HTML & CSS Certifications and Certificates

HyperText Markup Language (HTML) and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) are web fundamental programming languages. If you’re looking for a way to demonstrate your skills in HTML and CSS, you might be overwhelmed by the different certifications and certificate programs available. You might also have a lot of questions, such as, “Will I need to become HTML and CSS certified?” “Can I become certified in several programming languages at once?” and “What steps should I take to become certified?” This article aims to answer these questions so you can efficiently choose the right path toward an HTML and CSS certification. Keep reading to find out more.

What are HTML and CSS?

HTML and CSS are the two primary programming languages upon which all modern web infrastructure is built. These two programming languages tell your computer how to display a web page and distinguish one web element from another. HTML uses a system of tags and breaks to communicate to web browsers how a given web page should be displayed for users. It is what tells the web page you are looking at right now what the difference between a header and a paragraph is so that the web page knows when to separate the two blocks of text. CSS informs the web browser how it should display some aspects of content, assigning fonts, sizes, colors, and other visual data to web page elements. It tells the web page to display these words in a specific font, size, and color. Together, these two languages help build simple web pages composed of text, images, and hyperlinks.

Since their adoption in the mid-90s, HTML and CSS have become the most commonly used programming languages for web development, as virtually all web pages run on a skeleton built using these two languages. While the output of HTML and CSS is rather unimpressive by modern standards since it only deals with the production of visual elements, text, images, and links, complex modern web pages would be impossible to design without HTML and CSS. Anyone aspiring to work in web development must learn how to code in HTML and CSS before they can begin to learn more complex languages. 

Read more about what HTML & CSS are and why you should learn them. 

History of HTML and CSS

HTML was invented in the late 1980s, as part of the World Wide Web. Both the Web and HTML were created by Tim Berners-Lee, who was a physicist at CERN, the European Laboratory for Particle Physics in Geneva, Switzerland. He originally developed the Web as a way for researchers all over the world to share information. HTML was officially released in 1993. Berners-Lee explains that the creation of HTML was a critical part of making the Web work. He says that he created this language so that web browsers and servers could communicate with one another. The reason the Web works, he says, is that both browsers and servers speak the same language, which is HTML. He explains, “The fact that they all connect in exactly the same way. That each computer talks the same languages when you're browsing and your computer asks the server somewhere for a webpage and pulls that in. The fact that they've all got to use the same language, HTML, that's really important.” 

At first, websites were intended to only be used by researchers, but as they became more popular, programmers started to try and make them look nicer. CSS was first released in 1996 as part of that attempt. It was created by Norwegian Håkon Wium Lie. He explains, “I wasn't at CERN when the web was invented, but I heard the big bang and came running. When I arrived in 1994, I saw that one crucial piece of technology was missing: a way to describe colors, fonts, typography. That's when I started working on CSS.” Since they were first created, there have been many different versions of HTML and CSS, but these two languages remain essential elements of the structure of the internet.

What Can You Do with HTML and CSS?

Using HTML and CSS, you can design rudimentary web pages and begin the process of learning how to create dynamic and evocative web pages. While most modern web page design programs like WordPress allow novice users to construct more elaborate web pages than with HTML and CSS training alone, learning how to work with HTML and CSS prepares students for complex coding processes using programming languages such as JavaScript, React, or Python.

Learning HTML and CSS is also an essential first step in learning how to code web pages professionally. As more and more businesses, companies, organizations, and groups seek to establish an online presence, skilled Web Developers are in high demand. While any professional Web Developer will need additional training in addition to HTML and CSS, learning the fundamentals of front-end web development will ensure that students have the foundation to build into a profitable future career.

HTML/CSS Careers

HTML and CSS skills are an important part of any job that involves web development. According to Stack Overflow’s annual developer survey, HTML and CSS are the second most commonly used programming languages, used by more than half of all developers, and surpassed only by JavaScript.

Web Developer: Web Developers create and maintain websites. They use HTML and CSS, in addition to other programming languages, to create the layout, style, and functionality of a site. They often have a foundation in design too. Some Web Developers specialize in a specific type of development, such as front end, back end, full stack, or mobile development. A Web Developer may also be responsible for testing, debugging, and maintaining a website.

Front End Developer: A Front End Developer works on the part of a website or web application that users see and interact with. In addition to using HTML and CSS, a Front End Developer might use a variety of other languages, such as JavaScript for elements that require interactivity.

Back End Developer: A Back End Developer builds the parts of a website that users don’t see, but are crucial to its functioning, such as core databases and application program interfaces. Back End Developers typically rely on languages like Python and Ruby, however, they need to have an understanding of HTML and CSS.

Full Stack Developer: A Full Stack Developer works on both the front end and the back of a website, and needs to know HTML and CSS, in addition to a number of other languages and frameworks.

Mobile Web Developer: Mobile Web Developers specialize in creating web applications that are used on mobile devices. They need to make sure that these applications will look good and function correctly on multiple screen sizes.

Visual Designer: Visual Designers work on the aesthetic elements of websites, apps, and other digital designs. For instance, they might work on the individual elements of a website like menus or buttons. Not all Visual Designers understand how to use HTML and CSS, but many do since these languages are such an important part of every website.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a government agency that collects and analyzes job market data, reports that the median pay for Web Designers and Digital Developers is $80,000 per year. The median annual wage for all workers in the United States is $46,000.

According to BLS, the states with the highest employment levels for Web and Digital Interface Designers are California, New York, Washington, and Texas. These are also the top employers for Web Developers. The top-paying states for Web and Digital Interface Designers are California, New York, and Washington, and for Web Developers, Washington, Delaware, and the District of Columbia pay the most.

Certifications vs. Certificates: What’s the Difference?

For aspiring professionals, it can be somewhat confusing that there are multiple ways to become certified and that certificates and certifications differ. While both certificates and certifications are a way to gain additional training, they involve different types of classes and different ways of measuring skill proficiency. Students often pursue these two types of qualifications for different reasons too.

Certificates are conferred upon students who complete training courses run by certificate-granting training providers, akin to a diploma. Every provider offers its own unique certificate programs. These courses give students hands-on training in HTML and CSS skills rather than testing an existing proficiency. Normally, these certificates do not expire. Certificate programs are typically beginner-friendly, and are designed to prepare students for an entry-level job in their chosen career, so they are a popular choice among students who don’t know a lot about web design but want a comprehensive class where they can learn all of the skills that they need to work in this industry. Because they are designed to prepare students for a career, many certificate programs include career support, such as resume and portfolio help and job interview practice.

Certification is conferred upon students who pass a proctored skills exam overseen by an industry-recognized testing organization. These standardized qualifications are designed for programmers who already know HTML and CSS, and while the amount of preparation varies between exams, they rarely take more than a few hours to complete. HTML and CSS certification exams are offered through recognized programming organizations such as the National Computer Science Academy or companies like Microsoft. These certification exams are often also combined with other programming languages and skills. Many also require that students have a certain amount of hands-on experience. Students often pursue a certification in order to advance within an existing career.

Will I need to be Certified in HTML and CSS to Get a Job?

In order to work in web development, students will probably need to know how to use HTML and CSS. Being certified in these programming languages is rarely required, but many people say that it can increase your chances of getting a job. In a recent Forbes article, the author explains that getting certified is a great way to prove your knowledge to employers and show them that you are serious about what you do. She says, “[Certifications] show your current and future employers your commitment to improving specialized areas, your knowledge and your skills.” She says that her own certifications have led to promotions and new job opportunities. While being certified in HTML and CSS can definitely be helpful, it is best to pair that certification with other demonstrable programming skills. For instance, prospective Web Developers will also be expected to know more complex programming languages in addition to HTML and CSS.

How Will Getting Certified Help Me Find a Job?

Most web development jobs don’t require that you be certified, however, there is widespread evidence that getting certified can help you find a job. One way that a certificate or certification is helpful is that it can prove your skills to employers and help you stand out from other candidates. Microsoft explains, “Experience is great, but how do you demonstrate your knowledge and skills to employers and colleagues? Certification.” Being certified can also be a benefit because it is an attractive asset to many employers. In fact, many hiring managers say that they prefer to hire candidates who are certified. According to Microsoft, “Ninety-five percent of IT decision-makers believe that certification adds value to an organization.” It explains, “Employees are more productive in their roles, teams drive more innovation, and the recruiting and hiring process is simplified.”

Certificate programs are often created with the goal of helping students prepare for a career in their chosen field, and for this reason, many include career development services. For instance, when you take a certificate course, you’re likely to work on your portfolio as part of the course. You might also get access to a career coach who can review your resume and portfolio and provide job interview advice. Some certificate programs even include access to mini internships, where you can gain valuable job experience. 

Is It Worth It To Become HTML/CSS Certified?

Getting certified can benefit you in a number of different ways. It can help you gain the knowledge and skills that you need to find a job in web development, and labor market data shows that this field generally pays well and has strong job prospects for the next ten years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a federal agency that tracks and analyzes U.S. job market data, web development and digital design jobs will experience 16 percent job growth between 2022 and 2032, which is much faster than the average job growth rate of only 3 percent. The agency explains, “Employment of web developers and digital designers is projected to grow as e-commerce continues to expand. As retail firms keep increasing their online offerings, demand for these workers is expected to grow.” In addition, the agency explains the rising use of mobile devices is fueling growth in this field. 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.”

There is also evidence that becoming certified can lead to higher pay. For instance, Certiport, a provider of certification exams, reports that IT professionals who have certifications earn an average of 7 percent more than non-certified professionals. In addition, it says, those IT professionals who say they gained new skills and/or certifications within the past year, report an average raise of $12,000 to $13,000. Overall, it argues, “Certification provides significant advantages to professionals.”

How Long Will It Take to Become HTML/CSS Certified?

You can start learning the basics of HTML and CSS in a matter of hours or days, but If you’re trying to get certified, you’ll find that most programs take a number of weeks, and some even take months. In addition, most people say that really mastering these languages takes even longer, and requires a lot of practice. In a post on Career Karma, the author stresses, “Daily practice is necessary to become proficient in the language and to understand its full potential. Most programmers recommend practicing for about 2-4 hours a day.” He further explains that one of the best ways to practice is by writing your own code. He says, “Most people learn by doing, so it’s important to put your new skills into practice. Follow the Nike creed and ‘just do it.’”

How Hard Is It To Become HTML/CSS Certified?

Most people say that HTML and CSS are some of the easiest programming languages to learn. Of the two, HTML is usually said to be the easiest. You’ll notice that most courses group HTML and CSS together, and that’s because people generally learn these two languages together. According to a U.S. News & World Report article, “It often makes sense to learn HTML and CSS at the same time, experts say, because they work together to bring websites to life.” The article quotes Christina Carrasquilla, who is an expert in graphic information technology. “HTML defines the content, and CSS defines the style,” Carrasquilla says, “So you can think of it like the structure of your bones–your bones are your definition of your content, and then how you dress and how you do your hair, that’s all your style.”

When you’re thinking about becoming HTML/CSS certified, you’ll need to decide whether you want to become certified in these two languages only, or in a more broad range of skills, such as the skills required for web design. If you’re already working in a job like web design, but just need a better understanding of HTML and CSS, then it might make sense to focus on these two only. However, most people opt for a more comprehensive course since most jobs require more than just knowledge of HTML and CSS. 

Where to Get Certified in HTML/CSS

Students looking to learn HTML and CSS can find several specialized training courses through Noble Desktop. These courses, available both in-person at Noble’s Manhattan campus and through live online instruction, will provide students with in-depth training in HTML and CSS and many programming languages built off of HTML and CSS. Regardless of the course they enroll in, students will benefit from being able to work directly with Noble’s experienced instructors. Even online, class sizes remain small to ensure that students aren’t competing for their instructor’s attention. As a bonus, all of Noble’s courses have the option to retake the class for free within a year of enrolling, giving students extra opportunities to get hands-on HTML and CSS instruction and experience.

Noble offers an introduction to web development through its Web Development with HTML & CSS and Advanced HTML & CSS courses. These courses are designed to give students a taste of front end web development by teaching them the essential practices of coding web pages using HTML and CSS. They are ideal for students with no coding experience who are interested in learning the fundamental processes of learning the syntax of a programming language and translating that knowledge into the construction of a practical project. Students will learn the basic principles of using HTML tags to differentiate between elements of a web page and how to use CSS tags to apply fonts and styles to text. In the more advanced courses, students will learn how to build multi-page websites that link to one another. Students receive a certificate of completion after finishing each course. They also have the option of a free retake within a year, in case they want to refresh their skills.

Most students with aspirations of learning web development aren’t going to be content learning how to design web pages that look like they were last updated in 1997. These students may wish to enroll in Noble’s Front-End Web Development Certificate program. This course will teach students the vital HTML and CSS skills they need to know to build web pages. After mastering those skills, students will learn how to use programs and languages built on top of HTML and CSS to design more complex, interactive web pages. This course will teach students how to use JavaScript–one of the most popular front end programming languages–to add interactive elements and seamless animations to their web designs. Students will also receive training on how to utilize and build WordPress templates. Many modern web pages use WordPress in some capacity, so learning these skills is an ideal way to start down the path of a career in web development.

Another HTML/CSS learning option is the Software Engineering Certificate, which covers front end development, React development, and Python development. HTML and CSS are covered in the front end development section of the course, along with JavaScript, Git, and Flexbox and Grid. Students also learn fundamental JavaScript concepts, then move on to learning React, which is a JavaScript library used for web development. In addition, they learn Python development with Django. This course also includes 12 one-on-one mentoring sessions, which can be used for resume and job search advice. In addition, over the course of the program, students will complete a number of projects that can be used in a portfolio.

Another option is Noble Desktop’s Web Design Certificate, which is designed to make students into well-rounded web designers. Students learn to use HTML for content and CSS for styling websites. They also learn JavaScript for adding interactivity. In addition, this course covers Figma for designs and prototypes, and WordPress, which is a popular content management system. Other covered tools include Flexbox, Grid, and Bootstrap. Students also work on projects for a portfolio. Finally, they get eight one-on-one mentoring sessions, which can be used for extra help with challenging concepts, or to receive job search and career advice. After completing this course, students receive a New York State-licensed certificate.

Noble Desktop also offers a number of other certificate programs that include HTML and CSS. Students interested in learning more about other HTML and CSS classes and bootcamps available should consult the web development section of Noble’s website.

There are also many other schools offering both in-person and virtual HTML and CSS training. Devmountain was founded in 2013. This design, cybersecurity, analytics, and coding school has campuses in multiple states, and also offers online classes. It runs a Web Development Bootcamp, with both full-time and part-time options. Students learn front end web development tools, including HTML and CSS. They also learn full stack development tools, and work on projects for a portfolio. This course is designed to leave students ready for Junior Front End Developer positions.

Ironhack also offers a Web Development Bootcamp. This school is based in Miami, but also runs live online classes. The bootcamp covers a range of full stack web development skills including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React. Students learn web development fundamentals, back end skills, React integration, and advanced full stack development. The course takes multiple weeks to complete, and is appropriate for beginners. The curriculum is based on real-world scenarios. 

Brainstation also offers a Web Development Course. Students who take this course build a strong foundation in web development and learn a wide range of different web development tools. There is a unit focused on HTML and CSS, where students learn things like how to connect CSS files with HTML files, and how to use CSS selectors. Other units include foundations of programming, web components, and responsive web design. Students also complete an interview-ready portfolio project. After finishing this course, they receive a certificate of completion.

Full Stack Web Development is another web development option, and is offered by Skillspire, a coding bootcamp located just outside of Seattle. This course covers both front end and back development. Students also learn about web frameworks, databases, and deployment strategies. By the end of the course, they will be able to build complete web applications.

Codeup also offers a Full Stack Web Development course, which runs in-person at one of the school’s two Texas locations or live online. No prior experience is necessary to take this class. Students learn to create a variety of different web-based applications from scratch including e-commerce shops, social platforms, and games. They will learn to use HTML, CSS, Git, JavaScript, TDD, jQuery, Java, MySQL, and Spring. There is also a capstone project and a career simulation.

Thinkful is an online education platform that was founded in 2012, and it offers a part-time or a full-time Software Engineering Bootcamp that includes instruction in HTML and CSS. Students who take this class learn a wide range of skills related to web development, including front end skills, back end skills, Node, React, and JavaScript. They are also matched with a mentor, and receive career coaching. 

Students interested in front end development can enroll in a course called Foundations of Computer Science and Front-End Web Development, which runs through the Holberton School. This school was founded by one of the original programmers of ENIAC which was an early programmable, digital computer created in 1943 by the U.S. Army. It covers a range of front end development skills, including HTML/CSS, Redux, ES6, GraphQL, responsive design, data structures, React, and algorithms.

What Else Should I Learn in Addition to HTML and CSS?

While HTML and CSS are fundamental programming languages, learning these two languages alone is unlikely to be enough to get you a job. In addition to HTML and CSS, some of the other skills you might want to consider learning include other coding languages, front end tools, back end tools, and frameworks. Finally, soft skills are an asset no matter what type of career you are pursuing.

Coding Languages

Hundreds of different coding languages exist, and the ones you’ll need to learn will depend on what type of job you plan to do. According to a survey conducted by Stack Overflow, the three most popular languages used by developers are JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and Python. If you enroll in a certificate program, it is likely to include a number of coding languages.

Front End Tools

Front end tools are used for working on the front end part of a website, which is the part that users see and interact with. Most certificate programs cover a number of front end development tools. For example, Git is a front end tool that can be used to track changes in your code. Another popular front end tool is Figma, which is used for design.

Back End Tools

Back end tools are used for working on the back end part of a site. Depending on what type of certificate course you choose, you may also learn some back end tools. Some examples of back end tools are Apache, which is a web server, and MongoDB, which is an open-source database.

Frameworks

Frameworks are pre-existing structures that can be built on, and are valuable tools for developers because they can help speed up the development process. Frameworks are created around specific programming languages. Some popular frameworks are Express.js, Ruby on Rails, and Flask.

Soft Skills

In addition to all of these technical skills, no matter what type of job you have, it can be beneficial to improve your soft skills. Soft skills are things like teamwork and communication. By having strong soft skills, you’ll be able to work effectively with other people and maintain good relationships with employers and fellow employees. Indeed’s Career Guide discusses the importance of soft skills in the field of software development, explaining, “These skills are equally important as technical abilities, such as writing code and creating user interfaces. Soft skills complement technical skills by allowing one to identify the needs of team members and organise ideas for developing programmes.”

Can I Learn HTML and CSS Online for Free?

When you start researching HTML and CSS, you’re likely to find a number of free learning resources online. As a result, it is common to wonder if it is possible to learn these coding languages for free. Free online HTML and CSS courses can be a valuable resource, however, there are a number of reasons why paid classes are generally superior. Paid classes provide a structured, comprehensive learning experience, while free online resources are often incomplete or lacking in depth. In a recent LinkedIn article, the author points out that when you try to utilize free online courses, you often waste a lot of time searching for content. She says, “Free content isn’t actually free. You pay for it with the time and effort you need to put in searching for and curating that content to make sure your needs are met.” With a paid course, you also get guidance and feedback from an expert instructor, rather than being forced to navigate the course by yourself and Google any questions that arise. Another thing that makes a paid class better is that you can get certified through a paid class, while a free class such as a YouTube tutorial doesn’t usually lead to any kind of accepted certificate or certification.

How Can I Choose an HTML/CSS Class?

It can be overwhelming to try and choose an HTML/CSS class, since there are many different options out there. Some students find it helpful to start by thinking about exactly what type of education they are looking for. For example, how much time do you have to spend on studying each week? How much can you spend on a class? And, what type of training are you looking for? You’ll find a range of different class options, with different time commitments, costs, degrees of flexibility, and levels of instructor support. The most common class formats are in-person, live online, and on-demand classes. It is also common to find both full-time and part-time options.

In-Person HTML/CSS Classes

In-person classes are a popular choice because they include live, face-to-face instruction and interaction. When you learn in person, you can get immediate answers to your questions, and you can easily interact with fellow students. Many people find it easier to learn new skills in person, and instructors may also find it easier to offer help in person. Further, it can be easier to focus on learning in an in-person class, because you are in an environment that is dedicated to learning and has minimal outside distractions. However, in-person learning has two major drawbacks. One is that it requires a commute, which can be both expensive and time-consuming. Another disadvantage of learning in person is that you are limited to classes in locations that you can travel to. Students who aren’t in a major city with a lot of training centers might have limited class options.

Live Online (Virtual) HTML/CSS Classes

Virtual classes solve the problem of the commute and limited access by running entirely online. Students attend a virtual class by logging in on their computers. In many cases, the instructor can even see and control student screens if given permission. Like an in-person class, a virtual class still takes place in real-time, and students still have the opportunity to ask questions, get immediate feedback, and interact with fellow students. A benefit of learning virtually is that you’re likely to have a lot more options; you can attend a virtual class in another city or even another state if you want to. A potential drawback is that you need to provide your own device and software. You may also be more likely to struggle with technical difficulties when you’re learning virtually.

On-Demand HTML/CSS Classes

Another way to learn HTML/CSS is by taking an on-demand class. This format takes place asynchronously, with students working through the material at their own pace. There are no live lectures. This makes it the most flexible option, and a popular choice among students with busy schedules. When you learn on demand, you can stop and start learning whenever you need to. You can also rewind course sections that you want to see again or fast-forward parts that you already know, giving you even more flexibility in your learning. In addition, on-demand courses tend to be less expensive since they lack live instruction. One of the biggest downsides to on-demand learning is that it requires a higher level of focus and motivation. If you don’t like to work independently, on-demand learning may not be the best choice for you.