How to become a web developer or programmer
Official title: Web developers and programmers
Also called: Web manager, Web developer, Web integrator, Web programmer, Web site developer, Back-end web developer, Front-end web developer, Internet site developer, Intranet site developer, Full stack web developer, Web application developer, Electronic business (e-business) web site developer
Web developers and programmers use a variety of programming languages to design, create and modify websites. They analyze users' needs to implement content, graphics, performance, and website capacity. They may also integrate websites with other computer applications. They are employed in computer software development firms, information technology consulting firms, information technology units throughout the public and private sectors, advertising agencies or they may be self-employed.
Main tasks
- Develop, write, modify, integrate and test Web site related code and web application interfaces
- Conduct tests and analyze data to monitor quality, security, user interface experiences and to identify areas for improvement
- Develop and implement procedures for ongoing web site revision
- Monitor and maintain Web site functionality
- May participate in Web site architecture and design in collaboration with designers or clients
- May research and evaluate a variety of interactive media software products
How to become one
A bachelor's degree, usually in computer science, computer programming, web development or software engineering or completion of a college program in computer science or related field is usually required. Experience as a computer programmer is usually required.
Ways in
- University: Computing & IT degrees, Offered by 15 universities in Canada
Pay · Outlook
- Median pay: $74,997 a year The middle half earn $60,938 to $89,993.
- About 28,700 people worked in this job in 2023, and about 33,100 are projected by 2033. (+15.3%)
- Projected labour market to 2033: balance.
Related jobs
- Computer systems developers and programmers
- Software engineers and designers
- Software developers and programmers
- Web designers
Not sure this is for you? Take the 2-minute career quiz
Questions people ask
How do I become a web developer or programmer?
A bachelor's degree, usually in computer science, computer programming, web development or software engineering or completion of a college program in computer science or related field is usually required. Experience as a computer programmer is usually required.
How much does a web developer or programmer earn in Canada?
Median full-time pay is $74,997 a year (Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank)). The middle half earn $60,938 to $89,993.
Is a web developer or programmer a growing career in Canada?
Yes. Employment is projected to grow 15% by 2033, from about 28,700 to about 33,100 people (Employment and Social Development Canada).
Do you need a degree to become a web developer or programmer?
Usually. 60% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
Sources
- Statistics Canada: Census 2021: employment by occupation, gender and education (98-10-0449) (2021 Census), Statistics Canada Open Licence, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Statistics Canada: National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 (Version 1.0), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada: Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) (2024 to 2033), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank): Wages by occupation (2025 (revised 2025-11-19)), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
Updated 2026-10-03
