Job Search & Hiring
How To Become a Software Developer
Glassdoor Team
Glassdoor Team | Author & Career Expert at Glassdoor | Jan 1, 2024
Are you thinking of becoming a Software Developer or already started your career and planning the next step? Learn how to become a Software Developer, what skills you need to succeed, how to advance your career and get promoted, and what levels of pay to expect at each step on your career path. Explore new Software Developer job openings and options for career transitions into related roles.
Steps to Become a Software Developer
As a software developer, you are responsible for designing and building computer programs for mobile apps, operating systems, or desktop applications. If you enjoy programming and problem-solving, a [career as a software developer](https://www.glassdoor.com/Career/software-developer-career_KO0,18.htm) may be right for you. In this article, we discuss five steps required to become a software developer:
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Receive a college degree or training.
- Bachelor's Degree: The traditional software developer career path starts with a bachelor's degree in software development, computer engineering, computer science, or another relevant field.
- Coding Boot camp: Coding boot camps are fast-paced programs that train participants in the most sought-after programming skills, such as version control, coding languages, database management, and algorithms. Boot camps prioritize real-world, work-ready skills.
- Self-Directed Study: Those unable to participate in a four-year program or training boot camp can study online courses, tutorials, and books to gain the skills needed to become a software engineer. To be successful as a self-taught software engineer requires careful planning and self-discipline.
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Participate in an internship.
Most four-year university programs require the completion of an internship before graduation. Internships allow prospective software developers to apply their classroom skills in a real-world environment. Internships also provide students with the opportunity to connect with other professionals, potentially leading to an entry-level position after graduation. Students can typically find software development internships through job boards, academic advisors, and college job fairs. -
Find employment as a software developer.
- Association of Software Professionals.
- Association for Women in Computing.
- Association for Computing Machinery.
- International Association of Privacy Professionals.
- Society for Technical Communication.
- Association of Information Technology Professionals.
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Earn certifications.
- Amazon Web Services (AWS).
- Oracle Java.
- Oracle Application Express Developer Expert.
- Microsoft MTA.
- Microsoft Azure.
- Cloudera.
- Puppet.
- Red Hat.
- Salesforce.
- Scrum.
- Project Management.
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Earn an advanced degree.
A master's degree is usually a requirement for work as a manager. Programs generally take two years to complete. Many universities offer evening and weekend programs that allow working professionals to work while earning a degree.A doctorate in software development is only necessary for those interested in working as a college professor or in a research field. Doctorate programs typically take four years to complete.
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