Written by Michael Feder
Reviewed by Kathryn Uhles, MIS, MSP, Dean, College of Business and IT
Written by Michael Feder
Reviewed by Kathryn Uhles, MIS, MSP, Dean, College of Business and IT
Think about the computer programs you use each day for work and play. From desktop publishing and computer software to social media apps and video games, no program comes from thin air. Someone has to build them, and that person is known as a software developer.
Software developers design, build, test and maintain the systems that help us get things done. They can work in many fields, from tech companies to healthcare to finance.
They also collaborate. Software development draws on talents from many different sources beyond people with technical knowledge. But what does the day-to-day work look like? And how do you get your start in this exciting, fast-paced industry?
Let’s explore the world of software development, including the types of software developers, their duties and where they work. We’ll also touch on how University of Phoenix can help you jump-start your software development career, whether you’re coming from a different industry or simply want to enhance your skills.
Software development is a diverse field. Depending on your unique interests, you may decide to focus on one or more specific types of development. These can include the following niches:
Application software developers build computer and mobile applications like games and productivity software for consumers. They may build custom software for a business or nonprofit, or they might create commercial software available to the general public.
While application developers create individual programs, systems software developers create operating systems for the public or organizations. (Windows, Linux and MacOS are examples of operating systems.) The systems keep computers up and running and control most electronics we use daily. Software developers design, write and build software and applications that allow you to interact with computers and mobile devices.
Software developers’ daily job duties can vary depending on the industries in which they work and the programs they develop, among other factors. That said, many software developers have the following job duties:
We spoke with J.L. Graff, MBA, associate dean of UOPX’s College of Business and Information Technology, to get a better idea about what a software developer does:
J.L. Graff, MBA
Associate Dean, College of Business and Information Technology
“Software developers work in myriad industries, and while the main responsibilities include designing, developing and maintaining software applications, the business needs differ. If you work in healthcare, you may create applications for health records and medical imaging. If you work in the automotive industry, you can work on software for connected car services or autonomous driving. If you are working in IT, you may find yourself developing software for agile methodologies or cloud computing.”
Like any job, software development requires a healthy mixture of hard and soft skills. Mastering the following can help bolster your knowledge and experience:
Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities that are often clear-cut and measurable. Most people gain these through education, training programs, certifications or on-the-job training. Most hard skills relate to specific tasks and job descriptions.
Software developers need to have a strong grasp of the following:
Soft skills describe the interpersonal skills that help you work both individually and as a team. They also detail how well you handle workplace challenges and stressors. Common soft skills that help software developers thrive are:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the anticipated future growth of software development – a projection of 25% between 2022 and 2032 – makes it an attractive field for technically minded individuals with a strong attention to detail.
Salaries for software developers have historically been competitive. In May 2023, software developers earned from $77.020 to $208,620 a year, with a median wage of $132,270, according to BLS.
While the vast majority of software developers work for software publishers and computer systems companies, it’s possible to find software development jobs at finance firms, insurers, manufacturers and healthcare companies.
BLS Occupational Employment Projections, 2022-2032 is published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects BLS’ projections of national (not local) conditions. These data points are not specific to University of Phoenix students or graduates.
Salary ranges are not specific to students or graduates of University of Phoenix. Actual outcomes vary based on multiple factors, including prior work experience, geographic location and other factors specific to the individual. University of Phoenix does not guarantee employment, salary level or career advancement. BLS data is geographically based. Information for a specific state/city can be researched on the BLS website.
There are many reasons you may want to pursue a career in software development. Graff points out: “As a software developer, you are in a high-demand field with the flexibility to explore various industries that pique your interest. You have the opportunity to enjoy flexible work hours and the option to work remotely. Witnessing tangible outcomes derived from your creativity and problem-solving skills can be a rewarding experience.”
To become a software developer, you’ll likely follow these steps:
1. Determine what kind of development you want to focus on, whether that’s mobile applications, desktop software or web development. Becoming an application developer may be a good step if that area interests you.
2. Pursue a degree or certification. Many developers start their career with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Others transition to a software development career by earning certificates.
3. Apply for and participate in internships. Internships provide valuable networking opportunities, on-the-job experience and projects for your portfolio.
4. Apply for your first job. With appropriate experience, networking knowledge and projects in hand, you can find your first job. In some cases, your internship might lead directly to a paid, full-time opportunity.
Becoming a software developer can be a rewarding career for tech-minded people who love to create and who pay attention to detail. Software development work is a parade of problem-solving, critical thinking and technical work.
Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at University of Phoenix is an excellent way to hone your skills in programming, networking and AI (among others) and gain the knowledge that can make a career in software development possible.
Here’s what you can learn:
If software development is your calling, you can specialize your bachelor’s degree in computer science with an Advanced Software Developer Certificate, which further develops programming, software engineering and IT architecture skills. During this program, you’ll learn to design and implement software solutions, for example, and study multiple programming languages.
Request information on this and many other online programs today.
A graduate of Johns Hopkins University and its Writing Seminars program and winner of the Stephen A. Dixon Literary Prize, Michael Feder brings an eye for detail and a passion for research to every article he writes. His academic and professional background includes experience in marketing, content development, script writing and SEO. Today, he works as a multimedia specialist at University of Phoenix where he covers a variety of topics ranging from healthcare to IT.
Currently Dean of the College of Business and Information Technology, Kathryn Uhles has served University of Phoenix in a variety of roles since 2006. Prior to joining University of Phoenix, Kathryn taught fifth grade to underprivileged youth in Phoenix.
This article has been vetted by University of Phoenix's editorial advisory committee.
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