Studying Software Development Online: Is This the Right Path for Me?
Do you enjoy learning about technology and computer systems? Are you a lover of applications and software? If so, a future in software development may be a good fit for you. Our world today is filled with technology. From your mobile phone interface to the systems that power industries and healthcare facilities, technology has become an essential component of daily life.
Behind the scenes, software engineers work tirelessly to develop the basis for everything we use. Not only do they optimize performance, but they also manage the user interface, functions, and adaptability of many different platforms. Becoming a software developer could expose you to numerous opportunities where you could make our current systems better.
Understanding Software Development
Software development refers to the design, execution, and implementation of software programs. These platforms allow us to use mobile phones, browse the internet, and control machines in the workplace. As a software developer, you’ll be on the frontlines of creating, managing, and operating many different types of programs. You could also support engineers, users, and other technicians as they put your software to good use.
Software developers are knowledgeable in various types of coding techniques, including Java, Python, and C++. If you enjoy learning about the inner workings of technology platforms (and cleaning up inefficiencies in current systems), a future in software development could be a good fit for you.
Another advantage of our tech-heavy world is that you can complete a software development degree program partially--or entirely--online! Thanks to the software developers that came before you, you could now take flexible online courses that teach core concepts of web application development, cloud technologies, and desktop systems. These real world practical lessons could also teach you how to analyze customer requirements, while designing User Interfaces (UI) that solve these needs.
What duties and responsibilities can you expect?
Software developers wear many different hats. Some developers are independent consultants who work on multiple projects at a time, while others are employed by a specific company to continuously monitor and develop in-house systems. Regardless of your employment terms, you can generally expect to carry out the following duties:
- Operate, maintain, and fix software systems
- Develop interactive user interfaces that meet the needs of customers
- Optimize performance and build the capacity of various systems
- Provide timely support for crashes and performance-related issues
- Develop innovative platforms that fall in line with client expectations
Obtaining your Degree in Software Development Online
Software development is a highly dynamic and exciting field. While working in this profession, you’ll be faced with many different challenges and client expectations as you continue to grow and learn. This is why formal training in software development is so important. By obtaining a degree in this field, you could stand out from the competition and gain critical knowledge of technology platforms your competitors might not have had a chance to fully understand yet.
Online classes in software development have made accessibility much easier. You no longer have to spend 4 years going to class in a traditional university, as you can now access the information you need online, from anywhere in the world (as long as there’s an internet connection). If you’re currently working full-time or juggling the needs of your family and other responsibilities, an online degree option could help you achieve your career goals.
Online classes generally consist of both hands-on and theoretical concepts regarding software systems. You can expect to learn how to write code, implement digital commands, identify problems, and optimize performance. You should also become conversant with multiple platforms that include mobile and desktop applications.
Online courses are much easier to update with the latest content and curricula for students. You won’t have to worry the information you’re learning will be obsolete by the time you graduate. But technical skills alone can’t make up a good employee. Degree programs often also focus on soft skills, such as communication and integrating feedback into your work.
Benefits of online learning in computer technology
Earning your degree in software development online has numerous benefits. These include:
- The ability to finish your program faster
- A school schedule that works around your life, not the other way around
- Flexible curriculum to meet your current schedule
- Formal education regarding foundational industry knowledge
Career opportunities
A degree in Software Development could open up a wide range of opportunities. Here are some of the options you may want to consider:
- Web and interface developer
- Software analyst
- Mobile app developer
- Network security professional
- Software tester
At ECPI University, we offer a Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Software Development. And with our year-round curriculum, you could complete your program in as little as 2.5 years.
Are you ready to dive into the world of technology and help improve software systems? Contact our helpful admissions counselors today to see if online learning is right for you!
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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For more information about ECPI University or any of our programs click here: http://www.ecpi.edu/.