what is a full stack developer?

A full stack developer works with the entire depth of a computer system application from the front-end to the back-end of an application. Since you will straddle both domains of web development, you need to understand the programming languages used in the front-end and back-end sides of a website.

As a full stack developer handling the front end of an application, your job is to design web pages to improve user experience. You create the layout and add artistic features to improve the website's usability. Apart from enhancing the appearance of websites, you ensure they are responsive to various devices and have optimal speeds for the users.

what does a full stack developer do?

Your job also focuses on creating a back end that allows the front-end website to exist. You refine the code that communicates with databases, servers and application programming interfaces. Hence, you need to learn how to code in back-end programming languages and manage databases.

Most companies rely on full stack developers to spot errors affecting a website's front and back-end sides. Your versatility is crucial in incorporating new technologies into web development since you can point out the impact on the technical side and the layout of an application.

Would a career in IT be something for you? Would working as a full stack developer suit your interest in coding and technology skills? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a full stack developer role.
 

full stack developer jobs
1

average salary of a full stack developer

According to National Careers, the earnings of a full stack developer start at £20,000 annually. Experienced full stack developers receive an average salary of £50,000 per year. Aside from the basic salary, full stack developers also receive various allowances and non-monetary benefits. For instance, you will receive medical allowances, overtime pay for long hours and paid vacation time. Some companies also pay bonuses at the end of the year and other incentives.

what factors affect the salary of a full stack developer?

As a full stack developer, your salary mainly depends on the project you are working on and your expertise. While you don't need formal training to excel in your role, proficiency in programming languages improves your prospects and compensation package. Having a few years of experience and formal educational qualifications also improves your earnings due to the transferrable skills you have.

The company size also influences your earnings. For instance, when creating a web application for a small-scale business, the work involved is straightforward. Large companies incorporate various functions to their sites; hence the work involved is complex, and they are willing to pay more for the additional work involved.
 

Male with blue glasses looking at a computer screen sitting at a desk
Male with blue glasses looking at a computer screen sitting at a desk
2

types of full stack developers

As a full stack developer, you can specialise in the following types of web development:

  • front-end developer: as a full stack developer in charge of the front-end design, you improve the web layout and enhance user experience. Since your focus is on the client-side, you use your artistic creativity to boost appearance and functionality. It is also essential to optimise the speed of the website.
  • back-end developer: your job is to build the code that runs the website and enables the front-end functionality. You also connect the website to the databases to ensure data flows properly and functions are processed accurately.
     
3

working as a full stack developer

When you love coding, you will enjoy working as a full stack developer. Let's explore your duties, responsibilities and work environment.
 

4

education and skills

Some of the routes for becoming a full stack developer include:

  • university course: to become a full stack developer, you should study a foundation degree or a bachelor's in web design and development or other related fields. A degree in computer science, software engineering and digital media development can also land you a position as a full stack developer. You need 1 or 2 A Levels to qualify for a foundational degree, while an undergraduate requires 2 to 3 A Levels.
  • college: a college course can get you a full stack developer position if you have exceptional coding skills. Some of the courses include Level 3 Diploma in web design, T Level courses in design and development and Level 4 Diploma in software development.
  • apprenticeship: if you are a good programmer and have basic coding skills, you can join an apprenticeship and become a trainee developer.

skills and competencies

You need the following skills to advance your career as a full stack developer:

  • programming skills: a full stack developer needs exceptional coding to develop website frameworks and incorporate various functions. For instance, it is important to be conversant with Hypertext Markup Language used to create user interfaces and determine how a web page can be displayed.
  • web architecture: as a full stack developer, you should be an expert in web architecture and understand the code structure to help you build a server-side that meets users needs. With skills in web architecture, you can separate your files and perform computational tasks.
  • attention to details: as a developer, it is vital to pay attention to the code you are creating. Being detail-oriented ensures you create a functional application and website. You can also save time by avoiding errors and creating a perfect website.
  • creative thinking: as a front-end developer, you need to design a visually pleasing website and add functionality. Creativity also helps you develop a responsive website that users will enjoy using.
  • problem-solving skills: you will face obstacles and challenges as a full stack developer. Sometimes, you hit a snag in the coding phase. You need problem-solving skills to resolve the issue and work efficiently.
     
smiling male sitting next to his computer
smiling male sitting next to his computer
5

FAQs

FAQs about working as a full stack developer

thank you for subscribing to your personalised job alerts.