Software Development Career Outlook

Software Development — Career Paths

Associate of Science in Software Development
Graduates of the Associate of Science in Software Development program will be prepared for entry-level positions in virtually any computer science-related discipline. Wages vary by geographic location and area of specialty, but salaries for these entry-level positions are often in the range of $31,500—40,000, and may be higher depending on the graduate's prior related experience.

• Junior Programmer/Analyst
• Software Developer
• Internet Developer
• Junior Database Developer
• Junior Web Site Developer
• Web Page Coordinator
• Junior Support/Help Desk Professional

Work environment

Computer scientists typically work in a comfortable office environment or laboratory. A standard work week is 40-50 hours with occasional periods of longer hours when deadlines must be met or emergency repairs are needed. Those employed in this field most often enjoy full benefits packages from their employers along with a competitive salary. Computer science professionals spend a large amount of time sitting at a computer and therefore may develop computer-related ailments such as eyestrain, back pain and carpal tunnel.

Career advancement

Advancement in this field is directly related to both education and experience. Computer Science and Information Technology professionals must stay current with technology trends and software launches and updates, and employers like to see proof of their skills. In order to advance, professionals typically must earn a bachelor-level degree, and in some cases a master degree; careers in the research area of the Computer Science field require a Ph.d. Additionally, computer science professionals will benefit from obtaining different industry certifications throughout their career and may need to take a prep class or additional coursework geared toward passing the exam(s).

Bachelor of Science in Software Development
Graduates from the Bachelor of Science in Software Development degree program will have a well-rounded education of programming, networks, database management, web applications and web development. Their specialty, however, will be in the analyzation, design, testing and development of the software and systems that computers use in order to solve/address specific client needs.

Career titles in the area of software engineering include:

• Computer applications software engineer
• Computer systems software engineer
• System Engineer
• Software Developer
• Junior Software Designer
• Junior Software Engineer
• Validation Test Engineer
• Software Tester
• Test Engineer

Career advancement

Software engineers looking to advance in the research area will often find a master or doctoral degree is required. Professionals can also advance by becoming a specialist in a specific software program, earning specific software proficiency certifications, transitioning into management or team lead roles, or becoming a consultant.

Work environment

Software engineers work at least 40 hours weekly and typically enjoy generous benefits and compensation packages. Professionals in this field should expect to work over 40 hours when needed for emergencies or to meet project deadlines. Additional time will need to be spent keeping current with technological and software and may include studying for specialty certifications.

Computer science professionals work in an office environment and spend a large amount of time sitting at a computer. Therefore, they should take precautions against computer-related ailments such as eyestrain, back pain and carpal tunnel.

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