Diploma of Web Development

The Internet has revolutionised the way we communicate, shop, bank, play games and share information. The pace of change and demand for talented Internet professionals continues to grow.

Natcoll's Diploma of Web Development students learn the web programming, design and usability skills needed to build feature-rich, database-driven websites that are easy to use, look good and can incorporate complex features like, for example, shopping carts and auctions.

By the end of the web development course you will work independently to produce an online portfolio to showcase your design and technical skills - prospective employers will see you've got the right stuff.

Our Diploma of Web Development course class size is restricted to a maximum of 20 students.

Course Components

• Client-side development - learn XHTML syntax and techniques; how to develop forms; how to centralise formatting control using Cascading Style Sheets; you will be introduced to algorithms and simple object oriented programming concepts; learn browser scripting, event handlers, rollovers, form validation, browser checking etc; learn how to use web authoring tools; compare platforms and their limitations
• Web communication - focus on how web pages communicate their message to the viewer; apply the principles of visual design to web pages; prepare and manipulate images for the web; apply the principles of User Centred Design (UCD) in developing a web interface; employ user testing and feedback mechanisms to refine the design and usability of a website
• Multimedia web scripting - design an interactive project using web technologies
• Server-side development - learn relational database design and use with MySQL; server-side programming using PHP; Structured Query Language (SQL) syntax and techniques; database-driven website design; introduction to Object Orientated (OO) programming principles and administration of server-side hosting environments
• Advanced studies - look at a range of advanced topics, both design and development focused; things like industry standard content mangement systems, how to handle credit card payments, Google maps, Ajax, code libraries, how to make sites for mobile phones and for the disabled, etc
• Industry project - plan, document, code and present a dynamic, database-driven web application to an industry standard
• Portfolio - create an online portfolio that demonstrates your skills.

* Course content is subject to change to ensure continued industry relevance.

Assessment

• Assessment is standards-based, which means you need to meet all the standards set for a particular task.
• There are no marks or examinations.
• All projects must be produced to a commercial standard.
• You are encouraged to develop technical skills and your own design style.
• Reassessment opportunities are available.
• Minimum 80% attendance requirements apply.

Equipment & Software

Equipment

• Apple Macintosh or PC computers
• Digital cameras
• Scanners
• Printers
• Internet

Software

• Microsoft XP Professional
• Abobe Dreamweaver
• Abode Flash
• Adobe Photoshop

Languages

• XHTML
• CSS
• JavaScript
• HTML5 or ActionScript
• PHP
• SQL

Entry Requirements

You must provide evidence of interests and skills relevant to this course - for example, previous experience with a computer programming or scripting language, logical thinking and/or problem solving. To do the optional advanced usability component, you may need to demonstrate your creativity by submitting examples of your work.

Natcoll's Certificate in Digital Media (iCreate) and our secondary school Creating Futures web design or multimedia programmes provide excellent pathways into this course, as do short courses in Dreamweaver, HTML or PHP.

Course Fees & Related Costs

Course fees*

Domestic students - $5,800
International students - $17,500

*Domestic course fees are GST inclusive. Course fees could be subject to change.

Course Costs

The following estimated costs apply to classes starting in 2011. For some items the cost will vary depending on the brand of item purchased or on the student’s individual needs. Students are encouraged to discuss the items, especially recommended textbooks, with their tutor before purchasing.

• External web hosting
• 1 visual diary
• Software manuals
• 300 print credits
• Monthly internet quota

Essential items to purchase

• USB Flash Drive 4GB (at least) - up to $35

• Recommended textbooks – up to $500
• Sundry stationery – up to $100
• Extra print credits – up to $50 (if you exceed provided quota)
• Extra internet quota – up to $100 (if you exceed provided quota)

Industry Relevance

• Natcoll liaises closely with the web development and general IT industries to ensure the latest commercial practices are taught.
• Natcoll encourages students to work on real industry projects.

These connections with industry mean you will have the skills needed to hit the ground running once you finish your course.

Career Opportunities

• Web developer
• Web programmer
• Web master
• Web architect
• Web author
• Web specialist

Further learning

You can use this qualification to move onto a higher qualification such as the Natcoll Diploma of Digital Media (Advanced) or to broaden your skill-set in another Natcoll diploma course.

You can also explore degree level study at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) in Australia. Graduates can get direct entry to year 2 of either RMIT's:

• 3-year Bachelor of Arts (Games Graphics Design)
• 3-year Bachelor of Arts (Digital Arts)

A saving of one year.