What Is JavaScript?
JavaScript has become the de-facto programming language of the internet. And you most likely use its products every single day.
JavaScript was designed by Netscape in 1995, just as the World Wide Web was taking shape, and it’s still one of the most important code bases on the planet. In fact, CodinGame’s 2020 annual survey ranked JavaScript as the world’s most sought-after programming language: over 71 per cent of HR professionals are on the hunt for candidates who can write JavaScript.
So what is JavaScript? Technically, it’s a dynamic, high-level programming language, with tonnes of open-source custom frameworks. Mostly, it’s used for making websites and even mobile apps. With 1.7 billion sites on the internet (and counting) the popularity of JavaScript has grown exponentially over the last few years. It’s a great choice for people looking to start a career in web development.
What Is JavaScript Used For?
JavaScript is mostly known for making websites, but it can also be used to develop hardware controls, design software and build servers. It’s a pretty flexible language, which makes it popular with beginners. Here are just some of the things you can do with JavaScript:
Create interactive web elements
Every time you refresh your Twitter feed, or watch a web animation, there’s a good chance JavaScript is responsible. Together with HTML and CSS, it’s one of the building blocks of modern websites. Programmers use JavaScript to create responsive page elements that enhance the user experience.
Design mobile apps
Although most mobile apps require OS-specific languages (like Swift for iOS, or Java for Android) you can still build interesting, exciting mobile apps using JavaScript. New frameworks like Phonegap have made it easy to design cross-platform apps for all devices.
Build web servers
As an open-source project, JavaScript is evolving all the time, and one of the emerging fields is back-end programs, like server apps. Developers can also use JavaScript environments, like Node.js, to build basic HTTP web servers. It’s this front-to-back-end flexibility that makes JavaScript so popular.
Create browser games
Because of its affinity for web development, JavaScript is often used to build browser-based computer games (ie. games you play through your web browser). Making simple games is actually one of the best ways to practice your JavaScript skills. All you need is a code editor and some creativity.
Why learn JavaScript?
There are lots of JavaScript for Beginners courses out there, and it’s a great way to jump into programming, particularly if you don’t have much experience. Compared to a lot of other languages, JavaScript is quite easy to learn. There’s also a huge online community who can answer questions and offer help.
When it comes to the question, “Why learn JavaScript?” the answer is pretty simple: JavaScript is the language of the web. It’s currently ranked 7th on the TIOBE Index, and the demand for qualified JavaScript programmers seems to only be increasing.
Here are some fields where JavaScript knowledge might come in handy:
- Game Designer
- Software Engineer
- JavaScript Programmer
- Front-End Web Developer
- Wordpress Developer
- Web Application Developer
5 Reasons Why You Should Learn JavaScript
It’s easy to learn
If you’re new to programming, JavaScript is a great language to start with. The syntax is pretty straightforward (although perhaps not quite as clean as Swift or Python) and JavaScript support is built straight into your web browser: all you need to test your programs is Internet Explorer.
It’s in demand
According to Indeed, the average salary for a JavaScript Programmer is AU $111,000 per annum, which is much higher than average. SEEK is also projecting 23 per cent job growth over the next five years. Demand for JavaScript skills has never been higher.
It’s the language of the web
JavaScript will never go out of style because the internet will never go out of style. It’s the unofficial language of the web, and it can do things that HTML and CSS simply can’t. If you know how to write JavaScript, you’re automatically relevant in the job market.
Everyone uses it
Javascript is used everyday by millions of people all over the world. It’s the language behind some of the world’s biggest web applications. Without JavaScript, Twitter couldn’t refresh its feed, Netflix couldn’t play your trailers, and Facebook and Instagram wouldn’t even load in your browser.
It links into app development
JavaScript isn’t just a front-end web language. There’s a whole world of back-end server potential, including app development. You can create browser games with JavaScript, build web servers or scale an e-commerce site. The potential applications are almost endless.
Careers with JavaScript
Why learn JavaScript? First, because there’s plenty of work out there for developers and engineers. JavaScript-related jobs are projected to grow 23 per cent over the next five years. According to Payscale, the average salary for someone with JavaScript knowledge is $74,000 (although this can climb to $110,000 for positions like Senior Software Engineer). Here are a few positions that rely on JavaScript:
How to learn JavaScript for beginners
Learning JavaScript might seem a bit daunting for beginners, particularly if this is your first programming language, but it’s really not that hard. Anyone can pick up the JavaScript basics within a few months. The language tends to build upon itself, so if you nail the fundamentals, you can easily progress to more complex programs.
Our learning content is purpose built for online study and our curriculum is divided into easy-to-follow units. Each unit combines interactive webinars, 1-on-1 tutorials, group work and practical coding tasks. The ultimate goal is to give you the skills you need for a career in JavaScript programming.
Here’s a taste of what you’ll need.
- Commitment. Our course content is divided into bite sized chunks, and designed to fit in around your schedule. We recommend studying a few hours every day to stay committed and on track.
- Notes. Your RMIT Online mentors will encourage you to take lots of notes. It’s a good way to flag any potential problems or questions.
- Collaboration. As part of your course, you’ll be working with other JavaScript developers, including industry experts. You’ll also have access to an online peer community.
- Knowledge. Like any language, JavaScript is always changing over time. We’ll help you stay up-to-date with current iterations and best-practice models.
- Resources. RMIT Online will provide cutting-edge online JavaScript resources. These tools and forums can be used during the course, or even after completion.
The good news with JavaScript is that it’s been around for a long time. That means there’s plenty of online resources, forums, open-source communities and JavaScript help available. If you’re stuck on a JavaScript problem, the chances are you’re not the only one.
Learn about JavaScript programming
Want to learn JavaScript? This is the best place to start. Read as much as you can. Ask questions. Contact one of our RMIT Online course counsellors. You can find all our JavaScript news and coverage below.
JavaScript blogs
To read more about JavaScript and how RMIT Online is working with industry to fill skills gaps in tech, check out the blog below:
What you need to become a Front-End Web Developer
RMIT Online JavaScript courses
Want to learn JavaScript? You’ve come to the right place. RMIT Online offers in depth short courses specifically designed to fill skills gaps in emerging industries. We offer a range of Developer and Software JavaScript courses, depending on your career goals and experience. You can learn JavaScript online, at your own pace, and get support from expert industry mentors.
Topics and courses similar to JavaScript
JavaScript is really just one cog in the complex internet machine. If you’d like to learn more about Python, Swift, Front End Web Development or programming fundamentals, there’s an RMIT Online short course for you. Check out our related programs below
