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Software Developer

Software developers design and build the apps, websites, and systems we use every day. It's one of the highest-paying fields open to self-taught talent, not just degree-holders.

Median Salary
$135,980/yr
Typical Range
$82,460 – $214,670
Job Outlook
Much faster than average

What does a Software Developer do?

  • Write and test code in languages like Python or JavaScript
  • Fix bugs and improve existing software
  • Collaborate with a team using tools like Git
  • Turn ideas and requirements into working features

Education & training

Bachelor's degree common, but bootcamps and self-teaching also work

How to become a Software Developer

  1. Learn to code with free online resources
  2. Build small projects and put them on GitHub
  3. Consider a CS degree, a bootcamp, or self-study
  4. Apply for internships and junior developer roles

Skills that help

Logical thinkingPersistenceProblem-solvingAttention to detail

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National wage figures via O*NET Web Services. This application incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Figures are national estimates and vary by state, employer, and experience.

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