November 13, 2023 
7 MIN READ 
Photo by Árpád Czapp on Unsplash
Software Engineers create applications or software programs that can be used on various platforms, such as desktop computers, mobile devices, or embedded systems. They’re involved in the entire software development lifecycle – including requirements gathering, design, coding, testing, and maintenance. Software Engineers can work on a wide range of projects, including desktop applications, mobile apps, video games, system software, and enterprise software solutions.
If you’re considering a career in software engineering, it’s really helpful to understand the qualifications required to succeed in this field. From education and experience to certifications, we’ll explore the key requirements for becoming a successful software engineer.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Education Requirements for Software Engineering
- Certifications for Software Engineers
- Technical Skill Requirements for Software Engineers
Education Requirements for Software Engineering
The education requirements for software engineering can vary depending on the specific position, company, and industry. But the good news is – there are plenty of pathways you can consider if you want to get into software engineering:
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field
While there are increasingly different ways to get a coding education, some employers do still prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field. A 3-4 year degree provides a comprehensive understanding of computer science fundamentals, programming languages, algorithms, and software development principles.
Bootcamps and coding bootcamps
Bootcamps are intensive, short-term programs that focus on teaching specific technical skills, including programming languages, web development, or data science. They are designed to provide hands-on training and practical experience. Coding bootcamps, in particular, are popular for software engineering careers and offer immersive learning experiences in a shorter time frame compared to traditional degrees.
Online courses and self-study
Numerous online platforms offer courses and tutorials in software engineering and related topics. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, edX, and Codecademy provide structured learning paths and courses taught by industry professionals. Self-study through online resources, textbooks, and official documentation can also be a viable option, especially if you prefer a more flexible and self-paced learning approach.
When considering your education requirements, it’s essential to research job postings and requirements in your target industry or companies you’re interested in. Some companies may prioritise practical skills, project experience, and coding abilities over formal education. Then you can tailor your learning path to the specific needs of the roles and organisations you’re interested in.
Certifications for Software Engineers
When it comes to the qualifications you may need to become a software developer, certifications can demonstrate your expertise and dedication to the field of software engineering. Some popular certifications for software engineers include the Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP) from IEEE, the Certified Software Tester (CSTE) from the International Software Testing Qualifications Board, and the Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) certification. It’s important to research which certifications are most relevant to your specific career goals and interests. Here are some valuable considerations:
Identify the certification(s) you want to pursue
Determine which certifications are relevant to your career goals and aligned with the technologies you’re interested in. Research popular certifications such as those offered by Microsoft, Oracle, AWS, Google, and Cisco. Additionally, consider specialised certifications in areas like cybersecurity, data science, or web development.
Understand the certification requirements
Each certification has its own set of requirements, such as prerequisites, recommended experience, and exam formats. Visit the official website of the certification provider to understand the requirements and eligibility criteria for the certification you’re interested in.
Prepare for the certification exams
Develop a study plan and gather relevant study materials. There are often several resources available, including official study guides, practice exams, online courses, and books. Consider using a combination of resources to get a well-rounded understanding of the exam topics.
Practice hands-on exercises
Many certifications require practical knowledge and hands-on skills. Take advantage of practice labs like AlgoExpert and Exponent, coding exercises, and sample projects to reinforce your understanding of the concepts and develop practical experience with the technology or framework.
Take mock exams and assess your readiness
Mock exams and practice tests are a great way to evaluate your knowledge and identify areas where you can improve. They simulate the exam environment and give you an idea of the types of questions you may encounter. Analyse your performance, review incorrect answers, and focus on strengthening weak areas.
Leverage study groups and communities
Join study groups or online communities dedicated to the certification you’re pursuing. Studyverse is a collection of virtual study rooms of different subjects and Kaggle is a community which caters to Data Scientists and Machine Learning Specialists. There’s also our Women+ in Web Development Facebook group that provides a supportive community for women, trans and nonbinary folks at various stages of their tech career. Collaborating with others who are preparing for the same certification can is a great way to give and get support, share resources, and discuss challenging topics.
Schedule and take the certification exam
Once you feel confident and adequately prepared, schedule the certification exam. Most certifications are computer-based exams that can be taken at authorised testing centres or online. Follow the instructions provided by the certification provider to book your exam and complete the registration process.
Maintain and renew certifications
Some certifications have expiration dates, requiring you to renew them periodically to keep them valid. Stay informed about the renewal requirements, such as earning continuing education credits or passing renewal exams. Keep track of the renewal dates so you can maintain your certifications.
Explore alternative certification options
In addition to vendor-specific certifications, consider other options such as industry-recognized certifications, open-source project certifications, or certifications offered by professional organisations like the Project Management Institute (PMI) or the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB).
Technical Skill requirements for Software Engineers.
To become a successful software engineer, it’s important to develop strong technical skills in programming languages, software development methodologies, and computer science concepts.
You can achieve a formal qualification in computer science or software engineering, or through self-guided education and bootcamps. This 10-step checklist is a useful reference when honing your technical skills:
1. Choose a programming language
Choose a programming language that aligns with your goals and interests. Common choices for beginners include Python, JavaScript, or Java. Focus on mastering the fundamentals of the chosen language, including syntax, data types, control structures, and object-oriented programming concepts.
2. Learn data structures and algorithms
Understanding data structures and algorithms is crucial for writing efficient and optimised code. Study common data structures like arrays, linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, and graphs. Learn algorithms such as sorting, searching, and graph traversal techniques. Practice implementing these concepts in your chosen language.
3. Practice coding regularly
Regular coding practice is essential to improve your technical skills. Solve programming challenges on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or CodeSignal. Start with simpler problems and gradually tackle more complex ones. This will enhance your problem-solving abilities and familiarity with different programming techniques.
4. Build projects
Hands-on projects are great for getting practical experience and helping you to apply your knowledge. Start with small projects that align with your interests and gradually work on more ambitious ones. These projects could be personal websites, simple applications, or clones of popular applications. Aim to build projects that challenge you and allow you to explore new technologies and concepts.
5. Collaborate on open-source projects
Contributing to open-source projects exposes you to real-world codebases and collaboration with experienced developers. Start by finding beginner-friendly projects on platforms like GitHub and contribute bug fixes, documentation, or small feature enhancements. This will give you valuable experience working with others and understanding industry best practices.
6. Seek feedback and code reviews
Constructive criticism from peers or more experienced developers can help you identify areas for improvement and learn from others’ expertise. Participating in code review discussions will expose you to different coding styles, best practices, and alternative solutions.
7. Read and study code
Read well-written code from experienced developers or open-source projects. Analyse how they structure code, follow coding conventions, and solve common programming problems. Understanding high-quality code will help you improve your own coding practices.
8. Learn from online resources
Use online learning platforms, tutorials, and documentation to deepen your technical knowledge. Websites like Coursera, Udemy, freeCodeCamp, and official documentation for your chosen technologies can provide structured learning paths and resources to enhance your skills.
9. Stay up-to-date with industry trends
Staying up-to-date with industry trends and technologies is a great habit to get into. Keep learning about new frameworks, libraries, tools, and best practices. Follow relevant blogs, subscribe to newsletters, and participate in developer communities to stay informed.
10. Network and collaborate
Engage with other developers by joining local meetups, developer conferences, or online communities. Networking can lead to valuable connections, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to new ideas and perspectives.
Conclusion
If you want to become a software engineer, there are a few different qualification pathways available to you. You can of course take the traditional route and get a degree in Computer Science or similar. But now you can also attend a Bootcamp, study for a certification or use self-taught courses. Whichever option you choose will be personal to you, your financial situation, your timelines and how you like to learn.
FAQ
How many years does it take to become a software developer?
The amount of time it takes to become a software developer can vary depending on the individual’s education and career path. Generally, a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is required, which typically takes four years to complete. However, some individuals may choose to pursue a coding bootcamp or self-teach, which can take anywhere from a few months to a year or more. Ongoing learning and professional development is also important in this field.
What do you need to qualify as a software engineer?
To qualify as a software engineer, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Some employers may also require a master’s degree. In addition to formal education, it is important to have strong programming skills and knowledge of various programming languages. Practical experience through internships or projects can also be beneficial in qualifying for a software engineering position.
What should I study to become a software engineer?
To become a software engineer, it is recommended to study computer science or a related field. This typically involves earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a similar discipline. Additionally, gaining practical experience through internships or personal projects can also be beneficial. It is important to have a strong understanding of programming languages, algorithms, data structures, and software development principles. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies and industry trends is also important in this field.
7 MIN READ