Certificate Program in Server-Side Web Programming

Course Description

This Certificate Program in Server-Side Web Programming introduces beginners to the concepts, tools and technologies used in building dynamic web applications. The course covers the fundamentals of server-side development, including server configuration, databases and the languages commonly used for server-side programming. By the end of the course, students will understand how to develop web applications that interact with databases and handle user requests efficiently.

This program consists of 12 modules, starting with the basics of web development and gradually moving towards more complex topics like database interaction and web frameworks. The course will focus on programming languages such as PHP, Python and Node.js, as well as important concepts like RESTful APIs, server management, and database integration. Practical examples and hands-on projects will allow students to build simple server-side applications.

Module 1: Introduction to Web Development and Server-Side Programming

 
    • Overview of web development: client-side vs. server-side.
    • Introduction to HTTP, web browsers, and servers.
    • Understanding the role of server-side programming in web applications.
 
Module 2: Basic Web Technologies: HTML, CSS and JavaScript 
    • Overview of client-side languages: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
    • Building a basic static web page.
    • Introduction to the concept of dynamic content.
 
Module 3: Introduction to Server-Side Languages (PHP, Python, Node.js) 
    • Overview of server-side languages.
    • Basic syntax and structure of PHP, Python, and Node.js.
    • Writing simple server-side scripts to handle HTTP requests.
 
Module 4: Setting Up a Web Server


 
    • Introduction to web servers (Apache, Nginx).
    • Installing and configuring a local server (e.g., XAMPP, WAMP).
    • Understanding server logs and basic troubleshooting.
 
Module 5: Handling Forms and User Input 
    • Collecting user input through HTML forms.
    • Validating and sanitizing user data on the server-side.
    • Using POST and GET methods in server-side scripts.
 
Module 6: Working with Databases (SQL Basics)

 
    • Introduction to relational databases and SQL.
    • Writing basic SQL queries: SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE.
    • Connecting a server-side script to a database.
 
Module 7: Database Integration: Connecting PHP/Python/Node.js with MySQL 
    • Connecting to a MySQL database using server-side languages.
    • Performing CRUD operations (Create, Read, Update, Delete) from the server-side.
    • Understanding database relationships and normal forms.
 
Module 8: Session Management and Cookies

 
    • Introduction to sessions and cookies.
    • Managing user authentication with sessions.
    • Using cookies to store small pieces of data on the client side.
 
Module 9: Introduction to RESTful APIs

 
    • Understanding what an API is and its role in web development.
    • Introduction to REST principles (stateless, uniform interface).
    • Writing basic RESTful API endpoints using PHP/Python/Node.js.
 
Module 10: Server-Side Security Basics

 
    • Understanding common security issues (SQL injection, XSS, CSRF).
    • Using prepared statements and input validation to prevent attacks.
    • Implementing HTTPS for secure communication.
 
Module 11: Introduction to Web Frameworks (Laravel, Django, Express)

 
    • Overview of popular web frameworks for server-side programming.
    • Setting up a basic web application using Laravel (PHP), Django (Python), or Express (Node.js).
    • MVC architecture and routing basics.
 
Module 12: Deploying and Hosting Web Applications

 
    • Introduction to cloud platforms (e.g., Heroku, AWS, DigitalOcean).
    • Deploying a simple web application to a server.
    • Managing server resources and maintaining a web application.
 

This program is ideal for:

  • Beginners with basic computer knowledge interested in web development.
  • Aspiring backend developers or full-stack developers.
  • Individuals who want to understand how websites and web applications work on the server-side.

By the end of the program, students will:

  • Understand the basics of server-side programming and web application architecture.
  • Gain hands-on experience with popular server-side languages like PHP, Python and Node.js.
  • Learn how to interact with databases using SQL.
  • Understand HTTP protocols and RESTful APIs.
  • Be able to build and deploy simple dynamic web applications.
  • Comprehend server and database security basics.
The delivery method for this certification is entirely online, requiring candidates to have access to a personal computer.

Simple English or Sinhala

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Students requesting refunds must email their request to finance.it@gsdc.lk. Refunds are only available to those who have paid the full class fees; fees paid in installments are non-refundable. Refund eligibility is as follows:

Applicants who have not attended the course for more than one week during the first month are entitled to a 90% refund and enrollment cancellation.

Applicants who have attended the first month of the course and not attended for more than one week during the second month are entitled to a 70% refund and enrollment cancellation.

Applicants who have attended the first two months of the course and not attended for more than one week during the third month are entitled to a 50% refund and enrollment cancellation.

No refunds will be issued after three months from the start of the course. Additionally, the course fee is non-transferable under any circumstances.

How to Apply

Tell us a little about yourself and we’ll help with the rest. Our convenient online application tool only takes 10 minutes to complete.

After you submit your application, an admissions representative will contact you and will help you to complete the process.

Once you’ve completed your application and connected with an admissions representative, you’re ready to create your schedule.

How To Apply

Your Application

Tell us a little about yourself and we’ll help with the rest. Our convenient online application tool only takes 10 minutes to complete.

Our Response

After you submit your application, an admissions representative will contact you and will help you to complete the process.

Your Journey

Once you’ve completed your application and connected with an admissions representative, you’re ready to create your schedule.

FORM

Are you ready to take the next step toward your future career?