Software developer

Software developers create and test programs that allow people to complete tasks, run services and use digital devices.

In this guide

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

Most relevant

  • Computer Science - Software developers write, test, and debug computer code every day – this is the core of what Computer Science teaches. Understanding programming languages, algorithms, data structures, and computational thinking is essential for building software that works efficiently and reliably.
  • Mathematics - Software developers use mathematical thinking constantly, from logic and algebra when writing code to statistics when handling data. Many areas of software development – such as graphics, encryption, machine learning, and performance optimisation – rely heavily on mathematical concepts.

Also relevant

  • Physics - Software developers working on simulations, games, or engineering tools often need to model real-world physics like motion, forces, and energy. Physics also builds strong problem-solving and mathematical modelling skills that transfer well to software development.
  • Design and Technology - Software developers follow a design process – gathering requirements, prototyping, testing, and iterating – that mirrors the design cycle taught in D&T. Understanding how users interact with products helps developers create software that is practical and intuitive to use.
  • Business - Software developers regularly discuss client requirements and need to understand how businesses operate to build useful solutions. Those who progress into project management, consultancy, or start their own companies benefit from understanding business planning, finance, and strategy.
  • English Language - Software developers write technical documentation, record changes at each stage of development, and communicate complex ideas to both technical and non-technical colleagues. Being able to explain things clearly – whether in a report, a code review, or a client meeting – is a daily requirement.
  • Electronics - Software developers sometimes work closely with hardware, particularly when building embedded systems, IoT devices, or applications that interact with sensors and controllers. Understanding how electronic components and digital circuits work helps when writing software that communicates with physical devices.

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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