Backend Development with Node.js & Express
Learn backend fundamentals and build REST APIs using Node.js and Express.
Master server-side programming with Express.js. Learn to design APIs, connect databases (MongoDB), and deploy production-ready backends for web and mobile applications.
Build a robust RESTful API with Node.js and Express.
Implement secure user authentication using JWT and bcrypt.
Design and interact with MongoDB using Mongoose.
Deploy a production-ready backend to a cloud service.
Meet Your Mentors
Chala T.
Lead Backend Developer (Express)
Expert in modern web frameworks and best practices.
Detailed Course Curriculum
Backend Intro & Setup
Understand servers, HTTP, and install Node.js/tools.
Node.js Fundamentals
Asynchronous programming and the Event Loop.
Express Basics
Set up your first Express server and routing.
Middleware
Using custom and third-party middleware (e.g., body-parser).
MongoDB & Mongoose
Integrate and model data using Mongoose schemas.
CRUD API Implementation
Build the core Create, Read, Update, Delete routes.
User Authentication (JWT)
Implement secure login/registration with JWT.
Security & Validation
Input validation and basic security measures (Helmet, CORS).
Advanced Mongoose
Aggregation, population, and advanced queries.
File Handling
Uploading and serving static files (Multer).
Testing APIs
Using Postman/Insomnia and introduction to unit testing (Jest).
Error Handling & Logging
Centralized error handling and using Winston for logging.
Real-time with Socket.io
Introduction to WebSockets for live features (e.g., chat).
Environment Variables
Configuring production and development settings.
Mini Project: Authentication Service
Build a complete, secure user microservice.
Code Refactoring
Organizing MVC patterns and best practices.
Deployment Fundamentals
Preparing the application for production hosting (Render/Railway).
CI/CD Introduction
Automate builds and testing with GitHub Actions.
Project Building Kick-off
Define the final API features, architecture, and database models.
Core Routes & MongoDB Setup
Implement the primary CRUD endpoints and database connection.
Project Building: Security & Features
Implement full authentication, file handling, and necessary third-party services.
Performance Optimization
Indexing and caching strategies.
Final Project Presentation
Showcase the complete, deployed backend API.
Career Insights
Preparing for backend and system design interviews.