If you’re someone who wants to learn how to create websites from scratch, this free course from the University of Michigan might be perfect for you. Offered through Coursera, the “Web Design for Everybody: Basics of Web Development & Coding” specialization helps beginners understand the core building blocks of the web – HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. You don’t need any previous coding experience to get started.
Let’s explore what this course offers, who can join, and how it can help shape your future in tech.
What you’ll learn in this course #
The specialization is made up of five beginner-level courses. Each one teaches practical web development skills, starting with the basics and moving toward real-world web design projects.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll learn:
- HTML5: Learn how to structure content on the web using HTML tags.
- CSS3: Discover how to style and format web pages using modern CSS features.
- JavaScript Basics: Add interactivity like buttons, animations, and user input to your pages.
- Responsive Design: Make sure your website works smoothly on mobiles, tablets, and desktop screens.
- Accessibility: Build websites that are usable by everyone, including people with visual or physical challenges.
- Capstone Project: Create your own professional web portfolio showcasing everything you’ve learned.
You’ll also become familiar with tools like browser developer tools, wireframing techniques, and best practices in user-friendly web design.
Who can take this course #
This course is designed for complete beginners. Whether you’re a student, working professional, or just someone curious about web development, you can take this course without any background in coding.
There’s no age limit or educational requirement – just a willingness to learn.
Course format and duration #
- Mode: 100% online
- Duration: Approximately 7 months if you spend 10 hours a week
- Schedule: Flexible and self-paced – learn anytime
- Platform: Coursera (accessible on mobile, desktop, or tablet)
Each course in the specialization can be taken at your own pace, and you can pause or restart whenever needed.
Do you get a certificate? #
Yes. After completing all five courses and the final project, you will receive a career certificate from the University of Michigan via Coursera.
- You can share this certificate on LinkedIn, your resume, or with potential employers.
- While the course content is free to audit, you’ll need to pay if you want the certificate.
- However, Coursera offers financial aid to those who can’t afford it, so the certificate can still be free if you apply for aid.
How this course helps your career #
In today’s digital age, knowing how to build websites is a powerful skill. Here’s how this course can benefit your career:
- Helps you apply for entry-level web development jobs
- Gives you a chance to freelance or build your own portfolio site
- Strengthens your technical foundation if you’re planning to become a frontend developer
- Adds a trusted university credential to your resume
It’s also a great stepping stone for more advanced programming courses later on.
Step-by-step: How to enroll in the course #
Follow these easy steps to join the course:
- Go to https://www.coursera.org/specializations/web-design
- Click Enroll for Free
- Choose “Audit the course” if you want to access the content without paying
- Or click “Financial Aid available” if you want to apply for a free certificate
- Sign in or create a Coursera account
- Start learning immediately at your own pace
Is it really free? #
- Yes, the course content is free if you audit it.
- If you want the certificate, you’ll need to pay (unless you get financial aid).
- There are no hidden costs – Coursera clearly mentions all pricing upfront.
- You won’t need to buy any textbooks or software either.
Tips to finish the course successfully #
Here are some tips to help you stay on track:
- Set weekly goals: Allocate at least 8–10 hours each week.
- Practice regularly: Build mini-projects after each module.
- Take notes: Especially during video lectures.
- Join discussion forums: Engage with peers and ask questions.
- Don’t skip the capstone: It’s your chance to apply everything you’ve learned.
