Coding Dojo

Coding Dojo Blog logo
Illustration of man sitting at computer learning Java

How to Become a Java Full-Stack Developer

It’s 2023 and full-stack developers are very much in demand.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an eye-popping 25% growth in this profession from 2021-2031.

Think you might be interested in this career path?

It can be a great choice if you can work with multiple technologies, and enjoy both the technical and the creative side of web development.

In this post, we’ll outline different paths to becoming a Java full-stack developer, including information on what your Java full-stack developer salary may look like.

You can also get a sneak peek at some of the most common Java full-stack developer interview questions.

Read on to learn how to become a Java full-stack developer.

What Is a Java Full-Stack Developer?

What is Java and what exactly is a Java full-stack developer? We break it all down for you in this post.

In short, Java full-stack developers are some of the most highly esteemed professionals in the web development field.

These versatile developers are web programmers who use Java, one of the most popular and well-known computer programming languages.

Java full-stack developers know how to create front-end components like user interfaces and back-end components like application code.

On the job, their projects may involve a mix of database work, user-facing website development, and client-focused communication.

Java full-stack developers often work on teams that create new websites and update existing sites. They may also offer their expertise as independent consultants.

Because of their broad knowledge and flexibility, employers of all sizes and in virtually every industry have a consistent need for Java full-stack developers.

Like many tech jobs, working as a Java full-stack developer can lead to a lucrative salary and the opportunity to work remotely.

But this flexibility isn’t the only reason why you should learn Java full stack.

In the section below, we discuss some of the benefits of learning Java.  

Why You Should Learn Java Full Stack

The reasons why you should learn Java full stack extend from the potential salary to the job’s flexibility.

Here’s a quick rundown of some of the biggest advantages to learning Java full stack:

  • It’s simple to learn. Java is a beginner-friendly programming language. Since it features a syntax similar to English, there isn’t a huge learning curve.
  • It’s versatile. Java is used throughout the tech industry. Scalable and portable, it follows the principle “write once and run anywhere.”
  • It’s here to stay. Technologies come and go, but Java has been popular for more than two decades. Learning it means you won’t be wasting your time on something that may not be useful in the future.

How to Become a Java Full-Stack Developer

There are many different paths you can take to become a Java full-stack developer.

Before making any firm decisions, it’s important to think about your timeline and budget. 

Do you want to continue working and take part-time courses? Or do you prefer to go all in with a full-time education?

There’s no one right choice or best option, but here are a few paths you may want to consider.

  • Begin by taking online courses. There are multiple self-taught online courses — many of them totally free — that allow you to build a foundation and gain basic skills.

You can also explore paid online courses, which are often designed for learners of all skill levels. Keep in mind that Java is a complex programming language. It may take years to gain mastery.   

  • Get hands-on. On your journey to becoming a Java full-stack developer, you can gain experience and put your knowledge to use in numerous ways.

For example, you could build basic web apps or websites or create basic video games.

Another option to get your feet wet and build on your skills might be creating a chat platform. Check out existing chat or messaging apps and then put your creative spin on them.

  • Enroll in a coding bootcamp. When you’re learning how to become a Java full-stack developer, the next step is to move on to a coding bootcamp. 

This is a smart option if you don’t want to take on the financial commitment of a four-year college degree.

These immersive learning experiences give you one-on-one access to instructors when you need it. They can also give you an edge over the competition.

And if you’re new to programming altogether, a coding bootcamp lets you focus entirely on programming. You’ll leave the bootcamp with a solid understanding of the programming concepts required to succeed as a Java full-stack developer.

  • Work as a trainee or apprentice. This can be a helpful way to boost your training and expand your knowledge overall.

By learning from an expert coder, you can get a better handle on coding techniques and have someone more experienced show you the tricks of the trade.  

Java Full-Stack Developer Salary

Wondering if Java full-stack developers get paid well? If you consider six figures to be a strong salary, then the answer is yes.

The average annual salary for Java full-stack developers in the United States is around $78,300, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic

Like other jobs, your paycheck will vary based on many factors, including your employer, experience level, and geographic location.

Java Full-Stack Developer Interview Questions

Some of the major roles for Java full-stack developers include:

  • Full-stack engineer
  • Full-stack software engineer
  • Java software developer
  • Java full-stack software engineer
  • Front-end developer
  • Back-end developer

When researching companies and available opportunities, it helps to know which interview questions you may get asked.

We’ve compiled a list of some typical interview questions so you can be prepared for your first call or face-to-face interview.

You can also check out a few sample questions below:

1.     What are some ways you can improve your website load time and performance?

2.     Explain pair programming.

3.     What is a callback in Javascript?

4.     What’s the difference between abstract and interface?

Become a Java Full-Stack Developer at Coding Dojo

It can take quite some time to lay the right foundation for your career as a Java full-stack developer, but we’ve got you covered. You don’t have to wonder where to start or what next step to take.  

Coding Dojo offers three coding bootcamps: online full-time, online part-time accelerated, and online part-time flex.

Just choose the option that works best with your schedule. Our bootcamps last anywhere from 14-36 weeks. Want to learn more? Grab our free course packet today