Is the Meta Back-End Developer Professional Certificate Worth It?

Summary

This video offers an in-depth review of Meta's Back-End Developer Professional Certificate on Coursera. It covers the course structure, content, and duration, highlighting its suitability for beginners. The video discusses job prospects and salary expectations for back-end developers, emphasizing the course's value at $49/month. It also provides insights into the nine courses included, from Python programming to Django web framework, and concludes with advice on leveraging the certificate for career advancement.

Takeaways

• 💡 Meta's back-end developer professional certificate on Coursera is a popular course designed for beginners, with a focus on backend development.
• 🖥️ Backend developers handle the behind-the-scenes components of a website, including the server, application, and database.
• 💼 Entry-level backend developers can expect to earn a salary between $68k and $92k, with a median of around $71k annually.
• 📈 The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 23% growth for web developers over the next decade, which is much higher than the average career field growth of 5%.
• 📚 The course consists of nine modules, which can be completed in 5 to 7 months at a self-paced schedule.
• ⚠️ While the course is beginner-friendly, those with no prior knowledge may find some terms challenging, and individuals with some experience may find it too basic.
• 🛠️ Key topics covered in the course include Python programming, version control (GitHub), databases, Django web framework, APIs, and full-stack development.
• 🎯 The final capstone project requires students to create a comprehensive Django web app, showcasing their ability to apply the skills learned throughout the course.
• 📜 At $49 per month, the course is considered a good value for those looking to build backend development skills, though it won't guarantee a job on its own.
• 🔑 The course can be a stepping stone for those aiming to start a career in backend development, but additional education or experience (such as a degree or bootcamp) may still be necessary.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Meta's Back-End Developer Professional Certificate offered on Coursera?

The main focus of the certificate is to provide a comprehensive learning experience in back-end development, covering essential topics like server management, application development, and database handling, which are crucial for the behind-the-scenes work of a website.

What are the job security prospects for back-end developers according to the script?

The script mentions that with nearly 2 billion websites on the internet and the number growing daily, back-end developers can expect good job security.

What is the estimated salary range for entry-level back-end developers as discussed in the script?

The script discusses that entry-level back-end developers can expect to earn between $68,000 to $92,000 per year, depending on their location.

How does the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) project the job growth for back-end developers?

The BLS projects an astounding 23% growth for web developers and digital designers, which includes back-end developers, over the next 10 years, which is significantly higher than the average career field growth of about 5% per year.

What is the structure of Meta's Back-End Developer Professional Certificate?

The certificate is structured as a professional certificate consisting of nine courses that build upon each other. It is designed to be completed in five to seven months and is self-paced and online-only.

What is the content of the first course in the Back-End Developer Professional Certificate?

The first course provides an introduction to back-end development, covering technical aspects like JavaScript, HTML, and CSS, and ends with a grid assessment.

Which programming language is emphasized in the second course of the certificate?

The second course focuses on programming in Python, which is a core language for future back-end developers.

What is the significance of the Django web framework in the certificate?

The Django web framework is significant as it is one of the most common solutions for developing a web server, and the certificate includes a hands-on opportunity to develop and administer a web application using Django.

What does the Capstone project in the certificate involve?

The Capstone project involves creating a comprehensive Django web application that ties together the knowledge gained throughout the certificate, making use of APIs and connecting the system to a database.

How does the script suggest leveraging the certificate in a job search?

The script suggests leveraging the certificate by showcasing it on LinkedIn, using the Meta job board, and using the knowledge gained as a story to tell in interviews to demonstrate self-starter qualities.

What is the script's final opinion on whether the Meta Back-End Developer Professional Certificate is worth it?

The script concludes that for the right person, especially beginners, the certificate is absolutely worth it due to its credibility, skill-building opportunities, and the relevance of the course material for current front-end development practices.