How To Become A Software Developer

Software Developer Career Outlook

kate — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 01:57:57 +0000

A career as a software developer is more than just programming video games. Software developers analyze the way the public and companies use software and computer systems. From the data they gather they work to develop new ways to implement and design programs and apps to meet the needs of computer users. Jobs in the technology sector are projected to grow over 30% in the next decade. A career as a software developer is included in this projection making this career path one of the most promising for the 21^st Century. It is listed as one of the 50 fastest growing jobs by monster.com.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) jobs in this area are available in many areas. Software developers are needed in scientific, business, entertainment, government, and pubic sectors. Each time a new version of a software program is introduced, there are teams of developers behind it. Take for example Microsoft Word. From a simple DOS program to one of the most powerful and popular word processing programs available, it is software developers who have been responsible for this evolution. Developers can go on to manage teams, departments and become executives. Many developers work as freelancers and consultants setting their own hours and choosing the clients they wish to work with. This is a good choice if you want freedom and like a lot of variety. Software developers are generally very creative people who find solving problems and developing new applications enjoyable.

Software developers can expect to make an average of $85,000 per year (depending on where you live and what job sector you work in). A bachelor’s degree is required as well as fluency in the major computer programs such as C, Java, C++, and Python. You can find many software developer courses online and earn your undergraduate or graduate degree. Continuing education is essential to stay on top of new developments and how to adapt to ever changing technology. It is the ability to spot new trends and adapt to the changing needs of technology that will help to build a successful career. With the right training and talent this could be one of the most profitable and interesting career choices you can make.

Is Video Game Design for You?

kate — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:12:03 +0000

A job as a software developer can be as varied as writing programs to make a computer run, developing software for scientific research, or designing the next big video game. If you love to play video games you might want to consider becoming a video game designer. Most game designers have at least a bachelor degree in design and programming. There are several schools that offer video game design through on campus and online programs. One of the perks of this job is you spend many hours playing already existing games in the name of research. You not only get paid to develop new games, but to get ideas from some of the most popular games available.

Gaming School

Typical Courses

Before you can develop the next big game, you’ll need to get an education. A heavy emphasis on design and programming will be your main courses. Some of these include:

Game and simulation programming
Game software development
Computer animation
Robotics
Graphic programming
3D engine architecture
Terrain rendering
Special effects programming

This is just a small sampling of the courses you’ll be required to master. To create realistic characters and landscapes you have to have the ability to imagine them and then take your ideas and transfer them into a game platform. This could be one of the most important skills you will need as a video game developer.

Screenshot from Halo 3

Job Prospects

Video games used to be the fodder of kids and nerds. Today people of all ages and walks of life enjoy playing video games online and on gaming platforms like the Wii. The development and popularity of iPads and Smartphones has fueled the need for games to fit onto smaller screens, yet give gamers an enjoyable experience. The video game industry is showing no signs of slowing down, so job prospects for talented video game designers are many. You can work from home or any part of the world. You will usually work on a team to develop games which includes programmers, developers, artists, and producers.

If you eat and sleep video games, hear theme songs in your sleep, and think of how you could improve a game as you play it, a career as a video game designer could be for you.