OVERVIEW
What is a Software Designer?
A software designer, also known as a “software engineer,” is responsible for developing computer programs and interfaces that enhance people's lives. They are skilled professionals with knowledge of web platform development, program testing, database management, operating systems, and various programming languages. It's important that software designers possess strong creative thinking skills, problem-solving skills, and a collaborative mindset, as they often work closely with other designers, data analysts, and programmers to develop successful software.
The terms "software designer" and "software developer" are often used interchangeably, though the responsibilities of these roles can vary widely. In general, a developer understands how to code and may have the skills to build a successful end product, while a designer uses a systematic process to understand a program's requirements and the user's needs and to develop a dynamic solution. And as nearly every business uses software to run their daily operations and provide services or goods to consumers, software designers can work in a variety of industries and fields.
RESPONSIBILITIES
What Does a Software Designer Do?
Software designers have various responsibilities, from researching competitors to assessing feasibility to collaborating with colleagues. A typical workday may include:
- Researching, designing, developing, and testing of software: A large majority of a software designer's day is spent navigating between researching, designing, developing, and testing for one or more software programs. It's important that software designers can pivot efficiently from one stage to the next.
- Maintaining existing software: Software designers often work with existing software programs to resolve errors, improve performance, or adopt new hardware. Maintenance is equally as important as designing new programs.
- Assessing user needs: If the software doesn't meet a user's needs, then it's unsuccessful. Software designers are responsible for assessing if the software is performing as expected and implementing changes as needed.
- Considering cost/time constraints: Software designers often work within the constraints of budget expectations and deadlines. Time management becomes essential so that software programs can get into the hands of consumers at cost and on time.
- Consulting with clients: While most software designers do not work directly with clients, many smaller companies or freelance opportunities may require a designer to regularly consult with a client to ensure the final project meets their expectations.
- Collaborating with team members: Software design involves consistent teamwork. Strong communication and collaboration between designers, programmers, and testers allow for superior software to be developed.
- Recommending improvements: It's important for a software designer to be able to perceive areas of improvement within a program and to recommend strategies to optimize performance. Additionally, designers in senior-level roles will often need to compile and present reports to executives regarding their recommendations.
EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES
How to Become a Software Designer?
While many software designers are self-taught, having a formal education will help you advance in your career and will open up leadership opportunities.
To become a software designer, you'll need to:
- Earn a bachelor's degree in software engineering or a similar field.
- Apply for an internship to gain relevant experience.
- Apply for entry-level roles to start building your portfolio.
- Consider a master's degree or specialization.
- Develop your knowledge via certifications, such as becoming a Microsoft Certified Solution Developer (MCSD) or IBM Certified Solution Designer.
Best Degrees for a Software Designer
Technology
Software Engineering – B.S.
You're a creative and tech genius who wants the bigger opportunities....
You're a creative and tech genius who wants the bigger opportunities.
- Time: 60% of graduates finish similar programs within 35 months.
- Tuition: $4,085 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 36 or 38 total courses in this program depending on your track.
Certifications included in this program at no additional cost are:
- CompTIA Project +
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
- ITIL®1 Foundation Certification
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Scripting and programming
- Web development
- Mobile application development
- User experience design
- Software quality assurance
Technology
Information Technology Management – M.S.
A degree for experienced IT professionals ready to lead....
A degree for experienced IT professionals ready to lead.
- Time: 60% of graduates finish within 18 months.
- Tuition: $4,040 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 10 total courses in this program.
Included in your program—at no extra cost—is the opportunity to earn the valuable PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) certification.
- Technology operations and integration
- Sourcing and planning
- Risks and influence
- Solutions development
- Project management
Maximize the opportunities that your IT career path has afforded you—earn your master's and keep moving up.
Technology
Back End Web Development Certificate – School of Technology
The Back End Web Development Certificate helps students gain a critical...
The Back End Web Development Certificate helps students gain a critical foundation in databases, Java, SQL, and other areas that are crucial for success in the field.
- Time: 6 months from start to finish.
- Cost: $3,950 for the certificate.
- Courses: 5 courses total in this program.
This certificate is designed to help individuals who want to pursue web development gain important skills and experience, boosting their résumé right away. In this program you will take courses that move directly into a School of Technology bachelor's degree at WGU, where you are guaranteed admission after completing your certificate. This program is an important step for your career.
Build your foundational skills in back end web development with a focus on SQL queries, user interface, database management, Java fundamentals and frameworks, and more.
Technology
Web Application Deployment and Support Certificate – School of Technology
Enhance your résumé and take a step in your educational journey with the...
Enhance your résumé and take a step in your educational journey with the help of the Web Application Deployment and Support Certificate from the School of Technology.
- Time: 5 months from start to finish.
- Cost: $2,950 for the certificate.
- Courses: 4 courses total in this program.
This certificate also offers two industry certifications, Linux Essentials and AWS Cloud, which will add extra power to your portfolio of experience. You are also guaranteed admission into a WGU School of Technology degree program. This certificate will prepare you for the next step in your career.
This program is ideal for individuals who have 3-5 years of IT experience and a basic understanding of scripting languages and SQL. Prerequisites include: Experience with either Python or Java or another high-order OO (object-oriented) programming language along with Git, experience with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and experience with a major DBMS (database management system) - MySQL (preferred), SQL Server, Oracle, MariaDB, etc.
How Much Does a Software Designer Make?
$127,260
The average annual salary for a software designer in the U.S. is $127,260 with the lowest 10 percent earned less than $71,280, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $198,100. Long hours are common in the field, so a willingness to work more than 40 hours per week is expected for success.
What Is the Projected Job Growth?
25%
The constant need for new software programs and applications secures a high demand for software designers. Currently, the job field for software developers, engineers, and designers is projected to grow by 25% by 2032, significantly faster than the average occupation.
SKILLS
What Skills Does a Software Designer Need?
A software designer needs a wide variety of technical and non-technical skills to be successful. Some of the necessary skills include:
- Analytical skills
- Organizational skills
- Communication skills
- Time management skills
- Knowledge of and hands-on experience with web platform development
- Knowledge of and hands-on experience with program testing
- Knowledge of and hands-on experience with database management
- Knowledge of and hands-on experience with operating system software
- Knowledge of and hands-on experience with text editing software (e.g., Atom, TextMate, Notepad++, etc.)
- Understanding of IT architecture, data stores, and cloud-based systems
- Specialization in one or more programming languages (e.g., JavaScript, HTML, CSS, etc.)
- Familiarity with computer equipment (e.g., CPU processors, servers, integrated circuit testers, mainframe computers, etc.)
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