5 Free Certifications to Land Your First Developer Job
Skills are much more valuable than certificates any day. So why is getting certified still helpful?
If you have a degree in computer science or a related field, you probably don't need a certification when you start looking for software developer roles. But for those transitioning from non-tech or tech-adjacent roles, certifications can be a game-changer.
Working through a specific track whether a certification or course helps you identify your interests and makes learning essential skills for your target role easier. Moreover, several high-quality certifications offer a carefully designed curriculum, covering extensive coding exercises and projects. If you're aiming to become a developer, the following certifications will equip you with the relevant skills to succeed.
1. Responsive Web Design – freeCodeCamp
If you’re new to software development, freeCodeCamp's Responsive Web Design Certification is a great place to start. You'll learn HTML, CSS, CSS Grid, and Flexbox. The certification is structured as a series of mini-projects, ensuring you learn by doing.
Beyond the mini-projects, five key projects must be completed to earn the certification. Once you're comfortable with HTML and CSS, you can advance to learning JavaScript.
2. JavaScript Data Structures and Algorithms – freeCodeCamp
To succeed in front-end development, mastering JavaScript is crucial. After learning HTML and CSS, it's time to dive into programming with JavaScript.
freeCodeCamp’s JavaScript Algorithms and Data Structures Certification covers programming fundamentals, regular expressions, data structures, and algorithms with JavaScript. You'll also explore Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) and Functional Programming.
3. Front End Development Libraries – freeCodeCamp
Once you're proficient in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, it's essential to learn popular front-end libraries like React and Redux. freeCodeCamp’s Front End Development Libraries Certification will guide you through Bootstrap, jQuery, SASS, React, and Redux.
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With these skills, you'll be able to build compelling projects for your developer portfolio.
4. CS50’s Introduction to Computer Science – Harvard
Harvard's CS50 course, taught by Prof. David J. Malan, is a highly popular introduction to computer science. If you're new to programming, this course covers fundamentals, computational thinking, data structures, and more.
Over 11 weeks, you'll learn C, Python, SQL, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The course includes problem sets and a final project to apply your knowledge. The breadth of topics will help you decide your next steps, whether in web development, data analytics, or another specialization.
5. CS50’s Web Programming with Python and JavaScript
CS50's Web Programming with Python and JavaScript focuses on developing web apps using Python, JavaScript, and SQL, with frameworks like React and Django. The course also covers API design, UIs, cloud services, and more.
You'll work on multiple projects, with a nine-week curriculum covering HTML, CSS, Git, Python, SQL, JavaScript, UI design, testing, CI/CD, and scalability.
Wrapping Up
These free certifications emphasize active learning through coding challenges, problem sets, and projects rather than passive content consumption. With the skills you gain from these courses, you’ll be well-prepared to build an impressive project portfolio and ace technical interviews. Happy learning and coding!
Know any other great free certifications? Share your recommendations in the newsletter responses!