Sometimes, it seems as though half the world runs on software, the computer programs that make electronic devices as diverse as smartphones, digital music players, and desktop computers do the extraordinary work they do. And yet, most people have only the slightest idea of what software is or how it comes into existence. Here’s the simple explanation: A computer program is simply a series of instructions written in a language understood by electronic devices that tell a computer what to do. And it’s a language—or, rather, an entire group of languages—that anyone can learn by getting a software degree.
A software degree, sometimes called a software engineering degree, will teach you the art of software development, writing computer programs in languages such as Java and C+. While these languages may seem like gibberish at first glance, they are actually quite simple, and a software degree will teach you how they work and how to use them.
There are a range of software degrees available, and even the most basic degrees will qualify you to work as a programmer, though as with most degrees, the more advanced the degree, the more employers will be interested in paying for your services. Possible degrees include the following:
Associate’s degree: A two-year associate’s software degree from a community college or technical school should be adequate to get you a programming job. Even a one-year certificate could get you started.
Bachelor’s degree: A bachelor’s-level software degree is an excellent choice for those who want at least the possibility of working at a major software firm at a good starting salary. Possibilities for career advancement will be strong. Generally, a bachelor’s degree requires four years of college and a full academic curriculum.
Master’s degree: A master’s-level software degree will give you a strong grounding in software development and will probably make you more attractive to employers. It will take you one or two additional years beyond your bachelor’s degree.
Doctoral degree: A doctorate in software development is probably unnecessary unless you are seriously interested in teaching computer science or engaging in software research. While having a PhD will make you more attractive as a candidate for executive management at a major software firm, it is unnecessary to have this sort of software degree if you would prefer to spend your career as a programmer. Still, it’s a strong (if expensive and time-consuming) option and should be considered if you want to go beyond simply programming.
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