Computer and Software Engineer

What a Computer and Software Engineer Does

Computer software engineers design software programs and applications for computers and mobile devices. They're responsible for driving many important and profitable industries, including business, technology and gaming. Software engineers design all types of programs and applications, including computer games, business tools, entire operating systems, and more. Within software engineering, there are several sub-disciplines that an engineer may choose to specialize or work in, like software testing, maintenance, development, design, development or requirements. While some engineers may take on some or all of these tasks if he or she works for a smaller company or is an engineer on a single project, other engineers might work in one sub-discipline -- or stage of a project -- but on several projects at once. Another way to categorize software engineers is to break them into two titles: applications software engineers, who develop and design customized computer applications using different programming languages, and systems software engineers, who configure and install computer systems.

How to Become a Computer and Software Engineer

You will need at least a bachelor's degree to become a computer software engineer. A degree in computer engineering, computer information systems, software engineering or general engineering is best, but if your school only offers the general engineering degree, consider taking some graduate courses in the specialization to learn the more technical principles of software engineering. Software engineers use a lot of math and science in their work, and must of course have a strong working knowledge of computer systems, networks, databases and programming languages. Once you have earned your bachelor's degree, keep up with continuing education classes that can help you stay current on the latest technologies, programming methods and tools used in the industry. Certification isn't required in software engineering, but becoming certified in a programming language or related skill or subject can help you find a job, particularly if you're self-employed and recruiting your own clients.

Career Outlook for Computer and Software Engineers

In 2008, computer applications software engineers accounted for about 514,800 jobs, while computer systems software engineers held about 394,800 jobs. Computer programmers made up about 426,700 jobs. They found jobs with software publishers, financial institutions, computer and electronics manufacturers, and computer systems design companies. The job growth is expected to increase by 21% through 2018, which means an increase in about 283,000 jobs, which is much better than the national average. Applications software engineers will actually see a 34% increase in job growth, and system software engineers will experience a 30% increase. The median annual wage for applications software engineers was $85,430 in 2008, with the highest earners working for professional and commercial equipment and supplies merchant wholesalers, and it was $92,430 for systems software engineers. The highest earners in systems software engineering worked for scientific research and development services and earned over $102,000.