Related job titles are: Software Engineer, Application Integration Engineer, Network Engineer, Programmer Analyst, Software Development Engineer, Computer Consultant, Software Architect, Software Developer, Applications Developer, or Business Systems Analyst.
How Much Does a Software Developer/Engineer Make? | Software Developer/Engineer Salary
The median yearly salary for applications developers was $87,790 in May 2010 (the most recent data available). The median salary is the salary at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than the amount and half earned less. Employees in the lower 10 percent had an annual salary less than $54,360, and those employees in the top 10 percent earned greater then $133,110. The median yearly salary for systems developers was $94,180 in May 2010 (the most recent data available). Employees in the lower 10 percent had an annual salary less than $61,040, and those employees in the top 10 percent earned greater then $143,330.
What Does a Software Developer/Engineer Do? | Job Description
Software developer is one of U.S. News and World Report "100 Best Jobs of 2013." Software developers are the creative minds behind computer programs. Some develop the applications that allow people to do specific tasks on a computer or other device. Others develop the underlying systems that run the devices or control networks.
Software developers are in charge of the entire development process for a software program. They begin by understanding how the customer plans to use the software. They design the program and then give instructions to programmers, who write computer code and test it. If the program does not work as expected or people find it to difficult to use, software developers go back to the design process to fix the problems or improve the program. After the program is released to the customer, a developer may perform upgrades and maintenance.
Programmer Analyst, Software Architect, and
Software Developer are three of CNNMoney.com "100 Best Jobs in America."
How to Become a Software Developer/Engineer?
Software developers usually have a bachelor’s degree in computer science and strong computer-programming skills.
Although writing code is not their first priority, developers must have a strong background in computer programming. They usually gain this experience in school. Throughout their career, developers must keep up to date on new tools and computer languages.
Software Developer/Engineer Classes and Courses | Degree Programs
Software developers usually have a bachelor’s degree, typically in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. A degree in mathematics is also acceptable. Computer science degree programs are the most common, because they tend to cover a broad range of topics. Students should focus on classes related to building software in order to better prepare themselves for work in the occupation. For some positions, employers may prefer a master’s degree.
Software Developer/Engineer Jobs | Who is Hiring?
Employment of software developers is projected to grow 30 percent from 2010 to 2020, much faster than the average for all occupations. Employment of applications developers is projected to grow 28 percent, and employment of systems developers is projected to grow 32 percent.
The main reason for the rapid growth is a large increase in the demand for computer software. Mobile technology requires new applications. Also, the healthcare industry is greatly increasing its use of computer systems and applications. Finally, concerns over cybersecurity should result in more investment in security software to protect computer networks and electronic infrastructure.
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