React Certifications and Certificates

If you’re looking for ways to demonstrate your React skills, you might feel overwhelmed by your options for certifications and certificate programs. You may also wonder about the differences between certifications and certificates, how they can help you get a job, or how to prepare for these credentials. This guide will walk you through the details and help you pick the certification or certificate program that best matches your goals. 

What is React?

React is a JavaScript library that allows new user interface (UI) components to appear on websites and apps without needing to reload the page. With it, you can build the user interface with reusable independent pieces known as components within the application’s view layer. You can create your own component to combine however you see fit or you can borrow other user’s components to create what you need. Although React isn’t a framework, it is an alternative to frameworks that allow the construction of complex functionality alongside it.

Jordan Walke, a Software Engineer at Meta, created it to make Facebook’s News Feed load faster. With React, Facebook users can stream HTML (their News Feed) while the platform is still finding data (more Facebook posts) to progressively show content before the JavaScript code is loaded. This is what’s behind infinite scrolling. React was later added to Instagram and became an open-source resource for the benefit of the public in 2013 and has grown exponentially. Now it’s one of the go-to JavaScript libraries for most websites and apps.

Most people use React in web and mobile development because of its flexibility and versatility. A website or app would typically need to pull information from its server to generate new information or images. But, React enables websites and apps to skip that step by creating reusable components that can be added to the page as the user scrolls. That saves time and computer power for the website—and the user. It also allows for more authentic user experiences by allowing developers to create user interfaces that are native. That means that users can experience their applications in the style of the platform they are using. No more web view when using an app on an Android device. These are just some of the reasons why nearly half of the world’s websites and web applications are using this JavaScript library, including WhatsApp, Salesforce, and DropBox. React has done a lot to streamline a developer’s workflow, and here you can read more about what React is and why you should learn it.

Skills Needed to Work With React

Both hard and soft skills are necessary to use React beyond knowing programming languages. Many of these skills can be taught, however, some of them are traits that when nurtured can blossom into something like a sixth sense. In addition to programming languages like CSS and HTML, those who work with React need to have an eye for detail, understand APIs, Rest APIs, and source control, and be a problem-solver.

HTML and CSS 

HTML and CSS coding are the fundamental coding languages that are needed for web development. Understanding these two codes is essential to making the most out of React. React works with HTML and CSS to further their design potential. When you know how these two codes work you can better leverage the power of React to create a high-quality website that is well-designed, and by extension more valuable.

JavaScript 

React is one of JavaScript’s most popular libraries, which means that React is rooted in JavaScript programming. You’ll have to know JavaScript before you can get into React components. Understanding the fundamentals of code structure, variables, data types, arrays, and more is critical to succeeding with React. If you want to create high-performance websites and web applications with React, JavaScript is a necessary prerequisite.

APIs and Rest APIs 

Rest APIs are a great way to get data from the back end of a website or web application to the front end. With React APIs, developers can more efficiently and comfortably code HTML/XML elements. APIs are supposed to make things easier and more efficient, so understanding how to implement them makes for simpler web development.

Source Control 

Git is a popular source control that allows developers to store and manipulate their code. With source control, developers can update and make changes to their code and keep track of the changes that are made. It also lets programmers mix and isolate modules to see how the code performs in different situations. In many ways, it’s a drawing board that allows developers to try out code, share code, and store code and the changes it goes through.

ES6 

Developers need to know ES6, a version of JavaScript. It’s helpful because it allows you to design and maintain web applications according to a client’s needs. ES6 abilities to focus on when working with React include high-order functions, event handling, arrow functions, and DOM manipulation.

Problem Solving 

Logical thinking is a must when taking on web development. You want the websites and web applications you build to be logically arranged so that users will resonate with your work and find value in your websites. The transition between identifying a problem and subsequently the solution is a critical metric that speaks volumes to a developer’s skill. Thinking outside of the box and learning from mistakes is always valuable. 

Communication

Since many developers work in teams, communication skills are a must. You’ll need to be able to clearly communicate goals, problems, needs, and expectations as they pertain to development projects. You’ll also need to be able to effectively communicate with clients to ensure that you’re addressing their needs and goals, while also keeping them updated on their projects. 

Redux

Asynchronous state updates are one of React’s weaknesses, and Redux is a tool to counteract that. Redux is an internal state that allows developers to manage states. It’s a tool that helps create applications that work consistently, are easy to test, and perform well in multiple contexts. 

Industries That Use React

Many industries use React. Because technology and the Internet have become such a staple in the way companies run their businesses, you will find React being put to work in some surprising places beyond the tech industry. Check out some of the industries that are leveraging the power of React to enhance the way they service their customers’ needs.

The media and communications industry has an increasing demand for React and professionals who are skilled in its use. Streaming platforms like Netflix and news outlets like The New York Times use React to keep the content flowing. They use it on both their mobile apps and their websites because it’s an easier way to manage their code, increases loading speeds, and modularizes components. React solves a lot of problems for those in this industry by increasing efficiency and improving the overall user experience. 

In the food and restaurant industry, React is changing the way they meet consumer demands. Time and space are at the top of consumers’ concerns, and React is a big part of meeting that expectation. Companies like Starbucks are using this extensive library for extensibility and customization abilities. It allows these companies to create complex and unique apps that resonate with users and improve the overall experience of the service they provide their customers. Starbucks was able to improve performance using React’s virtual DOM method and create a progressive web application that is 99% smaller than their iOS mobile app.

The finance industry also uses React to help power the user interfaces of their mobile apps. The modularized codebase and design kits have been tailored to the needs of the financial industry, including banking apps and financial service companies. React makes for an easier, efficient, and economically sound product. The Virtual DOM in React is making the updating and maintenance process faster. Asset reusability makes for more stable elements, and React components offer isolation that can prevent domino effects that warrant complete rebuilds. 

One of the top industries leveraging the power and ease of React is the retail industry. Whether consumers are shopping online or in-app, React is carrying its fair share of the load. Not only is it making shopping experiences for consumers easier and more efficient, but it’s also simplifying the work that has to be done by developers. More consumers are choosing to shop online, and Walmart is using React to make the online retail experience less of a hassle for users by converting client displays to browser-friendly HTML. React has even allowed Walmart to open up its marketplace to third-party sellers. Updating the site, products, and product availability are non-issues with React, and populating search results also runs smoother. 

Careers That Use React

Many tech jobs require knowledge of React. This is a skill set that allows you to branch out into other areas of web development and software engineering. React Developer, Front End Developer, Website Administrator, and Web Application Developer are some of the job titles that are associated with React. In these positions, and others, you’ll be working with multiple coding languages, JavaScript being heavily relied on. 

As a Web Marketing Design Specialist, React can be very useful in creating various design campaigns. Although those who hold this position have a strong background in graphic or digital design, they can simplify their workflow with React. It’s a technical skill that allows for the effective execution of digital marketing campaigns. React can help create interactive marketing campaigns that get the attention of their target audience in more alluring ways regardless of the platform they’re viewing the ad on.

A React Developer is someone who uses JavaScript to create web or mobile applications. Many React Developers are also Front End Developers who deal with the development of the client-facing side of websites. Some even specialize in UI/UX development. Some of the core responsibilities of React Developers include creating and maintaining the user interface elements of a website or application by developing front end features, translating wireframes into code, writing code, ensuring cross-platform functionality, and testing the applications being developed. This area of software engineering is predicted to grow by 25% by the year 2032. While you don’t need to be certified to take this career path, enrolling in a certificate course for web development, JavaScript, or software engineering can help you get your foot in the door and be ready for an entry-level position as a React Developer.

The work of a Front End Developer centers around the part of a website or an application that the end-user interacts with, the client-side of the project. Their job is to create, maintain, and update the design layout, the images, and what the navigation looks like. The main goal of front end development is to ensure that a website or application is intuitive, easy to use, and looks great. This is an in-demand profession that can allow you to work as a freelancer or an employee. A Front End Developer has a mastery of CSS, HTML, and JavaScript, and they are knowledgeable about developer tools and software like React. There are many certificate courses available to help you get started in a career as a Front End Developer.

Web Application Developers develop web applications, and computer programs running on external servers. Web Application Developers are tasked with the job of making sure that users can access the information that they need anytime, anywhere there is a Wi-Fi connection, and from various devices and Internet browsers. Organizations use web applications to allow employees to access and share data, collaborate on a digital workspace, and create reports. Web applications are also used for liking online content, searching company websites for products, and purchasing items online, and Web Application Developers are responsible for making it happen seamlessly. This job requires you to use programming languages and developer tools like React and MongoDB to develop, maintain, and analyze software. There are many courses you can take to prepare for this career, including a full stack development certificate course and a software development certificate course. 

A Website Administrator is sometimes called a Webmaster. This role is characterized by building websites. They also maintain, backup, and update existing websites for organizations and clients. In this position, you will be responsible for keeping the user interface running efficiently, securely, and properly. Website Administrators sometimes have to monitor and approve the site’s content and links, which usually means having to evaluate the website’s analytics. As the person involved in keeping the website running optimally, the Webmaster is usually on-call should the site crash or experience a security breach. In this position, you’ll need to know multiple computer programming languages. 

What Can You Do with React?

React is known for being used in social media feeds, such as Facebook and Instagram. That’s not the only use for it, though—you can use it for any online page constantly loading new components on-screen. React libraries are meant to save time by creating reusable interactive elements. They act as templates where the website or app can pull information instead of needing to access the server constantly. 

Because React is an Open Source tool, there is a wealth of online coding resources available to developers of all levels. This means that developers can significantly improve their efficiency. Developers can easily add instant messaging features to their apps. It’s also used to enhance search functions by allowing users to search through data and return to the same spot on a previous web page. For instance, when shopping online a user can search for boots, investigate a specific boot, then return to the search list at the point of the specific boot instead of having to start searching from the beginning of the search list again. This coding language is also helpful for websites and apps like Netflix, Amazon, and Uber Eats, that need to generate new information without reloading the page.

React condenses things for both the developer and the user in many different ways. It can be used in almost any industry to simplify workflows and allow individuals using their websites and applications to enjoy a more intuitive experience. If you have aspirations to build websites or apps or work for a company that relies on them, React is an essential skill to have in your professional toolkit. With React, you’ll be an asset to any web or mobile development team you join. 

Certifications vs. Certificates: What’s the Difference?

While certifications and certificates seem similar on the surface; there’s a fundamental difference between the two. Certifications are earned through passing a standardized exam through a recognized venue such as Amazon or Microsoft, while certificates are earned after completing a certificate program or bootcamp. Becoming certified often comes with experience and plenty of practice and study. Getting certificates generally doesn’t require a lot of experience. A certificate in React coding exists to demonstrate to employers and organizations that you have been taught the skills that you need to be knowledgeable about React and be paid to manipulate it correctly. 

Certificates are usually better suited for beginners and those who are using the certificate course as a stepping stone toward certification. Certification is usually a pursuit of someone who has a little more experience with React and is looking to gain expertise in the programming library. Oftentimes, those who become certified are more likely to be chosen for leadership roles, are more trusted by their colleagues, and can command a higher salary. Both are worthwhile investments into your future, display your mastery of the subject, and can help you advance your career. Search for a certification exam that aligns with your goals, and then sign up for a certificate program or bootcamp to earn credentials while you prepare. 

The amount of time that it takes to become certified will vary greatly. Some of the factors that will influence the length of time include your learning style and ability to retain information and whether or not you decide to take a certificate course to prepare you for a certification exam. There are many ways to go about learning the skills needed to pass a certification exam including self-instruction through books, experience, tutorials, and mentorship. How you choose to tackle certification is your decision, and whatever modality you choose will require you to invest time into learning and mastering the necessary skills.

Top Certifications & Certificates for React

React Certifications

No certification is specific to React, so you will need to consider adjacent skills when attempting to be React certified. Look for certifications that cover React and related topics, that way you’ll be able to say that you have expertise in React and other skills like JavaScript without having to have taken separate certification exams. Remember, React is a library for JavaScript, so you’ll likely need to start there. Here are some certifications that include React that you can look into: 

• International JavaScript Institute’s JavaScript Certification
• IBM Certified Mobile Application Developer Certification
• CIW Web Development Professional Certification

To become a Certified JavaScript Developer you will need to master general programming principles, JavaScript fundamentals like syntax and control structures, graphics, arrays, security, prototype-based object oriented programming, document object model, and other core and client-side concepts. If you’re interested in becoming an IBM Certified Mobile Application Developer you’ll need to gain mastery of development environment set-ups, development architecture, the command line interface, client-side and server-side development, authentication, security, deployment, and analytics. Those who achieve this certification can use Mobile Foundation to develop and implement mobile solutions. To be a CIW Certified Advanced Web Development Professional, you’ll need to pass three CIW certification exams, JavaScript Specialist, Database Design Specialist, and Advanced HTML5 & CSS3 Specialist. The CIW JavaScript Specialist certification covers libraries like React. 

Another certification to pursue is Certified Associate Web Developer. To gain this certification you will need to demonstrate proficiency with JavaScript coding, its libraries, tools, related frameworks, and other technologies. You’ll need to know how to design and create complex client-side web development projects. 

You might feel overwhelmed by the amount of information you need to learn, but rest assured that certificate programs and bootcamps in these subjects will guide you through them. Consider a certificate course or a bootcamp as a way to pack a lot of information into a relatively short amount of time—something like riding a bike with training wheels. A bootcamp or training course will provide you with the support you need to improve your retention of the information, coach you through the more challenging concepts, and support you in other ways as you make your push for certification. 

React Certificate Programs

Remember that React is not a true coding language, it is a popular and robust JavaScript library that exists to simplify JavaScript coding. React stems from JavaScript programming, and for this reason, it is important to start on the ground level with JavaScript before exploring React. First, you enroll in a JavaScript Development Certificate program to gain a foundation in JavaScript. This is a foundational skill that you will need to learn React and everything associated with it. While this particular certificate program also covers some aspects of React, it is grounded in web development with JavaScript, and it also covers APIs, MongoDB, Node.js, and Express.js. It’s important to note that this Noble Desktop certificate program requires knowledge of basic coding with HTML and CSS to enroll.

After learning JavaScript fundamentals, you can start looking into a React Bootcamp for a deep dive into this extensive library. You’ll learn the essential components of React, including useEffect, useState, and useContext, to inform how you construct a React Hook. During this bootcamp, you’ll get to learn the ins and outs of creating dynamic web applications, Node.js, advanced components, and server deployment. Your classes will also go over how to set up React templates that will increase the overall speed of your web pages and apps. 

It is also advantageous to learn how to Create a Front End App with React. This is a certificate course taught by Code Academy and requires enrollees to have basic knowledge of HTML before enrolling. This class covers JavaScript coding, React, HTTP, front end development, and AJAX requests. Enrollees will learn how to build interactive websites with React and how to use and call APIs. Through engaging lessons, class exercises, and hands-on projects, students have a chance to learn higher-order functions, JSX, and browser compatibility techniques.

If you plan to take a step further and want to learn more programming skills, the Software Engineering Bootcamp is a great place to look. This bootcamp will show you more uses for React and related skills. It’ll also give you a well-rounded foundation in many programming skills, allowing you to more easily pivot into a new role. You can expect to learn front end development with tools like JavaScript and React, back end development with tools like Python and Node.js, and source control with Git.

When Building Web Applications with React is the goal, this course can give enrollees the fundamentals of React, while also teaching them how to make the most out of the library to create stunning applications that perform. This course covers topics that include designing and styling React components, managing Reach states, server-rendering components, choosing frameworks, and other ways to get optimal performance from this library. Understanding the fundamentals of JavaScript programming is necessary for this course.

Knowledge Hut’s React JS Training is a certificate program that teaches students how to write code and build real-world projects using React. This is an immersive training program that can be taken live online or as a self-paced/on-demand course. Students will have access to Cloud Labs and guided hands-on exercises and assessments. Those who complete this course will be ready for a career as a React Developer and have built an impressive project portfolio that showcases their ability to build sophisticated and scalable web applications. Course topics include isomorphic React pages, interactive forms, React Router, and Jest.

How to Choose a Certificate Program

When deciding which training center and certificate program will best fit your needs, there are a few different criteria you’ll want to pay attention to. One high-priority factor is your schedule. A training center that meets the demands of your schedule is a must. Some programs offer part-time learning opportunities or evening and weekend classes to better accommodate working professionals and others with similar time constraints. Other programs are more intensive and only offer full-time schedules. Another important factor to consider is the instructor and their level of expertise or experience with React. If you have a particular instructor in mind who is not locally accessible, you may need to look into a virtual class so that you can learn from your dream instructor. 

Other factors that matter when choosing a training institute or certificate program include the class format. There are on-demand or self-paced courses, live online instructor-led courses, in-person courses, and blended learning courses. On-demand courses are pre-recorded and do not allow learners to get feedback in real-time. Although response times are slower than the other class formats, on-demand courses are extremely flexible and allow you to learn anywhere and anytime according to your schedule and time constraints. Live online instructor-led courses remove some of the scheduling difficulties that occur, but students and instructors will meet in real-time through a virtual meeting platform like Zoom. In-person courses, the most traditional and widely accepted form of education, offer students a dedicated learning space, a distraction-free environment, and a full socially interactive experience. Although this is a favorite for many, it can present some challenges for others, including accessibility, cost, and time. Blended learning is a combination of a live online course or an in-person course and a self-paced course. Instruction is offered in multiple formats within the same course. 

You will also need to pay attention to the course structure and the cost of the program. If a course is out of your price range and doesn’t offer the kinds of financing options that are feasible for you, move on to the next training institute. The course structure is important because this determines how you’ll be taught. Some courses rely heavily on lectures and demonstrations, while others lean more heavily on project-based learning and hands-on exercises. Your learning style and speed of learning will need to align with the course structure so you can make the most out of your training. Hands-on courses are more likely to accelerate your learning and deepen your retention. Project-based curriculums are nice because they often leave you with a robust project portfolio to pair with your resume as you seek employment.

How Long Does It Take to Learn React?

Although the length of time it takes to learn React can vary widely, the timeline can range from one month to six months. The time spent learning will also depend on your background in coding languages, web development fundamentals, and how you process material. If you’re able to get plenty of guided hands-on practice with React, you are more likely to see significant gains in a shorter period than someone who is attempting to teach themselves. You will also need to devote time to practicing working with React if you’re looking to become React proficient in a shorter period. 

Even after you’ve learned React and gained certificates and certifications, your work is not done. You’ll want to continue practicing, connect to a larger community, and stay up-to-date. Technology is constantly shifting and evolving. To keep up with these changes, you’ll have to be flexible and be willing to learn new methodologies and approaches to solving web development problems. Learning is an open-ended undertaking, and committing to improving your skills and knowledge of React will have a noticeable impact on your career and quality of work.

Should I Get Certified in React?

Although there is no standard React certification currently available, the decision to get certified in an adjacent skill is up to you. Sometimes your employer will want you to obtain certification to meet the organization’s technology goals, but often the decision rests solely on you. When getting certified, you’ll want to keep your overall career goals in mind. If you’re planning to dive deep into JavaScript positions, then a React or JavaScript certification will be beneficial. If React is only a small piece of your long-term goals, you can still obtain a certification to speed up the process, but it’s not needed if you have other priorities.

Getting certified is one of the ways you can improve your job security and increase your likelihood of getting a pay increase. It’s also a big help in gaining expertise and more leadership roles at work. You’ll want to take at least one certificate program if you plan to advance into a higher-level position and earn higher wages. Both of these credentials prove your knowledge and are permanent reminders to your employers of how invaluable you are to their operation. Again, the choice is yours, and having a certificate or being certified can have multiple positive outcomes for your career path.

Is It Hard to Learn React?

Learning React is easy for some and more challenging for others. Your learning style and the amount of time you devote to practicing and studying the material will determine how your learning experience transpires. Learning React on your own will likely be more difficult than having an instructor, live or online, guide you through the methodology and exercises. When you’re learning on your own through online tutorials, books, or YouTube, getting feedback and asking questions can be slow or even impossible. Having someone knowledgeable hold your hand through the learning can take some of the stress out of learning a new skill. 

React is a JavaScript library, so you’ll have to gain a firm understanding of JavaScript fundamentals before diving into React. HTML and CSS are often prerequisite coding languages for learning JavaScript. And all three of these coding languages are central to career roles that include React development. With this in mind, you should be better prepared mentally for the undertaking of learning a skill that hinges on three other skills. Regardless of whether learning React is difficult for you or not, it’s important to understand that time and patience are a big part of the recipe for improving your professional skills and adding React to your professional toolkit.

How to Get Certified in React

Before you get certified, you’ll want to take some time to prepare. If you’re looking for a certificate program, research the different training centers for course offerings and pick the ones most relevant to your current job and future career plans. You’ll find courses that are available in your area that are live and in-person. You’ll find some that are live online and have physical labs that you can use to complete assignments and projects. You’ll also find courses that are entirely online in both synchronous and asynchronous formats. Choose the course according to the content, the learning format, your career goals, and your schedule. Every training center has its process, including support systems, applications/admissions, prerequisites, costs, and course duration, so be sure to look into these other important aspects of training facilities. Once you’ve chosen your course, it’s time to get learning and receive your certificate. 

You can also use certificate programs to help you prepare for a certification exam. Many of the instructors teaching these programs are likely to have taken some of the certification exams you’re exploring. This can be a big help as you prepare because they know how to help you better focus your attention as you gain expertise in JavaScript and React. Certificate programs that are designed to align with certifications often expect you to have a certain level of understanding of course topics, so you may need to take a course that covers the basics of web development or the foundational three coding languages before enrolling in a certification preparatory certificate course. It’s also important to know that some certificate programs that serve as certification prep courses, come with a test-pass guarantee or a certain number of course retakes to better ensure your becoming certified.

Once you have the necessary knowledge and confidence to pursue your certification, you need to contact a testing center to set up your exam date and pay the exam fees. They will let you know what you need to do, have available, where to go, and any other pertinent information you need to know to sit for the certification exam. After that, on your testing date and time, you’ll take the exam. When you pass, you will be certified and can add that professional achievement to your resume and profile.