How to Become a Software Developer

The material contained in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not to be interpreted as advice or guidance.

If you enjoy solving problems and building things with code, you may be wondering how to become a software developer. Many software developers earn a bachelor's degree in a computer-related field as part of preparing for the profession. In this article, we'll walk through the typical steps, what the role involves day to day, and the skills it draws on.¹

Four Steps To Becoming a Software Developer

There may be no single route into this career, but drawing on how the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics describes entry into the field, common steps may include:²

1. Earn a bachelor's degree. Software developers typically need a bachelor's degree in computer and information technology or a related field, such as engineering or mathematics. These programs cover a broad range of computing topics. For some positions, employers may prefer candidates who hold a master's degree.²

Rasmussen University part of American Public University System ("Rasmussen University"), does not offer any programs in Engineering or Mathematics.

1. Build a strong programming foundation. Although writing code isn't a developer's only responsibility, many software developers build through formal education, independent study, projects, or other learning experiences.²
2. Gain hands-on experience. Students may build practical experience by completing an internship while in college, such as at a software company, applying what they've learned to real projects.²
3. Keep your skills current. Technology moves quickly, so developers work to stay up to date with new tools and programming languages throughout their careers.²

What Does a Software Developer Do?

Understanding the role can help you decide whether the path is right for you. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, software developers create the computer applications that let users do specific tasks, as well as the underlying systems that run devices or control networks. Rather than writing code as their only task, they tend to be involved across the whole process of building software, from understanding what users need to shaping how a program works. Their responsibilities may include:¹

• Analyzing users' needs, then designing and developing software to meet them
• Recommending upgrades for existing programs and systems
• Designing the individual pieces of an application or system and planning how they fit together
• Creating models and diagrams that show programmers the code needed to build a program
• Making sure a program continues to work properly through testing and maintenance
• Documenting the process to provide a reference for future upgrades and maintenance

Developers are typically involved from beginning to end. They often start by learning how a customer plans to use the software so they can identify the core functionality needed, along with other requirements such as security. They then design the program and work closely with programmers who write the code, though some developers write code themselves. After a program is released, a developer may handle upgrades and ongoing maintenance.¹

Skills a Software Developer May Use

Beyond technical know-how, the work draws on a mix of analytical and interpersonal skills. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights several qualities that may matter for software developers:²

• Analytical skills. Software developers are typically responsible for assessing users' needs and designing software to meet them.²
• Communication skills. They give clear instructions to team members and explain how software works to nontechnical users.²
• Designing, troubleshooting, and improving software calls for an inventive approach.²
• Detail orientation. The work often means concentrating on many parts of a system at once and watching for potential problems.²
• Interpersonal skills. Developers may collaborate with others who help design, program, and test software.²
• Problem-solving skills. Software developers may need to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve technical issues that arise throughout the software development process.²

Why a Degree Matters for This Path

Many software developer positions seek candidates with a bachelor's degree, although educational expectations vary by employer and role. A degree program can provide a structured environment for developing programming knowledge while offering opportunities for project-based learning.²

How a Degree Program Can Support This Path

It's worth knowing how this particular program is structured. Rasmussen University’s Computer Science Bachelor’s is a degree-completion program, meaning it’s designed for students who already have some college behind them, such as a conferred associate’s or bachelor’s degree, or a specified amount of prior college credit.⁴

The program is also fully online, which can make it a practical fit if you're balancing work or other commitments while building toward a role such as software developer.⁴

Explore Rasmussen University's Computer Science Program

If building software sounds like the right path for you, exploring a degree program may be a useful next step. The Computer Science Bachelor's degree-completion program at Rasmussen University is designed to help students build skills relevant to software developer roles.⁴

Earning a degree does not guarantee employment or specific job outcomes. Employment conditions in your area may vary. Role titles, duties, and requirements vary by employer.

¹Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm#tab-2 (accessed July 8, 2026). Employment conditions in your area may vary.
²Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm#tab-4 (accessed July 8, 2026). Employment conditions in your area may vary.
³Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm#tab-6 (accessed July 8, 2026). Employment conditions in your area may vary.
⁴Rasmussen University, Computer Science Bachelor's Degree, at https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/technology/computer-science/ (accessed July 8, 2026).