What Do You Need to Become a Software Developer?

Whether you are just entering the job market or are shifting gears in the middle of your career, you probably want to join one of the fastest growing and well-paying career fields. If you have a propensity for computers and can combine technical knowledge with creativity, the career in software development may be a rewarding occupation for you. Software developers are in demand like never before and companies are having difficulty finding enough qualified candidates to fill their job openings. This begs the question: what do you need to begin a career in software development?

What Is A Software Developer?

Software Developers - often affectionately referred to as "devs" - are the creative force behind every computer program that you have ever used. The software, games, apps and other programs that you use on a daily basis began with a developer who saw a specific need and both conceptualized and wrote the code necessary to make the program function as intended. The effect that this occupation has on the tech sector and the daily lives of consumers is vast and software development is one of the most indispensable occupations in today's economy.

What Skills Does A Software Developer Need?

As you can imagine, any software developer needs to have a strong background in computer science, but that is not the only skill that makes a developer. Software developers need to be in touch with the needs of their end users, able to assess their needs and develop programs and applications that meet them.

They need to be first designers who use code the way expert artisans use their tools. An ability to plan future coding efforts with diagrams, flow-charts, and maps is essential to keeping teams of coders on the same page. They need to have superior deductive and inductive reasoning to be able to disassemble and reassemble coding patterns that are not functioning as they are intended. One of the most underrated qualities of successful software developers is patience and the ability to work collaboratively with others in a high-pressure environment where results are expected on tight deadlines.

What Do You Have To Learn Before Starting A Career In Software Development?

The minimum requirement for an entry-level career in software development is usually a college degree. A degree in computer science or software development will normally fulfill this requirement, but often only with an additional and specialized course of study. While certain certifications can be a feather in the cap and go a long way toward preparing you for this first position, a four-year degree is regarded as the best preparation for this demanding occupation.

A strong grasp of the fundamentals of computer programming are also essential. Creativity and the ability to conceptualize new projects may be difficult to display, but this is one of the biggest things that employers will be looking for in their devs. Finally, the ability to troubleshoot problems and expertise in the core programming language that the company's software uses (C++, Java, Python etc) will cement your qualifications for these positions.

A Rewarding Position in Software Development Is Waiting

Software development is a red-hot field right now, and that isn't expected to change anytime soon. The demand in the United States remains so high that companies need to recruit extensively overseas to meet the demand. The demand for software developers is expected to grow by more than 31 percent over the next decade according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Are you interested in a new and exciting career in software development? It all could begin with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer and Information Science with a Major in Software Development from ECPI University. Contact our helpful admissions staff today to begin your course of study sooner than you think with our year-round program.

It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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Gainful Employment Information – Software Development - Bachelor’s

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