PHP / MySQL

PHP (or “Personal Home Page”) is the most popular scripting language for the web. Nowadays, it is used as an alternative to Microsoft’s ASP (“Active Server Pages'') technology. It is free, ­­open source, and server-side (which means that the code is executed on the server), used to make dynamic web pages.

MySQL is a Relational Database Management System, or RDBMS (which is software that is used to store, manage, query, and retrieve data in a relational database), that uses what’s called Structured Query Language (SQL). SQL is also open source, and is the most popular language for compiling, retrieving, and managing data in a database. It is known for its accessibility, speed, reliability, flexibility, and ease of use.

Just about every open source PHP application uses MySQL to function, and the PHP language provides functions that make communicating with MySQL extremely simple. The PHP functions are used to send SQL queries to the database. Since the PHP handles the details, you’ll only need to know the SQL queries and how to use the PHP functions.

Learning PHP and MySQL opens up a wide range of career opportunities in web development. PHP powers dynamic websites and applications, and MySQL handles the underlying database management. Mastery of these technologies is essential for developers looking to build and maintain complex websites and applications. PHP / MySQL is also widely used in content management systems like WordPress, making it invaluable in the web development ecosystem.

• Building Websites

  These languages are the backbone of web development. HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) provides the structure, CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) adds style and design, and JavaScript adds interactivity and dynamic content to websites.

• Career Opportunities:

  Proficiency in these languages opens up opportunities in web development, a field with high demand and competitive salaries. Many companies look for developers who can work with these technologies.

• Understanding the Web:

  Even if you don't plan to become a web developer, understanding these languages can give you a better appreciation for how the web works. It can also help you communicate more effectively with web developers if you work in a related field.

Overall, learning these languages can be a valuable investment, whether you're looking to start a career in web development or simply want to understand the technology that powers the web.

Before diving into PHP / MySQL, it's beneficial to have a foundational understanding of some basic technical skills. Here are a few that can be helpful:

• HTML/CSS

  Know how to create and style web pages.

• Basic Programming Concepts

  Understand the basics of coding like variables, loops, and functions.

• Database Concepts

  Get familiar with how databases work, like organizing and accessing data.

• Basic Command Line

  Some knowledge of working with commands on your computer.

• Web Basics

  Understand how the internet and web servers function.

• Version Control with Git

  Learn how to manage code versions.

• Text Editors/IDEs

  Get comfortable using tools for writing code.

By acquiring these foundational skills, you'll be better equipped to learn PHP and MySQL effectively and build robust web applications. Remember, practice and hands-on experience are crucial for mastering any programming language.

Proficiency in PHP and MySQL can open doors to roles like:

• Web Developer
• Systems Engineer
• Computer Programming
• Business Systems Analyst
• Cable systems engineer
• Engineering technician
• Program analyst
• IT project manager
• Wireless surveyor
• Desktop support analyst

These are just a few examples, and there are many other job opportunities available to those with PHP / MySQL skills. Additionally, as technology evolves, new roles and specializations may emerge within the field of web development.

Learning PHP and MySQL can take a few weeks to get the basics down and a few months to become proficient. It depends on your prior experience and how much time you dedicate to learning. Practice and working on projects are key to mastering these skills.

Here are three recommended pathways that include PHP / MySQL:

• Associate of Applied Science in Software Development
• Applied Bachelor’s Degree in Software Development – Web Development Concentration
• Applied Bachelor’s Degree in Software Development – Mobile App Development Concentration

PHP and MySQL remain widely used in web development, particularly for building dynamic and database-driven websites and web applications. While newer technologies may gain popularity, PHP and MySQL are unlikely to disappear anytime soon due to their established presence in the web development ecosystem. However, it's always wise to keep an eye on industry trends and adapt your skill set accordingly to remain competitive in the job market.