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Every website you see online consists of two halves: the front end and the back end. The front end鈥攐r 鈥渃lient side鈥濃�攊s the visual portion and includes everything that users see and interact with. The back end is the server-side portion of the site, which is made up of special code that dictates the site鈥檚 functionality and performance.

Both halves together are commonly referred to as 鈥渇ull stack.鈥� And thanks to skilled full-stack developers, users can engage seamlessly with many kinds of web and software applications. Read on to learn about full-stack developers, including what they do and how to become one.

What Is a Full-Stack Developer?

A full-stack developer is an IT professional skilled in assembling both the front end and back end of computer applications. In other words, they can handle every aspect of coding a web or software application, from creating the core structure and programming its functionality to refining and optimizing the user interface.

There are different kinds of full-stack developers, depending on their area of focus. For instance, full-stack web developers create traditional websites and web apps while full-stack mobile developers are trained to build apps for devices like smartphones and tablets.

Many full-stack developers work with or under the leadership of full-stack engineers. While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, a full-stack engineer typically works at a broader, more strategic level. Engineers focus on the computer system as a whole, ensuring all components integrate seamlessly, while developers concentrate on building and improving the functionality of individual applications. Together, both roles are essential for delivering fully integrated, high-performing software solutions.

What Does a Full-Stack Developer Do?

Full-stack developers draw on their experience in computer science and software development to see to all the needs of various types of software programs and web apps. They must be well versed in several programming languages鈥攍ike HTML, CSS, and Python鈥攖o create the foundational structure of software. These languages are human-generated instructions for computers to follow to complete certain tasks.

Common responsibilities of full-stack developers include:

• Designing and developing basic and specialized software components.
• Monitoring and testing software to optimize performance and eliminate bugs.
• Writing website code.
• Constructing web-based user experiences.
• Optimizing cross-platform compatibility.
• Implementing responsive design of applications for mobile devices.
• Collaborating with graphic and user experience (UX) designers to curate effective user interfaces.
• Developing application programming interfaces (APIs).
• Keeping up to date with technological innovations to optimize software.
• Accounting for security, automation, and scalability while developing.

How Do I Become a Full-Stack Developer?

To begin a career in full-stack development, you should first set some personal and professional goals that will help you reach your desired role. Most developers gain a combination of higher education and on-the-job experience to prepare themselves for success in the industry.

Consider these steps to becoming a full-stack developer:

• Earn a bachelor鈥檚 degree in software engineering, computer science, information technology, or a similar subject. Degree programs like these teach fundamental principles of programming, data structures, operating systems, databases, and more.
• Earn a relevant master鈥檚 degree. Not all full-stack developers hold a master鈥檚 degree, but you might consider earning one in software engineering or computer science to increase your opportunities for career advancement.
• Earn industry certifications. Credentials like CompTia Project+, ITIL 4 Foundation, and AWS Certified Solutions Architect can help you demonstrate a working knowledge of and competence in various IT disciplines. Industry certs are almost always in demand by employers in the field.
• Gain experience in a relevant internship or entry-level development job to learn about the daily tasks and responsibilities of full-stack developers.
• Grow a portfolio that showcases a variety of development projects built in different programming languages.

How Much Does a Full-Stack Developer Make?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the in May 2024 was $133,080. The lowest 10% earned less than $79,850 while the highest 10% earned more than $211,450. Full-stack developers can expect to earn a similar amount on average depending on factors like location, education, and experience.听

What Is the Job Outlook for a Full-Stack Developer?

The BLS states that is projected to grow by 17% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Full-stack developers can expect a similar job growth trend.

What Skills Does a Full-Stack Developer Need?

Full-stack developers need to approach their work with a unique combination of hard and soft skills, including the following:

• Understanding of front-end and back-end programming languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, Python, C#, and Ruby.
• Knowledge of front-end frameworks like Angular and React.
• Knowledge of back-end technologies, including databases and APIs.
• Experience with version control systems like Git.
• Familiarity with DevOps best practices and cloud platforms.
• Keen attention to detail.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Time management skills.
• Aptitude for problem-solving and creative thinking.