Back-End Development
Master servers, databases, and APIs to power real-world applications behind the scenes.
Who is a Back-End Developer?
A back-end developer builds the engine behind a website or app: the servers, databases and APIs that store information, handle logins and payments, and send data to the screen. Users never see this work directly, but nothing works without it.
What does a Back-End Developer do?
- Build and maintain server-side applications and APIs
- Design and manage SQL and NoSQL databases
- Handle user accounts, authentication and permissions
- Keep systems secure and protect user data
- Connect third-party services such as payments and messaging
- Test, deploy and monitor applications so they run reliably
Who This Program Is For
Whether you're starting from scratch or switching careers, this program is built for anyone serious about building a real, practical skill in 12 weeks — no prior experience required. You'll learn by doing, not just watching.
Full Curriculum
12 modules, built to take you from zero to job-ready.
Module 1 — Week 1: How the Web Works
- Client-server architecture
- HTTP requests & responses
- Setting up a dev environment
- Using AI tools (Copilot, ChatGPT) to scaffold APIs, write queries and debug server code
Module 2 — Week 2: Programming Fundamentals
- Core logic & syntax (Node.js)
- Functions and modules
- Error handling basics
- Using AI tools (Copilot, ChatGPT) to scaffold APIs, write queries and debug server code
Module 3 — Week 3: Git & Version Control
- Git fundamentals
- Branching workflows
- Collaborating on GitHub
- Using AI tools (Copilot, ChatGPT) to scaffold APIs, write queries and debug server code
Module 4 — Week 4: Building REST APIs
- REST principles
- Building endpoints with Express
- Request validation
- Using AI tools (Copilot, ChatGPT) to scaffold APIs, write queries and debug server code
Module 5 — Week 5: Working with Databases (SQL)
- Relational database basics
- Writing SQL queries
- Designing a schema
- Using AI tools (Copilot, ChatGPT) to scaffold APIs, write queries and debug server code
Module 6 — Week 6: Working with Databases (NoSQL)
- NoSQL concepts
- MongoDB basics
- Choosing SQL vs NoSQL
- Using AI tools (Copilot, ChatGPT) to scaffold APIs, write queries and debug server code
Module 7 — Week 7: Authentication & Security
- User authentication
- Authorization & permissions
- Common vulnerabilities to avoid
- Using AI tools (Copilot, ChatGPT) to scaffold APIs, write queries and debug server code
Module 8 — Week 8: Data Modelling
- Modelling real-world data
- Relationships between data
- Data integrity basics
- Using AI tools (Copilot, ChatGPT) to scaffold APIs, write queries and debug server code
Module 9 — Week 9: Testing Your Code
- Why testing matters
- Writing unit tests
- Debugging like a professional
- Using AI tools (Copilot, ChatGPT) to scaffold APIs, write queries and debug server code
Module 10 — Week 10: Cloud & Deployment
- Environment variables & secrets
- Deploying to the cloud
- Monitoring a live service
- Using AI tools (Copilot, ChatGPT) to scaffold APIs, write queries and debug server code
Module 11 — Week 11: Connecting Front & Back
- Connecting a front-end to your API
- Handling CORS
- End-to-end project build
- Using AI tools (Copilot, ChatGPT) to scaffold APIs, write queries and debug server code
Module 12 — Week 12: Capstone Project
- Apply everything you've learned to a real, end-to-end project
- Using AI tools throughout your final project, where relevant
- Project presentation & review
- Portfolio-ready final deliverable
Where This Can Take You
Graduates of this program go on to roles like:
What's Next, After Learning?
TIM Internship
Join the Tech Skool Internship Market — a 3-month placement where you work with real brands and gain genuine, hands-on industry experience.
TSSR Research Network
Join our student research network — tackling real innovation challenges across industries, with work featured in global publications.
Common Questions
How do I apply?
Click Apply Now on the program you want, fill in the short registration form and submit it.
Are the 4-week courses really free?
Yes. All 4-week programs are free. Just complete the registration form — no payment is required.
I don't have a tech background — can I still do this?
Most of our students start with zero background in the field. The program is built to start from the basics and build up progressively, so no prior experience is required.
I'm worried about the time commitment.
Classes are scheduled flexibly, including evenings, so you can complete the program alongside work, school, or other commitments.
Will I actually get real experience, not just certificates?
Yes. Beyond the course itself, graduates can apply for TIM (our internship placement) for genuine, hands-on experience with real brands.
What support do I get after I complete the program?
Ongoing mentorship, CV and portfolio review, and job placement assistance — plus a strong chance of being retained by the brand you're attached to during your internship.