Careers in Software Development

Software development is incredibly varied and the qualifications you need to pursue a career in it can vary too. So where do you start?  Firstly, employers will typically look for someone with a range of the following characteristics:-

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• analytical thinking skills

• maths knowledge for understanding programming

• be thorough and pay attention to detail

• have the ability to come up with new ways of doing things

• complex problem-solving skills

• excellent verbal communication skills for sharing ideas

• persistence and determination

• have the ability to write computer programs

• have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

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So what types of qualifications do you need? You can explore a range of academic pathways including studying for a degree. The most common undergraduate degree in the UK is a Level 6 qualification, a bachelor's degree which typically takes four years to complete. A software engineering bachelor's degree can include courses in mathematics, software architecture, networking, and programming languages. 

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If you are not ready for University just yet, you can explore the following pathways which may be offered by your local College or 6th form:

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• A Level in Computing.

• Level 3 Certificate in Programming.

• T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development.

• Higher National Certificate in Computing

 

If you are aged 19 and over, you can explore doing Skills bootcamp to gain a taste of what software development and engineering is all about.  Skills bootcamps are nationwide and typically run from 10-16 weeks. For more information take a look at this link

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/find-a-skills-bootcamp or you could explore doing a 3-6 month coding course.

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For guidance on roles have a look at https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/job-profiles/software-developer