How to Become a Software Developer

You’ll agree with me that in this 21st century, some of the highest paid careers are in the Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) sector. In this sector, one of the most sort after profession is software development.

Talented software developers are paid handsomely and they also enjoy many benefits like company shares, paid vacations, royalty fees, and other forms of compensations. Interestingly, you can become a top software developer without even a degree in computer-related discipline.

If you have a talent for programming and are seriously interested in a career in software development then you’re at the right place. In this article, you’ll learn how to become a software developer in just six months.

Who is a Software Developer?

Software developers are the creative, brainstorming masterminds behind computer programs of all sorts. While some software developers may focus on a specific program or app, others create giant networks or underlying systems that help trigger and power other programs. This is why there are two main classifications of developers: applications software developers and systems software developers.

Duties of Software Developers

Software developers typically do the following:

• Analyze users’ needs and then design, test, and develop software to meet those needs
• Recommend software upgrades for customers’ existing programs and systems
• Design each piece of an application or system and plan how the pieces will work together
• Create a variety of models and diagrams (such as flowcharts) that show programmers the software code needed for an application
• Ensure that a program continues to function normally through software maintenance and testing
• Document every aspect of an application or system as a reference for future maintenance and upgrades
• Collaborate with other computer specialists to create optimum software

Technical Skills for Software Developers

You need some technical programming skills to become a software developer. As a developer, you need to learn and master programming languages. Below are the top technical skills employers are looking for:

• Java®
• SQL
• Software engineering
• JavaScript®
• Python®
• Microsoft® C#
• Linux
• Git
• Oracle
• DevOps

Where Can a Software Developer Work?

In today’s world, a software developer can work almost in every sector, because everything now is getting digitalized. However, we have listed top industries where the services of developers are needed the most.

• Computer systems design and related services
• Finance and insurance
• Software publishers
• Manufacturing
• Management of companies and enterprises
• Engineering services
• Defence

How to Become a Software Developer

Anyone can become a software engineer, but you need to be outstanding in what you do. Apart from having strong programming skills, you also need to obtain some form of education.

1. Basic Education

If you want to become a highly successful software developer, you’ll need to obtain some form of education. Most software developers usually have a bachelor’s degree, typically in computer science, software engineering, or a related field.

Computer science degree programs are the most common because they tend to cover a broad range of topics. Furthermore, you can also obtain your degree in any other discipline while learning core programming languages.

Many students gain experience in software development by completing an internship at a software company while in college. For some positions, employers may prefer that applicants have a master’s degree.

Although writing code is not their first priority, developers must have a strong background in computer programming. Additionally, as a software developer, you must keep up to date on new tools and computer languages.

Software developers also need skills related to the industry in which they work. Developers working in a bank, for example, should have knowledge of finance so that they can understand a bank’s computing needs.

2. Software Development Certification

In addition to having a degree and programming skills, you also need to get some form of certification. If you’ve completed a software programming course, you’ll need to up additional certification. Certificate programs are offered by product vendors like Microsoft, Apple and IBM to train candidates in their products.

Most of these programs are geared towards particular technologies and the exams are conducted by testing agencies contracted by the product vendors. For example, Microsoft offers six different certifications through their online learning center by which candidates can acquire MCA, MCM, MCITP, MCPD, MCTS, and MTA certification.

Another type of broader certification is also offered by the IEEE. This organization has certified more than 575 software professionals since the year 2006. Candidates must have four years of software programming experience before they sit for a four-hour certification exam.

3. Master Your Skills

With the two steps above, you’re on your way to becoming a successful software developer. Learning these skills along with certifications is one thing, you need to master the act and art of software development to really stand out.

If you want to go far as a developer, you need to start up some personal project and also have some experience in the field. You can gain experience via an internship or by offering freelance services.

How Long Does it take to become a Software Developer?

You might want to know how long it will take to become a software developer. There is no fixed time frame for one to master the art of software development. If you don’t have an ICT-related background, it will take you nothing less than six months to learn and master software development.

You can enrol in an online software development course and earn certifications within six months, however, you will need to practice and gain mastery. Additionally, you can enrol and get trained by a professional software developer.

The time it takes to become a professional software developer differs, based on your background, level of assimilation and passion.

Conclusion

Software development is a very lucrative career path for those who have a passion for programming. Although it is lucrative, you need to be patient and diligent in learning. As earlier mentioned, you don’t necessarily need a degree in ICT-related discipline to become a software developer. With the right training and exposure, you too can become a successful software developer within a short time.