Online Software Development Courses & Training Programs

Who is a Software Developer?

In recent times, software powers nearly every aspect of our lives, from ATMs to cruise-control in cars. Software developers are the professionals who make this possible by employing a range of technical skills to build potent programs. In both corporate and residential settings, software developers are responsible for managing, maintaining, and optimizing software that keeps the system running.

Software developers are engaged in the entire lifecycle of programs, as opposed to programmers who primarily work with codes. As a result, in addition to developing software, some of their duties involve testing, updating, troubleshooting, and maintaining software during its launch. They also communicate critical information with the team regarding timeline updates and specific program requirements.

How to become a software developer?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rates for software developers, testers, and quality assurance analysts are expected to increase by 22% between 2020 and 2030. So it's no wonder that more and more professionals, be it beginners or experienced experts, feel the need to upskill.

Software development is a highly specialized field that requires extensive training and specific qualifications. Most skilled software developers pursue a degree in computer science to establish a firm hold on web development. Courses on C++, Java, Python, user experience (UX), user interface (UI), and data management are also of immense use to professionals seeking a career in the field.

To gain the necessary credentials and expertise, budding software developers have a wide array of resources at their disposal. These can be equally helpful for experienced professionals looking to advance their careers. Such resources include books, online software development courses, tutorials, and boot camps. Online courses are greatly favored as they are usually self-paced, affordable, and offer certification. Offered by globally renowned institutions, these courses are taught by industry experts who guide learners each step of the way.

Keep Reading: How to Become a Software Engineer

What skills should a software developer have?

It serves a software developer well to be proficient in a mix of hard and soft skills. Furthermore, developing technical assets requires a high level of competence in various fields, like programming and numerical proficiency.

Software developers must be well-versed in some of the foundational coding languages, such as C++, Java, and HTML. In addition, working knowledge of SQL, JavaScript, Python, and Linux also proves helpful. Finally, they must be able to troubleshoot during different stages of the launch, adapt to existing software, and tackle potential challenges.

The soft skills that a software developer must have are also transferable skills that adequately complement their technical expertise. Some of these include troubleshooting and working cohesively within a team. Software development is a collaborative job, and to excel, one must be able to strategize quickly and convey the relevant information to the team. Communication, empathy, and adaptability form the core of any successful career, and software development is no exception.

Critical thinking is crucial to software development. In many ways, it's intertwined with problem-solving as software encounters various problems at different stages of execution. An analytical approach helps identify patterns and optimize parts of the whole while keeping the larger picture in mind.

Although creative and fascinating, software development can be a tedious job. It requires innate motivation and an innate drive to learn. Cultivating such attributes, taking a certified online software development course, and staying abreast of the latest developments in the field are surefire ways to establish a successful career in software development.

Learn About Software Development Careers

Software development is a versatile field with a wide-ranging application across industries and verticals. However, certain sectors are more sought-after than others, including computer science and related fields, financial services and insurance, software publishing, manufacturing, and engineering.

A skilled software developer has many avenues where job roles are concerned. Some of the most lucrative career options include an application developer, front- and back-end developer, game developer, data scientist, quality analyst, mobile test engineer, and full-stack developer.

In addition, software developers can also pursue a career as cloud scientists, DevOps engineers, cloud engineers and consultants, and language developers. The bottom line is to identify one's strengths, understand industry trends, and align personal goals with professional growth.

Can I work full-time while learning software development online?

Most online software development courses are self-paced and comprise information and exercises that learners of all levels can attempt. Diligently dedicating some time to the task can significantly boost one's proficiency. Therefore, working full-time while pursuing software development online is an attainable goal.

Why take an online course at Emeritus?

Each Emeritus online course is designed keeping key learning outcomes in mind by a team of experts. We use the backward design methodology to develop instruction for learners of all ages. This enables us to craft unique, interactive, learning experiences that include a combination of assessments, hands-on activities, skill applications, and more.

Emeritus also teams up with the best universities and faculty around the world to curate the course curriculum that can effectively tackle present challenges in the industry, while preparing you for the trends and risks in the future. Our courses consist of assignments, exams, capstone projects, networking opportunities, a fine balance of practical and theoretical concepts, and the opportunity to learn from the top minds. This adds to the holistic experience we try to provide for each learner.

We are also focused on providing courses that are standardized in quality. This is done by adhering to standards set by a global organization called Quality Matters, which is focused on providing quality standards for online and innovative digital teaching and learning environments. The rigorous criteria ensures all our learners invest in quality education.