How to Become a Software Engineer
Software Engineer
From developing websites, to overseeing IT security and managing networks, software engineering is a multi-faceted and dynamic role with great possibilities for career advancement – and FutureLearn has the courses to help you upskill.
Software engineers are the motor force behind the way we communicate with each other – and, increasingly, how we work at all.
Every application, every program, every website you interact with (whether at home or at work) has a team of software engineers behind it, making sure it has been built well, runs smoothly, and is accessible to use.
As the world keeps turns online, software engineering jobs are only going to be in greater demand.
Software engineers use scientific and mathematical principles to build computer services. This is a broad definition because the role itself is wide-ranging.
On job applications you might not even see ‘software engineer’ mentioned; instead, with the right training, you could apply for roles such as ‘C# developer’ or ‘web programmer’.
Whatever the precise title, you’ll be creating secure and accessible IT services that ensure businesses can operate optimally – and people can stay connected.
What degree is most commonly held by a Software Engineer?
- BA / M of Computer Science
- BA / M of Information Technology
- BA / M of Electrical and Electronics Engineering
- BA / M of Mechanical Engineering
- BA / M of Electrical Engineering
- BA / M of Computer Engineering
- BA / M of Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- BA / M of Telecommunications Engineering
- BA / M of Computer Software Engineering
- MBA
Career Transportability across Countries
What is the Salary of a Software Engineer?
Experience | Average salary | year | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
AU$ | UK£ | US$ | ||
Junior | $61,228 | £29,000 | $32,665 | |
Mid-Level | 1-4 Years | $66,953 | £34,000 | $38,559 |
Senior | 5+ Years | $75,934 | £42,000 | $46,592 |
Software Engineering Manager | $102,880 | £59,000 | $70,727 |
What skills are needed to become a Software Engineer?
- JavaScript
- SQL
- Java
- Software Development
- Agile Methodologies
- Git
- HTML
- Linux
- MySQL
- Python
- C++
- CSS
- jQuery
- XML
- Web Development
- C#
- Scrum
- Web Services
- C
- Amazon Web Services (AWS)
- Node.js
- Microsoft SQL Server
- PHP
- Software Engineering
- Web Applications
Software Engineer Courses
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Begin Programming: Build Your First Mobile Game
Learn basic Java programming by developing a mobile game that you can run on your computer Android phone or tablet
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Functional Programming in Erlang
Learn the theory and practice of functional programming in Erlang through practical exercises and suggested projects
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Teaching Physical Computing with Raspberry Pi and Python
Explore the exciting world of physical computing and create electronic circuits that you can control with code
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Object-oriented Programming in Python: Create Your Own Adventure Game
Learn object-oriented programming principles by creating your own text-based adventure game in Python Supported by Google
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Python in High Performance Computing
Learn how to analyse Python programmes and identify performance barriers to help you work more efficiently
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Learn to Code for the Web
Ever wondered what's behind your favourite websites and apps Get to grips with the basics of coding in HTML CSS and JavaScript
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Introduction to Web Development
Discover web development and learn to build your own interactive websites using HTML CSS and JavaScript Supported by Google
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Introduction to Databases and SQL
Discover how databases work and how to use SQL in this introductory course Supported by Google