software development degree

Do I Need a Degree to Become a Software Developer?

We all love a good shortcut. The internet is filled with stories of prodigies who thumbed their noses at the traditional route and charted their own shortcut path into the world of programming and software development. But just how relatable are these stories to modern day aspiring software developers? 

Competition in Software Development

The days of the untrained “cowboy” software developers are waning as technology becomes more accessible. These days, the best shortcut to becoming a professional software developer is to earn a formal degree from a college or university.

The reason is simple: competition.

More people are aware of software development as an option, and more people are interested in this field than in the past. We use software every day, making it a much more popular choice for modern college students. 

Should You Earn a Software Development Degree?

Are there are those who have done it? Yes. Some have successfully entered the IT world without a formal degree. How long does that route take? It depends. 

Learning on your own, outside of a formal degree program could take decades. There is so much to learn that without a structured curriculum it would be extremely difficult to cover all the required material on your own. Although earning a degree may seem time consuming, two - four years is not so bad compared with the alternative. 

Besides--some universities offer accelerated software development bachelor's degree programs which can be completed in as little as 2.5 years. 

Opportunities in Software Development

Searching for a job can be trying, but one thing is clear: a college degree is a huge asset in your search. A college degree gives companies a baseline understanding of your ability. Committing to a degree up front can save you time and money in the end.

How Will You Learn Software Programming?

If you are not pursuing a computer science degree, how much personal time are you willing to dedicate to learning software development on your own?

Without a degree, you will be expected to demonstrate your proficiency. That means many hours of writing code on your own, learning, experimenting, trying to figure things out and hopefully, getting it right. In the end, this is a shortcut that will almost certainly take longer. 

Software Development as a Profession

Do you absolutely need a degree to become a software developer? The short answer is no, but before you make a decision, consider all the factors. A degree in software development can demonstrate your commitment. 

Get an Education in Software Development

It’s your decision, but if you are ready to move forward in software development, contact ECPI University today. With our year-round accelerated program, you could have a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science with a concentration in Software Development in just 2.5 years. The future is yours! It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

Learn more about ECPI's College of Technology TODAY!

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