What you'll learn

This course provides a comprehensive, hands-on introduction to modern full-stack web development using Next.js on the frontend and Node.js (with Express or Nest.js) on the backend. Students will learn how to design, develop, deploy, and maintain production-ready web applications using an industry-standard tech stack. The curriculum covers essential concepts such as React fundamentals, Next.js routing, server-side rendering (SSR), static site generation (SSG), API route creation, authentication, database integration (MongoDB / PostgreSQL), backend API development, and secure deployment strategies. By the end of the course, students will build and deploy their own full-stack application using best practices followed by professional developers.

  • Set up the essential development tools and environment needed for full-stack development. Learn how Node, npm, VSCode, and Git work together in a modern workflow.
  • Revisit core JavaScript concepts required for backend and frontend development. Cover modern ES6+ features like let/const, arrow functions, and promises.
  • Understand how JavaScript handles asynchronous operations using callbacks and promises. Learn to write cleaner async code with async/await patterns.
  • Explore the Node.js runtime, module system, event loop, and event-driven architecture. Work with the file system to read, write, and manage files programmatically.
  • Build server-side routes and handle HTTP requests using Express.js. Understand middleware flow, custom middleware, and structured error handling.
  • Design RESTful endpoints and implement CRUD operations using Express. Learn best practices for structuring APIs and handling responses.
  • Learn NoSQL fundamentals and perform CRUD operations in MongoDB. Use MongoDB Compass to visualize collections and design efficient document structures.
  • Work with Mongoose to define schemas and interact with MongoDB in Node.js. Implement validation and enforce structured data models.
  • Implement secure user authentication workflows using JWT. Use bcrypt to hash passwords and protect user credentials.
  • Initialize a modern React project using CRA or Vite. Understand file structure, component organization, and development workflow.
  • Learn the building blocks of React, including functional components and JSX. Understand how props and state control UI behavior.
  • Master essential React hooks for state and side effects. Build reusable logic using custom hooks.
  • Implement client-side navigation using react-router. Create nested routes, dynamic routes, and structured navigation flows.
  • Manage global state using React Context and useReducer patterns. Build scalable state logic for medium to large applications.
  • Fetch data from APIs using fetch and axios. Handle loading states, errors, and data binding in React UI.
  • Implement file uploads using multer or similar middleware. Serve static assets like images and files through Express.
  • Use Postman or Insomnia to test and automate API requests. Learn basics of unit testing backend logic.
  • Deploy Node.js apps on Heroku/Render and configure MongoDB Atlas. Understand environment variables and production configurations.
  • Enhance performance using code-splitting and lazy-loaded components. Use memoization techniques to optimize rendering.
  • Build real-time communication features such as chat or live notifications. Understand WebSockets and Socket.io’s event-based model.
  • Plan the project scope, modules, and user flow. Create wireframes and technical requirements.
  • Set up backend structure and implement initial API endpoints. Focus on authentication, core CRUD, and system architecture.
  • Build the base React UI and client-side routing. Connect pages, components, and navigation structure.
  • Integrate frontend with backend and complete major features. Improve UI/UX and test the end-to-end workflow.
  • Enhance speed using frontend and backend optimization techniques. Implement essential security practices like rate-limiting and sanitization. Enhance speed using frontend and backend optimization techniques. Implement essential security practices like rate-limiting and sanitization.
  • Learn how automated deployment pipelines work. Use environment variables to secure configuration across environments.
  • Use debugging tools and logging frameworks to track issues. Understand basics of monitoring applications in production.
  • Finalize project features, documentation, and UI refinements. Present the project, highlight learnings, and complete evaluation.

Gagandeep Sethi
Assistant Professor

Gagandeep is a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in software development and project management. With a robust technical skill set encompassing React, Angular, Node.js, MongoDB, Laravel, Flutter, and React Native, he excels at crafting innovative and scalable solutions. His expertise extends to client management, ensuring seamless communication and project delivery that consistently exceed expectations. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Applications for Professional Enhancement at Lovely Professional University, Gagandeep combines academic excellence with industry experience. He holds a Master’s in Technology in Computer Science and Engineering with distinction. Prior to his academic role, Gagandeep spent 10 years as a Senior Project Manager at Promatics Technologies Pvt Ltd, Ludhiana, where he led diverse teams to deliver high-impact projects across multiple domains. His leadership, technical acumen, and dedication to fostering professional growth make him a valuable mentor and educator.