Career roadmap
How to Become a Software Developer
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a software developer, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a software developer: (1) learn to code, (2) get formal training, (3) build a portfolio, (4) land an internship or junior role, (5) advance. Most people need about 4 years or bootcamp plus portfolio. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a software developer
Learn to code
Start with Python or JavaScript and build small projects.
Get formal training
Earn a degree or complete a reputable bootcamp.
Build a portfolio
Publish projects on GitHub and contribute to open source.
Land an internship or junior role
Apply widely and practice technical interviews.
Advance
Become a senior developer, tech lead, architect or engineering manager.
Education and training requirements
Most developers have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Coding bootcamps, associate degrees and self-study with a strong portfolio can also lead to jobs.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 4 years or bootcamp plus portfolio |
Certifications and licenses
- AWS Certified Developer – Associate: Cloud development certification.
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate: Azure development certification.
- Oracle Certified Professional: Java: Java programming credential.
- GitHub Foundations: Certification on Git and collaboration.
Skills to build now
Start with programming languages such as python, javascript or java, data structures and algorithms, and version control with git, and practice problem solving and collaboration. Learning the software developer vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Junior Developer: Build features with guidance.
- Software Developer: Own features and systems.
- Senior Developer or Tech Lead: Lead design and mentor others.
- Architect or Engineering Manager: Shape systems or lead teams.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Software Developer training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do software developers need a degree?
Many do, but bootcamp and self-taught developers with strong portfolios also get hired.
How long does it take to become a software developer?
Most people need about 4 years or bootcamp plus portfolio of training. Most developers have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Coding bootcamps, associate degrees and self-study with a strong portfolio can also lead to jobs.
Do you need a degree to be a software developer?
Not always. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, but many developers are hired from bootcamps or self-taught paths when they can show strong projects, open-source work or internships.
What certifications are available for software developers?
Common credentials include AWS Certified Developer – Associate, Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate, Oracle Certified Professional: Java, and GitHub Foundations. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 15-1252 (Software developers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Software developers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.