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How to Become a Software Developer

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Learning to Become a Software Developer

Recently, we explored what jobs you can get with a degree in computer science, and today we’re going to explain how to get one of the best jobs in the field, detailing what you need to do to launch a career as a software developer.

As part of our discussion, we’ll take a look at whether or not it’s a good idea to pursue a job in the field, what degree you should get if you want to become a software developer, and whether or not you can get that degree online.

If you’re interested in designing the applications, programs, games, and systems that are run on computers, phones, and other electronic devices, then you will want to consider a career as a software developer.

After you’ve learned about starting a career in software development, fill out our information request form to get more information about our 100% online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science. If you’re ready to get started, you can also submit your application today.

Is Software Development a Good Career?

Yes, becoming a software developer is an excellent career choice, for several reasons.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for software developers is expected to grow by 25% from 2021 to 2031! That is much faster than the national average for all jobs and a great indication that this is an excellent industry to launch a long-term career in.

The expected growth in employment is projected to be driven by an increased need for professionals who can develop new and innovative computer software, so if you’re interested in doing creative things with computers, then this may be the perfect career for you.

But breaking into the industry isn’t easy, which is why earning your Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science may be required, as this will help prove your passion and skills to future employers. 

As part of your studies within a computer science program, you’ll develop the technical and professional skills needed to find success in this competitive field, and you’ll gain the academic credentials needed to impress hiring managers and convince them to give you a chance.

If you’re interested in working on cutting edge technologies, developing the apps and computer programs that make up the fabric of the modern world, you may want to pursue a career as a software developer.

What Do Software Developers Actually Do?

Software developers are almost like the architects of the computer world. 

They design the applications, programs, and systems that run on smartphones, laptops, computers, even supercomputers.

Software developers have to be creative, and they’ve got to be extremely well-educated, as they’re the individual responsible for finding solutions to problems and then realizing those solutions through complex, innovative computer programs.

Some software developers focus on creating apps, like the ones you might use on your phone, tablet, or laptop, while other software developers work on the giant networks or systems that underpin the programs we regularly interface with. 

If you love solving puzzles and are excited about working in technology and specifically on helping to improve technological innovations, then you might be a good fit for the career of a software developer. 

And if this is a career you want to pursue, then one of the best ways to invest in your future is earning your Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science.

Do I Need a Degree to Get a Job as a Software Developer?

While it’s possible to find employment as a software developer without a degree, earning a Computer Science Degree can give you a leg up as you look to start your career.

First, a Computer Science Degree program, like the one offered by CSU Global, will teach you the necessary skills required to be a successful software developer, including how to:

  • Solve complex organizational problems with technical solutions.
  • Construct software systems of varying complexity.
  • Analyze the impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society.

On top of this, having a Computer Science Degree listed on your resume may make you a more attractive candidate to future prospective employers when it comes time to apply for a role in the field.

Earning your degree will help you prove that you’re committed to the field and that you’ve already developed the foundational skills needed to be successful as a software developer.

Which Degree Should I Get?

The degree you should get is the one that best helps you achieve your career goals.

For many people looking to land a job as a software developer, that tends to mean pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science. 

This is one of the most common degrees earned by those who want to become software developers or software engineers, and for good reason. 

But computer science degrees come in two varieties: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.), and understanding the difference between these two types of degrees will help you decide which Computer Science Degree program is right for you.

Generally speaking, a B.A. degree is going to focus more on building soft skills like communication and team building, emphasizing courses based in the humanities such as history and language. 

On the other hand, B.S. programs, like the B.S. in Computer Science program offered by CSU Global, tend to focus more on building technical skills.

Because software development is a technical field that requires a deep understanding of computer systems technology, a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is likely to be the better option for anyone looking to break into the field.

But whether you choose to earn a B.A. or a B.S., any degree in computer science will help increase the odds of finding success as a software developer, since getting your degree is one of the best ways to build the foundation skills and knowledge needed to find success in this challenging industry.

What Can I Do With a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science?

Earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science will allow you to pursue roles in software development, as well as several other excellent fields of computer science.

Some of the most popular titles for computer science graduates include:

But these are just the tip of the iceberg because earning your B.S. in Computer Science can help open the door to a wide array of other exciting career opportunities as well, such as:

  • Web developer
  • Software tester
  • Business analyst
  • Product manager
  • Network architect
  • Software engineer
  • Full-stack developer
  • Engineering manager
  • User interface designer
  • Database administrator
  • Cloud computing engineer
  • Information security analyst

No matter what title you hope to obtain or what specific niche you want to specialize in, earning your B.S. in Computer Science will give you the technical skills and foundational knowledge needed to achieve success by pursuing these roles with confidence and hitting the ground running from day one.

Is a Degree in Computer Science Really Worth It?

Yes, earning your Degree in Computer Science is worth it, because it will give you the skills and abilities needed to pursue good jobs in competitive industries.

Although it might seem like a heavy investment of your time and money, earning your degree has been proven to increase your overall earning potential across the course of your career, according to the Social Security Administration

Earning your degree can also help open the door for new careers, promotions, or higher-level roles than you may otherwise be able to achieve, and getting your degree in computer science is one of the best ways to help you break into this competitive field.

At CSU Global, our B.S. in Computer Science program provides you with the hard skills and foundational computer systems knowledge required to make you a competitive candidate in the modern job market.

Can I Get My Degree in Computer Science Online?

Yes, you can earn your degree entirely online from a regionally accredited and widely respected school, such as CSU Global.

Our 100% online Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree program is designed to give you as much flexibility as possible, with excellent benefits like:

  • No set class times or locations
  • Monthly class starts
  • Accelerated 8 week courses

If you want to take the next step in your career and earn your degree without compromising your current work-life or family responsibilities, then you should consider earning your degree online with CSU Global.

Why Should I Study Computer Science at CSU Global?

CSU Global’s online B.S. in Computer Science Degree is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and all of our courses are taught by faculty that have recent and real-world experience in the field.

We also developed and designed the program specifically to be completed online, offering you maximum flexibility so that you can continue delivering on existing family and career responsibilities while working on completing your degree.

Importantly, our program curriculum aligns with the certification criteria for the Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE 8 Programmer, and the C++ Certified Associate Programmer from the C++ Institute. This curriculum alignment ensures that you’ll develop the skills you need to achieve success as a software developer, while also providing you with academic credentials that will earn the respect of potential hiring managers when it comes time to pursue a position in the field.

Finally, we also offer competitive tuition rates, a Tuition Guarantee to ensure your rate won’t increase as long as you remain enrolled in good academic standing.

To get additional details about our fully accredited, 100% online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science please give us a call at (800) 462-7845, or fill out our Information Request Form.

Ready to get started today? Apply now!