What Is a Full-Stack Developer?

Building the front end and the back end of a website require different skill sets, both of which a full-stack developer has obtained. This type of specialized software developer is involved with all aspects of the development process, from client-facing user experience design to server-side database management.

Interested in a career as a full-stack developer? Enroll in the Microsoft Full-Stack Developer Professional Certificate program to learn how to build complete web applications with a tech industry leader.

What does a full-stack developer do?

Full-stack developers design and create websites and applications for various platforms. The job description for this role might include the following:

• Develop and maintain web services and interfaces

• Contribute to front-end and back-end development processes

• Build new product features or APIs

• Perform tests, troubleshoot software, and fix bugs

• Collaborate with other departments on projects and sprints

The world of full-stack development is large, and many new and evolving technologies continually push the limits of what a full-stack developer can create. Staying on top of cutting-edge technology and techniques in the full-stack development field is one of the many exciting aspects of working in this role.

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4 full-stack developer skills to know

Full-stack developers may be creative, graphically inclined, internet- and tech-savvy, and have excellent attention to detail. You’ll want to learn the following skills to have a career in full-stack development:

1. Front-end skills

Front-end development is the process of creating the interface of a website. It entails coding details like drop-down menus, fonts, colors, and page layouts. Full-stack developers should also know how to work with front-end technologies like HTML, CSS, and scripting languages such as JavaScript to make websites and applications visually viable and appealing.

2. Back-end development

Back end development entail using server-side programming languages like Python, PHP, Ruby on Rails, and CakePHP. These process require a strong knowledge of algorithms, cloud computing, and popular technology stacks, like MERN.

3. Web design

Web design includes using software such as Photoshop to create graphics, themes, and other visual elements of digital products. It’ll be helpful to familiarize yourself with basic UI (user interface) design principles to help you create navigational elements, backgrounds, and audio and video elements.

4. Database management

Data skills are required for full-stack developers, and they are also part of the skills needed for back-end web development. A full-stack developer should be able to design, understand, and manipulate database queries and web storage.

As a full-stack developer, you may need to know your way around a few of the following programming languages and tools:

• Angular JS

• Apache HTTP Server

• AWS

• CSS

• Ember.js

• JavaScript

• jQuery

• Laravel

• Microsoft SQL Server

• MySQL

• Nginx

• Node.js

• PHP

• Polymer

• React

• Ruby on Rails

• Vue.js

Why pursue a career in full-stack development?

A career in full-stack development combines creativity with analysis. As a full-stack developer, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn and implement innovative principles in your work.

Average salary and job outlook

The average annual salary of a full-stack developer is $125,000, according to Glassdoor, including bonuses, commissions, and profit-sharing [1]. The job outlook for full-stack developers is bright, as they are highly sought-after by employers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, software development positions are expected to grow by 17 percent between 2023 and 2033 [2].

How to become a full-stack developer

A formal education can provide a strong foundation for a full-stack developer career. Earning a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, or a related field equips you with the technical and workplace skills employers seek. Here's how to get started on your journey.

Consider earning a degree or equivalent experience.

Seventy-two percent of software developers hold a bachelor's degree, according to Zippia [3], although it’s not a strict requirement. Full-stack developers typically study computer science, computer engineering, or a related field. A degree can hone the technical and workplace skills necessary to be an effective full-stack engineer.

Read more: How to Become a Software Developer (With or Without a Degree)

Research entry-level roles.

You'll find various levels of full-stack development jobs. Search job sites for junior or entry-level full-stack developer positions to understand what skills employers are looking for in applicants. 

Read more: The Job Seeker’s Guide to Entry-Level Software Engineer Jobs

Develop your coding skills.

To be an effective full-stack developer, acquire and continue upgrading your knowledge of applicable programming language skills. Consider taking courses in relevant languages, such as Python, HTML, CSS, and Javascript. 

Build a portfolio.

A portfolio shows potential employers what you’re capable of by highlighting your best work. Gather projects you’ve completed through coursework or previous jobs. Include screenshots, and describe the technologies you used and your role in each. 

Read more: 7 UX Designer Portfolio Examples: A Beginners Guide

Practice technical interview questions.

Interviews for tech-related roles often include a technical portion. During this part of the interview, you may be asked to complete a live coding exercise, design challenge, or take-home assessment. You'll also be asked questions about your technical skills. Prepare by practicing answering questions you may be asked in a full-stack developer interview.

Glossary of full-stack developer terms

Full-stack development is full of unique terms. Below you will find a few of the frequent ones:

Angular JS: An open-source web application framework that Google maintains

API: Software that allows two applications to exchange information, short for application programming interface

Bootstrap: An open-source collection of front-end tools to create websites and apps

Flask: A micro-web application framework written in Python

Framework: A layered structure that provides a foundation for developing software applications

MEAN stack: A free, open-source JavaScript software stack to build websites and apps

Open-source software (OSS): Software that has a source code that can be modified, distributed, or integrated into other projects freely

PHP: Short for hypertext preprocessor, a server-side (back-end) scripting language for web development

Python: A general-purpose, high-level programming language 

Stack: A set of tools and technologies that developers use to do their jobs

Become a full-stack developer with Coursera

Develop your skills as a full-stack developer with programs from industry leaders on Coursera.

Begin a rewarding career in this profession with the Microsoft Full-Stack Developer Professional Certificate. Over 12 courses, you’ll develop a strong foundation in front-end development, working with modern frameworks like Blazor to create dynamic and responsive user interfaces. On the back end, you’ll work with .NET and learn how to manage databases, implement security protocols, and deploy applications in cloud environments.

Or, fill the gaps in your current skill set and compliment your existing experience by enrolling to earn Meta's Front-end Developer Professional Certificate or Back-end Developer Professional Certificate.