in the tech industry as soon as possible. This thorough course offers 36 hours of lessons and students work on 10 projects to master their new coding skills and add to their portfolio of work.

The Best Free Online Web Dev Courses, Classes, or Training

Being able to study web development courses free of charge is a game changer for people who want to learn the skills but can’t fund a program. Free web development courses and free web development classes are just as capable of introducing and honing web development skills in learners of all experience levels as paid courses. Below are some of the best free web development courses online today.  

Web Design for Everybody: Basics of Web Development & Coding Specialization | Coursera

• Learning Format: Online course
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: Web development, HTML, JavaScript, web design, CSS

This course by the University of Michigan offered on the online learning platform Coursera will teach you how to correctly write HTML5 and CSS3, as well as how to create interactive web design with JavaScript. The course also includes a capstone project to help students build their portfolios to show potential employers their skills.

Key Takeaway: This course focuses on web design, which makes it a great choice if you want to focus on the aesthetic aspects of web development.

Introduction to Web Development | FutureLearn

• Learning Format: Online course
• Level: Intermediate
• Subjects Covered: HTML, CSS, JavaScript

This course is intended for those with prior programming knowledge who want to improve their HTML and JavaScript skills. Students will learn how to create a website with HTML, style it with CSS, and make it interactive with JavaScript. Students will also be introduced to the box model and the document object model.

At the end of the program, students will design and create their own website to practice the skills they have learned. This course requires students to be familiar with parameters and return values, so it’s placed at an intermediate level.

Key Takeaway: This course is free and a great choice for beginner-level programs working on a budget. The course also offers a certificate of completion for a fee.

Responsive Web Design Fundamentals | The Gymnasium

• Learning Format: Online self-paced course
• Level: Intermediate
• Subjects Covered: Typography and layout, navigation patterns, advanced enhancement

This course offers students hands-on training in developing high-performance, responsive websites. It is designed for students with prior programming experience who want to learn responsive web design. The course will introduce students to responsive web design strategies and teach them how to implement them using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. 

Key Takeaway: The program uses hands-on training to make learning easier for students. 

CS50’s Web Programming with Python and JavaScript | Harvard University

• Learning Format: Online course
• Level: Intermediate
• Subjects Covered: HTML, JavaScript, Python, CSS, SQL, Git, Django

This web programming course offered by Harvard University is available to students on the edX platform. Students who want to take this course must first complete the prerequisite, CS50. The course focuses more on the design and implementation of web apps with Python, JavaScript, and SQL using frameworks like Django, React, and Bootstrap. 

The course will help students work on different hands-on projects where they will write and use APIs, create interactive UIs, and leverage cloud services like GitHub and Heroku. At the end of the program, students will be able to design and build their own websites using the skills learned. 

Key Takeaway: This course is offered by Harvard University, one of the most prestigious universities in the world, and is highly respected by employers. 

Computer Programming | Khan Academy

• Learning Format: Online self-paced course
• Level: Beginner
• Subjects Covered: JavaScript, HTML, CSS, SQL

This free course from Khan Academy is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to start their careers as web developers. Its topics include an introduction to JavaScript, HTML/CSS, SQL, and advanced JavaScript. At the end of the program, students meet professionals in the industry and learn about their career journeys.

Key Takeaway: The program is free, which is a great option for learners working on a tight budget.

Web Development Course Certificates vs Certifications

Although certificates and professional certifications seem similar, there are a few key differences. A certificate is awarded upon successfully completing an educational program, such as an online course or bootcamp. You usually won’t have to complete a comprehensive exam like a certification would require.

Certifications are used to prove that you meet the required standards of the industry. They are usually offered by nationally approved third-party organizations to students who pass a required exam or meet a standard. Certifications are typically difficult to obtain because they may require you to meet certain requirements before taking the exam.

Importance of Web Development Certifications

Earning a web development certification will help you advance in your career and give you a competitive advantage. Employers generally regard certifications as evidence of your skills and potential, which means you can get better positions and earn a higher salary. An example is the Certified Web Professional – Web Developer from the International Web Association.

Are Web Development Certificates Worth It?

Yes, it is worth it to enroll in free online web development courses with certificates. Though it may not be the traditional way to get an education and start or advance your career, it is definitely becoming the most time and cost-effective way to learn specialized subjects.

By earning web development certificates, you are not only demonstrating to potential employers that you know what you are doing, but also that you put in the time and effort to learn these materials on your own time, presumably alongside working a job. Having that kind of motivation is especially admirable amongst potential employers, as they will see you are dedicated to your craft and will put forth your best work if they hire you.      

Online Web Development Classes, Training, or Courses: Which Is the Right Option?

There is no wrong option in choosing between online courses, training, or classes. You simply need to select the type of program that best fits your career goals and schedule. Courses are full programs that are divided into classes and last for several weeks or months. They are ideal for both beginners and professionals seeking to advance in their careers.

Classes are offered as one-time training to teach students the skills needed to be experts in a specific task or job, and they can be taken as part of a larger course. They can last a few hours or several days and are also known as lectures, seminars, or workshops. These are ideal for professionals looking to advance their careers and improve their skills.

Training is a hands-on program that teaches students the specific skills required to do a job. They could be part of a course or stand independently. An example is a capstone project in a full stack web development bootcamp. This is appropriate for all levels of learners, including beginners and professionals.

How to Choose the Right Online Web Development Course, Class, or Training Program

Cost

You should consider the cost of a program before enrolling, especially if you are on a tight budget. Some courses are significantly less expensive than others, and some are even free. If the school or platform is expensive, you can also see if there are any financing options available.

Length

Some courses last for a few weeks, while others can last up to six months. Before enrolling in a program, find out how long it will last to see if it fits into your schedule. The duration can also tell you how comprehensive the program is and how much it covers.

Curriculum

The curriculum should outline the topics covered in the program to decide if it is something you are interested in learning. You would not want to apply to a program that does not offer HTML and JavaScript for a web development course because these are essential skills in the field.

Hands-On Training

A program that provides hands-on training will be beneficial to beginners. It will allow you to build a portfolio that can be showcased to a potential employer, and assess how much you’ve learned from the program.

Certificate

An online certificate of completion program will help you improve your resume and increase your job prospects. It demonstrates to an employer that you possess the necessary web development skills and can handle the job.

College Degree vs Web Development Certificate

While having a college education and degree has always been associated with success, times are changing. For those looking to save a bit of money and learn a more specialized skillset, trade schools that offer certificates are a great option.

It is becoming more common for people to seek degrees and certificates through trade schools or specialized online courses. There are many vocational schools offering certificates in web development, and without the requirements of general education courses and four years of study, this is one of the quickest ways to become a web developer. 

Earning a college degree is still a huge accomplishment, and if this is your chosen path, you will definitely be able to start your career and advance to your dream job. There are plenty of degrees that allow you to become a web developer, though finding specialized web development degrees can be a bit more difficult. 

College Degree vs Web Development Certificate: Which Option Should You Choose?

For a more broad education, college is the best route to choose. If you want a more specialized education, certificates or free online courses are the best options. For the most specialized, time- and cost-effective option, free online courses are the way to go.

While it can be a difficult decision to choose between earning a college degree or earning a certificate from free online courses, the right choice is not the same for everyone. For example, consider the amount of time and money you are willing to put into your education. If you are willing to put more money and time into it, then your choice can easily be narrowed down to college or trade school.   

Why You Should Take Online Web Development Courses or Classes

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for web developers will grow by 13 percent between 2020 and 2030. This makes the career very appealing to anyone who wants to work in a field with above-average job growth. Taking an online course, class, or course in web development will give you the relevant skills necessary to start a career in the field.

It is also a good option for those who are already professionals in the field. An online program will help you upgrade your skills and give your career a boost. You will be able to apply for and land higher-level positions. If you want to advance your web development career, you should enroll in an online course.

​​As you have seen, there is no shortage of web developer courses for you to choose from. Instead of getting overwhelmed by choice, ask yourself some basic questions about what you’re looking for to help you make a decision:

• What do I want to learn?
• What am I interested in?
• How much time do I have?
• What’s my budget? 

Answer these questions and you’ll have a better idea of where to get started. If you want to continue to learn and grow after your web developer course, you might even consider enrolling in a coding bootcamp program.

Online Web Development Courses FAQ