What is software development?
So much of our society functions with the assistance of computers and technologies that run on software. Behind every program is a professional software developer who brought a technical idea to life through designing, coding, testing and debugging software to ensure it runs smoothly. If you’re questioning what you can do with a degree in software development, know that this is a wide-ranging field with lots of opportunities in many different arenas.
Areas of Specialization
A degree in software development opens up a lot of opportunities, because the field is quite broad. According to recent data, worldwide there are nearly 20 million software developers working in various fields in the industry. Areas of specialization include web and mobile app development, machine learning and artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, front- and back-end development, game development and much more.
Typical Job Titles
Because there are so many options for what you can do with a degree in software development, it makes sense that there are also many job titles to choose from in this field. A few examples of typical roles include: data scientist, quality assurance analyst, cloud developer, programmer, software engineer and IT project manager, but of course there are many more titles to explore.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Software Development?
Completing a degree in software development means you’re entering a field that’s in demand. In fact, overall employment of software developers, analysts and testers is projected to grow much faster than average. By 2032, the need to fill these positions is expected to grow by 25 percent. This growth can be partially attributed to the continuing evolution of technologies like artificial intelligence, automation, robotics and Internet of Things (IoT).
Project Management
Software development project managers are in charge of making sure a development project is seamless from start to finish — coming to completion in time and hopefully within budget. This is a very important role that requires a head for numbers and an eye for details. Project managers oversee many tasks within every project, including: budgets, staffing, time management, client communications, project success and more.
Systems Analyst
Systems analysts study a computer system’s design and procedures, then finds ways to improve upon them. These professionals can work in big institutions like banking or government, or can be a vital part of a software developing team in a private company. Analysts use data modeling, testing and systems design to bring more efficiency to an organization’s IT.
Software Design and Applications
Software and application design is an example of one of the most common occupations to have with a degree in software development. Designers use their expertise to map out and create software and apps that perform specific tasks or solve any number of problems. This role may also be called software or application engineering, but the task is the same — creating a blueprint for software architecture and functionality before going into development.
Database Administration
In software development, a database administrator — sometimes called a database architect — creates and organizes the systems that keep data stored securely. Admins also make sure that the data is easily accessible for the people who are authorized to use it. Additionally, database administrators must continually monitor systems to ensure they’re up and running without issues.
Security Analysis
With a degree in software development, you can play a critical role in keeping computer systems secure. IT security analysts are the first line of defense against security breaches. They are responsible for creating and implementing a plan to protect an organization’s computer network and systems. In the event of a data breach, security analysts are in charge of executing a recovery plan and taking preventative measures to make sure it doesn’t happen again.
Mobile Applications
Mobile apps are a part of everyday life, but they still require a huge amount of expertise to become a reality. Similar to computer software developers, mobile apps are one of the most-recognized examples of what you can do with a degree in software development. App development can be for consumer products like games or social media, or for business purposes like banking or productivity. Some app developers also create databases or programs that are only for internal use.
Game Developer
In the world of software development, gaming is big business. The industry is estimated to be worth more than $300 billion, and part of that growth is no doubt a result of the developers working behind the scenes to bring imagination to life. Like web and software developers, game developers dream up, design, develop and test all sorts of games for computers, mobile devices and consoles.
A degree in software development can open many doors, and Tiffin University’s cutting-edge curriculum, experienced faculty and flexible learning format is the key to professional success. Because we’re dedicated to every student earning a degree, you can be confident that your learning journey will include plenty of support, a wide range of learning opportunities and a commitment to your personal and academic growth.