Getting a job/starting a career?

Web Dev is going to be easier to get into than Software Engineering. If you know html, css, javascript/jquery, some php, and have experience working with Wordpress (or other common cms platforms), you can get an entry-level position doing web dev.

Having a backend skill like Python, Ruby on Rails, PHP (extensive knowledge), or node.js/meteor will give you a leg up on competition and open you up to many more opportunities.

I dont think that one is necessarily easier than the other

take a look at your local job adverts and get an idea of whats out there

In the UK, its seems that most places are looking for back end developers, although many do ask you to have front end skills as well

the more you know the better, but if you want to specialize, I would suggest back end

In case you are looking for more notes; I am going to add my two cents in. I recently completed a career change into the Web Development field. I was lucky enough to use my military benefits to get my through school as Web Design and New Media degree, but I still had to do flips for my interviews.

Honestly, from everything I have seen or gone through through research and experience. Getting into the fields are easier then you would think and personally, I believe the degree gives merit but very little. The degree marks a "basic" level of knowledge that you should have. But I have seen people with degree's faux their way through college and come out knowing very little.

I believe your safest and fastest route for getting a job, is throwing together a portfolio. In the portfolio demonstrate your ability to complete skills or projects in the field you want to work.

You wish to work as a front end developer, make a couple front ends. You want to engineer, putting together a few projects with those skills and seek a job where you will grow.