JavaScript is one of the most popular programming languages in the world. It is used to make websites more interactive and dynamic, and is used in a large percentage of sites, usually in conjunction with HTML and CSS. Without JavaScript, a website would simply be a collection of text and images. This language allows features like animation and content that is interactive and updates itself. JavaScript can be used on both the client-side and the server-side. In addition to websites, it can be used for mobile apps and gaming.
This language was developed in 1995 by programmer Brendan Eich. The Amazon Web Services website explains on its “What Is JavaScript (JS)” page that JavaScript has fundamentally changed the design of webpages. It says, “Historically, webpages were static, similar to pages in a book. A static page mainly displayed information in a fixed layout and did not do everything we now expect from a modern website.” It explains that JavaScript changed that. It says, “JavaScript emerged as a browser-side technology to make web applications more dynamic. Using JavaScript, browsers could respond to user interaction and change the content layout on the webpage.” Examples of JavaScript being used on a website are drop-down menus and pop-up windows.
A number of different tools are associated with JavaScript. For instance, there are many different JavaScript libraries, which are collections of prewritten code that can be used to help developers more quickly accomplish common tasks. Popular libraries include jQuery and React. There are also JavaScript frameworks, which can be used to create entire websites. These include Node.js and Angular.
What Can You Do with JavaScript Training?
If you plan to work in any kind of development or programming job, you should consider learning JavaScript, as this language is a fundamental part of so many websites, games, and applications. Surveys show that JavaScript is used by a large percentage of developers. For instance, according to Stack Overflow’s 2023 Developer Survey, JavaScript is the most popular language among programming, scripting, and markup languages, used by 63% of respondents. The site reports that 2023 marks the eleventh year in a row that JavaScript has been in the number-one spot. The TIOBE Index also ranks the popularity of programming languages. In April 2023, it had JavaScript in the number six position.
Another reason to learn JavaScript is that this language is extremely versatile. You can use it for websites, games, mobile apps, and desktop apps. It can be used on both the front-end and the back-end. Writing on LinkedIn in 2023, Front-End Developer Lucas Baggio stresses, ""JavaScript's versatility is a major reason for its widespread adoption. It is a multi-paradigm language, supporting both object-oriented and functional programming styles. Developers can build everything from simple website scripts to complex applications."" Baggio and others predict that JavaScript’s versatility will help it remain one of the most popular languages well into the future.
What Will I Learn in a JavaScript Class?
What you’ll learn in a JavaScript class will vary, depending on the class you choose, since every JavaScript class is different. Some classes are focused primarily on JavaScript and take only a few days to complete. Others include a variety of other skills—like web development or software engineering—and take weeks or months to finish. No matter what class you take though, there are some fundamental principles and skills that you’re likely to learn. You’ll learn the JavaScript language syntax. You’re also likely to cover jQuery, APIs, and debugging. Another skill that you’re likely to learn in any coding class is problem-solving, since this is an essential part of the coding process.
JavaScript
When you take a JavaScript class, you’ll learn how to use the JavaScript language. This includes syntax, which is the way that words and phrases are arranged in this language. You’ll also learn about objects, methods, properties, variables, and functions. Most people say that compared to other programming languages, JavaScript is relatively easy to learn, but they also stress that when you learn JavaScript, you are essentially learning a foreign language, and that can be challenging.
JQuery
Most programming languages are associated with various libraries, which are prewritten collections of code. JavaScript is no exception. jQuery is a popular JavaScript library. It simplifies the process of using HTML, and you can use it to reduce the amount of coding needed when building an application. When you take a JavaScript class, you’re likely to learn how to use this library, and you may also learn how to use others.
APIs
An Application Programming Interface (API) is another important JavaScript tool. It allows communication between applications. By using APIs, you can get data from external sources and integrate it into your webpage or application. APIs are a fundamental part of working with JavaScript and are covered in most JavaScript courses.
Debugging
In addition to writing JavaScript code, you’ll need to learn how to debug your code. Debugging is the process of finding and fixing errors in the code. No matter how carefully you work, errors are likely, and when you have errors, your code will not work correctly. This means that debugging is an important JavaScript skill. Most JavaScript classes will cover it. Debugging can seem frustrating and difficult at first, but most programmers say that this skill becomes easier and less frustrating with time and practice.
Problem-Solving
The process of using JavaScript will also involve problem-solving. For instance, you’ll need to figure out the best way to complete specific tasks. You’ll also need to test your code and may encounter problems in it that need to be solved. Some classes specifically cover problem-solving skills, teaching you how to break down problems into smaller steps and think logically about how to solve them.
How Hard is It to Learn JavaScript?
Compared to many other programming languages, most people say that JavaScript is relatively easy to learn. It is a natural language and has a relatively simple syntax. Another thing that makes the learning process easier is that this language has a large and active online community of developers who can give you insights and advice when you encounter problems. If you already know another programming language, learning JavaScript is likely to be easier. Another thing that can make the learning process easier is regular practice. The more time you spend practicing your JavaScript skills, the more easily you’re likely to master this language.
What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning JavaScript?
One of the most challenging parts of learning JavaScript is that you’ll be learning a new language. This means learning a new syntax and rules about how to use it. If you’ve never learned a programming language before, this might be challenging because it involves thinking in a different way. Experienced JavaScript users say that one way to make the learning process easier is to start small, learning the fundamentals and mastering those first. After you have a good understanding of the basics, you can build on them with more complex skills.
How Long Does It Take to Learn JavaScript?
Everyone learns JavaScript at a different pace, and the learning process is influenced by many different factors including what type of experience you already have and how much time you devote to learning. You can learn some basic skills in days or weeks, and most people say that you can be coding fairly well within six months. However, mastering JavaScript may take longer; up to a year or more. If you enroll in a paid class, you’re likely to learn more quickly because you’ll be guided by an experienced instructor and you’ll be able to receive feedback on your progress and get immediate answers to any questions that come up. An instructor can also give you valuable tips and tricks that might take you years to discover on your own.
Should I Learn JavaScript in Person or Online?
If you’re planning to take a JavaScript class, you’ll need to decide on a class format. In the past, most people learned through in-person classes, however, in recent years, online learning has become another very popular option. While many schools continue to offer in-person courses, a number also provide live online learning. In addition, there are schools that offer on-demand classes, which take place asynchronously.
As the traditional learning format, in-person classes remain a popular way to learn JavaScript. When you take an in-person class, you travel to a classroom and spend time there with an instructor and a group of other students. You interact with all of these people face-to-face, and you have the opportunity to ask questions and get immediate instructor feedback. With in-person learning, it can be easy to interact with other students, which can lead to valuable networking opportunities. Many people also find this format the most engaging of the three because it is face-to-face. They also like that since in-person classes take place in a space that is dedicated to learning, there are usually minimal distractions. Some instructors also say that when they teach in-person, they find it easier to assess how their students are doing and to offer additional support if needed. One of the biggest complaints about in-person learning is that you have to commute to the classroom. Depending on where you live, this can be expensive and/or inconvenient. The fact that you have to be physically present for this type of class can also limit your options. For instance, if you don’t live in a major metropolitan area, you may not have many classes to choose from.
In contrast, live online learning does not have these disadvantages. When you learn live online, you simply attend via computer, logging in from any location that you want. This means you can choose to enroll in a class in another city or even another country, and you can attend from the comfort of your own home. Not only does this give you more class options, but student groups may be more diverse since students come from a wider geographical area, meaning that you’ll be exposed to a wider range of different perspectives and networking opportunities. With a live online class, an instructor lectures in real-time, just like with an in-person class, and they are available to answer questions and give feedback. You’re also generally able to interact with other students. For people who are uncomfortable being in a large group of people, live online learning can be a better option. Downsides of live online learning include the fact that you generally need to provide your own equipment and software. In addition, you may occasionally need to solve technical problems such as internet connection issues, which may be challenging if you don’t have a lot of technical ability. Some students also find it more difficult to interact with other students in this type of class setting.
A third common learning option is the on-demand format. On-demand classes do not have a live instructor. Instead, the material is pre-recorded, and students are given access to it for a set amount of time. When you learn on demand, you work at your own pace. You can pause whenever you want, go back over sections that you need to spend more time with, or skip ahead through content that you have already mastered. This is the most flexible format and is a good option if you have a busy schedule. While you don’t have access to a live instructor with on-demand learning, instructors are generally available to answer questions and provide feedback. Some on-demand classes also encourage interaction between students, by including mandatory group discussions or projects. A downside to online learning is that because you determine the pace of your learning, you need to be motivated and focused to get it done. Some people find that it can be easy to get distracted or procrastinate when they learn on demand.
Can I Learn JavaScript Free Online?
It’s easy to find many different free JavaScript Resources online. For instance, YouTube has free resources on many different topics. Noble Desktop is another website offering a variety of free JavaScript resources. In fact, Noble also has its own YouTube channel, which includes short, JavaScript videos. Free resources like this can be a great place to start if you’re interested in learning JavaScript. You can use them to get an overview of this language, or even to start learning a few skills. However, if you’re serious about learning JavaScript, you’ll probably want to enroll in a paid class. Most paid classes are much more comprehensive than free resources, and they are generally the best option if you want to master this JavaScript. Unlike free resources, paid classes come with an experienced instructor who can guide you through the learning process, answer your questions, and provide feedback on your progress. Another benefit of a paid class is that you can be confident that you’re getting accurate and up-to-date information. In contrast, it can often be difficult to determine the reliability of free online resources. Finally, paid classes often come with a certificate, which you can add to your resume to demonstrate your achievement to potential employers.
What Should I Learn Alongside JavaScript?
Most jobs that require JavaScript also require that you know how to use other programming languages. For instance, HTML and CSS are commonly used in combination with JavaScript. Many classes that cover JavaScript actually cover these languages as well, or make them a prerequisite. Other popular languages include Python, C#, and Java. If you’re planning to learn JavaScript, you may also benefit from learning at least one other programming language. Most people say that if you already know how to use one programming language, learning another is easier.
Communication skills are also likely to help you out in any career that involves working with JavaScript. For instance, in a 2023 article, “11 Important Soft Skills For Software Developers To Improve, ” Indeed explains why communication skills are important in the field of software development. It says that developers are likely to need to communicate with both engineers and stakeholders, and will need strong communication skills to do so. Further, it explains that there are actually several different types of communication skills that you’ll need to master, including interpersonal communication, which involves one-on-one interactions, and public speaking, where you need to speak in front of a group. In addition, it says that active listening is an important communication skill. It explains, “In workplace interactions, it's necessary for software developers to listen, understand and respond appropriately. Active listening entails concentrating on what the speaker is saying and using nonverbal cues such as nodding, to show you're comprehending the speaker's words.”
Industries That Use JavaScript
JavaScript is one of the most popular programming languages and is a key building block for websites and applications, where it is used to create interfaces that are interactive and engaging. It is often used in conjunction with HTML and CSS. JavaScript is used in many different industries. Well-known companies that use it include Google, LinkedIn, NetFlix, Uber, and Walmart.
Finance
JavaScript is used to create a variety of different applications that are utilized in financial industries. Select Greater Philadelphia reports that financial services are one of Philadelphia’s key industries. It says, “Located at the heart of one of the most vital regions in the nation’s economy, Greater Philadelphia’s financial services industry has deep roots and far-reaching ambitions.” The organization states that major financial companies in the area include FS Investments, Colonial Penn, SEI, Lincoln Financial, Delaware Funds by Macquarie, Radian, and Vanguard.
Technology
JavaScript is a common tool within the tech industry, used for web development, software engineering, and game development. According to the Economy League of Greater Philadelphia, the Philadelphia area has stable tech growth, with more than 100,000 people employed in the field. On its website, Select Greater Philadelphia also reports growth in the tech field. It says, “The technology sector is booming in Greater Philadelphia. Every key technological innovation of the 21st century – robotics, ecommerce, artificial intelligence, advanced logistics, digital health, FinTech, telecommunications, you name it – can be found in our 11-county region.”
Life Sciences and Medical Technology
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, one of the state’s top industries is Life Sciences and Medical Technology. It states, “From medical research and laboratory testing to pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing, Pennsylvania has become an epicenter for life sciences companies. Our nearly $50 billion life sciences ecosystem is driven by world-class R&D institutions, top-notch universities and incubators, technical assistance, and strategic investments in venture capital, technology, and infrastructure.” Like almost every other industry, Life Sciences and Medical Technology has many job opportunities for individuals who know how to use JavaScript.
Healthcare
JavaScript is often used to create websites and applications that are used in healthcare. Pennsylvania’s Center for Workforce Information & Analysis reports that healthcare is one of the state’s major industries, creating more than a million jobs through more than 50,000 employers. Major healthcare employers in Pennsylvania include the Department of Veteran Affairs, Lehigh Valley Hospital Center, Saint Luke's Hospital, Western Penn Allegheny Health, and the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.
JavaScript Job Titles and Salaries
JavaScript Developer
If you want a job that is focused on using JavaScript, then you might be interested in becoming a JavaScript Developer. In this role, you’ll create web applications and software using JavaScript. You’ll need to be proficient in JavaScript, and you’ll probably need to have a good understanding of JavaScript frameworks and libraries. In this role, you might work alone, or you might be part of a team, which might include designers and developers. JavaScript Developers work in many different industries since JavaScript is one of the most popular coding languages. A JavaScript Developer earns about $101,000 to $110,000 per year.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (the BLS) is a federal agency that tracks labor market statistics and publishes a variety of reports and future projections. It predicts that between 2022 and 2032, web development and digital design jobs—which include JavaScript development jobs—will grow by 16 percent. This is significantly faster than the average U.S. job growth rate of about 3 percent. The BLS says, “About 19,000 openings for web developers and digital designers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.” It also reports that about 13 percent of people working in this field are self-employed.
Web Developer
Web Developers create and maintain websites. In addition to JavaScript, they typically need to know HTML and CSS. They are also likely to have an understanding of various libraries and frameworks, and may know how to use other programming languages. Some Web Developers specialize in specific parts of the development process. For instance, Front-End Developers work with the front-end of the website, which is the part that users see and interact with. Back-End Developers are focused on the back-end, which includes elements like servers, that users don’t see, but are essential to the site’s operation. Another option is to become a Full Stack Developer. This is someone who is proficient in both front-end and back-end development. The average salary for a Web Developer is $79,000 to $83,000 per year. For a Front-End Developer, it is about $83,000 to $113,000, a Back-End Developer $98,000 to $157,000, and for a Full Stack Developer, $95,000 to $124,000.
U.S. News & World Report ranks Web Developer at number 5 on its list of Best Technology Jobs of 2024. In addition to coding skills, it explains, “Web developers must possess good research skills as they try to understand clients’ needs and create desired products. They must have good project management and logical reasoning skills and should communicate effectively with clients and teammates.”
Software Engineer
Software Engineers build, test, and maintain software and applications. They need to know JavaScript and a variety of other languages, including HTML and CSS. They also need problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate well and work as a team. Software Engineers have an average salary of $105,000 to $115,000 yearly.
The BLS predicts strong growth in this field over the next ten years. It reports that between 2022 and 2032, software development jobs are likely to grow by 25 percent. It says that there will be about 153,900 job openings each year over this period of time. The agency says, “Software developers… are likely to see new opportunities because of the increasing number of products that use software. For example, software systems continue to be built for consumer electronics and other products, including IoT-connected devices and electric vehicles.” In addition, it reports, “Increased demand… will stem from the continued expansion of software development for artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and other automation applications.”
UX Designer
A User Experience (UX) Designer helps ensure that digital products like websites and applications are both functional and user-friendly. Knowing JavaScript is not necessarily a requirement for this job, but many people report that fluency in this language is an asset. Knowing JavaScript can help you have a better understanding of what types of designs are possible, can help you work better with other team members, and can also make you more attractive to employers since you will have a broader range of skills. Creativity and strong interpersonal skills are also an asset in this job. The BLS places UX Designers in the category of web development and digital design, and predicts 16 percent job growth over the next decade. It notes that the growing use of mobile devices is helping to drive this growth, since developers and designers are needed to create products that work well on these devices. It says, “The continued use of mobile devices to search the web is expected to generate demand for web developers and digital designers to create websites and interfaces that work on mobile devices with many different screen sizes.” A UX Designer earns about $97,000 to $126,000 per year.
JavaScript Classes Near Me
There are several JavaScript class options for students who are based in Philadelphia. The Community College of Philadelphia is a local school that offers JavaScript classes. In JavaScript I, students learn to build basic HTML and CSS-based webpages and enhance them with JavaScript. They will also learn about security and asynchronous programming, and will see real-world examples of JavaScript use. JavaScript II covers more advanced concepts such as creating standalone applications with Node.js, asynchronous execution, AJAX/Fetch API, client-side rendering, JavaScript package managers, JavaScript modules and namespaces, and object-oriented programming.
Noble Desktop is a New York City-based coding and design school that also runs a variety of live online classes, including many JavaScript classes. This school was founded in 1990 and is licensed by the New York State Education Department. Its classes include the option of a free retake within one year, which can be a great way to refresh your skills. Many of the longer ones also include one-on-one mentoring sessions. Noble’s JavaScript Development Certificate is a popular option for students who want to master this language. This is a multi-week class designed to provide the skills you’ll need for a career in web development. You’ll learn the fundamentals of JavaScript programming. You’ll also learn to use React and Node.js to create dynamic web applications, work with databases with MongoDB, and create APIs with Express.js. In addition, you’ll learn how to create a JavaScript runtime environment, and about JavaScript types and management. Throughout the course, you’ll work on projects that you can include in your portfolio. In addition, you’ll get eight one-on-one mentoring sessions that you can use to get extra help with challenging topics, or for resume and job search advice.
If you’re looking for a more broadly focused class, Noble also offers a Full-Stack Web Development Certificate, a Software Engineering Certificate, and a Front-End Web Development Certificate. These are all multi-week courses that cover JavaScript in addition to many other development skills, like HTML, CSS, and a variety of different libraries and frameworks. Students also work on a portfolio and receive one-on-one mentoring sessions with these certificate programs.
Noble also offers several shorter JavaScript class options. For instance, the JavaScript Programming Bootcamp is a multi-day course that covers the essentials of JavaScript programming. Covered skills include variables, conditional logic, functions, DOM manipulation, arrays, loops, async events, APIs, OOP, and 3D libraries. Another option is a short class called JavaScript for Front-End, where you’ll learn about variables, loops, arrays, and functions, and how to use free pre-made JavaScripts. You’ll also learn to animate any content on a webpage.
Certstaffix Training was founded in 2008 and offers computer and business skills training. It runs a live online class called the JavaScript Programming Course. This is a multi-day course designed for students who want to build on their HTML skills or start learning a JavaScript framework. Students should have experience with HTML. The class covers JavaScript syntax, objects, methods, properties, working with JavaScript variables, creating functions, and writing flow control logic. Students also learn how to listen for and handle events, how to modify HTML on the fly, and how to handle and prevent JavaScript errors. The course comes with a free retake within six months.
The Juno College of Technology also runs a live online JavaScript class. The JavaScript Course is a multi-week, part-time program designed to build onto existing HTML and CSS skills. It covers both fundamental and more advanced skills through interactive lessons and hands-on practice. Students learn about data structures, objects, and arrays. They also learn about jQuery methods and best practices, the DOM, using browser DevTools, best practices, and using REST APIs. In addition, they will work on projects that can be used in a portfolio, and will receive one-on-one mentoring. This school was founded in 2012 and offers a variety of bootcamps and part-time courses.
General Assembly also offers JavaScript training. Its JavaScript Development Short Course is designed to help students become fluent in this language. It covers the fundamentals of JavaScript, object-oriented programming, jQuery, browser and DOM management, and third-party APIs. Students will also work on a capstone project where they will build a single-page application using JavaScript. They receive a certificate upon completion of the course. In order to enroll in this class, students should have a basic knowledge of HTML and CSS.
Another live online JavaScript training option is through ONLC Training Centers. JavaScript and jQuery Programming: Level 1 is a multi-day introductory course. Students will learn essential JavaScript statements, how to test and debug an application, how to script the DOM, and how to work with objects, functions, and events. They will also learn about working with links and images, using effects and animations, and working with forms and data validation. In addition, programming with jQuery is covered, including using plugins and widgets, and working with numbers, strings, and dates. Students who want to take this class should be comfortable with HTML and CSS. ONLC Training Centers is an IT training company that offers classes live online and in many training centers across the United States.
Computer Training Source is a Chicago-based school that also offers live online classes. JavaScript Introduction is a comprehensive, multi-day course designed for beginners. Students will learn to develop interactive webpages with JavaScript. Covered skills include managing the browser window, managing documents, manipulating data and functions, validating statements, and calculating numerical values. Students also learn about using regular expressions and will learn the basics of AJAX.
The Digital Workshop Center is another school offering live online JavaScript training. This school was founded in 2006 and offers a variety of tech skills classes. It offers a JavaScript Beginners class that covers JavaScript tags, programming basics, and complex scripting concepts. Students learn to use values, variables, and expressions, and to apply control flow and proper syntax. They also learn about the DOM, implementing data structures and functions, adding custom events, and building their own form elements and validation. In addition, they will create a simple JavaScript web application and work on an advanced website project.
This school offers JavaScript Advanced, which covers more advanced functionality. Students will learn new concepts like testing, dependencies, and asynchronous JavaScript. An instructor will help them avoid common mistakes. Covered skills include JavaScript vocabulary, maintaining code using programming techniques, exploring dependencies and builds, and modules, callbacks, and JavaScript evolution. In addition, students will work on advanced projects for a portfolio.
JavaScript Corporate Training
JavaScript is one of the most popular programming languages in the world, and almost any company can benefit from having employees who are fluent in this language. If you’re interested in JavaScript training for your employees, Noble Desktop offers a variety of different corporate JavaScript training options. It offers both onsite and live online training, and you can either choose from one of Noble’s existing JavaScript courses or you can customize a training program to suit your needs. All classes are taught by experienced professionals who have extensive real-world experience in JavaScript. Noble’s scheduling options are flexible and include weekday, weeknight, and weekend options. In addition, your employees will get support materials to help them after the training is complete, including handouts and access to premium training videos.
A great option for employees who need more flexibility in their training is for the company to purchase vouchers for Noble’s regular group classes and let employees enroll individually. With this training option, your company is able to choose which classes are available to your employees and employees can decide on a class schedule that fits their needs. Noble offers a discount with the purchase of multiple vouchers. For more information about corporate training options, or to schedule a free consultation, email Noble Desktop.