In general, software application specialists design and develop software and applications, help implement and test the software, and write instruction manuals for potential users of the software. computer. Three possible jobs in software applications are software engineer, software developer, and software system analyst.
Computer programmers are software that can be run by computers. This may involve taking a program created by a software developer and writing down the instructions that the computer has chosen to execute.
They are usually trained in programming languages ​​such as C++ and Java. After completing this step, they test the software to make sure it works. There are two types of software developers; application software developer and system software developer. Application software developers create software that performs specific tasks for users but is not required for the operation of the computer system.
This type of software may include databases, spreadsheets, word processors, and games. Software developers create software to create an operating system for a computer to work on. Before starting a project, experts from both firms meet with customers to determine their software needs. It determines which programs are used in the computer and plans how the programs work together. After this step, they collect the software and run it through a series of tests to find out if it works well and meets the needs of the customers. Computer systems analysts are hired to help companies determine their information technology needs.
They must have a thorough understanding of the technologies that can improve the company’s IT systems and how to integrate those technologies into existing systems. They may be hired to build and install new systems. They manage the installation of these systems and then test the systems to ensure they work as intended. Finally, they train users on how to use the system.
The table below will give you an overview of what you need to know about entering this career field.
| Computer Programmer | Software Developer | Computer Systems Analyst | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree Required | Bachelor’s degree, or associate’s degree in some cases | Bachelor’s degree; master’s degree preferred in some cases | Bachelor’s degree; master’s degree preferred in some cases |
| Education Field of Study | Computer science | Computer science, software engineering | Management information systems |
| Key Responsibilities | Write programs in various computer programming languages, update existing codes, run debugging programs to test for and fix errors | Design and test software, construct flowcharts to tell programmers how to write software | Analyze new software and technologies to determine if it could benefit an organization, write instruction manuals for the software’s users, prepare cost-benefit analyses of the program for management |
| Job Growth (2020-2030) | -10%* | 22%* (for all software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers) | 7%* |
| Median Salary (2020) | $89,190* | $110,140* (for all software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers) | $93,730* |
What Will I Do as a Computer Applications Professional?
While working as a computer application professional, you work with a team of specialists to develop, design and implement software systems, applications and networks. If you work as a software developer, you may also help identify user needs and assist with the design, coding and testing of new software programs and platforms. Additional responsibilities include collecting data and compiling research documents in order to create and analyze diagrams and flowcharts.
What Skills Do I Need?
In order to execute computer tests, you troubleshoot, analyze, debug and fix software and network defects. You need to be familiar with a variety of software platforms and applications as well. It’s important to understand coding languages such as C++, Java, Ruby, Python and PHP, as well as CSS and HTML. As a computer application professional, you have to perform object-relational modeling, software modeling, database design and software architecture.
What Type of Degree Should I Earn?
Earning a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science or computer engineering is one of the basic requirements for a full-time position as a computer application professional. If you want to become a software developer, you may want to earn a degree in computer programming. After graduation, you must have knowledge and experience of at least one programming language, as well as an ability to perform and develop tests, and generate system reports.
How Much Can I Expect to Earn?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that in 2020, computer programmers earned a median salary of $89,190 per year. In the same year, all software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers earned $110,140. Additionally, computer systems analysts earned median salaries of $93,730 in 2020 (www.bls.gov).
What Are Some Related Alternative Careers?
Computer and information systems managers typically have a bachelor’s degree and are responsible for ensuring companies meet information technology goals. This involves managing computer related activities as well as ensuring security. Computer hardware engineers are responsible for designing the physical components used in computer systems. In addition to needing a bachelor’s degree, these professionals need to research what hardware technologies are available in order to make proper assessments. With a professional or doctoral degree in computer science, individuals may go on to become a computer and information research scientist. These professionals develop new uses for existing computer technology as well as new computer technologies.