How to Become a Software Engineer – Career Path and Job Description | UniversityHQ

Step 1: Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree with a Specialty

The first step to becoming a software engineer is completing a formal education. Students may select between traditional training programs and non-traditional programs to be able to work their way up to an entry-level position.

Typically, there are two specializations you can focus on within software engineering:

systems/software development and applications. What’s more, is there are specialized fields within these areas.

You can also choose to become an expert in a variety of software development types or a single programming language such as:

• DevOps
• Mobile Development
• Web Development
• Technical Stack (e.g., Ruby, Python)

Incidentally, the educational path to your career begins in high school where you can start developing your skills and getting the training that will help you on your journey. To get a head start and maybe even earn some college credits, students can take classes in science, mathematics, and/or programming.

After earning your high school diploma, you will need to pursue a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science, or software development from an accredited college or university. Here you will gain comprehensive knowledge of software testing, software architecture, and programming. Check with the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology for a list of software engineering accredited programs.

A software engineering undergraduate degree shouldn’t take more than four to five years to earn if you attend full-time.