Software developers essential career information:
- 2011 median pay: $89,280
- 2011, number of jobs: 539,880
- Employment growth forecast, 2010-2020: 30 percent
- Entry level education requirements: Bachelor’s degree
Software developers; what they do:
If it weren’t for computer software developers, computer programs wouldn’t do very much. Software developers typically specialize in developing the applications allowing users to perform a specific task, or they specialize in the underlying systems running the control networks or device.
Computer software developer careers include studying users and determining what they need most, then either upgrading an existing system or designing, testing, and building something new to meet those needs. A software developer career includes working closely with programmers, to whom they provide flowcharts and models explaining software code.
Software developers supervising a software project from start to finish are also known as an Information Technology (IT) project manager. They ensure a project meets timelines, standards, and a budget.
Software developers careers are available in areas such as:
- Game software development
- Software application development
- Software development design
- Custom software application development
- Web software development
Applications software developers are those creative people with jobs so many computer enthusiasts want – they design everything from word processors, to programs for intranets, to games for consumers. Applications software developers work on custom or commercial software.
Systems software developer careers involve creating and maintaining systems which keep computers functioning smoothly. Systems software developers work on private and public operating systems, including those in common consumer products, such as a cell phone.
Receive Free Info about a Matching
Online Degree for this Career
Software developers job titles:
- Software Engineer
- Publishing Systems Analyst
- Systems Engineer
- Application Developer
- Application Integration Engineer
- Programmer Analyst
- Software Development Engineer
- Mobile Software Developer
- Systems Software Developer
Software Developers Education, Certification and License Requirements
Individuals seeking a software developer career generally have a Bachelor of Computer Science degree, Bachelor of Software Engineering degree, or a degree in a related field such as mathematics.
Some colleges and universities offer degrees such as a Bachelor in Computer Science – Mobile Application Software Engineering degree, Bachelor of Computer Science in Game Software Development degree, Bachelor in Software Development degree and a Bachelor in Computer Information Technology – Software Development degree.
Software developers need a strong understanding of computer programming, as well as skills related to the industry they work in. Software developers must keep up to date on new tools and computer languages throughout their career.
Software developers programs cover subjects such as:
- Computer programming
- Information technology
- Systems engineering
- Systems management and databases
- Organizational behavior management
Software developers don’t need a specific license or certification, however voluntary certification is available through specific institutions, such as The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Computer Society.
Begin a Rewarding Career
Learn about an Online B.S. in Information Technology Degree
Software Developers Job Outlook
Forecast: 30 percent employment growth for software developers from 2010 to 2020, much faster than the average for all occupations.
The main reasons for the extremely bright employment outlook for software developers include the increased demand of computer software, mobile technology requiring new applications, the healthcare industry using more computer systems and applications, and organizations investing more in cybersecurity measures.
The demand for software developers increases as more products, such as cell phones and appliances, use software.
The main threat to employment growth for software developers is the potential of outsourcing jobs, but the closer software developers are to their clients, the less likely their job is outsourced.
Software Developers Salary
- 2011 median annual wage: $89,280
- 2011, workers at the 75th percentile annual wage: $111,990
- 2011, workers at the 25% percentile annual wage: $70,300
Begin Your Online Education for a
Software Developer Career
Major Employers
- Computer systems design and related services
- Computer and electronic product manufacturing
- Finance and insurance
- Software publishers
Related Degrees
Learn about an Online
Associate’s in Computer Information Science Degree
Learn about an Online
Bachelor’s in Computer Information Science Degree
Learn about an Online
B.S. in Information Technology Degree
Learn about an Online
M.S. IT – Software Engineering Degree
