How to become a software developer

What is software development?

Software development is the process of designing, creating, testing and maintaining software applications and systems. Developers consider user requirements to come up with functional and efficient solutions. This process is on-going, and it requires constant adaptation and improvement to keep up with evolving needs.

Do I need a degree to become a software developer?

Lots of software developers choose to do a degree. This can help you understand programming concepts, algorithms, data structures, and software design principles.

At the University of Central Lancashire, our Software Engineering BSc (Hons) degree will equip you with the skills you need to become a software developer. You'll learn to programme in Java, C++, and C#. In your second year, you'll develop an interactive game. You'll also have the option to complete a year in industry, gaining valuable practical skills.

You could also consider our Computer Science BSc (Hons) degree. This combines skills in computational thinking and artificial intelligence with software engineering. Our Computing BSc (Hons) degree also covers software development skills. You will study basic computational and developer skills in your first year, before specialising in an area of your choice. That could be business, internet and cloud, networking, security or software development. Both of these courses also include an option to complete a year in industry as well.

Many developers also pursue certifications or attend a coding bootcamp to gain specific skills and practical experience.

Software developers create functional software that improves efficiency, enables innovation, and enhances user experience. It is a dynamic and rewarding career choice, with plenty of opportunities for growth. We hope this has helped you understand how to become a software developer. Browse our courses below.