How to become a software engineer in the UK
The modern world revolves completely around technology. The talented individuals who design our systems, build our apps, provide expert consulting and optimise programs for speed and scalability are the unsung heroes of the digital landscape - software engineers.
These professionals are constantly sought after by firms operating in every industry. Every business now requires technology, but the pipeline of talented professionals is not enough to support the demand. This is a problem faced by organisations across the entire tech sector, but for job seekers, it’s something worth taking advantage of.
Because the supply of talent falls short of the demand, businesses must compete with one another to secure the best individuals. This means in competitive fields, like software engineering, you can leverage a better compensation package, as well as other benefits.
There’s no doubt that software engineering is a popular and gratifying career path to follow. If you have a propensity for problem-solving and can appreciate well-designed software, it could be the perfect job for you.
What are the main routes to becoming a software engineer?
Like many tech jobs, you’d probably assume that at least a bachelor’s degree is mandatory for a software engineer. Whilst it will certainly bolster your chances of landing the perfect role, there’s no obligation to complete an undergraduate course.
Now, there are several different options to secure the appropriate training and education you need to become a software engineer, which is especially important to ensure equal opportunities within the sector through social mobility, diversity and inclusion.
Undergraduate degree
Despite not being a prerequisite for software engineering, obtaining a bachelor’s degree remains the most common path for professionals. In fact, Engineering and Technology and Computer Science both feature in the top ten list of the most popular degrees in the UK.
Usually, a bachelor’s degree involves four years of studying and a specific software engineering course will also feature modules on architecture, programming languages, networking and mathematics.
Postgraduate degree
For many professionals who complete an undergraduate degree, the natural next step is to undertake a postgraduate course. Given the highly competitive nature of software engineering and ever-increasing industry standards, holding a master’s qualification is becoming more appealing to recruiters and hiring managers.
Generally speaking, an undergraduate degree in a closely related subject is a prerequisite for a master’s course. For individuals who go on to achieve a postgraduate certificate, the benefits of intensive classes and practical sessions can lead to a higher-paying software engineer position upon graduation.
Software engineer apprenticeship
There are now many providers of software engineering apprenticeships in the UK, which benefit students with a hands-on, flexible and blended approach to learning. Generally, they last around 15 months, with an additional end-point assessment to follow.
To secure a place on a software engineering apprenticeship, you may need to have completed another course, or hold a particular qualification with another training provider. Alternatively, for many programmes, an A-level in a STEM subject or a BTEC Diploma in IT can be enough, alongside the competition of an aptitude test.
Networking and professional development
Your career as a software engineer will be greatly helped by making an effort to network with your peers and continue your professional development. Whether you’re looking for an entry-level role or to grow your career, building and maintaining a strong network is crucial to success.
As well as providing new opportunities, networking can lead to much-needed support and even help improve your technical skills as a software engineer. From collaborative problem solving to mentorship and guidance, being surrounded by other people in similar jobs can be very beneficial.
It’s likely you'll still have some friends from your degree in computer science, but not all of them will have gone into software engineering. They may well be able to introduce you to those in the role at their companies, however, and you can join relevant groups or attend in-person events like the Security Cleared EXPOs.
Ongoing learning is an effective way to grow your role as a software engineer as you gain practical experience on the job. Software engineer courses help to keep your skills and knowledge up to date and can even aid you in landing a career move or promotion.
Consider taking Amazon Web Services (AWS), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Computer Society (CS) or International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC)² programmes for an industry-recognised step forward.
Industry trends and future outlook
As the world of software development and engineering evolves, there are constantly new trends to be aware of. As a job seeker, it’s important to know what these are, how they impact the role of a software engineer in the UK and the ways in which they’re shaping the future. If you don’t update your skills to be relevant within these emerging areas, another candidate will.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning
Make sure your ongoing software engineer training includes artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), as these technologies are now a key element in a wide range of applications. From chatbots to predictive analytics, AI and ML are being used to adapt software to the needs and preferences of users.
Cloud computing
There are a myriad of benefits that cloud computing brings to software engineering, from cost efficiency to location independence and increased scalability to less maintenance. Understanding the full potential of the cloud and how to deploy it will mean you can increase productivity and use the technology to problem solve a variety of issues.
Cyber security
Cyber security is increasingly considered in all areas of IT and software engineering is no different. Writing code, encryption and authentication all now have an added security emphasis to prevent attacks and ensure organisations comply with strict data privacy regulations. Being able to demonstrate attention to detail and problem solving skills in relation to cyber security is key to getting hired.