Because of great career perspectives and high market demand, more and more people want to join the software engineering arena, learn Java and other popular programming languages.
There are many different directions in programming, but full-stack developers who can work on both backend and frontend sides are always in demand with Java as one of the most suitable languages for universal use. So, let's see how you can become one!
What is a full-stack developer?
A full-stack developer is both a front-end (client-side) and back-end (server-side) performer. This implies that they should comprehend the full-stack technologies behind an implementation of a website. They are highly skilled in frameworks, Application Programming Interfaces (API), version control, networks, servers, web hosting, and domains.
Full-stack developers transform user specifications into the general construction to utilize the new system. A skilled full-stack engineer should understand how to work on both client and server sides and pay attention to each detail. In plain English, they are technological jacks of all trades.
As in any other profession, there are certain pros and cons involved. Here are some of them.
Full-stack developers are ideal for small projects They are in high demand because many projects start with universal soldiers rather than a big team They can multitask and support different aspects of the process at a time It's easy to freelance (as the main income stream or in your spare time) if you're a full-stack developer having versatile skills In big companies, specialization is often more appreciated (but we don't say full-stack engineers are not required there, at all) Multitasking may turn into lower productivity and worse time management Often, full-stack engineers are middle-level generalists not really efficient at complicated tasks — but it deeply depends on specific skills and experience
Advantages
Disadvantages
Skills and Requirements
We are proceeding to one of the most exciting parts: what skills you need to be a full-stack developer.
Is a university degree essential?
A degree in Computer Science definitely won't hurt. A university degree requirement is typical for this position in many companies, as it gives you a solid set of skills which includes not only programming, but also project management, soft skills, and often such additional but highly useful knowledge as Visual Design, Project Design, and UI/UX.
A full-stack engineer becomes much more valuable on the market if they are knowledgeable about adjacent areas and able to program with a deep understanding of the specific requirements and the why's.
Skills to obtain
First of all, you must specialize in at least one particular backend programming language, such as Java (one of the most popular choices thanks to its versatility), PHP, C #, Python, Ruby, Perl, and be able to use one or more additional backend systems.
A full-stack engineer should also be proficient in HTML and CSS and have a good understanding of JavaScript frameworks and libraries.
An excellent candidate should possess an adequate command of Typescript and work with databases and know database technologies, such as MySQL, Oracle, and MongoDB.
Additional skills that are considered a necessary set for a full-stack developer include:
- security concerns and best practices in information security,
- version control (systems for tracking changes made in websites, programs, or documents),
- communication skills to effectively cooperate with team members,
- high problem-solving skills to find the best solutions,
- and attention to detail related which is a must for any developer.
Responsibilities
Your responsibilities may vary widely depending on the specific project you're working on. They may typically include:
creating frontend website architecture, designing user interactions on web pages, developing APIs, developing backend website applications, creating servers and databases for functionality, ensuring cross-platform optimization, etc.
Throughout your work, you will closely interact with project managers, graphic designers concerning web design features, and other team members involved in the process. You'll be able to see through a project from the beginning to end which is also a precious experience.
Your final goal as a full-stack developer is to meet technical and consumer requirements by keeping up with web application and development trends.
How to learn Java to become a full-stack developer
To become an outstanding full-stack engineer, you need to embrace many spheres, and one of the highly-desired skills in Java programming. It would definitely be necessary to learn more than Java language to make your dream of becoming a full-stack developer come true. However, Java, being one of the most widely-used technologies, is an excellent start as it automatically boosts your chances on the job market.
A great platform to begin your career by learning Java is CodeGym. One of the benefits of this website is that you learn by doing: here, you can get access to the courses and learn Java with over 1200 engaging gaming tasks.
Conclusion
Many organizations need people who can develop a functional app or a website from scratch. When all the necessary skills are accumulated in one person, it becomes a great benefit to an employer. Full-stack developers are in high demand because they are valuable employees in many companies at different scales. Therefore, being a full-stack developer, you can rest assured that you won’t be short of job opportunities. So, don’t hesitate; start learning today!