While most teens don’t get enough screen time, some take a special interest in understanding how all the underlying technology works. These students may be interested in learning how to become a software developer. Find the information you need here, along with frequently asked questions about this wise career choice.
Plus, get a free printable poster about becoming a software developer to hang in your classroom, hallway, or guidance counselor’s office.
Frequently asked questions about how to become a software developer
What is a software developer?
Software developers design, create, and maintain software applications and systems. They work on everything from mobile apps to large-scale software solutions for enterprises. Developers collaborate with other technical experts to ensure that the software meets users’ needs and runs efficiently. Other software developer positions include:
Web developer Application developer Full stack developer
In this job, employees spend their days analyzing needs and designing and developing software solutions. Spend time writing and testing code and debugging existing programs. They often collaborate with cross-functional teams and need to stay up to date on new technologies and frameworks.
Why become a software developer?
This is a career path that offers high earning potential and good job security. It’s consecutive
Demand for skilled developers is increasing across a variety of industries. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that employment of software developers will increase by 17% over the next 10 years. They also report an average hourly wage of approximately $62.
Software developers often work in a more flexible and informal environment than other office jobs. Some people may be able to work from home full-time or part-time. This is ideal for those who prefer a non-traditional setup.
What skills do software developers need?
People who excel in this career think logically and creatively and have great attention to detail. They enjoy solving problems and collaborating with others to develop solutions needed by the company and customers.
Software developers acquire proficiency in various programming languages through education and training. They will understand the basic algorithms used in computer programming and gain experience with software development tools and methodologies.
Do software developers need a four-year degree?
Generally yes. Many positions require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field (such as mathematics or engineering). Developers may also need certifications in specialized programming languages or platforms.
However, if you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field and want to pivot to software development, you may not need a completely new degree. Many people attend “coding boot camps” and take intensive classes over a short period of time (from a few months to a year or more). These programs offer certifications that can be combined with an existing four-year degree to qualify you for entry-level developer jobs.
How to become a software developer: an overview of the process
get a degree
High school students who want to become software developers should apply to colleges with strong computer science programs. During your four-year program, we encourage you to pursue an internship to gain hands-on experience in development, coding, and project management.
build a portfolio
An online portfolio of projects you’ve worked on will help future employers evaluate your skills and talents. New graduates may use projects from college courses, but real-world experience from internships and other opportunities can make their portfolios even stronger.
Think of your portfolio as an opportunity to expand your resume online. It doesn’t have to be long or detailed. Codecademy says a simple web page is sufficient. Highlight your strongest skills and provide specific examples of your work. Include a link to your complete resume so future employers can print a hard copy if needed.
Earn professional certification
There are multiple certification programs available to developers, and different jobs may require different certifications. In some cases, the job will train you and pay for your qualifications, but it’s more likely that you’ll be required to already have these qualifications.
Consider the type of job or company you want to work for, and consider the qualifications you need. Some possibilities are:
AWS (Amazon Web Services) Certified Developer C and C++ Certified Professional Programmer (C/C++ CPP) Certified Kubernetes Application Developer (CKAD) CompTIA Security+ Microsoft Certification: Azure Developer Google Professional Cloud Developer Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE Programmer Salesforce Certified Platform developer
Professional development opportunities
In addition to earning new technical certifications, developers may want to specialize in project management by earning a Scrum Master Certification (CSM) or PMP (Project Management Professional) certification. These make it easier to get a job in computer or information systems management, which boasts higher pay and more demanding responsibilities.
