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Web Developer vs Software Developer (Bootcamp/Apprenticeship Pathway)
There's no single winner — the right pick depends on you. Here's how they actually compare, by the BLS numbers, with the honest tradeoffs of each.
| Metric | Web Developer | Software Developer (Bootcamp/Apprenticeship Pathway) |
|---|---|---|
| Median wage | $84,960 | $133,080 |
| Typical pay range (10th–90th pct) | $45,000 – $150,000 | $70,000 – $215,000 |
| Training time | 12–78 weeks | 12–60 weeks |
| Job growth (BLS) | +8% (projected growth) | +17% (projected growth) |
| Workforce Pell | Structurally eligible | Structurally eligible |
| Licensure | Rarely licensed | Rarely licensed |
| Paid apprenticeship route | Yes | Yes |
| Sector | IT/Cyber | IT/Cyber |
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Full breakdown: Web DeveloperWages, training, licensure & the honest tradeoffsFull breakdown: Software Developer (Bootcamp/Apprenticeship Pathway)Wages, training, licensure & the honest tradeoffs
Workforce Pell eligibility is structural (does the typical program fit the federal hour cap) — actual funding depends on state approval. Wage figures are BLS-verified medians; individual pay varies by region, employer, and experience.