Many industries are experiencing a rising reliance on technology, including automotive, banking, healthcare, and architecture. As a result, one of the fastest-growing occupations in the world is software development. Software developer jobs are in high demand in the United States, especially in Texas, New York, Virginia, Illinois, and Florida. The number of software development jobs in New York alone has increased by 20% annually.
The Rise of Software Development Jobs
The growing demand of these jobs, paired with the rising availability of various educational pathways has made it easier than ever to enter into the software development industry. Many prospective developers are now looking to certification programs.
Gone are the days when a bachelor’s or an MS in software development was an educational requirement. These courses, some of which only last ten months, can help students gain the abilities of a professional with two to three years of experience. They also cost a lot less than traditional degrees, and there are financial aid options like the FAFSA that can reduce the cost further.
Certification programs are unique because they provide a strong emphasis on experiential learning. Students are encouraged to focus less on learning through impersonal methods such as lectures and textbooks, and instead on developing their practical skills.
By the end of the program, each student has to create a project portfolio, with the goal of showcasing their skills to prospective employers. These programs also provide significant mentorship through open labs, where peers and instructors devote roughly 40% of the curriculum to one-on-one mentorship.
Conclusion
There are two main learning pathways that students can choose from, including real-time software development and full-stack development. By the end of the 10 months, graduates should be well versed in the skills required for each path. The proof is that many alumni go on to work for well-known companies, such as Meta and Amazon.
Source: YU Global
