how long before applying for entry php position

[loudog]

hey guys, I wanted to learn php, so i took a php course over the internet that lasted about a month. In that course i learned basic html,basic javascript, php, and basic ajax. I still consider myself very new to all this stuff, although been that the internet course was my first ever dive into programming of any kind. Not to mention that its been about 2 months since the class ended.  i did learn how create forms and valid it them using javascript and php. I also learned how to insert data and retrieve data from mysql's database. All that i mentioned above is something that i now know how to do. Although there is alot more that he taught me and i still have the class files that i constantly keep learning it and going over to try remember stuff .

 

I was wondering how long before i can start applying for entry level jobs or interships??  :shy

 

[thehippy]

You could technically start applying now, but are you ready to?

 

Here in Toronto, entry level positions and internships usually require a computer related bachelors degree.  Having a degree tells the employer, well this person knows about fundamental programming concepts and has some basic experience with programming.  Even with a degree, they will want to see some proof of interest in the subject matter, this will require that you have made or have contributed to the programming of a few PHP applications.

 

Given no formal education, I would suggest you try to attain a certification or two proving your knowledge of the subject matter.  Zend Certified Engineer for instance is a certification covering the breadth of the PHP language.

 

Apart from the core PHP subject, search out what related skills employers in your area expect of a PHP developer.  Understanding the LAMP environment will help you out a great deal.  OOP, Unit Testing, CI, RCS, Agile, TDD and other such words are important jargon to HR people, but you'll want to understand and give yourself experience using such things.  Another thing I would emphasize is being able to communicate effectively with other programmers.  Pick up a book or ten on PHP, software design, database design, design patterns to expand your knowledge and skill set.  And most important of all, don't just read about PHP, use it.

 

So, how long before you're ready? I think it would really depend on your motivation to learn and your confidence in programming in PHP.