Is a Web Development Certification from a research university worth it?

Question

Hello,

Have been wanting to get more into web development. But find with getting gigs or full time employers, I do not have the credentials though I have a decent portfolio. I majored in something non IT related, though I have worked in IT.

I have seen a few "webmaster" or "web development" certificates available through University professional training programs.

Would an employer consider these valuable? I have seen them from places like Berkeley, NYU as well as other state universities that have a similar curriculum but at a cheaper price.

Basically the certification consists of taking usually 5-7 classes along with a capstone project. Then you get the certification. Much different than just a take it and (possibly cram/cheat) study like a CCNA, A+, etc.

Would it be worth it to do one of these? I can get a discount from my university on this actually so strongly considering it.

I do not expect it to replace say, a CS degree, but I don't really want the type of job or career a CS degree would entail either. Just doing some web development is fine with me to get a steady pay check.

Thoughts?

Answer 1

It's probably more valuable from an employability perspective to get a vendor certification for a specific technology (e.g.: Microsoft ASP.NET or Oracle JSF).

That's my $0.02

Answer 2

I have found certifications that people have never speak to their skills. All it means is the certified passed a test or a short course. It does not mean the certified has any experience or real skill.

Answer 3

jd-education is never a bad thing. actually, it is a waste of time sometimes. start emailing people. email at least 20-40 people per day asking for references/recommendations/job leads. make sure your resume looks good and it shows that you are currently contracting (which you are). make sure to check back with people every 10 days. be respectful but persistent. you should be up-to-date on technologies. you dont have to be an expert in everything, just know what is going on, in order to have an intelligent conversation. if you have a good portfolio you are 80% there. just start networking. sorry for not answering your question directly.