Design, write, test, debug/troubleshoot and maintaining the source code of computer programs. This source code is written in a programming language so the computer can 'understand' it. Software engineers support every industry and career family, so regardless of your other interests, there is likely a career in software development that is connected! Software developers also typically have specializations in fields such as web development, Java, Mainframe, Client, Server and others.
Make a Difference
A Typical Day
- Design new programs or applications as part of a team.
- Modify existing software to correct errors, to adapt it to new hardware, or to upgrade interfaces and improve performance.
- Develop or direct software system testing or validation procedures.
- Direct software programming and development of documentation.
- Consult with customers or other departments on project status, proposals, or technical issues, such as software system design or maintenance.
Recommended Credentials
Associate's or Bachelor's Degree
Education & Training
Regional employers often hire graduates of these programs.
Northwest Lower Michigan
Northwestern Michigan College
Associate's Degree
Computer Information Technology - Developer
Ferris State University - NMC University Center
Bachelor's of Science
Computer Information Systems
Explore This Career
Try it before you buy it!
Take a computer science class at your high school
Check out code.org lessons, projects, classes, and more
The Local Advantage Learning Pathway
Pathway 1
Northwest Education Services Career Tech Center
- Web & Application Development
Pathway 2
Northwestern Michigan College (NMC), Associate in Applied Science degree
Computer Information Technology - Developer
Pathway 3
Start working, and/or advance your career and wages with a Computer Science degree!
Ferris State University - NMC University Center
Bachelor of Science (BS) Computer Information Systems
Ferris State University - Bachelor of Science (BS)Digital Media Software Engineering
TIP
Contact one of these companies and ask for an informational interview, to see if you can job shadow, or to find out if they hire interns.
Sample Job Titles...
- Developer
- Web Developer
- Application (App) Developer
- Coder
- Software Engineer
- Software Development Engineer
- Application Integration Engineer
- Infrastructure Engineer
- Network Engineer
- Systems Engineer
- Software Architect
Hear It From The Pros
10-Year Job Growth Projections
Employed Regionally
Wage Range & Median 10-County Region
Annual Hires Regionally
Other Regional Career Resources
Learn more about Software Developers & Software Programmers at O*NET Online.
Real World Career Pathways
It doesn't have to be a straight shot! Hear from people who have taken unique pathways.