Software developer
Software developers create and test programs that allow people to complete tasks, run services and use digital devices.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a software developer, you could:
- discuss client requirements and potential development ideas
- work with a technical team to form design plans and timescales
- write or update computer code
- test software at each stage or iteration to find and fix problems
- make sure software meets industry quality standards
- record changes made, with reasons, at each stage of development
- complete final checks before a product is released for use
- maintain and support systems once they're up and running
Working environment
You could work in an office, from home, remotely or at a client's business.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could:
- become a senior developer, leading a team
- manage development projects
- move into related areas, such as systems design, IT architecture and business systems analysis
- set up your own company and work as a consultant
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- analytical thinking skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- maths knowledge for understanding programming
- the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
- complex problem-solving skills
- excellent verbal communication skills for sharing ideas
- knowledge of systems analysis and development
- the ability to write computer programs
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- a graduate training scheme
You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or a degree in:
- computer science
- information technology
- software development
- financial technology
- software engineering
- maths
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
More Information
You could do a college course to learn some of the skills needed to get a trainee position, or to move onto further study. Courses include:
- computing
- computer science
- programming
- principles of coding
- T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
More Information
You could apply to do an apprenticeship, such as:
- Software Development Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Software Developer Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- DevOps Engineer Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Digital and Technology Solutions Professional L6 Degree Apprenticeship
- Game Programmer Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship
These can take between 2 and 4 years to complete. They combine on-the-job training with time spent at a college or other learning provider.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
More Information
You may be able to apply for a place on a graduate training scheme with an IT company, if you have a degree.
These are often open to graduates of any subject, not just people with a degree in a computing.
Career tips
You could build up your skills and knowledge using online learning resources for:
- programming languages
- project management
- software development methods
Further information
You can find out more about working and training in computing from:
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.