A Full-Stack Developer possesses comprehensive programming knowledge in front-end and back-end development. Since they are proficient in front-end and back-end languages and frameworks, they’ve earned the title of “jack of all trades.” In addition, they also know how to deploy, debug and maintain databases and servers.
A Full-Stack Developer can see the big picture because of their holistic knowledge of different aspects of the project. The breadth and depth of knowledge they have is a culmination of gaining several years of experience across a variety of roles in the field of web development. It has made Full-Stack Developers an increasingly valuable asset in the industry.
A Full-Stack Developer can execute the development and maintenance of complete websites and web applications. They can complete multiple tasks across the three layers of web development. Given their versatility, Full-Stack Developers can perform various roles and responsibilities.
Here we look at the roles and responsibilities of a Full-Stack Developer -
Apart from these responsibilities, a Full-Stack Developer may have to undertake the responsibility of team leader or manager. Given their ability to understand the project from the start to the end, they can share their insights on the project as a whole. It is a valuable asset to understand the big picture of a project.
As we have seen, a Full-Stack Developer performs multiple roles and responsibilities. A Full-Stack Developer is constantly learning and updating themselves on web development and its latest trends. It is in addition to the years of industry experience they have acquired in various roles and capacities throughout their career.
Given their high demand in the field, let us look at how to become a Full-Stack Developer.
· Understand your experience level:
Before starting as a Full-Stack Developer, it is necessary to evaluate your experience in the field. It includes accounting for one’s educational qualification in web development. Understanding your experience level as an amateur, a coding enthusiast, or a web development professional can help chart your journey as a Full-Stack Developer. Educational qualifications and previous industry experience can help map out your career goals.
· Define your goals:
Deciding your goals and interests before starting your journey as a Full-Stack Developer is critical. The goals and interests can vary from person to person. However, it can help you decide on the skills, technologies, and tools that are the right fit for your personal and professional objectives.
· Learn about the fundamental web development tools and software:
A Full-Stack Developer must know the fundamental tools and software for web development. Foundational knowledge in web development is vital to being successful in the field. Knowledge regarding computer and operating systems, text editors, browsers, and terminals is essential for full-stack development.
· Select a learning format:
Aspiring Full-Stack Developers have plenty of avenues to learn full-stack development. Deciding a suitable learning path is the stepping stone to becoming a successful Full-Stack Developer. The course chosen will depend on several factors, such as your goals, timeline, experience level, etc.
Some of the most common learning formats available are listed below.
a) Short-term boot camps
b) Structured self-guided courses
c) Degree programs
d) Books and tutorials
Full-Stack Developer certification can be earned through the best Full-Stack Developer course online through upGrad’s Executive Post Graduate Programme in Software Development- Specialisation in Full-Stack Development.
· Learn front-end development:
Front-end or client-side development involves developing and managing the visible part of the web application or website that deals with end-used interaction. Full-Stack Developers must be proficient in front-end languages, tools, and libraries. HTML and CSS are considered the building blocks of full-stack development. Learning the fundamentals of HTML and CSS usage is essential for front-end development. Other front-end tools also include JavaScript, Python, and Angular.js.
· Learn back-end development:
Back-end or server-side development involves building, maintaining, and refining the digital foundation of the website or application. It includes responsibilities regarding database operations, logical operations, and user validation. Back-end developers keep the website working. Some vital back-end tools (libraries, frameworks, and languages) are C++, Java, Python, PHP, NodeJS, and JavaScript.
· Learn about databases:
Databases store and organize data for websites and applications. A Full-Stack Developer must know how to program a database. Some popular databases used by web developers are Relational Database, NoSQL, Cloud Database, and Lightweight and Cache.
· Learn about Version Control Systems:
Version Control System records the changes made to the application files over time through which specific versions can be recalled when required. Git is a popular software to track changes made to an application file.
· Gain industry experience and build a portfolio:
Acquiring industry experience is the most significant factor in becoming a Full-Stack Developer. Work experience in various roles in the web development sector puts into practice your knowledge and can broaden your understanding of web development. Additionally, it is crucial to build a diverse portfolio to showcase your experience as a web developer.
A Full-Stack Developer is a jack of all trades with a comprehensive knowledge of the entire web development life-cycle. They combine the skills and knowledge of front-end and back-end developers. Full-Stack Developers build and manage the server and client-side of an application or website. Their skills and expertise make them invaluable from the inception to the launch of a website or application. So, Full-Stack Developers cater to both application functionality and user experience.
There are different sources available to learn full-stack development. There are primarily two modes for those who want to learn full-stack development -
a) Offline courses- These courses are taught in person by instructors and require students to be physically present at the venue.
b) Online courses- These courses are conducted virtually and are flexible in terms of location and time.
The best Full-Stack Developer course is the Executive Post Graduate Programme in Software Development- Specialisation in Full-Stack Development offered by IIIT-B through upGrad. It is a Full-Stack Developer course online for Software Developers, IT Professionals, Engineers, Analysts, Tech Support Professionals, and Freshers wanting to kick-start a career in software development. A Full-Stack Developer Certification is granted to those who complete the full-stack development course online.
Full-Stack Developers are multi-skilled professionals highly valued for their ability to execute the development of a project from start to finish. As such, they have experience using both front-end and back-end technologies.
Here we explore the skills required to be a Full-Stack Developer.
Front-end Languages
Back-end Languages
Database Management
Graphic Designing
Version Control Systems
Knowledge of Web Architecture
Testing Skills
Web Servers
Soft Skills
· Front-end Languages:
HTML and CSS are the two most essential front-end languages in which a Full-Stack Developer must have expertise. While HTML structures the content of a webpage, CSS is responsible for its presentation and visual layout. The two languages are the building blocks of an interactive web application.
· Back-end Languages:
Back-end languages are responsible for the functionality and logic of an application or website. A few significant back-end languages are - PHP, Python, and Java.
· Database Management:
Database store and organize data for applications or websites. Understanding and knowledge of databases are essential for a Full-Stack Developer. They should be familiar with database technologies such as MongoDB, MySQL, Oracle, and Redis.
· Graphic Designing:
Learning about graphic design can be beneficial for a Full-Stack Developer to understand the basic principles of designing prototypes. They should be able to use a few fundamental graphic designing tools like Figma, Photoshop, and Sketch.
· Version Control Systems:
A Full-Stack Developer must know how to use Versioning Systems like SourceTree, Git, and GitHub so they can recall previous versions of the application.
· Knowledge of Web Architecture:
Comprehensive knowledge of web architecture helps a Full-Stack Developer’s work more efficient, scalable, and reliable.
· Testing skills:
A Full-Stack Developer should have some experience in basic testing practices, automated-integrated testing, unit testing, etc.
· Web Servers:
Knowledge of web servers is necessary for a Full-Stack Developer. An understanding of web servers like Apache and Nginx can serve them well.
· Soft Skills:
Technical expertise is essential in a technologically intensive field like web development. Nonetheless, soft skills are also crucial for professional growth. A Full-Stack Developer should have soft skills like good communication skills, problem-solving skills, leadership and analytical skills, and creativity.
Having outlined the necessary skills required in a Full-Stack Developer, let us now look at the various layers of full-stack development.
Web development consists of a three-tier architecture. The entire process has three components or three layers.
a) Presentation Layer-
This layer deals with front-end development or the user interface. The user-side layer requires HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Additionally, it might use frameworks or languages like Angular and React.
b) Business Logic Layer-
This layer deals with data validation and processing data to generate information for the user. It involves back-end development and knowledge of languages like Python, PHP, JavaScript, and Node.JS.
c) Database Layer-
This layer deals with data storage operations behind the scene. It involves knowing various types of databases like MySQL, MongoDB, etc.
Different types of full-stack developers are skilled in using specific full-stacks available.
Below are a few popular stacks available.
· MEAN Stack
It is an end-to-end JavaScript stack. It includes MongoDB, Express.js, AngularJS, and, Node.js.
· MERN Stack
It is similar to MEAN stack though it replaces Angular with React.
· MEVN Stack
In this version of MEAN Stack, Vue.js replaces Angular as the front-end framework.
· LAMP Stack
It is a classic in full-stack development. LAMP stack consists of Linus, Apache, MySQL, and PHP.
· LEMP Stack
This stack is similar to the LAMP stack. However, Apache gives way to Nginx in this instance.
· Django Stack
This stack consists of Django, Python, and MySQL.
· Rails or Ruby on rails
This stack combines Ruby, PHP, and MySQL.
Web development involves multiple layers. Each layer serves a critical function in developing and maintaining websites and applications. Let’s learn more about them and understand their differences.
Front-end development is the client-side of web development. It includes developing and managing aspects of the website or application that involves user interaction. Front-end developers are responsible for the visible elements of the page like the search bar, layout, and buttons.
Front-end development necessitates knowing languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It requires knowledge of frameworks such as Bootstrap, AngularJS, ReactJS, and EmberJS.
A front-end developer develops the user interface depending on business requirements. Their responsibility is to balance aesthetics with functionality.
Back-end (Server-side) Development
Back-end development is the server-side of the application that is not visible to the user. It includes managing the functioning of the application, creating servers, working with databases and APIs, and maintaining security protocols. Back-end development enables the user-facing side of the website or application to function without being visible to the user.
Back-end development involves knowledge of server-side languages like PHP, Ruby, Python, Java, and JavaScript. It uses frameworks such as Django for Python, Laravel for PHP, and Spring for Java.
A back-end developer must write the business logic and integrate it with the front-end. Their responsibility is to build a system architecture.
Full-Stack Development
It involves the development of both the front-end and back-end of websites or applications. It includes project planning and managing the project's lifecycle from its inception to launch. Additionally, it includes reviewing and facilitating upgrades to websites and applications.
Full-stack development requires knowledge of front-end languages - HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Knowledge of at least one server-side language is essential. Some examples are PHP, Python, Ruby, and Java. It also uses frameworks from the front-end and back-end of web development. Further, it’s essential to know database management, Version Control Systems, and graphic design.
A Full-Stack Developer is responsible for the lifecycle of the web project. They combine the roles and responsibilities of both front-end and back-end developers.
Full-stack development takes a holistic approach to web development. A Full-Stack Developer is a multi-talented professional with the ability to execute the entire project. The versatility of full-stack development comes with numerous benefits.
Full-Stack Development offers the following benefits -
Cost-effective:
Full-Stack Developers can take charge of a project’s lifecycle. By taking care of both the client-side and server-side of web development, they can improve efficiency in the workflow. Further, it reduces the number of developers required for the project. It helps cut down costs and time requirements.
Increases efficiency:
Businesses can create and launch applications more quickly and easily with the help of full-stack development. It also helps them become more agile and adaptable to changes in the marketplace.
Improves scalability:
Full-stack development provides a web architecture that is robust and flexible that helps businesses improve the applications’ scalability.
Provides end-to-end solution:
Full-Stack Developers have expertise in dealing with all three layers of web development. Hence, they can engage with problems and find solutions across the three tiers of web development.
Improves user experience:
Full-Stack Developers can create a smooth experience for the end-user across channels. By managing the entire web development process, they create a more user-friendly and consistent experience for the user.
Ensures flexibility:
Full-stack development ensures that the developers can be flexible in what they are working on at any time. The developer can switch back and forth across all three layers of web development due to their expertise. As a result, problems and issues can be taken care of as they emerge.
Web development has become easy with the development of frameworks and libraries. Let’s learn more about full-stack frameworks and libraries.
Frameworks:
Frameworks are tools available to developers to build applications without manually creating generic codes from scratch. It increases the efficiency of a full-stack developer. Know-how of using a framework compatible with the programming language in which a full-stack developer is proficient is necessary for the industry. Knowledge of the latest full-stack frameworks can be advantageous for a professional.
Libraries:
Libraries are collections of codes that can be useful in building multiple programs. Developers can use pre-existing libraries in developing parts of their projects. It saves time and increases the efficiency of web developers. Libraries, like frameworks, use specific programming languages.
Here are some popular full-stack frameworks and libraries.
Angular- It is a front-end framework used to create dynamic websites on the client-end. It is a JavaScript framework that has been developed and maintained by Google.
Django- It is an open-source web framework named after the French composer and guitarist Django Reinhardt. The Python-based framework is compatible with building most kinds of websites from scratch.
Bootstrap- It is another popular open-source, front-end framework that can be used to develop websites and applications. Initially developed by Twitter, the framework is a blend of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Bootstrap can also be used to develop mobile-first websites.
Node.js- It is a cross-platform, open-source that runs on JavaScript. Node.js is a back-end framework that has made end-to-end web development in JavaScript possible for developers.
React.js- Another JavaScript front-end library, React is maintained by Facebook, Instagram, and a community of individual developers and corporations. It is used for developing a view layer for large applications and websites.
Spring Boot- It is a Java-based open-source framework developed by the Pivotal Team. Spring Boot helps reduce overall development time by introducing features like auto-configuration and Starter dependencies.
Flask- This is a popular Python-based, back-end framework developed by Armin Ronacher. It is a microframework that gives web developers the liberty to choose the DB ORM, session middleware, and templating engine.
Rails or Ruby on Rails- This popular back-end web development framework is based on the language Ruby. It has a Model-View-Controller application and facilitates using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create a user interface.
jQuery- It is a cross-browser JavaScript library that simplifies HTML DOM tree traversal and manipulation. jQuery is open-source software that provides CSS-like selectors.
GraphQL- This popular JavaScript library is open-source software. It was developed by Facebook but has since moved to the Linux Foundation. The library consists of the query language, type system, introspection, static validation, and execution semantics.
Full-Stack Web Development courses are available in two modes:
a) Offline course: These courses provide training where the instructor and student are present together in the same physical space. It encourages face-to-face interaction for curriculum dissemination.
b) Online course: In this mode, the course instruction takes place via the Internet and digital medium. Further, the classes can take place anywhere and at any time.
Given the two modes, let us explore why online courses on Full-Stack Development are better than offline ones.
Cost- Online courses are much less expensive than their offline counterparts.
Flexibility- Students have the option of learning at a time and in a place that is suitable to them. Online Full-Stack Development courses afford them the flexibility to access the curriculum at any time and anywhere.
Increases choice- A student can enroll in Online Full-Stack Development courses offered by any university or institution regardless of the location. It increases the choices available to a student in terms of course options.
Time consideration- Online courses do not require a student to be physically present at a fixed location. It eliminates the time to get ready and commute to a venue. Further, it is a viable option for professionals who have time-bound jobs.
Materials can be reused- Online resources are reusable. They are readily accessible and downloadable at the student’s convenience and for future reference.
The syllabus for a Full-Stack Development course may vary depending on the institution, objectives, and audience.
Let us look at what a Full-Stack Development course curriculum entails.
Introduction to Programming
Basic Data Structures and Algorithms
Introduction to Version Control, Git, Command-line Scripting
Basic HTML and CSS
Object-Oriented Programming
Database Designs and Systems
Server-side Development and Frameworks: Node.js, Express.js, MongoDB, Springboot, Hibernate, APIs
Introduction to Front-end Technologies: HTML, CSS, and Bootstrap
Introduction to JavaScript and React.js
Advanced Front-end Technologies
Integration of Front-end and Back-end
Deployment
Advanced Data Structures and Algorithms
Full-Stack Development has become the most sought-after skill in web development. The advantage of Full-Stack Development is two-fold: flexibility and versatility. In a precarious world, the two features have become highly valued assets in a profession. The well-rounded and multi-skilled Full-Stack Developers will benefit from the high demand for developers.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, there will be a 13% increase in the job growth of web developers and digital interface designers by 2030. In India, the IT sector became a net hirer in the financial year 2021-2022 and added 1,38,000 new jobs. Full-Stack Development is one of the most favored spaces in web development today.
The growth in Full-Stack Development will see some key trends in 2022. They are Artificial Intelligence (AI), Programming Language Trends, Blockchain, Low Code Development, Mixed Reality, Internet of Things (IoT), and Progressive Web Applications.
The demand for Full-Stack Web Development courses has skyrocketed recently. Growth in the Indian IT sector and web development jobs have driven demand for Full-Stack Developer courses. Companies are looking for multi-talented professionals who have versatile web development skills. Full-Stack Developers can create a cohesive application for the server-side and client-side as they have end-to-end expertise in web development. As a result, they make the project more efficient in terms of cost, time, and experience on both ends.
Full-Stack Development is yet to reach its full potential. It is one of the highest-paying professions in the IT sector with scope for immense professional growth. Flexibility is the key feature of Full-Stack Development which makes it enticing for developers trying to grow in their careers. It is a promising career path for web developers. A Full-Stack Developer certification or a programming language-specific course like Python Full-Stack Developer course can help career growth.
Full-Stack Developers are a hot commodity in the Indian IT industry. Their expertise in multiple web development languages, frameworks, and libraries positions them favorably in the job market. The role of a Full-Stack Developer includes tasks across a website's or web development's lifecycle. They fulfill various tasks depending on the project demands at a given point.
The salary of a Full-Stack Specialist can vary depending on several factors. Here we outline a few factors.
Salary based on employer
Here are the estimated salaries of Full-Stack Developers at India’s prominent IT companies:
Recruiter | Average Salary (per annum) |
Tata Consultancy Services | INR 452846 |
IBM | INR 659371 |
Infosys | INR 335000 – INR 424000 |
Accenture | INR 530241 |
Cognizant Technology Solutions | INR 240000 – INR 625000 |
Wipro | INR 420826 |
Oracle | INR 1390000- INR 1693000 |
Source: Glassdoor
Salary based on experience
Salary of a Full-Stack Developer depends on their industry experience. Here we look at the salary expectation of Full-Stack Developers based on their experience level.
Salary based on place of employment
The place of employment is a critical factor affecting salary. It is a result of the cost of living and the cost of real estate in the city.
Salary based on skills
A Full-Stack Developer is a highly-skilled specialist. The skills they have and their proficiency affects their salary.
Source: PayScale
Salaries of Full-Stack Development Specialist vary from country to country. The chart below outlines the average expected salary per annum across various countries.
Country | Base Salary per annum (US$) |
The United States of America | $99,274 |
Canada | $57,302 |
France | $48,939 |
Australia | $70,260 |
United Kingdom | $66,218 |
Singapore | $47,332 |
Japan | $34,209 |
Germany | $61,496 |
Several factors affect the salary of a Full-Stack Development Specialist abroad. Let us look at a few factors in detail.
1000+
Top Companies
50%
Average Salary Hike
Top 1%
Global Universities
Restaurant finder is a basic application that finds restaurants on the basis of their names and shows their details such as timings and menu.
True Value Seller is a static car selling and reselling website. It showcases different promotions and has a ‘Contact Us’ component.
Mobile Cart is a simple frontend application which allows authorised users to add different mobile phones and their respective information on a website which can then be viewed by different users.
The project aims to create a Phone Directory application which allows a user to add subscribers to a service by entering the subscriber’s name and phone number; and delete the subscriber if necessary.
With this application, which is named BookMyMovie, users can browse upcoming and released movies;
HireWheels is a car rental service application.
Full-Stack Development refers to the front-end (client-side) and back-end (server-side) development of websites and web applications. It is end-to-end web development in which the developer design and manages all three layers of applications or websites.
A Full-Stack Developer can undertake the front-end and back-end development of applications and websites. They are multi-talented professionals proficient in front-end technologies and at least one back-end language.
A Full-Stack Developer must be well-versed in front-end technologies, back-end technologies, and database management. Further, knowledge of version control systems and graphic designing can help them professionally. Soft skills are important for Full-Stack Developers who work with a team, deal with clients or hold managerial or leadership positions.
The responsibilities of a Full-Stack Developer are manifold. They are responsible for client-side and server-side web development, database management, holistic problem-solving, security protocols, and version control. Full-StackDevelopers may even have managerial and leadership roles.
Full-Stack Developers have comprehensive knowledge and understanding of web development. They are proficient in performing all the tasks related to web development and looking at the big picture. Full-Stack Developers can bring efficiency and optimize the performance of web applications and websites through their holistic approach.
Full stack refers to the combination of programming technologies, languages, and tools a developer uses for front-end and back-end web development of a platform, website, or application.
The web development process comprises three layers. The first layer is the presentation layer or the front-end that deals with the user interfaces. The business logic layer or the back-end deals with data validation, connectivity, and server. The third layer is the database layer which deals with the data storage operations.
Some of the most popular stacks in web development are MEAN stack (MongoDB, Express.js, AngularJS, and, Node.js), MERN stack (MongoDB, Express.js, ReactJS, and, Node.js), MEVN stack (MongoDB, Express.js, VueJS, and, Node.js), LAMP stack (Linus, Apache, MySQL, and PHP), LEMP stack (Linux, Nginx, MySQL, PHP), Django stack (Python, Django, MySQL), and Ruby on Rails (Ruby, SQLite, Rails).
Front-end or client-side development is part of the website or application that the client interacts with. It concerns the user interface, responsiveness, and performance of the website or application. Front-end development requires the knowledge of programming languages and frameworks such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Angular, JS, React.js, and jQuery.
Back-end or server-side development focuses on database management, web architecture, building code, framework utilisation, and troubleshooting. The back-end keeps the application, platform, or website functional. Back-end development involves skills in programming languages and frameworks like PHP, Python, Java, Node.js, C++, Django, and Ruby.
A full-stack development course can be an online or an offline course. It should prepare you to apply web development technologies and software to build websites, platforms, and applications. In-demand full-stack developer courses deal with fundamentals of web designing and development, technologies, language, and frameworks related to front-end and back-end web development, database architecture, debugging, and version control.
A full-stack project should involve front-end and back-end development and should bridge business and operations. Some project ideas for full-stack development may include but should not be limited to building an e-commerce platform, blog website, social media app, messaging app, food delivery website/app, content management system, newsletter service, workout tracker app, and project management dashboard.
Full-stack developers are in high demand across diverse sectors. A full-stack development course will make you industry-ready, offer you growth opportunities across diverse sectors even outside tech, prepare you to be part of game-changing technology, and enable you to negotiate a higher pay package.
A full-stack developer must know several languages, frameworks, and web development and design technologies. They are front-end languages and frameworks (HTML, HTML5, CSS, JavaScript, jQuery, Angular, ReactJS), back-end technologies and frameworks (Java, Python, Ruby, PHP, Node.js, SQL), database management systems (Oracle, MySQL, MongoDB, SQLServer), version control system (Git, GitHub, Subversion), web architecture, and web hosting platforms.
There are several career options in full-stack development, including developer, front-end developer, back-end developer, software engineer, web developer, web designer, test automation engineer, DevOps specialist, Java developer, cybersecurity specialist, and graphic designer.
There are many advantages of full-stack development. Firstly, it saves time and money and is therefore cost-efficient. Next, it increases efficiency and problem-solving capability, giving comparative advantages over competitors. Additionally, it improves the project's scalability, making the platform, website, or application more flexible. Customer experience can also significantly improve as full-stack developers can create a seamless user experience by handling the end-to-end development. Further, the application or website support and maintenance becomes easier. Finally, the product/s can be brought to the market faster.
Full-stack developers are in high demand, with the growth expected to continue in the future. They command lucrative pay packages in the field. Further, they can work across various sectors such as IT, financial institutions, and tech startups. Their versatility of skills gives them the freedom and flexibility of employment and enhances their productivity. Moreover, they can be more creative in planning, designing, and executing their project roles.
A full-stack developer’s career path offers immense growth opportunities. A typical full-stack developer enters the field in the role of a junior full-stack developer with limited web development experience. A mid-level full-stack developer has about five years of web development experience. A senior full-stack developer has approximately ten years of web development experience. Your career can advance further with the opportunity to take a directorial position. Ultimately, you can take up a leadership position as a Chief Technical Officer (CTO).
Several factors affect the salary of a full-stack developer. The most common factors are industry experience, skills and level of expertise, place of employment, and employer.
A full-stack developer has end-to-end knowledge of the web development process. They are valuable to companies as they make the development teams leaner. Moreover, they can execute the projects faster and manage them better as a result of their ability to handle all the stages of the process. Companies' productivity, efficiency, and profits also increase with full-stack developers in their employ as they lower costs. Lastly, knowledge of front-end and back-end web development allows them to communicate better with the client and problem-solve and design effectively, too.