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Back End Development and APIs Certification (Legacy)

freeCodeCamp's Node.js, Express and MongoDB certification built around five API projects.

Taught byfreeCodeCamp
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About this course

This certification teaches server-side JavaScript: npm, Node.js and Express, then storing data with MongoDB and Mongoose. A rebuilt version was announced for 2026; the current version remains free to complete through its five API projects.

Best for: Front-end learners ready to add server-side JavaScript.

What you will be able to do

  • Create servers and REST APIs with Node.js and Express
  • Manage packages with npm
  • Store and query data with MongoDB and Mongoose
  • Ship five microservice projects

Syllabus and your progress

Tick modules off as you finish them on freeCodeCamp.

0 of 4 modules done

Plan your pace

At 4 hours a week you would finish in about 75 weeks, using the course time estimate above.

Progress is saved in this browser only. No account needed.

Cost and certificate

Free certificate

Legacy freeCodeCamp certification, still free to earn by completing its five required projects.

Before you start: JavaScript fundamentals

freeCodeCamp sets the terms and can change them. Check the course page before you commit serious time, and tell us if something changed.

Quick answers

Is Back End Development and APIs Certification (Legacy) really free?
Yes, the course material is free on freeCodeCamp. Legacy freeCodeCamp certification, still free to earn by completing its five required projects.
How long does Back End Development and APIs Certification (Legacy) take?
Plan for about 300 hrs in total (freeCodeCamp lists its certifications at about 300 hours each.). It is interactive, so you can go faster or slower.
Do I need experience before Back End Development and APIs Certification (Legacy)?
It helps to have: JavaScript fundamentals.

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Back End Development and APIs Certification (Legacy)

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